Frequently asked questions.

We hope that we have answered your questions here, but if we haven't please contact us.

How do I know if I qualify for an award?

The criteria are very simple. You need to have lived in the Merseyside area for a minimum of 3 years, be eligible to receive a full or partial grant for tuition fees, already have or plan to apply for a place in a higher education establishment.

Can I apply if I am already at a higher education establishment?

Yes. We would expect to understand specifically why you need support to continue. For example has there been a change in your personal circumstances?

What do you mean by a higher education establishment?

Basically, any establishment offering a degree, or equivalent qualification.

What size of award can I expect?

Firstly we would normally give an annual award, which will be paid for the duration of a 3 year course. So an award of £500, will be £500 paid annually for each of the next 3 years.
The maximum award we give is £1000 per annum. We will decide, based upon the relative merits of the shortlisted applicants, whether to make any award, and how much to award each one.

How many awards do you make each year?

We guarantee to make at least one grant per annum. We will make additional grants depending on the merits of the applicants, and the funds being available. Last year we made 3 awards of £1000 each, but this must not be relied upon as a precedent.

What do I do if I want to apply?

Download the application form from our website, write an accompanying letter explaining your reasons for asking for support and post off to PO Box 129, Aylesbury, HP22 4XE by the date requested (see How to Apply).

We regret that since we need your signature approval to obtain references, there is no facility for you to apply electronically.

Please note that you should ensure that you application is sent off well in advance of that date. Late applications will strictly not be considered.

If I get an interview, what do you expect from me?

The interviews will be conducted by the Trustees. Remember that 2 of our Trustees are young people who have recently been through the University system, so they know what you face.
The intention of the interview is not for us to give you a grilling, but to allow you to support your application by personally expanding upon your written application.

We will expect you to have prepared at least some notes to which you may wish to refer, or if you so wish a small presentation, although this is not mandatory. We will want to know more about you personally, your interests and hobbies, any work that you do to help fund yourself, a little about your family background, and your aspirations for the future. An idea of why you chose the course you have applied for, and what you plan to do afterwards would be helpful.

The interview will last 30-45 minutes.

We expect you to arrive looking presentable but there is no dress code expected, you should wear what makes you feel comfortable.

We are prepared to pay reasonable expenses incurred in attending the interview.

What happens to my application if I am unsuccessful?

All documentation sent to us by unsuccessful applicants will be destroyed four weeks after the closing date for applications.

Can I telephone anyone to ask additional questions?

No we are not prepared to enter into conversation with applicants to ensure that all applicants are treated fairly and equally. However if you have a particular concern you can e-mail us at enquiries@johnmorantrust.com and we will reply within 5 days.