Star Recipient’s FAQ’s
Click on a question below to see the answer.
When are the recipients announced?
Receiving Payments
What do I have to do to receive my payment?
To receive your payment, log into your Academic Progress Portal and complete the requirements by 1 November each year:
- Update your membership profile.
- Renew your membership for the upcoming year.
- Log into the portal with your email and password from your instruction letter.
- Fill out all required fields.
- Complete, get signed and stamped, and upload your Academic Progress Form.
- Upload instructions from your bank (for a wire transfer).
When will I receive my payment?
Payments are made once a year in late November, after you have submitted all required documents.
I am studying in the U.S., can I receive my payment via wire transfer?
No, students studying in the U.S. are only allowed to receive checks. Please fill out the check option on the Payment Options Form.
Forms
The forms need to be signed by a University Administrator. Who is that?
A University Administrator is an official faculty member or administrator from your university such as the registrar, your advisor, or your department head. He or she must have the authority to verify the information on your Academic Progress Form.
What is a wire instruction letter from my bank and why do I have to submit it?
This is a letter from your bank on their letterhead that verifies the information you provide in your payment options, so that a U.S. bank can successfully complete a transfer to your bank. It is required to help us ensure your wire transfer is successfully delivered.
Do I need to submit a transcript or score report?
No, you only need to fill out the information in the Portal and on the Academic Progress Form.
I have submitted my payment details each term, why do I have to do it again?
There is a USD 25.00 fee for each returned check or wire payment. We ask that you resubmit your payment details, in case anything has changed, so you can avoid this fee.
General
What if I am a recipient, but will be delaying my enrollment in University?
You must be enrolled in university 12 months from the date of announcement in order to remain eligible for the program. You will forgo any payments and reduce the number of available years of funding.
Do I have to reapply each year?
No, as long as you submit all of the required documents listed above and continue to show academic progress, you are awarded the scholarship/fellowship for four years or until degree completion, whichever comes first.
I plan to continue my education after graduation. Do I need to reapply?
Yes, you are awarded the scholarship/fellowship for whichever degree you are pursuing and once that is complete, funding ends. We welcome you to reapply if you choose to continue your education.
What is “Academic Progress”?
Academic Progress is keeping your marks/grades at the level of your cumulative marks received when you were awarded the Scholarship/Fellowship. If possible, raising those marks each term.
How many classes do I need to take?
You must be enrolled in at least 30% of a full time academic load. Funding is not intended for certifications or training programs.
Are my funds required to be used for tuition? Do I need to submit receipts?
No, your funds are not limited to tuition expenses but should only be used for educational purposes such as tuition, books, room and board. Although you are not required to submit receipts we hold the right to request receipts at anytime.
Where can I find proof of my current SPE membership?
What happens if I attend or transfer to a university in a region different from where I am a recipient?
Your scholarship/fellowship will transfer to any region and you do not have to reapply. Your funding amount will not change, but you are welcome to reapply in your new region. Please let us know of any changes and update your membership record to reflect your move.
