To encourage students to attend college and make it more accessible for them to do so, the Suffolk Education Foundation is offering scholarships to seniors in Suffolk’s public high schools.

“A number of funds at the Suffolk Education Foundation support the future of our city by investing in the education of its young people through scholarships or awards,” SEF officials said recently.

There are four scholarship categories available for students, each worth $1,000. Each scholarship has specific eligibility requirements. Up-to-date information and application forms for most programs are available through the guidance departments of the local high schools or by calling or writing the Suffolk Education Foundation.

Awards are based on academic standing and financial need, and the scholarships all have April 2 deadlines. They are available are as follows:

Ned and Helen Ferguson Family Scholarship: One nonrenewable scholarship of $1,000 is awarded to a student from each high school.

Harry Lee and Jean Ritchie Cross Family Scholarship: One nonrenewable scholarship of $1,000 is awarded to a student from each high school.

Gertrude Pruden Family Arts Scholarship: Applicants must be entering the arts field. One nonrenewable scholarship of $1,000 is awarded to a student selected from applications from all three high schools.

G. Blair Harry Memorial Scholarship: Applicants must intend to play college sports. One nonrenewable scholarship of $1,000 is awarded to each of two students from all three high schools.