Call for Applications: Margaret Moody Scholarship Fund

August 13–31, 2025

Eligibility & Selection Criteria

Applicants must meet the following requirements:

1. Registration – Must be fully registered with the Jamaica Council for Persons with Disabilities.
2. Level of Study – Must be pursuing studies at the Diploma, Associate Degree, or Bachelor’s Degree level. Applications should include an acceptance letter from the institution.
   • If the acceptance letter is not available at the time of application, it must be submitted before the interview stage.
3. Priority Consideration – Given to applicants:
   • Pursuing tertiary-level training for the first time; and/or
   • Maintaining a “B” average or 3.00 GPA in current studies.
4. Continuation of Support – May be extended for the duration of the course, provided the awardee maintains at least a “B” average or 3.00 GPA. Progress reports must be submitted before fees are paid.
5. Voluntary Service Requirement – Successful awardees must complete 40 voluntary hours per year:
   • 20 hours within the disability community (outside of substantive employment)
   • 20 hours with a non-disability-related organization
   • In extenuating circumstances (e.g., a pandemic), this requirement may be waived.
   • All voluntary work must be verified using Council-issued time sheets/cards signed by an authorized officer of the host organization.
6. Scholarship Value – Up to $350,000 per annum. Funds may be used for tuition, boarding, and materials.
7. Application Form – Must be submitted using the prescribed form to the JCPD.
8. Essay Submission – Applicants must submit an essay of no more than 500 words, covering:
   • Biographical details
   • Reason(s) for financial assistance
   • Reason(s) for chosen course of study and its anticipated impact on the applicant and the disability community
   • An electronic copy must be sent to jcpd@mlss.gov.jm
9. Financial Disclosure – All other financial aid applied for, received, or promised for the same academic year must be disclosed during the interview.
10. Character References – Two required:
    • At least one from a Justice of the Peace, Minister of Religion, Teacher, or Principal
    • The second may come from any of the above or another reputable community leader.
11. Reapplication – Unsuccessful applicants may reapply in subsequent years. Those previously disqualified may reapply once grades improve.

Application Deadline: All applications must be submitted between August 13 and August 31, 2025.

For further details and to obtain the prescribed application form, please contact the Jamaica Council for Persons with Disabilities or email jcpd@mlss.gov.jm.