AUBURN — Mechanics Savings Bank is continuing its long-standing tradition of offering Banking on the Future scholarships.

This year, $17,000 will be awarded to local high school graduates pursuing their higher education goals. Participating high schools include: Edward Little, Lewiston, Gray/New Gloucester, Poland Regional, Brunswick, Mt. Ararat, Saint Dominic Academy, Leavitt, Lisbon, Oak Hill and Windham.

Students are selected by their high school guidance departments based on their accomplishments in and out of the classroom. Candidates must demonstrate academic success; service to school, community and/or family; and involvement in extracurricular activities.

Scholarship applications are available at www.mechanicssavings.com/home/about/community, from guidance offices and from bank branch offices.

The application process begins in January and typically ends in early April. Deadlines vary by high school.

For more information, contact participating high school guidance departments.