The Mentor Support Network has revealed updates to its educational scholarship program, aimed at supporting high school students in the Hunter Region facing financial or socio-economic challenges.
Chair of MSN, Julie Rich, announced that applications for the 2026 Educational Scholarships are now open, along with the introduction of two new extensions to the scholarship program.
“We’ve been able to offer up to 50 scholarships in our general program in recent years, and we’re hopeful of offering a similar number to eligible students entering Year 11 studies in 2026,” Julie said. “The program has been successful in assisting many talented students across high schools, vocational colleges, and TAFE in the Hunter Region.”
To build on the existing program, MSN is launching two new scholarship initiatives: a Senior Educational Scholarship Program and a Tertiary Scholarship Program. These programs aim to provide ongoing support to students through Year 12 and into tertiary education.
MSN is a not-for-profit organisation dedicated to helping young people experiencing significant socio-economic difficulties or family challenges. The general educational scholarships, valued up to $2000, are available to students in Hunter Region high schools or vocational colleges. TAFE students are also eligible to apply.
Julie said that MSN had already reached out to regional high schools and education institutions to promote the 2026 scholarships, with encouraging initial feedback.
“The scholarships are awarded based on a student’s desire to succeed, not their academic achievement,” Julie explained. “We have students from TAFE and independent vocational colleges applying for scholarships, as they demonstrate the drive and determination to achieve their educational goals despite financial challenges.”
The overall aim of the scholarship program is to help disadvantaged students remain in senior years of high school or vocational training and reach their full education and career potential. To apply, students must be nominated by a school, college, or organisation representative and include an individual letter of reference from the supporting person.
MSN is introducing two new scholarship programs: the Senior Educational Scholarship Program and the Tertiary Scholarship Program. The Senior Educational Scholarships are valued at $500 and are available to current Year 11 scholarship holders who will enter Year 12 in 2026. Applications will open in late 2025 for those meeting criteria related to their academic performance. Further details for the Tertiary Scholarships will be released next year.
Julie explained that the new scholarships aim to provide continued financial assistance for students in their Year 12 studies and support those contemplating tertiary studies after graduation, whether through university, TAFE, or another recognised tertiary pathway.
“We wanted to support students who are committed to their studies and need financial assistance to stay in the education system,” Julie said. “The new scholarship extensions will provide students with the financial help they need to continue their education journey.”
Julie also acknowledged that the expansion of the scholarship program would not be possible without the generous support of sponsors and donors.
“The initial scholarships have already had a great impact on students’ Year 11 studies, and we believe the extension will provide further incentives for them to challenge themselves academically,” Julie concluded.
IMAGE | Julie Rich
