Our Scholarship Programs

 

Mary Klador Siow Merit-Based Scholarship

The Mary Klador Siow Merit-Based Scholarship honors the memory of Ma Mary Siow, the matriarch of the Siow family and grandmother of IFBA founder Victor Sikeley. Known for her selfless acts of kindness, Ma Mary opened her home to countless youth and adults in Liberia, providing shelter and nourishment. Her legacy of compassion and service is celebrated through this scholarship, aimed at empowering exceptional students in Liberia. This scholarship currently supports 30 Students across our partner schools.

Scholarship Overview:

  • Eligibility: The scholarship is awarded to students in the top 10% of their class, based on the Government of Liberia's grading system. At least one scholarship is reserved for a female student. If no female students are in the top 10%, the highest-ranking girl in her class will receive the scholarship.

  • Grades Covered: Scholarships are awarded to students in grades 6 and 9, covering tuition for the subsequent school year (7th grade for 6th graders, and 10th grade for 9th graders).

  • Funding: The scholarship covers registration and tuition fees, with potential subsidies for computer and Wi-Fi use, and field trip fees. Additional fees, such as WAEC and WASSCE registration, may be covered upon application to IFBA's Liberia Office.

  • Renewal: Scholars retain their scholarship annually if they remain in the top 10% of their class. Graduates at the top of their senior class will receive a scholarship for university education.

Application Process:

  • Timeline: The process begins in September, with final recipients announced in January.

  • Essay Requirement: Eligible students must submit a scholarship essay by December 1st, with prompts provided by the first week of October.

  • Submission: Essays should be submitted to IFBA's representatives in Liberia and, if possible, electronically to IFBA USA.

By providing comprehensive support and fostering academic excellence, the Mary Klador Siow Merit-Based Scholarship aims to nurture future leaders dedicated to improving Liberia. This initiative reflects Ma Mary's enduring spirit of generosity and commitment to education.

IFBA Need-Based Scholarship

IFBA, in collaboration with its partners, is dedicated to providing high-quality education to every student, regardless of financial circumstances. Our need-based scholarships aim to support students who demonstrate both financial need and academic promise. This scholarship currently supports 100 students across our partner schools. Here are the key eligibility criteria for these scholarships:

  • Financial Need: Applicants must show genuine financial need, assessed through a thorough examination of family income and financial circumstances. Relevant documents, including tuition payment history, must be submitted.

  • Academic Potential: While academic excellence is not the sole criterion, applicants should display a reasonable level of academic potential through previous records, teacher recommendations, or standardized test scores.

  • Parents & Teachers Association (PTA) Involvement: The PTA Chairperson will act as a liaison, providing insights into the circumstances of less fortunate students and ensuring transparency in the selection process.

  • Community Leaders' Involvement: Community leaders and elders will help validate the financial need of students, particularly orphans, less fortunate, or those with single parents, using a standardized questionnaire.

  • Grade Level: Scholarships are available for students from elementary to high school, with the number of scholarships determined by available funds and the number of eligible applicants.

  • Character and Leadership: Applicants should exhibit good character, leadership potential, and commitment to their studies, supported by letters of recommendation or testimonials from teachers, community leaders, or mentors.

Application Process:

  • Form Submission: Interested students must complete the official scholarship application form, providing personal, academic, and financial information, along with any additional required documents.

  • Deadline: Application deadlines will be communicated to all prospective applicants. Late applications may not be considered, so timely submission is encouraged.

At IFBA, we believe in the transformative power of education to create positive changes in communities and pave the way for a better future. Our need-based scholarships aim to remove financial barriers, ensuring deserving students can access top-quality education. The scholarship committee will diligently assess each application, ensuring a fair and transparent selection process.

Through these scholarships, IFBA and its partners strive to create an inclusive educational environment that fosters academic excellence, character building, and overall student development. We look forward to supporting driven and talented students who aspire to be catalysts for positive change in Liberia and beyond.

For inquiries or further information, please contact the IFBA administration or scholarship committee.