The University of Queensland has launched a new merit-based scholarships package for students starting university in 2009.
The new academic scholarships program, valued at over $1.75m in 2009 and growing to $4.8m over the next five years, has been designed to support high-achieving undergraduate students at UQ.
Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Teaching and Learning), Professor Deborah Terry, said 300 scholarships would be made available to outstanding year 12 students who also demonstrated the potential to be future leaders.
“This is the richest university merit scholarship package for school leavers in Queensland and one of Australia’s biggest,” Professor Terry said.
“These scholarships, which will be spread across all faculties, will be awarded to students demonstrating academic excellence as well as significant leadership qualities.
“We’re looking for the students who have not only secured the top grades, but who have also contributed to their school or local community.”
There will be two types of Academic Scholarships awarded –125 UQ Excellence Scholarships valued at $6000 per year for the normal duration of the program, and 175 UQ Merit Scholarships valued at $6000 for the recipient’s first year of study.
“The scholarships are available to Australian citizens, permanent residents and humanitarian visa holders,” Professor Terry said.
“In addition to their scholarship, interstate and outer regional Queensland recipients may also receive financial assistance to help with the costs of relocation.”
Application forms are now available at www.uq.edu.au/scholarships (click on the Academic Scholarships link) and will close on October 31.
Students will be advised whether they have been successful within days of receiving their year 12 results.
The new academic scholarships are additional to UQ’s Equity Scholarship program which includes Commonwealth Scholarships.
These scholarships are awarded primarily on demonstrated financial hardship, and new and continuing students who need assistance with the costs of attending university are encouraged to apply.
Applications for 2009 Equity Scholarships will, for the first time, be available online through the QTAC website from September 2008.
Applicants will be advised of the outcome around the same time as tertiary offers are made in mid-January.
A list of all available scholarships and further information can be found at www.uq.edu.au/scholarships
MEDIA: Penny Robinson at UQ Communications (07 3365 9723, penny.robinson@uq.edu.au)
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