High school seniors can now apply for a Pennsylvania House of Representatives scholarship to help cover the costs of higher education.

Each year, two students preparing for post-secondary education are awarded four-year scholarships. Representative Justin Simmons, R-131, said the program is privately funded by individual and corporate donors. He said no tax or other public funds are used.

The program is open to graduating high school seniors who are Pennsylvania residents with plans to attend a Pennsylvania college, university or career school as a full-time student. Students must have attained a minimum 3.0 cumulative grade point average in high school in order to be eligible for the scholarship. A student's commitment to the community, leadership qualities, extracurricular activities and financial needs are also taken into consideration.

The scholarship program is administered through the Foundation for Enhancing Communities. To apply, interested students should visit RepSimmons.com and click on "House Scholarship Information."

The application deadline is March 1.

Scholarships are awarded through an independent panel of judges chosen by the foundation.