ORONO — University Credit Union’s application period for the annual UCU Scholarship is now open, application can be found at  ucumaine.com/scholarship.

The scholarship is awarded annually to students furthering their undergraduate education at each of the seven University of Maine System campuses and Maine Maritime Academy. Since beginning its scholarship program in 2016, the credit union has awarded 34 scholarships totaling $32,500 to students furthering their education, according to a news release from the full-service financial institution.

“For many, education is a path to achieving their goals for personal and financial wellbeing. The UCU Scholarship aims to recognize those students who are committed to advancement through education, and reduce the financial barriers along their journey,” said UCU President and CEO Renee Ouellette, according to the release. “Every year students inspire us with their displays of character, ambition and perseverance. After the challenges of the past year, and the uncertainty to come, we hope this scholarship will empower students to stay the course.”

To be considered for the UCU Scholarship, applicants must be UCU members in good standing with primary account ownership by May 1, 2021 and be entering the fall 2021 semester as an undergraduate student at one of the aforementioned institutions.