2026 Brendan Hopkins Bursary now open!

First Choice Credit Union 2026 Brendan Hopkins Bursary now open to third level student members

First Choice Credit Union is delighted to launch the 2026 Brendan Hopkins Bursary in memory of former Credit Union Director Brendan Hopkins, to assist student members in their pursuit of third level education. First Choice Credit Union will award five bursaries, each to the value of €2,000.

The bursaries are exclusive to First Choice Credit Union members, and applications are invited from members who are currently attending or commencing third level educational courses. The draw is not based on academic results, meaning that every eligible applicant has an equal chance of winning.

The Bursary Draw is open to any student who:

1. Is a member of First Choice Credit Union

AND

2. Is pursuing a full-time course of study for one academic year or more in a third level institution recognised by the Central Applications Office (CAO), where full-time equates to 21 or more hours per week.

A full list of terms and conditions is available on our Bursary webpage: https://www.firstchoicecreditunion.ie/community/brendan-hopkins-bursary

If you are already a member and meet the eligibility criteria, simply complete the Bursary Draw Application Form online at https://www.firstchoicecreditunion.ie/community/brendan-hopkins-bursary. Applications will only be accepted through the online form.

If you are not currently a member, you must meet the draw entry criteria before 30 September 2026. Further information on how to join, along with the eligibility criteria, can be found online at www.firstchoicecreditunion.ie, by calling 094 9022 969, or by visiting any First Choice Credit Union office in Achill, Balla, Ballyhaunis, Castlebar, Kiltimagh or Swinford.

The closing date for Bursary Draw applications is 30 September 2026.

For further information or queries, please email youthandeducation@fccu.ie.