TABLE OF CONTENTS TABLE OF CONTENTS VISA APPLICATIONS FOREWORD INTRODUCTION DURATION OF THE SCHOLARSHIP

Transcription

1

2

3 TABLE OF CONTENTS TABLE OF CONTENTS FOREWORD VISA APPLICATIONS INTRODUCTION DURATION OF THE SCHOLARSHIP THE ADVANCED LEVEL SCHOLARSHIP President s Medal Recipients Open Scholarship Recipients Additional Scholarship Recipients ACCESSING THE SCHOLARSHIP THE SCHOLARSHIP AGREEMENT Review of the Scholarship Agreement Executing the Scholarship Agreement Executed Scholarship Agreement PAYMENTS TO SCHOLARS SUSPENSION OR TERMINATION OF SCHOLARSHIPS THE REPORTING PROCESS EMPLOYMENT OF SCHOLARS THE DEFERRAL OF OBLIGATORY SERVICE REPAYMENT OF SCHOLARSHIP LOAN / BREACH OF SCHOLARSHIP SCHOLAR SUPPORT CONTACT INFORMATION APPENDIX I TABLE OF CONTENTS

4 FOREWORD Congratulations! You are the recipient of an Advanced Level Scholarship offered by the Government of the Republic of Trinidad and Tobago. This Advanced Level Scholarship Booklet will guide you through the most important aspects of the procedures governing the administration of your scholarship. Gillian Macintyre Permanent Secretary Ministry of Public Administration The Ministry of Public Administration (MPA) Scholarships and Advanced Training Division (SATD) is responsible for administering scholarships. If after you have carefully read this booklet, you have questions you may contact us at the following address for further clarification or visit us Level 5, National Library Building, Corner Abercromby and Hart Streets, Port of Spain or browse our website at gov.tt for further information. We encourage you to make the best of your scholarship experience and wish you academic excellence. 1 FOREWORD 2

5 INTRODUCTION INTRODUCTION Our core values are Team-Driven, Results-Oriented, Integrity- Based and People-Centred. Scholarships enable citizens to acquire skills and training in areas critical for developing the country. The core functions of the SATD are: The Ministry of Public Administration: Scholarships and Advanced Training Division The Ministry of Public Administration (MPA), Scholarships and Advanced Training Division (SATD) administers all scholarships and long term training awards offered by and through the Government of the Republic of Trinidad and Tobago (GoRTT). The Ministry is the Champion of Service Delivery Excellence and its mission is to facilitate and lead the renewal and modernisation of a citizen-centric Public Service. Processing the offer of scholarships to citizens Serving as the Secretariat of the Scholarship Selection Committee and Scholarship Advisory Committee Implementing procedures to enable successful candidates to take up their scholarships Servicing scholars, monitoring their academic progress and ensuring that they make themselves available to fulfill their obligations to the country Facilitating the placement and employment of scholars who have completed their studies Ensuring the recovery of monies spent on scholarships in the case of defaulting scholars 3 INTRODUCTION INTRODUCTION 4

6 THE ADVANCED LEVEL SCHOLARSHIP THE ADVANCED LEVEL SCHOLARSHIP The Advanced Level Scholarship is awarded to citizens of the Republic of Trinidad and Tobago who have achieved academic excellence at the Caribbean Advanced Proficiency Examination (CAPE). Each year the Ministry of Education awards Advanced Level Scholarships in the following ten subject groups: Business; Environmental Science; Languages; Mathematics; Modern Studies/Humanities; Natural Science; Technical Studies; Technological Studies, General Studies and Visual and Performing Arts. These scholarships are merit-based scholarships and are awarded to motivate students to greater academic achievement as well as promote the study of specific subject areas. As the recipient of a scholarship, you are eligible to receive payments which contribute to the cost of your tuition and compulsory fees, personal maintenance and books among others. CATEGORIES OF SCHOLARSHIPS There are three (3) categories of Advanced Level Scholars: 1. President s Medal Recipients 2. Open Scholarship Recipients 3. Additional Scholarship Recipients 1. President s Medal Recipients Scholars in receipt of the President s Medal Award are entitled to a scholarship for a total of seven (7) years which would allow them to complete undergraduate and postgraduate degrees, recognized by the Accreditation Council of Trinidad and Tobago. This award covers the full cost of tuition and compulsory fees, airfare and other allowances based on the country of study. 2. Open Scholarship Recipients Scholars in receipt of an Open National Scholarship may pursue an undergraduate degree, recognized by the Accreditation Council of Trinidad and Tobago. This scholarship covers the full cost of tuition and compulsory fees, economy airfare (to commence studies and to return on completion of studies) and allowances based on the country of study. 3. Additional Scholarship Recipients Scholars in receipt of an Additional National Scholarship may pursue an undergraduate degree at the University of the West Indies (UWI) St. Augustine or any other local ACTT accredited Tertiary Education Institution. Scholars who opt to pursue the undergraduate degrees at any other regionally ACTT recognized tertiary 5 THE ADVANCED LEVEL SCHOLARSHIP THE ADVANCED LEVEL SCHOLARSHIP 6

7 THE ADVANCED LEVEL SCHOLARSHIP ACCESSING THE SCHOLARSHIP education institution will be entitled to tuition and compulsory fees in the amount equivalent to that paid for the programme under the Government Assistance for Tuition Expenses (GATE) and the allowances applicable to the Republic of Trinidad and Tobago. Recipients who opt to pursue an undergraduate degree at any internationally accredited academic institution will be entitled to tuition and compulsory fees equivalent to the cost of a similar undergraduate degree programme offered by the UWI, St. Augustine and the allowances applicable to Trinidad and Tobago. Where the programme of study is not offered by UWI the Ministry will map the core courses to the most closely aligned faculty at the University of the West Indies St. Augustine in order to determine the equivalent tuition payable, based on advice received from the University of the West Indies. Scholars will be required to secure additional funding. All course of study and academic institutions must be recognized/accredited by the Accreditation Council of Trinidad and Tobago (ACTT). So you ve been awarded a scholarship What s next? 7 THE ADVANCED LEVEL SCHOLARSHIP ACCESSING THE SCHOLARSHIP 8

8 ACCESSING THE SCHOLARSHIP ACCESSING THE SCHOLARSHIP So you ve been awarded a scholarship What s next? STEP 1 : Confirm your eligibility and interest in the scholarship You must complete and submit your Scholarship Data Form which is available electronically via the scholarship website at This form provides the SATD with information necessary to process your scholarship. Once you have completed and submitted this form, you would have created your SATIS Account and your electronic Scholar Profile on the Scholarships and Advanced Training Information System (SATIS). you in a quick and efficient manner and saves you a lot of time. You can log into your Scholar Profile at anytime from any location by logging into your account using your and password. On this form, you must also confirm your interest in the scholarship. The Form provides you with the following options and you must choose one: Interested in the scholarship and commencement of studies in the same year the scholarship was awarded; Interested in the scholarship, but commencement of studies within one (1) year of the award of the scholarship; or Declining the scholarship. Scholars who choose Option 1 will have their scholarships processed immediately. Scholars who choose Option 2, that is, to defer the commencement of studies, will be sent an additional form to request a deferral of the scholarship. This Form will be published to your Scholar Profile under the Requirements Tab. You must complete and submit the Request for Deferral Form. Scholars who choose Option 3, will have no further communication from the SATD and an alternative candidate may be sought from the Ministry of Education. STEP 2: Identify a suitable Guarantor If you default on the scholarship, you will be approached to repay the value of the expenditure on your scholarship and all interest accrued. In the event that you are unable to or unwilling to repay, your guarantor will be approached by the GoRTT to repay the liability. SATIS is an electronic information system which will facilitate most of our interaction and transactions with 9 ACCESSING THE SCHOLARSHIP ACCESSING THE SCHOLARSHIP 10

9 ACCESSING THE SCHOLARSHIP ACCESSING THE SCHOLARSHIP The Guarantor as a party to the Scholarship Agreement agrees: That upon the completion of studies, the scholar is required to serve the GoRTT for the required obligatory period. In case the student fails to serve the Government in the manner contemplated by the Agreement and the Undertaking, and fails to repay the Government, the Guarantor shall indemnify and pay to the GoRTT the sum equal to the total monies expended plus other charges in the manner so notified by the Government: Should the Guarantor fail to pay the amount undertaken within the time and in the exact amount inclusive of the interest stipulated, the Government may without further notice commence legal action against the Guarantor to collect the sums owed by the Student to the Government. Guarantor Prerequisites: The Guarantor must be gainfully employed; The Guarantor must be a citizen and be residing in the Republic of Trinidad and Tobago; The Guarantor must be between the ages of 18 to 60 years; The Guarantor must not be the spouse of the scholar. STEP 3: Submission of certified copies of documents. Certified copies of required documents must be uploaded to your SATIS profile. You will be required to visit a Commissioner of Affidavits to have copies of the following documents certified before uploading: Electronic Birth Certificate (with affidavit where necessary); Proof of change of name (where necessary); National Identification Card or Drivers Permit ; Bio data page from valid Republic of Trinidad and Tobago Passport; Persons born outside of the Republic of Trinidad and Tobago must provide evidence of citizenship (copy) and residency; Proof of valid address (utility bill/bank statement); Academic Certificates, Degrees of Diplomas; Proof of application/acceptance at an academic institution ; Statement of Recognition from (ACTT) except those listed as accredited on the ACTT website; Medical certificate from a certified medical practitioner; 11 ACCESSING THE SCHOLARSHIP ACCESSING THE SCHOLARSHIP 12

10 ACCESSING THE SCHOLARSHIP THE SCHOLARSHIP AGREEMENT Guarantor Documents: The following certified copies of the Guarantor s documents must also be uploaded to your scholar Profile Two (2) forms of photo identification (National Identification Card, Passport bio page, Drivers Permit); Proof of income/financial Status which can be in the form of a Job Letter (no older than one month) and/or Financial Statements; Proof of address which can be in the form of a Utility Bill and/or Bank Statement. Once you have submitted certified copies of all your documents, you will be assigned a member of staff to administer your scholarship. This person becomes your Scholar Support Officer. Your Scholar Support Officer will answer your queries, prepare your Scholarship Agreement, review your academic transcript each year and provide you with any other information which you may request throughout your scholarship. You will also have access to a team of officers who you should copy on all your s. A member of this team will provide you with services in instances where your Scholar Support Officer is not available. STEP 4: Review of the Scholarship Agreement All recipients of Government scholarships must sign a Scholarship Agreement. Your Scholarship Agreement sets out the terms and conditions of the scholarship, including the obligations of the GoRTT (the Lender) and the recipient of the scholarship, (the student). 13 ACESSING THE SCHOLARSHIP THE SCHOLARSHIP AGREEMENT 14

11 THE SCHOLARSHIP AGREEMENT THE SCHOLARSHIP AGREEMENT Once you have completed Steps 1 to 4 and have met all the requirements for the scholarship, the following will occur: A draft of the Scholarship Agreement is prepared and placed on your Scholar Profile. You must login to your account on SATIS to review this document on your Scholar Profile; You and your Guarantor are required to review the draft Scholarship Agreement to ensure accuracy of information, and to become aware of and understand the Terms and Conditions of the Agreement; and On completion of the review, you are required to contact your Scholar Support Officer to arrange an appointment to visit the Ministry of Public Administration Scholarships and Advanced Training Division to sign the Scholarship Agreement. You are required to have your Guarantor and a witness accompany you for the signing of the Scholarship Agreement. The witness must have attained the age of eighteen (18) years and cannot be the spouse of either the scholar or the guarantor. STEP 5: Executing the Scholarship Agreement You must execute your Scholarship Agreement by signing the Agreement; An appointment date and time is scheduled for you, your Guarantor and Witness to visit the SATD office to sign the Scholarship Agreement; The Scholarship Agreement is then forwarded to the Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Public Administration for signature; The Scholar will be notified when the fully executed Scholarship Agreement is available for collection. You may collect the agreement in person or authorize someone to collect it on your behalf. The person collecting the Agreement must present a valid form of identification; and Where the scholar is not in the country, the Scholarship Agreement may be executed at at a Notary Public or equivalent in the country of study. If this is not possible arrangements will be made to have the scholar sign the Agreement in front of a notary public or similar official in the country of study and have the document delivered via Registered or Priority Mail to the SATD. STEP 6: Executed Scholarship Agreement Once you have signed your Agreement, your Scholar Support Officer will advise you of the processes that are applicable to your category of scholarship. You will also be informed of the Embassy/High Commission (Mission) closest to your place of study and the name of the officer you should notify on your arrival in your country of study. 15 THE SCHOLARSHIP AGREEMENT THE SCHOLARSHIP AGREEMENT 16

12 THE SCHOLARSHIP AGREEMENT THE SCHOLARSHIP AGREEMENT You are reminded that the Republic of Trinidad and Tobago Embassy/High Commission and the various Overseas Missions provide services to nationals while abroad particularly our scholars. Those of you going abroad should visit the website of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs at Your Scholar Support Officer will generate several letters, s and other documents for you, the academic institutions and other Government agencies advising of the award of the scholarship and the actions necessary to administer the scholarship. These include the following: Letter to academic institution; Letter to Embassy/High Commission for visa purposes; Invoices for the purchase of a ticket (on submission of three (3) quotations); and Memoranda to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Republic of Trinidad and Tobago Overseas Missions, the Comptroller of Accounts advising of the award of the scholarship. OBLIGATIONS Scholars must be aware of the primary obligations under the scholarship as set out in the Scholarship Agreement. There are as follows: Obligations of the Government of Trinidad and Tobago (GoRTT): the Lender: Pay or cause to be paid to the academic institution, tuition and other compulsory fees relating to the course of study as approved by the lender, on behalf of the student; The GoRTT determines whether fees are compulsory in keeping with the Scholarship Agreement; Pay or cause to be paid to the student a monthly personal maintenance allowance as stated in the agreement for the duration of the Scholarship; Pay or cause to be paid to the student a book allowance for each year of study, solely for the purchase of books essential to the course of study; Pay or cause to be paid to the student an initial warm clothing allowance (where applicable) at the commencement of the course of study; Pay or cause to be paid to the student a replacement warm clothing allowance (where applicable) for each additional year of study; Pay or cause to be paid to the student the cost of return airfare (economy class) to the place of study and back to the Republic of Trinidad and Tobago upon completion of studies; Pay or cause to be paid to the student a special Equipment allowance for the course of study, solely for the purchase of special equipment essential to the course of study; and Pay or cause to be paid to the student an incidental travel allowance not exceeding the rate payable for the country of study to cover the cost of inland travel from the port of entry, in the country of study, to the academic institution and back on the completion of studies. Obligations of the Student To submit to the discipline, supervision and control of the academic institution and the Lender; 17 THE SCHOLARSHIP AGREEMENT THE SCHOLARSHIP AGREEMENT 18

13 THE SCHOLARSHIP AGREEMENT THE SCHOLARSHIP AGREEMENT To apply diligently to his/her studies throughout the course of study, with a view to obtaining within the stipulated or shortest time the qualifications as approved; To maintain the required academic standards with a Grade Point Average of 2.50 or the equivalent of a Grade B; That he or she shall not, without the written approval of the Lender being first had and obtained: Abandon his or her course of study; Apply himself or herself to any studies and/or course of study save and except those for which this scholarship has been granted, nor commence studies in any institution other than the academic Institution during the tenure of this scholarship; and Take up paid employment during the period of the scholarship. To authorize access by the Lender to all information relating to his or her course of study during the tenure of the scholarship; To report forthwith, but in any event no later than fourteen (14) days (for those students completing studies within the Republic of Trinidad and Tobago) or one (1) month (for those students studying abroad) after the conclusion or termination of the course of study, unless otherwise permitted by the written approval of the Lender, being first had and obtained, from the Ministry of Public Administration SATD; To abide by the laws of the country where the academic institution is located; To refrain from participating in activities which are, or likely to be harmful or otherwise damaging or detrimental to the interests, security and/or reputation of the Lender; To maintain citizenship of the Republic of Trinidad and Tobago for the duration of the scholarship; To not apply for residency status or apply for or acquire permanent residence status in any country (other than Trinidad and Tobago) for the entire duration of the Scholarship or any additional period of time approved by the Lender, in writing, to complete the course of study; To not accept, receive, hold or be in receipt of any other scholarship, or grant, bursary, financial aid or assistance, award of a monetary nature or loan, without the prior written consent of the Lender throughout the duration of the agreed scholarship period; To forthwith notify the Ministry of Public Administration SATD, in writing, of any change in name or residential address during the scholarship period or any additional period of time approved by the Lender and the reasons for any such change where reasons are requested by the Lender; To accept employment in the service of GoRTT, in such capacity and at such remuneration as the Lender may determine, for the prescribed Period of Obligatory Service, such period to be related to the cost of the Scholarship and to be determined based on the existing policy. The current Policy to determine the Period of Obligatory Service is as follows: Cost of Scholarship Up to $100,000 Over $100,000 and up to $300,000 Over $300,000 and up to $400,000 Over $400,000 and up to $600,000 Over $600,000 and above Period of Obligatory Service One (1) year Two (2) years Three (3) years Four (4) years Five (5) years That any breach of the Scholarship Agreement by the student or failure on his or her part to comply with and/or attain the required academic or professional standards as laid down by the academic institution and the agreement at any point during the entire period of the course of study will render the scholarship liable to suspension or cancellation at the sole discretion of the Lender; and 19 THE SCHOLARSHIP AGREEMENT THE SCHOLARSHIP AGREEMENT 20

14 THE SCHOLARSHIP AGREEMENT PAYMENT TO SCHOLARS Should the student fail to meet any of the obligations indicated above, the Lender retains the discretion to determine the agreement and cease the payment of tuition and other compulsory fees to the university authorities. General Conditions of the Scholarship Upon the completion of a period of employment equal to the applicable prescribed period, the student shall be released from obligation to serve and thereafter the Lender shall have no claim against the student for compensation or damages; and that all monies expended by the Lender on the Scholarship including sums paid to and/or on behalf of the student, shall be in all respects a loan from the Lender to the student, which shall be repaid to the Lender with interest at the rate of Seven and Three-Quarters per centum per annum (7.75%) on demand, PROVIDED THAT the student serves in the employ of the GoRTT, or obtains employment within the Republic oftrinidad and Tobago in the manner prescribed, as indicated in your scholarship agreement, the repayment of such loan shall be waived. As a recipient of a scholarship from the Government of the Republic of Trinidad and Tobago you may be eligible for the following payments: Tuition and all Compulsory Fees Personal Maintenance Allowance Special Equipment Allowance Annual Book Allowance Economy Airfare (where applicable) Warm Clothing Allowance (where applicable) Replacement Warm Clothing Allowance (where applicable) Incidental Travel Allowance (where applicable) 21 THE SCHOLARSHIP AGREEMENT PAYMENT TO SCHOLARS 22

15 PAYMENT TO SCHOLARS PAYMENT TO SCHOLARS Payment of Tuition and Compulsory Fees Tuition fees are paid each semester or each year as billed by the academic institution. Fees will be paid directly to the academic institution where you are studying for the prescribed course of study as stated in your Scholarship Agreement. Payments will not be made for additional courses outside of those prescribed in the Agreement or any extra courses not required for graduation. To ensure the early payment of tuition and compulsory fees Scholars must: upload a copy of their invoices or account information to their Scholar s Profile when billed by the academic institution locally or abroad; have the academic institution dispatch the invoice to the office of the Republic Trinidad and Tobago Embassy/ Mission located within close proximity to the institution or have it sent directly to the Ministry of Public Administration SATD as instructed in our official correspondence to the academic institution; and a copy of the invoice to their Scholar Support Officer. Those scholars pursuing studies at the University of the West Indies, St. Augustine, Cave Hill and Mona Campuses are required to submit the letter from the Ministry of Public Administration SATD indicating that they are a scholarship recipient. The University will then take the necessary steps to have the Mission and the Ministry of Public Administration billed for the student each year. Please note that subsequent tuition fees will be paid subject to positive academic review of the student s performance. Students must submit their transcript/progress report for this to be undertaken. Your transcript or progress report must be submitted within one month of completion of exams or as soon as it becomes available to the student. Tuition fees will not be paid, in the absence of the academic review. Personal Maintenance Allowance (PMA) To facilitate the payment of all allowances, scholars pursuing studies locally will be advised to open an account at any bank in the Republic of Trinidad and Tobago. Scholars pursuing studies abroad will be advised to open a Visa/Debit Electron Account. This is a TT$ denominated account which facilitates the easy payment of allowances to scholars in any country. Your Scholar Support Officer will up load a Bank Information Form on your Scholar Profile. This form will be published to the Requirement Tab of your Scholar Profile. You must log-in to your Scholar Profile using the SATIS login tab on the scholarship website each time you wish to access your account and all other forms and documents which we will send to you. 23 PAYMENT TO SCHOLARS PAYMENT TO SCHOLARS 24

16 PAYMENT TO SCHOLARS PAYMENT TO SCHOLARS You will be required to complete and submit your account information via a form which must be accessed via your Scholar Profile. Once this is received your payments will be made with effect from the start date of your course. All payments will be made within six to eight weeks of signing the Scholarship Agreement. The Personal Maintenance Allowance is paid during the period of scholarship. This payment contributes to the cost associated with room, board and local transport. The approved amount payable is identified at Appendix I. Personal Maintenance Allowance for scholars abroad is paid quarterly via their Visa/Debit Electron Account as scheduled below:- (1) Sep Nov by the 28 th day of August. (2) Dec Feb by the 28 th day of November (3) Mar May by the 28 th day of February (4) Jun Aug by the 28 th day of May PMA for scholars studying within the Republic of Trinidad and Tobago is paid on a monthly basis by the first working day of the month. Book Allowance Book Allowance is paid at the beginning of a scholarship; and at the start of each academic year subject to positive review of the scholar s academic performance. Special Equipment Allowance Special Equipment Allowance is a one-time payment paid at the beginning of the scholarship for the purpose of purchasing equipment and material deemed necessary to complete the course of study. Warm Clothing Allowance (where applicable) Warm Clothing Allowance is a one-time payment paid at the beginning of the scholarship. Replacement Warm Clothing Allowance (where applicable) Replacement Warm Clothing Allowance is paid at the beginning of the academic year for each additional year of study. Incidental Travel Allowance (where applicable) This is a one-time payment to offset the cost of travel between the airport and the academic institution. One way Economy Air Ticket (where applicable) Scholars will be provided with a one way economy ticket for travel to the country of study. Scholar Support Officers will discuss travel arrangements with the scholar. scholars must secure three quotes for a ticket to travel on the date indicated. 25 PAYMENT TO SCHOLARS PAYMENT TO SCHOLARS 26

17 PAYMENT TO SCHOLARS VISA APPLICATIONS Particulars of the quotations to be provided: Your three quotations must come from three travel agencies for a one way, economy class ticket, for travel on the same date, to the country of study. You must choose a travel agency which accepts invoices from the GoRTT; One of the quotes must be for travel on Caribbean Airlines, unless Caribbean Airlines does not service the destination. On presentation of the quotations the scholar will be issued an Invoice Order to purchase the airline ticket. The Division will process the payment to the Travel Agency. Scholars are required to inform their Scholar Support Officer and the relevant Embassy/ Consular Office/ Mission of their completion date for their course of study, so that arrangements can be made for the purchase of a one way economy ticket for their return travel to the Republic of Trinidad and Tobago, within one month of the completion date. The completion date of the course of study occurs on completion of the final examination, or on submission of the final paper, or at the end of the academic year/semester; whichever is the latest. The Ministry of Public Administration SATD will provide scholarship recipients who are required to apply for a visa, with a letter to the relevant Embassy/ High Commission advising of the award of the scholarship. When applying for your Visa please note the following: Students studying in the United States will be required to obtain a J1 Visa. If the academic institution does not have the authority to issue the J1, the student can then apply for the F1 visa; Students studying in the United Kingdom will be required to obtain a Tier 4 Visa; and Students studying in Canada will be required to obtain the IMM 1294 study Visa. 27 PAYMENT TO SCHOLARS VISA APPLICATIONS 28

18 DURATION OF THE SCHOLARSHIP DURATION OF THE SCHOLARSHIP PROGRAMME Bachelor of Science (B.Sc.) PERIOD OF FUNDING 3 years Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) 3 years Please note that your scholarship provides for the completion of an undergraduate degree only. Your course of study must lead to the qualification of one (1) degree programme only. Examples of the degrees which you can pursue are listed on the following page: Bachelor s degrees in the United States, the UK and Canada where the minimum period of time for completion of the Bachelor s degree ITs four (4) years Bachelor s degree at the UTT for e.g. Bachelor of Education (B.Ed.) Bachelor of Law (LLB) - 3 years; LEC - 2 years maximum Bachelor of Medicine; Bachelor of Surgery (M.B.B.S.), Doctor of Dental Surgery (D.D.S.) Doctor of Veterinary Medicine (D.V.M.) 4 years 4 years 5 years 5 years 29 DURATION OF THE SCHOLARSHIP DURATION OF THE SCHOLARSHIP 30

19 DURATION OF THE SCHOLARSHIP DURATION OF THE SCHOLARSHIP Please pay careful attention to the following prohibitions: Your scholarship cannot be used for the completion of another degree simultaneously; Your scholarship cannot be used for continuation to another higher degree or to commence a higher degree; Funding will not be provided during work terms (co-op programme or programmes with industrial year), if the Scholar is in receipt of a full salary and/or is not attending school on a full time basis. Work Terms are usually found in the Co-op programmes available in Canada and the United Kingdom. In the UK they are referred to as the Industrial year or term; The Immersion year for persons pursuing language degrees abroad will not be funded if credits equivalent to the credits for the specified academic year are not received; The Immersion year can be pursued at no cost to the Government, provided that the scholar obtains approval from the Ministry of Public Administration SATD of his or her intent. The scholarship is suspended for the period in order to allow the scholar to pursue the immersion year; Prerequisite courses for entry to a degree programme will not be funded; Bachelor s degrees being pursued abroad which require a study year outside of the country of study will not be funded, unless it is a compulsory requirement of the course of study. These courses must be brought to the attention of your Scholar Support Officer before you sign your Scholarship Agreement; All courses of study which do not lead to the award of a Bachelor s degree must be brought to the attention of your Scholar Support Officer before you sign your Scholarship Agreement; and Fees which are refunded to the student by the academic institution, on completion of studies will not be paid e.g. Caution and Library fees. 31 DURATION OF THE SCHOLARSHIP DURATION OF THE SCHOLARSHIP 32

20 SUSPENSION OR TERMINATION OF SCHOLARSHIPS THE REPORTING PROCESS Your scholarship will be suspended or terminated if: you abandon the course of study without written approval from the Ministry of Public Administration, SATD; you pursue studies other than the approved course of study without written approval from the Ministry of Public Administration, SATD; you fail to maintain a GPA of 2.50 or its equivalent; you take up paid employment during the period of the scholarship without written permission from the Ministry of Public Administration, SATD; you fail to meet the minimum academic standard as reflected in your Grades; you changed your course of study or institution without written approval from the Ministry of Public Administration, SATD; you commit any other breach of the Scholarship Prior to completion of studies, scholars receive an notification reminding the scholar to report in person to the SATD. The also contains information on the required documents a scholar is required to upload to his/her Scholar Profile on SATIS before reporting in person. On completion of the course of study, the scholar is required to report in person to the SATD as follows: (i) Scholars abroad within one month of completion of programme of study; (ii) Scholars Local within 14 days of completion of programme of study. Completion of the course of study occurs: - on completion of the final examination; or - on submission of the final paper; or - at the end of the academic year/semester as the case may be; whichever of the above is the latest. 33 SUSPENSION OR TERMINATION OF SCHOLARSHIPS THE REPORTING PROCESS 34

21 EMPLOYMENT OF SCHOLARS THE DEFERRAL OF OBLIGATORY SERVICE The GoRTT shall offer employment to the Scholar within three (3) months of reporting following completion of studies. Without limiting the discretion of the Government, such employment will be determined in accordance with the particulars of the course of study in which the Scholar was engaged. Should the Government fail to offer employment within the three (3) month time frame, the scholar must seek and remain in suitable employment in the Republic of Trinidad and Tobago for a period of not less than the applicable prescribed period of obligatory service. The Policy on Placement and Employment provides further details on the Placement Process and is accessible via the Scholarships website Scholars may request a deferral of their obligation to serve, thereby postponing the commencement or continuation of their obligatory period. Deferral of obligatory service may be considered under the following grounds: (a) To pursue Postgraduate Studies or postdoctoral research; (b) To pursue internships abroad in the medical field, in areas necessary for practicing medicine OR other internships abroad which will add significant value to the scholar s ability to perform obligatory service within Trinidad and Tobago; (c) To pursue residency and postgraduate programmes in the medical field that are aligned to the needs of the health sector in Trinidad and Tobago; 35 EMPLOYMENT OF SCHOLARS THE DEFERRAL OF OBLIGATORY SERVICE 36

22 THE DEFERRAL OF OBLIGATORY SERVICE REPAYMENT OF SCHOLARSHIP LOAN/ BREACH OF SCHOLARSHIP (d) To pursue short-term employment abroad not exceeding two (2) years, which will provide the requisite skills, abilities and work experience in the field of study which will allow him/her to perform at a higher standard in Trinidad and Tobago; (e) To complete current course of study - scholars who failed to complete their programme of study within the stipulated period are required to request a deferral of their obligatory service in order to complete the programme. They must inform the Ministry of Public Administration SATD of their intention as soon as they have knowledge of their failure; (f) Because of certifiable reasons relating to the scholar s medical fitness. Scholars who have completed their program of studies but wish to request deferral of their obligatory service must inform the Ministry of Public Administration SATD of their intention and complete and submit the relevant forms and documents before proceeding into any other programme as described above, at least three (3) months prior to completion of their course of study. Please see the Policy on Deferral of Obligatory Service for the recipients of Government Scholarships on the website Please note: The Government acting through the Ministry of Public Administration (MPA), Scholarships and Advanced Training Division (SATD) reserves the right at any time to decline or revoke/discontinue/cease a scholarship awarded to any applicant or recipient who may have: with-held material information; provided inaccurate information; failed to maintain the required standards; changed their course of study or institution without approval from the Ministry of Public Administration SATD; and commit any other breach of the Scholarship Agreement. Where the scholar, in the sole opinion of the GoRTT, is in breach of the scholarship, the scholar shall, in accordance with the Scholarship agreement, be liable to refund to the GoRTT the total amount of the loan together with interest at the rate of 7.75% per centum per annum, calculated from the month of first payment on the scholarship. 37 THE DEFERRAL OF OBLIGATORY SERVICE REPAYMENT OF SCHOLARSHIP LOAN / BREACH OF SCHOLARSHIP 38

23 REPAYMENT OF SCHOLARSHIP LOAN/ BREACH OF SCHOLARSHIP Where the scholar, in the sole opinion of the GoRTT, is in breach of the scholarship and the Scholar worked in the employ of the GoRTT, or obtains approved employment in Trinidad and Tobago, as the case may be, for a period of employment less than the applicable Prescribed Period, he or she shall be liable to refund only such proportion of the total sum, together with all accrued interest due thereon, as the unexpired period of service related to the applicable prescribed period. Such sum shall be recoverable by the GoRTT without prejudice to any of its other remedies available in law. The contents of this booklet may be reviewed and amended by the Ministry of Public Administration, Scholarships and Advanced Training Division, based on changes in the GoRTT policy. Any such changes will be made public on the scholarships website at 39 REPAYMENT OF SCHOLARSHIP LOAN / BREACH OF SCHOLARSHIP REPAYMENT OF SCHOLARSHIP LOAN / BREACH OF SCHOLARSHIP 40

24 SCHOLAR SUPPORT CONTACT INFORMATION SCHOLAR SUPPORT CONTACT INFORMATION PBX Telephone Numbers: ; 8578 Unit A Humanities, Education, Earth Sciences and Mathematics Archaeology, History, Agriculture, Actuarial Science, Communication Studies, Environmental Sciences, Mathematics, Cultural Studies, Forestry, Statistics, Dance/Drama/Music, Geography, Geophysics, Fine Arts, Geographical Sciences, Languages, Geology, Library and Information Science, Marine Studies, Media, Journalism, Visual Arts, Meteorology, Theatre, Petroleum Geosciences, Theology, Paleontology, Teaching/ Education, Sedimentology, other relevant areas within the group PBX Telephone Numbers: /8578; Extensions: 2029/ 2215/ 2092/ 2063/ 2094 Scholar SupportUnitA@mpa.gov.tt Unit C Engineering, Management Sciences and Social Sciences Applied Sciences, Accounting, International Studies/International Relations, Chemical Engineering; Business Administration, Political Science, Computer Engineering, Psychology, Computer Science, Economics, Social Work, Electrical Engineering, Finance, Sociology, Industrial Engineering, Management Studies, Information Technology, Oil And Gas Management, Mechanical Engineering, Sports Management, Manufacturing /Process Petroleum Engineering, Telecommunications, other relevant areas within the group PBX Telephone Numbers: /8578; Extensions: 2027/ 2021/ 2183/ 2058/ 2089/ 2028 ScholarSupportUnitC@mpa.gov.tt Unit B Medical Sciences, Physical Sciences, Natural Sciences and Law Allied Health, Architecture, Biology, Environmental Law, Dentistry, Technical Studies, Botany, Oil and Gas Law, Forensic Science, Technology Studies, Chemistry, Physiotherapy, Urban and Regional Planning, Life Sciences, Psychiatry, Valuation, Sciences, Physics, Sports, Medicine, Zoology, Surgery, Veterinary Sciences, other relevant areas within the group PBX Telephone Numbers: /8578; Extensions: 2024/ 2066/ 2031/ 2305/ 2402 ScholarSupportUnitB@mpa.gov.tt 41 SCHOLAR SUPPORT CONTACT INFORMATION SCHOLAR SUPPORT CONTACT INFORMATION 42

25 APPENDIX I APPENDIX I Current rates payable for the country of study or applicable scholarship Current rates payable for the country of study or applicable scholarship 43 APPENDIX I APPENDIX I 44

26 45 46

27 CONTACT US Any questions related to the use of SATIS, please contact the Scholarships and Advanced Training Division at : Tel: / 4724 Ext: Trainee Support: scholarshipenquiries@mpa.gov.tt 47