Barbadians studying in the United States of America (USA) are being reminded that there is another avenue by which they can receive financial assistance.
The Division of Economic Affairs has advised that the Organization of American States (OAS) offers financial aid to citizens of Latin American and Caribbean countries studying in the USA, through the Leo S. Rowe Pan American Fund (Rowe Fund).
Created in 1948, the Rowe Fund is an education loan programme designed to assist citizens of Latin American and Caribbean OAS Member States in funding their studies. Under the programme, students can be awarded interest-free loans of up to US$15 000, which are designed to supplement rather than cover all of the students’ expenses.
Students must be enrolled in graduate studies, exchange programmes, professional training, or the last two years of undergraduate studies. Programmes should have a minimal duration of one semester (at least four months) and should not exceed two years.
Students may apply to the Rowe Fund throughout the year. Repayment of loans takes place after the student completes studies in the USA and the graduates must return to their country of origin within a year of completing studies, in order to further enable intercultural exchange and socio-economic development in the region.
Further information on the Rowe Fund, including a brochure, a financial guide, frequently asked questions and application forms, may be found at http://www.oas.org/en/rowefund/default.asp. (BGIS)
