Brokers who want to increase their professional skills can apply for one of five course scholarships with the National Insurance Brokers Association (NIBA) College.

The Frank Earl Memorial Scholarship, valued at $10,000 and sponsored by Macquarie Pacific Premium Funding, pays for a qualified practising insurance broker to complete a Graduate Diploma of Insurance Broking.

Mr Earl was a key player in the professional indemnity market and an advocate of broker education until his death in 2010.

There are also four CGU NIBA Professional Excellence Scholarships, each valued at $3500, for the Certified Professional Insurance Broker (CPIB) program.

Applicants must be employed or contracted to a NIBA member and have a Diploma of Financial Services (Insurance Broking) – or have completed a university degree and suitable diploma-level insurance broking short course.

They must be NIBA College members and also have a minimum of six years’ experience as a practising insurance broker. Applicants must write a 500-word essay on professionalism and how the program will improve their performance.

Candidates can apply directly or be nominated by others. The deadline is May 1.