Batemans Bay High School Year 9 student Kayhlia Burch won the Harding Miller Education Foundation academic scholarship.

Hundreds of high school students applied and Kayhlia was one of 85 winners.

Relieving principal Caroline Preston said Kayhlia was a genuine student with "quiet optimism" who "always attempts to excel in her academic pursuits".

The foundation supports hardworking and high-achieving young women.

Recipients receive new laptops, high-speed internet, face-to-face and online tutoring, subject and career guidance, mentoring and financial support for uniforms, books and school expenses

Each scholar is required to show accountability and commitment throughout the program.

Foundation executive director Cara Varian said the award was well deserved.

"We are sure it will help her to fulfil her tertiary education and career aspirations after school," she said.

Since its launch in 2015 the foundation has supported 293 scholars.

Visit www.hardingmillereducationfoundation.org.au