Martha’s Vineyard Bank Charitable Foundation has announced that its annual application for scholarships is now open. The deadline is Thursday, March 14 at 11:59 p.m.

Local high school seniors are eligible to apply for one of the foundation’s six annual community scholarships, each awarded at $12,000 total and distributed at $3,000 per year over four years of study.

Awards will be made to four residents of Martha’s Vineyard and two residents of Falmouth. The selection process is competitive, based on academic merit, extracurricular activities, employment history, financial need, leadership skills, character and community service.

The Philip J. Norton, Jr. Scholarship for a post-secondary student planning a career in public service is also open for applications. The award honors Philip J. Norton, Jr., a long-time trustee and former chairman of the board of trustees for Martha’s Vineyard Bank. Applicants should be admitted to or currently enrolled in an accredited program of post-secondary or post-graduate education with a focus on contributing to the community in a public or social service role. Up to two scholarships, totaling $12,500, are available this year.

Over the past 15 years, Martha’s Vineyard Bank Charitable Foundation has awarded nearly half a million dollars in scholarships to 70 local students. Eligibility details and applications are available at community.mvbank.com/college-scholarships.