Apply for Youth Academic Grant (Belize)

A total of twenty (20) support grants will be awarded for studies at a Belizean tertiary institution. Grants for the successful applicants will be available starting in the January 2024 semester. Only applicants who are in their first year (first or second semester) of studies are eligible to apply.

The Protected Areas Conservation Trust (PACT) is a statutory organization established in 1996 to contribute to the planning, financing, coordination, monitoring, and evaluation of Belize’s National Protected Areas System. PACT recognizes the need for a wide array of capacities and skillsets to fulfil the intended purposes of protected areas and so it aims to bridge access to knowledge by enabling the youth population access to employment.

Eligibility Criteria

• Applicants must:
  • Be a Belizean citizen, either by birth or naturalization (reside in Belize)
  • Be 15 – 29 years of age
  • Be physically able to undertake the course of studies
  • Provide proof of acceptance at a tertiary level institution
  • Be a full-time student enrolled in the program of study at a Belizean college/university
  • Study a field related to protected areas management, natural resources management, environmental science or such other related disciplines along with a minor in business or tourism studies
  • Demonstrate financial need
  • Have a cumulative Grade Point Average of 3.0 or higher on a 4.0 scale
  • Desire to work in the country after study
  • Not be a working professional

Submission Requirements

• A completed application form (using this official PACT form)
• Copy of ID (SSB or Passport)
• Certified copy of transcript from last institution of study
• Acceptance letter from tertiary institution
• An official copy of the certificate for the highest degree obtained
• Supporting documents indicating annual household income
• Course sequence showing cost break down
• Two recommendations, with at least one from a high school/college/university official (e.g. advisor, professor, or teacher).
• A resume
• An essay, of 250 words minimum, telling us about a personal experience that influenced your decision to focus your studies on conservation and a vision of your contribution to Belize’s conservation sector. The essay should also justify financial need and academic potential.

For more information, visit Protected Areas Conservation Trust.