Introduction
In a world of constant change, continuous learning allows for self-improvement and upskilling. PACEP provides funding for a wide range of courses, including vocational training, post-secondary education, and even undergraduate, postgraduate and master programmes, supporting Para athletes with different educational backgrounds to make learning choices based on their personal interests, abilities, and aspirations after retirement or during pre-retirement, and to plan and prepare for the future.
Eligibility
Retiring or Retired Para Athletes
- Have retired for no more than 6 years by the time of applying for the Scholarship Scheme *^
- Nominated by respective NSAs
- Have received at least 2 years of full-time/part-time training as a member of Hong Kong team *^; and
- Have represented Hong Kong and achieved the following results: 1) Top eight places at Paralympic Games (Summer or Winter) and World Championsips or 2) Top three places at Asian Para Games, Asia Championships and National Games for Persons with Disabilities *^
*Verification by respective NSAs is required
^For athletes who do not meet the above requirements, the PACEP committee may take into consideration on a case-by-case basis.
Category
PACEP provides the following 3 scholarship schemes:
Scholarship Scheme for Vocational Training
Maximum Funding Amount- Short-term course (less than 1 year): HK$20,000
- Long-term course (1 to 2 years): HK$120,000
- Study tools or materials (must be recommended, required or approved by the educational institution): HK$3,000
Scholarship Scheme for Post-Secondary Education
Maximum Funding Amount- Short-term course (less than 1 year): HK$20,000
- Long-term course (1 to 2 years): HK$120,000
- Study tools or materials (must be recommended, required or approved by the educational institution): HK$3,000
Scholarship Scheme for Undergraduate, Postgraduate and Master Courses
Maximum Funding Amount- Undergraduate programme (max. 5 years of full-time/part-time programme): HK$240,000
- Postgraduate/Master programme (max. 4 years of full-time/part-time programme): HK$150,000
Notice
Each Para athlete can only enjoy the benefit of each scholarship scheme once. Requested funding exceeding the upper limit may be reviewed by the PACEP committee on a case-by-case basis.
Duplicated applications of scholarship schemes for the same course will not be accepted. It is the responsibility of the benefited athletes to notify the Education Bureau, his/her respective NSA or organizations of tuition grants received through PACEP scholarship schemes.
Applicants may be invited to attend an interview for selection.
Beneficiaries are required to submit proof of course completion (such as transcripts/graduation certificates) and official receipts to the secretariat within 3 months after the end of the course/each semester. Once verified by the secretariat, the scholarship funding will be disbursed by cheque.
For the courses that must be retaken for whatever reason, athletes are responsible for the tuition and fees incurred until a pass certificate is obtained. If athletes require special support due to personal issues, he/she must provide sufficient reasons and relevant supporting documents. Such applications will be reviewed by the PACEP committee on a case-by-case basis. Each disabled athlete can only enjoy this special grant once.
Athletes who fail to complete the entire course will not be required to refund grants. However, subsequent grants will be terminated and his/her application for scholarship for further studies will not be considered unless he/she have special reasons and submit relevant supporting documents that are subsequently approved by the PACEP committee.
Application Procedures
Applications are open all year round. Interested parties should complete the scholarship application form and submit relevant documents to support his/her scholarship application at least 3 months before the start of the course. The secretariat will announce application results via email. Beneficiaries who have successfully completed the course and obtained passing grades can apply for reimbursement within 3 months after the end of the course/each semester. Failure to provide supporting documents or late applications will not be accepted. Please read “Notes for Applicants” carefully before submitting the application."