Applications for nearly $6,000 in cash scholarships for eighth and 12th grade students are now available through the Austin Area Chamber of Commerce.

Entering its 30th year, the ACCESS Scholarship program provides awards ranging from $200 to $500 for eighth grade students and $750 to $1,500 for high school seniors in Austin.

Since its inception in 1988, nearly $200,000  has been provided to more than 300 Austin students. Scholarships are not based on financial need, but are competitive.

Printed applications are available at the Chamber office, 329 North Main, and at Austin Public and Catholic schools. Applications are also available on-line at www.austincoc.com. The deadline for applications is 3:30 p.m. Friday, December 15.

Scholarship winners are selected through a three-step process that includes written application, speech presentation and personal interview. To qualify, students must complete all three phases of the application process.

All scholarship funds are provided through business donations. For additional information on the ACCESS scholarship program and how you can participate, contact the Chamber office, 437-4561.