The government will be offering scholarships to up to 150 students in the first such scheme for those who opt to do an undergraduate course abroad or with a recognised private institution in Malta.

The education authorities yesterday also renewed their commitment to assist students in postgraduate education, dedicating just under €466,000 (Lm200,000) to fund Master's degrees and doctorates abroad or in Malta.

The amount to be spent on undergraduate scholarships is not yet known since it depends on the type of courses students choose and their length.

Only full-time students can benefit from the scholarships.

Education Minister Dolores Cristina said the plan was to widen these schemes in the coming years.

"Our aim is to give students the opportunity to continue studying and give them the chance to choose where to do so," she said during a press conference yesterday.

The government, she said, felt it was important to assist students who chose to study abroad. "We are looking at students who have the best qualifications and competences."

Micheline Sciberras, director general in the directorate for education services, said some 90 students have already benefitted from postgraduate scholarships over the past two years.

Undergraduates will be offered grants and monthly support amounting to an average of €10,000 each for 15 prescribed courses in science and education and €4,500 for general courses.

Students studying for a Master's degree in Malta will have their tuition fees covered and given €2,300 a year.

Those studying abroad will have their tuition fees covered up to a maximum of €6,990. Doctoral students will receive a maximum of €20,970 for three years.

There are also plans to give financial assistance to faculties at the University of Malta when a student chooses to pursue a doctoral degree.

There are other incentives for Gozitan students and those who have a family.

Applications for undergraduate courses close at noon on September 2 while those for postgraduate courses close at noon on June 17. Two information sessions will be held on May 28 and on June 4 at 3 p.m. at Robert Samut Hall, Floriana. More information can be found on the site www.education.gov.mt/mgss.htm