There are 400 scholarships of $1000 and students at Dubbo are being encouraged to apply.

The scholarships are on offer under the NSW Department of Family and Community Services (FACS) Scholarships programs.

The funds can be used for expenses like textbooks, course costs and computer equipment.

Dubbo’s John Hill received a scholarship in last year’s offer.

The Year 12 student at Dubbo College Senior Campus said it was helping him with his education.

He said he had been surprised when his application was successful and the scholarship had helped a lot.

John, who’s success in the boxing ring includes a NSW state title, hopes to go to university to study in the sport or human movement field.

He’s also been offered a traineeship with Pound for Pound gym, where he trains.

John encouraged other students to apply.

Dubbo-based FACS Housing Services team leader Kerry McDermott said there had been a number of recipients at Dubbo, Bourke, Brewarrina, Walgett and similar areas in the past.

“Also we see an increase this year to a total of 400 scholarships,” she said.

“This is an increase on last year from about 200 and next year we’re hoping the increase will go to around 600.

“So this is a positive showing that many students are taking up the scholarship on offer from FACS.”

Students are eligible to apply if they are:

Living in social housing, on the NSW Housing Register, receiving private rental assistance or living in crisis or supported accommodation or out-of-home care.

Studying in Year 10, 11 or 12 at a NSW high school or TAFE, undertaking a school-based apprenticeship or traineeship or studying a Vocational Education and Training (VET) subject at school in 2018.

An Australian citizen or permanent resident.

Applications can be submitted online and close Friday at 5pm.