Get college ready with Mayo's First Choice Credit Union

With escalating third level education costs, First Choice Credit Union is the one-stop-shop when it comes to financing the college journey.

A large number of families will need to borrow to finance course fees and up-front accommodation costs.

Some lenders are more prudent and cost effective than others.

A credit union Student Loan for example is a far less expensive way to borrow money for college than using a credit card or going to a moneylender.

In fact, most credit unions will offer discounted interest rates on their student loans. First Choice Credit Union offer an affordable rate of 6.50% (Typical APR 6.70%)* on their student loan.

Additionally, students can avail of free banking** with the First Choice Credit Union Current Account. As well as free day-to-day banking, students can avail of digital wallets: Apple Pay, Google Pay™ & FitBit Pay™, a globally accepted Mastercard Debit Card with free contactless payments, online banking and mobile application, access to Mastercard Priceless Cities, a cashback option and much more.

Signing up for the personal current account is easy, and no appointment is required.

First Choice Credit Union has recently launched the Brendan Hopkins Bursary Fund - in memory of former credit union director Brendan Hopkins - to assist students in their catchment area in their quest for third level education.

This fund will award five individual bursaries to the value of €1,000 each.

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 which means that all entries have an equal chance of winning. The closing date for receipt of applications is September 30, 2022.

For further information on the Student Loan, Current Account and Brendan Hopkins Bursary Fund, please go to www.firstchoicecreditunion.ie, call us on 094 9022969 or visit any of First Choice Credit Union’s offices in Achill, Balla, Ballyhaunis, Castlebar or Swinford.

* For a €10,000, 5 year variable interest rate loan with 60 monthly repayments of €195.67, an interest Rate of 6.50%, a representative APR of 6.70%, the total amount payable by the member is €11,740.09. Information correct as at 18/08/2022.

** Terms and conditions apply.