The Department of Higher Education, Research, Science, and Technology (DHERST) is pleased to officially announce the availability of the Government of Papua New Guinea (GoPNG) Scholarship - Tertiary Education Study Assistance Scheme (TESAS) - for the academic year 2024.
This declaration extends to all 2024 New Intakes and Continuing Students currently enrolled in recognised Higher Education Institutions (HEIs), including all the PNG Universities and Colleges.
To get more information on How to Apply for HELP, click here. You can also get the latest information on PNG govt in-country scholarships here.
Continuing Students Self-Sponsored Students TESAS Status
For continuing students not featured on the published list, kindly consult your respective HEIs to confirm your TESAS status for the 2024 academic year. This precise information is crucial for a seamless start to the first semester of this year.
Students who were self-sponsored in the previous year and have been granted a scholarship for the current year are strongly advised to verify their travel itinerary at the nearest Air Niugini Office.
In cases where your name is not found on the travel plan, promptly contact DHERST and request travel information. Travel arrangements will strictly adhere to the destinations specified by respective HEIs in the preceding year.
In a display of confidence and intending to alleviate the financial burden on parents regarding school fees, the GoPNG, through DHERST, has successfully settled all outstanding 2023 TESAS arrears owed to HEIs.
TESAS Payments for Semester 1, 2024
Disbursements for TESAS payments for Semester 1, 2024, are scheduled to be processed promptly after the completion of registration.
Lists will be diligently compiled and submitted to DHERST, ensuring the timely and efficient distribution of financial support to eligible students.
It is crucial to note that Semester 2, 2024 TESAS payments are contingent upon HEIs providing Semester 2 Registration lists and, importantly, the requisite acquittals for Semester 1, 2024. All students must submit the required documentation to secure their govt scholarship and get continued support in their studies.
This also applies to the PNG Govt HELP program, more information here.
For further information or clarification
In conclusion, students are strongly encouraged to channel their focus on academic pursuits. The GoPNG extends heartfelt congratulations on the dedication and hard work demonstrated. Best wishes for a successful academic year.
Please do not hesitate to contact us at the following telephone numbers: 3012076 or 3012058/3012048/3012070, or via email at info@dherst.gov.pg.
The Department of Higher Education, Research, Science, and Technology (DHERST) released the National Selection results for the 2024 academic year on the 23 of December 2023. This marks an important milestone in the selection process conducted through the National Online Selection System (NOSS). The placements for successful Grade 12 school leavers seeking admission to tertiary institutions across Papua New Guinea are now out.
Note that the Grade 12 selection Lists for PNG Tertiary Institutions 2024 do not have the TESAS status of the students. That means that Grade 12 students will have to confirm the scholarship status in their NOAS accounts. More info is given below.
Here is what DHERST said about the students on the Grade 12 selection Lists for PNG Tertiary Institutions 2024:
Seamless Transition: Your application details have been securely transmitted to your chosen Higher Education Institution (HEI), facilitating a smooth onboarding process.
Official Admissions Offer: Expect to receive an admissions offer letter directly from your selected HEI outlining acceptance procedures, important dates, and any additional requirements.
Potential TESAS Eligibility: Congratulations if your chosen program qualifies for the Tertiary Education Student Assistance Scheme (TESAS)! Check your TESAS status on the NOAS platform (apply.dherst.gov.pg) by the third week of January 2024 for scholarship details.
For Non-Selected Applicants
Admissions Pool Consideration: Your application remains active in the NOSS Admissions Pool. Should any HEIs have vacancies after the National Selections, your application may still be considered. Regularly check your MyStatus section on the NOAS platform from December 2023 to March 2024 for updates.
FODE Second-chance Pathway: If your GPA falls below 2.0, consider upgrading your Grade 12 marks and apply as non-school leavers. Remember, the path to tertiary education remains open through the FODE and open learning pathways.
DHERST Grade 12 Selection (NOAS & NOSS)
The Department of Higher Education (DHERST) applauds all successful applicants and encourages those not selected to explore alternative avenues to realise their academic aspirations.
If you have any questions, you can call our helpline or visit our website for more information.
Best wishes to all new tertiary students embarking on their academic journey in 2024!
The Papua New Guinea government offers scholarships to help talented students pursue higher education. The TESAS and HELP programs provide financial assistance to deserving individuals, regardless of their academic background or financial situation. These scholarships offer a gateway to academic success and career opportunities for PNG students.
PNG Higher Education Scholarships Two Key Components
The three key components of the Tertiary Education Student Assistance Scheme (TESAS) are the:
The AES is awarded to students with exceptional academic performance throughout their studies, typically with a high GPA. These scholarships provide a full tuition waiver, accommodation allowance, and a modest living allowance.
By recognising and rewarding academic excellence, AES empowers students to pursue their passions and contribute positively to PNG's future.
HECAS: Addressing Financial Burdens (2)
The HECAS, on the other hand, is designed to assist students who may face financial constraints while pursuing higher education. These scholarships cover a portion of tuition fees, reducing the financial burden on students and their families.
HECAS ensures that financial limitations do not hinder students from pursuing their academic aspirations.
Here is a guide for Self-sponsored students to secure TESAS, click here to get more information.
Gender Equity Scholarships (3)
The Gender Equity Scholarship was created to promote gender balance in higher education. It encourages women who have completed high school to pursue bachelor's degrees in fields where they are currently underrepresented.
This merit-based scholarship is only open to women who have been accepted into an approved bachelor's degree program. The scholarship is only for the first year of bachelor's degree studies, but successful recipients will be considered for AES or HECAS scholarships in subsequent years.
Only 50 scholarships are awarded each year, and the eligible fields and programs are announced in October.
Benefits of TESAS Scholarships
The TESAS scholarships offer a multitude of benefits to PNG students:
1. Financial Support: Scholarship recipients receive financial assistance, easing the financial burden and allowing them to focus on their studies.
2. Scholarly Excellence: AES recipients are recognised for their academic achievements, fostering a culture of excellence and motivation among students.
3. Access to Higher Education: Both AES and HECAS provide opportunities for students from diverse backgrounds to access higher education, regardless of their financial circumstances.
4. Career Advancement: By providing a strong educational foundation, TESAS scholarships empower students to pursue careers that contribute to PNG's socioeconomic development.
Guiding Principles for TESAS Scholarships
The PNG Higher Education Ministry through DHERST upholds several guiding principles when administering TESAS scholarships:
1. Merit-Based Evaluation: Scholarships are awarded based on academic merit, ensuring that deserving students receive recognition and support.
2. Transparency and Accountability: The scholarship process is transparent and accountable, ensuring fairness and adherence to established guidelines.
3. Continuous Improvement: The TESAS program is constantly evaluated and refined to ensure its effectiveness in supporting students and fostering educational excellence.
The Role of HELP Studentship Program
In addition to TESAS, the PNG government introduced the HELP Student Loan Program (Higher Education Student Loan Program) to further support students pursuing higher education.
This loan program provides financial assistance to students who do not qualify for TESAS scholarships. The HELP program aims to bridge the financial gap and ensure qualified students are allowed the opportunity to pursue higher education.
The HELP student loan program is:
a new student loan program that offers interest-free loans to students who are enrolled in a higher education institution in Papua New Guinea.
designed to be more affordable and manageable than standard loans, and it offers a repayment grace period after graduation.
a great way for students to start building their credit history.
a valuable resource for students who need financial assistance to attend college or university.
Students do not need to repay their HELP loans until they graduate, and they will have six months to find a job before payments begin.
To find out about How to Apply for the HELP Student Loan Program, click here
Conclusion
TESAS, AES, HECAS, and HELP are the PNG government's initiatives to empower PNG's youth to pursue their academic aspirations and contribute to the nation's development.
These programs play an important role in fostering a well-educated and skilled workforce, laying the foundation for PNG's continued progress and prosperity.
This is an UPDATE of the article that first appeared here.
Grade 12 students are anticipating the release of the DHERST's NOAS Selection Lists 2024 for 2025 Admission. DHERST has announced the dates for the Grade 12 Grace Period and the launching of selections date in the NOAS Press Statement 2/2024.
The 2024 Grade 12 Students must adjust their School Leavers Choices on DHERST's national online application system (NOAS). Read on to find out about the crucial dates between now and February 2025.
More on the Grace Period in the recent NOAS Press Statement, Read about it Here.
What's best about DHERST Grace Period 2024?
The Department of Higher Education, Research, Science and Technology (DHERST) released the dates for the Grace Period and 2024/2025 NOAS Selection Lists.
In hindsight, DHERST pegged the Grace Period to Monday the 2nd of December 2024. It ends on Thursday the 5thof December 2024. Grade 12 School Leavers have 4 days to adjust their choices.
The date for the Grace Period means that the Education Department (Measurement Services Division) must release the Grade 12 results before the 2nd of December 2024.
DHERST will not be happy if NDoE delays the Grade 12 results beyond the date they set for the NOAS Grade Period.
DHERST NOAS Selection Lists 2024/2025 Release Date
The higher education department scheduled the launch of DHERST selection lists for 2024/2025 to the 16th of December 2024. This is when the higher education minister walks into DHERST office and presses the button to officially launch the NOAS selection online.
The exam results for 2024 Grade 12 and Grade 10 will be published on the MY PNG EXAM RESULTS portal. Measurement Services Division (MSD) hasn't indicated the results release date yet, but students can check the portal for the latest updates.
Grade 12 students should check their results prior to the 2nd of December 2024 so that you have time to fine-tune your SL Choices on the NOAS.
If the release of the exam results and the Grade 12 Grace Period are just a day apart, DHERST will be happy.
So, if you are a Grade 12 student, you must check your online results at the MSD's results portal and adjust your SLF choices at the DHERST NOAS login portal before the end of the Grace Period.
The Department of Higher Education, Research, Science and Technology (DHERST) announced the 2021 - 2022 students’ intake for Higher Education Institutions (HEIs) in Papua New Guinea.
But, the higher education department has not published the TESAS Award. All the students will have to wait untill the end of the month to know their TESAS statuses.
When will the TESAS list be published?
Here is what DHERST had to say:
Be advised that the TESAS list will be published before the end of this month (January 2022). Students whose names do not appear on the TESAS Award list should consult their respective institutions’ directly and confirm their admission status for 2022. [DHERST press release, 11/02/2022]
For more information contact DHERST on 301 7027 or 301 2048 or email Moi at moi.iuda@dherst.gov.pg or at stephanie.ila@dherst.gov.pg.
How to find your name?
Firstly, go to the DHERST website,
Secondly, download the PDF file, it is 139 pages and 5MB.
Then, do a PDF search (use your SLF number or your full name to search and confirm your name on the list)
Note that some smartphone visitors to the DHERST website have difficulty viewing and downloading the New Intake PDF list. If you have the same issue, you can download the list directly from the link below.
Several readers have contacted us regarding the Acceptance Lists for PNG Universities, particularly the 2025 HECAS List for Non-School Leavers, School Leavers, and Continuing Students. This article aims to answer some of the most frequently asked questions, giving you a clearer picture of what to expect between now and early February 2025.
So, whether you're a non-school leaver, school leaver, or continuing student, read on and prepare yourself!
We've also included recommended blue links throughout this article, providing detailed information on pressing questions currently on the minds of many students and parents.
Important:
NSL: The 2025 HECAS Lists for Non-School Leavers, Re-enrolled Students and Continuing Students will first appear on the university's website or in the newspapers before being shared through social media channels and other websites. This also includes Online Students. Therefore, checking the official university website or the newspapers remains crucial for Non-School Leavers, Re-enrolled Students Continuing Students and students enrolled on online studies.
SL: Grade 12 School Leavers Selection Lists published on the DHERST website will show HECAS Status (That also includes AES status for top Students). DHERST has scheduled the launching of the 2025 School Leaver Acceptance on the 18 of December 2024. Students can check their NOAS accounts to verify their selection status. The actual publication of the 2025 Grade 12 Acceptance and Admission Lists (and 2025 HECAS Lists PDF) will take place after 18 December 2024. The date has not been released by DHERST yet.
Non-school Leavers Acceptance List
The Non-School Leavers' Acceptance List (NSL) for 2025 features students who did not graduate from Grade 12 in the last five years. This list also includes foreign students and PNG students applying from overseas schools such as those in the US, NZ, Australia, and Singapore.
Important Note: DHERST does not publish the NSL. Instead, each university you applied to will release its own NSL PDF before the academic year begins. So, check the websites of the universities you applied to for the latest updates.
Top Tip: Check the university websites for past year's NSL selection lists. This will give you a good idea of when to expect the 2025 NSL to be released.
If you are a continuing student, your university will put out the continuing students' acceptance lists at the end of the academic year or over the 2024/2025 Christmas holiday. It is your responsibility to find out your GPA and possible TESAS Status for the academic year 2025.
The best thing to do is to contact the Student Admin or the university or college Registrar and find out if they've released the Continuing Students Acceptance List. And importantly, check to see that your name is on the list.
The University of Goroka (UoG) did well last year by informing its continuing students about their status before they went home for the Christmas holiday. We hope UoG does the same this year because it helps massively with the registration and orientation of its NEW students.
In fact, the other universities and colleges in PNG should do the same by informing the Continuing Students to avoid the long queues and unnecessary delays during the registration week.
2025 School Leavers HECAS List PDF - DHERST
The Grade 12 School Leavers Selections is solely done by DHERST (Department of Higher Education, Research, Science and Technology) through its National Online Application System (NOAS) and National Online Selection System (NOSS).
If you are a 2024 Grade 12 student, your selections and the announcement of your TESAS status will be formally done by DHERST.
When is DHERST HECAS List PDF coming out?
After the launch of NOAS 2024 Grade 12 Selection, school leavers and non-school leavers should know whether they are selected to a University or College, or not.
In fact, the higher education department (DHERST) planned to launch the Grade 12 National Online Selection on the 18 of December 2024.
Both the School Leavers and the non-school leavers, and continuing students (and students in the NATIONAL ADMISSION POOL) will have to wait until ALL the names (quotas from each university and college) have been confirmed, compiled and released to the general public.
Only then, the students should be able to know their confirmed HECAS/AES List PDF and determine their final TESAS STATUS.
Check out this video info we provided last year - it is still relevant to this year's selections and release of the Acceptance List PDF
Are you on TESAS (AES/HECAS List 2025)?
DHERST used different statuses to indicate the TESAS Awards for selected students.
The awards are based on the PNG government’s yearly sponsorship for students under the AES and HECAS categories, excluding the self-sponsored or corporate and overseas-sponsored students.
So how will the NSLs, Grade 12 SLs and Continuing Students know if you are on TESAS or not? You can CONFIRM your scholarship status (whether you are on TESAS or self-sponsored) through the final (official) Acceptance List released by DHERST.
What to do as a Self-sponsored student?
Perhaps the important thing is to confirm your PNG GOVT SCHOLARSHIP (TESAS-HECAS-AES) status on the 2025 Tertiary Institution's Acceptance List.
As the name implies, if you are a self-sponsored student you'll have to pay your own fees before the registration and orientation.
If you do not pay the required fees, your place will be forfeited - another student in the admission pool who has the money will take your place.
Check with your university or college to confirm how much you MUST pay to register. In addition, this information will be contained in the Acceptance Letter your institution sends to you. Make sure you read and understand what you must do before admission.
The best tip is to pay only the required amount, register and apply for the PNG govt's HELP program - read how to apply below.
Secure HELP - PNG Govt Scholarship
DHERST will facilitate the Student Loan Scheme (HELP or Higher Education Loan Program).
If you are a self-sponsored student, you'll have to pay your fee for the first semester of 2025 and apply for the HELP loan.
The Continuing students and School Leavers can apply for the HELP loan program through their university or college. This also includes those who are doing their masters or doctorate studies.
Check with your institution and ask for a HELP student loan application form. Also, find out about the due date and what to do so that your application is successful.
What to do if you are on DHERST's NATIONAL Admission Pool?
If you are a student on DHERST's National admission pool, you'll have to log in to your National Online Selection Account between now and before the academic year 2025 starts to see if you have been offered a placement at a university or college in PNG.
To give you an idea, the 2021/2022 selection had:
31, 817 students were nominated to sit the exams;
26,544 students certified;
16,171 total HEI quota for 2021; and
10,373 Grade 12 students will NOT be selected for 2022 HEI studies.
The good news is that there are 6,319 spaces (formally called quotas) to be filled via the Admission Pool.
So, keep checking to see if you are one of the lucky ones from the admission pool admitted to a university or college. Here is a video on PNG Insight YouTube Channel that explains how the QUOTA works.
When are you likely to see your name on the DHERST selection list?
When is the 2025 REGISTRATION and ORIENTATION WEEK?
Should you inform your institution that you've accepted that offer?
At least, try to find out the answer to the 5 questions as you prepare to go to your new school.
Here is an article that can help you prepare for registration and orientation week. It gives details on documents you need to present at registration, fees and what to do to get yourself prepared for the new academic year.
Recommended reading for NSL, School Leavers and Continuing Students
Additional information for Non-school Leavers, Continuing Students and Grade 12 School Leavers are provided in the LINKS within this article.
Check out the links if you need more information on TESAS (HECAS & AES), how to get the HELP govt loan or about being a SELF-SPONSORED student.
You can also leave a comment to let us know what you think.
The higher education department (DHERST) will launch the Grade 12 National Online Selection on the 21st of December 2023. So what does the launching mean; and when will DHERST publish the 2023 Grade 12 Selections Lists for the 2024 academic year in the country?
Here are 5 points that students, parents and guardians should know as they check their names on National Online Selection System (NOAS).
Students can view their selection STATUS through their individual National Online Application Accounts. The 2023 Grade 12 students should use their NOAS login details to access their accounts and confirm their selection status for the 2024 academic year.
When are you likely to see your name on the 2023 DHERST selection list?
When is the REGISTRATION and ORIENTATION WEEK?
Should you inform your institution that you've accepted that offer?
At least, try to find out the answer to the 5 questions as you prepare to go to your new school.
Here is an article that can help you prepare for registration and orientation week. It gives details to documents you need to present at registration, fees and what to do to get yourself prepared for the new academic year.
DHERST new Grade 12 data (3)
Note that there are ONLY 16,171 spaces available at the Higher Education Institutions (HEIs) in Papua New Guinea according to DHERST's new data.
For the 2022 Academic Year, there were
31, 817 students were nominated to sit the exams;
26,544 students certified;
16,171 total HEI quota ;
10,373 Grade 12 students will NOT be selected for 2022 HEI studies.
Many Grade 12 students, like in the past years, will not get an HEI placement though they may have really good grades.
If you have secured a placement, you should be proud of yourself!
Important Announcement from DHERST 2023 (4)
DHERST and HEIs will use Grade 12 students' data in the National Online Application System (NOAS) to confirm their selections. Here is what DHERST has to say:
Your (Grade 12 Students) data from the MyNOAS data field has been forwarded to the Higher Education Institution that selected you. The HEI will communicate directly with you to inform you about the specific details of the institution, including how to accept your offer.
Note that the response contained therein (in the NOSS) is not an admission confirmation. You should expect to receive official notice through an admissions offer letter directly from your Higher Education Institution (HEI).
Many Grade 12 students will NOT be selected for 2024 HEI studies. If you feel that you have made the Grade, but missed out, here is a story that will inspire you.
Read about Sharlyne's story. She completed Grade 12 at Marianville Secondary School. Her Grade Point Average (GPA) was above the cut-off mark for entry into UPNG, but she missed out on the selection.
When will DHERST Publish 2023 Grade 12 Selections Lists for HEIs?
DHERST launched the Grade 12 selection List on the 21st of December 2023.
Here are the important dates for Grade 12 students.
Activity
Day
Students apply for tertiary programmes
Monday 28th August- Friday 08th December, 2023
Grade 12 national examinations
Monday 16th – Friday 20th October, 2023 (DONE)
NOAS Grace Period
Tuesday 12th December- Friday 15th December, 2023
Launching of 2022 selection for 2023 academic year
If you want to upgrade your marks at FODE or at any University Open and Distance Learning Centres, here is some information that you'll find useful. Click on the link to read more.
We hope this gives you an idea about what to expect between now and then. Share this with your friends and family and let them know about this information, too.
The DHERST Grace Period offers a unique opportunity for current Grade 12 students to make informed decisions for their School Leavers Form (SLF). Unlike previous years, students can now adjust their choices based on their exam marks during this period.
DHERST Online Application 2024 (NOAS LOGIN)
DHERST Online Application System (NOAS)
The National Online Application System (NOAS) significantly enhances the selection process. It provides students with upfront clarity by highlighting ineligible options in red, minimizing the risk of mistakes. Students can make up to five choices, increasing their chances of getting into a tertiary institution.
Previously, the manual SLF allowed only three choices and did not permit changes after submission.
Grade 12 students should maximize the Grace Period to secure a spot for 2024 at a tertiary institution.
Key Dates (expected) 2024/2025
The following important dates are crucial for examinations, results, and selections in Papua New Guinea:
Mid-December 2024: DHERST launches the 2024 selection for the 2025 academic year.
Early-December 2024: NOAS Grace Period.
Second Week of December 2024: The Education Department, through MSD, releases Grade 12 Exam Results to DHERST.
First Week of December 2024: Grade 10 and 12 Exam Results are launched.
Late November 2024: Education Officers/GES start 2024 Grade 11 Selections.
These dates are based on previous years and may vary slightly.
The 2024/2025 Grade 11 selection lists are likely to be released in the second or third week of December 2024.
Importance of the Grace Period
The Grace Period lasts five days, during which Grade 12 students should adjust their choices. DHERST will indicate eligibility on NOAS based on examination marks.
Here’s what DHERST says about the importance of the Grace Period:
"This [Grace Period] is a crucial period where you will start making your choices based on your final grade 12 results. Ensure to access your account during the mentioned dates. If you see a red highlight in any of your five choices under 'My Choices,' this means your final result has not met the minimum program requirement set by the institution. Therefore, you must change the red highlighted choice to a different program available in your program list."
The online selection is quick. Grade 12 students have around five days to adjust their choices to more suitable ones. DHERST will not grant access to make changes after this period. The Grace Period's due date is final.
Launching 2024 Selections for the 2025 Academic Year
The online selection via DHERST's National Online Selections System (NOSS) is efficient, completing the process in just three days.
DHERST may launch the 2024 selections for the 2025 academic year the week following the Grace Period’s due date, likely on the following Tuesday, based on past trends. If all goes to plan, students will see their selection status by the announced date.
Checking Your 2024 Grade 12 Exam Marks
By now, students should know their Grade 12 exam marks, accessible through the My PNG Exam Results website. Note that DHERST does not display Grade 12 students' exam marks.
NOAS, administered by DHERST, facilitates national admissions and selections into higher education institutions in Papua New Guinea. It primarily serves Grade 12 school-leaver applications.
Non-School Leaver Applicants
Non-school leaver applicants must contact their chosen institutions directly and follow the respective application requirements.
For further information, please contact DHERST Support Service at noassupport@dherst.gov.pg.
Stay informed and proactive to make the most of this critical period in your academic journey.
Firstly, the National Online Application System (NOAS) gives the students the right choice upfront by highlighting (in red) the 'ineligible' options.
resources:
The latest dates for exam results and selections are now available here.)
By now, you should know your Grade 12 exam marks. The marks are accessible through My PNG Exam Resultswebsite.
Students TESAS (Tertiary Education Student Assistance Scheme) Award Status indicates the type of PNG govt scholarship offered to students. It is a merit-based award.
AES is awarded to the best-performing students (with a high GPA).
The number of scholarships available to continuing students (and new intakes) is determined by the availability of govt funding and HEIs GPA cut-off, yearly. Details of funding and GPA for each HEI in the country are the work of DHERST. Here are some guides to TESAS and GPA.
DHERST TESAS Award list for New Intakes (SL & NSL) and Continuing students for 2023 was released today - download the PDFs here
TESAS: AES & HECAS Stats that matter
We kept some 'stats that matter' based on the TESAS Award list for New Intakes over the years. Here is the stat for the TESAS Awards for Continuing Students in 2021.
82 Continuing students on AES
6779 Continuing students on HECAS
6861 Total Students on TESAS
Note: The figures do not include the NEW INTAKES.
The DHERST Selection List for New Intakes was released a day after the Continuing Students TESAS Award List. Read about the NEW INTAKES 'stats that matter'.
Some HEIs have not submitted their continuing students' GPAs to DHERST. Those institutions are not included in the TESAS list released by DHERST.
Download the Continuing Students List for HEIs
Some HEIs have not submitted their Continuing Students GPA lists for the 2021 academic year. Students who are attending those institutions will expect delays at the Beginning of Year Travel and TESAS payments.
The students attending those institutions should call the Students' Admin for more information.
2023 self-sponsored students who have secured a scholarship must make travel arrangements with their universities or higher institutions.
The advice from DHERST for students whose names are NOT on the list:
Be advised that students whose name do not appear on the list [ Continuing Students approved list] should consult your respective HEIs to confirm your progressive status for 2021. (DHERST, press release, 26/01/2021)
Why are only 6861 Continuing Students on TESAS?
Here is what DHERST said about it...
"The number of applications for TESAS Awards with a qualifying minimum GPA level is typically greater than the number of available TESAS Awards.
It should be noted that some program admission requirements of institutions might include a different weighted consideration of grades and/or prerequisite subjects with minimum grades, due to their particular academic requirements. As such, Awardees are selected within program quotas on a merit basis. This means that not all applicants with a qualifying GPA level will receive an award." (DHERST, website)
Another reason is that the 2021 TESAS award list does not include some HEIs (Higher Education Institutions) that did not submit the student GPAs to DHERST. And their students may not have been included in the official list released on the 26 of January 2021.
TESAS PNG Govt Scholarship Funds
In a National Newspaper report, the secretary for higher education said that they only received K36 million (out of the K68 million required TESAS funding) for 2021. The question was why half of the required TESAS fund?
In 2020, the PNG govt, through DHERST, implemented the students' assistantship scheme - the Higher Education Loan Program, or HELP. The same year, the govt allocated K220 million to fund HELP.
The higher education secretary said
... 6,637 students applied for HELP this year [2020] and K28,109,457 was paid by the Government.
How do students apply for HELP?
HELP aims to enhance the quality of higher education. The studentship program also aims to ensure access to undergraduate and postgraduate degrees is available to eligible students.
Firstly, students must demonstrate that they are enrolled in a registered institution to apply. This program is led by the DHERST with data and input from the HEIs in the country.
Students who wish to apply for this loan should complete the HELP Application Form. See your HEI/Student Admin for more info. That means all students (both continuing and new intakes) should register at a HELP-participating institution.
Then, see your students' admin/support staff and complete the application form. The respective HEIs will launch the forms, on your behalf, with DHERST and let you know of the outcome.
Recommended readings for HELP students loan
Here are past news articles and information about DHERST HELP student loan programs that you should know when applying.
