Scholarship rules updated to restore choice of study fields
Following the announcement, concerns were raised on social media regarding restrictions on students’ choice of study.
Regulations governing the President’s Scholarship have been revised following public feedback on restrictions related to fields of study.
The scholarship is awarded to students who achieve top results in higher secondary examinations.
Under a policy announced earlier, students were to be limited to courses within sectors listed in the ‘National Training Needs Requirement List’, which includes 27 areas such as healthcare, education and tourism.
The policy stated that, from next year, scholarships would be granted only for fields identified as required for national development.
Following the announcement, concerns were raised on social media regarding restrictions on students’ choice of study.
In response, the policy was amended. The updated regulations confirm that students will continue to be allowed to pursue studies in any field.
Other provisions in the policy remain in place. Students must select institutions in countries that maintain diplomatic relations with the Maldives and meet safety requirements.
Students who choose to study within the Maldives will receive a monthly allowance of MVR 6,000.
Eligibility criteria require applicants to obtain A* grades in five subjects at Higher Secondary School Certificate and Advanced Level examinations, including Dhivehi and Islam.
Applicants must also have at least a C grade in English at GCE O-Level or an equivalent examination.
