**Safe Bulkers Extends Deadline for €10,000 Scholarships for Maritime Studies**
Safe Bulkers, a New York-listed shipping company, has announced an extension of the application deadline for its 2026 – 2027 scholarship programme to September 7, 2026. The initiative aims to support students aspiring to pursue careers in the maritime industry, offering ten scholarships, each valued at €10,000.
This marks the sixth annual iteration of the scholarship programme, which is spearheaded by Safe Bulkers’ Chief Executive, Polys V. Hajioannou. The scholarships are part of the company's commitment to environmental, social, and governance (ESG) principles, reflecting its dedication to fostering educational opportunities within the maritime sector.
The scholarships are available to Cypriot citizens and Greek citizens who have established permanent residency in Cyprus. Eligible candidates include both high school graduates from lyceums in Cyprus and current university students studying in Greece, the United Kingdom, and other countries.
Selection criteria for the scholarships will be based on academic merit and financial need. The evaluation process will take into account various social factors, including family or marital status and family income from the previous year. This approach aims to ensure that the scholarships are awarded to those who would benefit most from financial assistance.
The programme supports a wide range of fields related to maritime studies. Eligible areas of study include undergraduate and postgraduate master’s programmes in naval architecture and marine engineering, mechanical and electrical engineering, electronic and computer engineering, and automation. Additionally, the scholarships cover disciplines such as computer science, cyber security, artificial intelligence, data science analytics, shipping law, and an MSc in shipping trade and finance.
Minimum academic requirements vary depending on the applicant's educational level and the institution they are attending. For school leavers, candidates must provide a certificate of acceptance from a relevant university along with a school-leaving certificate that reflects a grade of at least 18 or an A-level grade of at least B in mathematics or physics.
For students currently enrolled in UK universities, an annual average grade above 60 percent or a 2:1 classification is required. Those attending Greek polytechnic institutions must achieve an annual average above 6.5. For applicants pursuing master’s studies in the UK, a Greek polytechnic degree with a minimum grade of 7.5 or a 2:1 degree from a UK university is necessary. Students studying at other international universities must maintain an annual average classified as "very good."
Interested applicants are encouraged to visit the company’s scholarship portal to complete the electronic application form and submit the necessary supporting documents. It is important to note that final approval for the scholarships will only be granted once all required documentation has been submitted.
For further inquiries or clarification regarding the scholarship programme, potential applicants can reach out to Safe Bulkers via email at [email protected].
This initiative by Safe Bulkers not only aims to enhance the educational landscape for students interested in maritime careers but also aligns with the company's broader commitment to social responsibility and community engagement. By investing in the education of future maritime professionals, Safe Bulkers is contributing to the growth and sustainability of the industry.