There are nine scholarships up for grabs, valued at $2500 each, and students can use this extra funding boost in any way they like to help them in their studies.

Ashleigh Neville, who won the Building and Associated Trades scholarship last year said it was a massive help towards her studies, as it opened up opportunities for future study through minimising the financial pressure that comes with being a student.

"I was busy studying a Diploma of Landscape Design and Certificate IV in Property Services at the time the scholarships were advertised and I jumped at the opportunity to submit an application," she said.

"It was so easy to apply and I encourage anyone local who is currently studying to take the time to complete an application.

"The best part was being able to spend the money in whatever way helped me continue my studies.

"I graduated last year and got a job in real estate, which I'm really enjoying."

Cessnock City Council has received limited applications for the building and associated trades and hospitality and tourism scholarships, so people studying in these areas are strongly encouraged to apply.

The other categories include local government, mining, mining/technical engineering, TAFE, post-HSC and two undergraduate scholarships.

To be eligible, students need to be currently enrolled at TAFE or university and be residents of the Cessnock local government area. Students from the Cessnock LGA who live outside the area to study are also eligible to apply.

For more information and to apply online, visit cessnock.nsw.gov.au/scholarships.