Belco has pushed back the deadlines for its annual scholarships until the end of next month.

The application period had been scheduled to close on Thursday.

A Belco spokesman said: “Students are currently coping with unforeseen, unprecedented circumstances that make applications difficult.

“With so much extra on their plates, we want to reduce the stress on students by delaying the application deadline by one month to close on May 31, 2020.”

The spokesman added: “Belco remains committed to helping young people with promising futures attain higher education and pursue their dreams.

“Our society needs educated problem-solvers now more than ever; these students will eventually use their skills and knowledge to contribute to and enhance our entire society.”

The energy provider offers a series of scholarships for Bermudian students which range in value from $1,000 bursaries to $25,000 scholarships.

The Belco Engineering Scholarship offers $25,000 for qualified Bermudians working towards an engineering degree, while the Postgraduate STEM Scholarship provides $25,000 for those studying a science, technology, engineering or mathematics-related discipline.

The company also offers a $25,000 annual Postgraduate Business and Commerce Scholarship, and $1,000 bursaries for high school students applying to study at Bermuda College.