Former Whangarei student Tennille Nesbit has started her first year of study at the University of Waikato after being granted a $5000 scholarship.

Ms Nesbit was awarded the Northland Future Leaders Scholarship last year and is now studying a Bachelor of Engineering (Honours) at Waikato.

The former Whangarei Girls' High student said the scholarship took away some of the financial stress of university, allowing her to focus more energy on her studies.

"There are also lots of other opportunities to take advantage of, such as the academic support system," she said.

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Candidates for the scholarship must be attending secondary schools in Northland and nominated by their principals. Principals can nominate one Year 13 student each year based on their community involvement, contribution to cultural and sporting activities and, above all, leadership skills.

Academic ability and character are also considered. The scholarship can be put towards tuition fees or accommodation in the university's halls of residence.

Last year seven students gained the scholarship. The others were Jason Cutts (Dargaville High School) Trinity Edwards (Okaihau College) Nita Kaaka (Kaitaia College) Te Paerangi Kopa (Northland College) Chejaan Mokaraka (Bay of Islands College) and Kimberley Rear (Springbank School).

Applications close on August 31. Check out www.waikato.ac.nz/study/scholarships.shtml?utm-source=waikato&utm-medium=email-signature&utm-content=school-leaver-schols&utm-campaign=2016-ug-scholarships