New Colombo Plan Scholarship Program 2025 Guidelines
Key Dates
- University Nominations Open: 20 August 2024
- University Nominations Close: 11.30 pm AEST, 8 September 2024
- Student Applications Open: 9 September 2024
- Student Applications Close: 11.30 pm AEST, 6 October 2024
- Enquiries Deadline: 29 September 2024
- Scholarship Program Period: 1 January 2025 - 15 December 2025
Overview
- Administering Entity: Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT).
- Contact for Enquiries: [email protected]
- Grant Type: Open competitive, part of the NCP contributing to DFAT's Portfolio Budget Statement Outcome 1.
- Total Funding: $43.2 million for the 2024-25 financial year.
Strategic Objectives and Outcomes
- Objective: Increase Australia's knowledge and connections in the Indo-Pacific.
- Programs: Scholarships (up to 19 months), Mobility grants (4 weeks to 2 semesters), and the NCP Alumni Program.
- Outcomes:
- Diverse graduates with Indo-Pacific capabilities.
- Strengthened relationships between Australia and the Indo-Pacific.
- Alumni connections with Indo-Pacific leaders.
Eligibility Criteria
- Eligible Applicants:
- Must be Australian citizens, enrolled in eligible Australian university courses.
- Age requirement: 18-30 years (non-Indigenous) or 18-35 years (Indigenous).
- Cannot be a citizen or permanent resident of the host location.
- Must not be a previous recipient of an NCP scholarship.
- University Nominations: Required and uncapped.
Scholarship Components
- Activities:
- Study, internships, language training, and mentorships.
- Components must be conducted face-to-face.
- Funding:
- Up to $107,000 for each scholarship.
- Tuition fees, travel, establishment, and monthly allowances included.
Application Process
- Application Submission: Online via DFAT link.
- Attachments Required: Australian citizenship proof, university enrollment letter, academic transcript, CV, and photo ID.
- Referee Reports: Two required, at least one academic.
Selection Criteria
- Assessment:
- Academic excellence (25%).
- Leadership and community engagement (25%).
- Adaptability and resilience (25%).
- Contribution to NCP objectives (25%).
- Interview Process: Shortlisted candidates are invited for interviews.
Responsibilities
- Scholars:
- Must comply with laws and guidelines, arrange own travel and program components, and exhibit professional behavior.
- Universities:
- Nominate students, support application requirements, and ensure student compliance with DFAT policies.
- DFAT and Contractors:
- Oversee program administration, risk assessments, and provide support.
Important Considerations
- Language Focus: Priority for students studying Indo-Pacific languages.
- Host Locations: Must be within listed Indo-Pacific regions.
- Community Engagement: Encouraged to engage with local communities and promote NCP.
Compliance and Monitoring
- Reporting: Scholars must report progress in accordance with scholarship agreement.
- Variations: Possible under certain conditions with DFAT approval.
- Evaluation: DFAT conducts evaluations to assess program effectiveness.
Probity and Privacy
- Fraud and Corruption Policies: Strict measures against fraud.
- Conflict of Interest: Must be declared and managed.
- Privacy: Adherence to Privacy Act for personal data handling.
Contacts
This guide provides a comprehensive overview of the New Colombo Plan Scholarship Program 2025 Guidelines, focusing on eligibility, application, and selection processes, as well as responsibilities and compliance requirements for participating scholars and universities.