By techgallery 
University of Melbourne Launches Groundbreaking “Melbourne Global Scholars” Program
July 10, 2024 – In a landmark move to attract the world’s brightest minds and bolster its global reputation, the University of Melbourne has announced the creation of the “Melbourne Global Scholars” program – a prestigious full-ride scholarship aimed at supporting outstanding international students.
Beginning in the 2025-2026 academic year, the program will provide comprehensive funding, including full tuition coverage, a generous living stipend, and dedicated academic and professional development support, to 50 exceptional students from across the globe who have been admitted to the university’s top-ranked degree programs.
“As one of Australia’s leading research-intensive universities, we recognize the immense value that international students bring to our campus community,” said Professor Aisha Mahmood, Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Global Engagement) at the University of Melbourne. “The Melbourne Global Scholars program is our bold commitment to cultivating a new generation of globally-minded leaders, innovators, and change-makers.”
The scholarship is open to applicants from any country outside of Australia who have been accepted into an eligible bachelor’s or master’s degree program at the University of Melbourne. In addition to strong academic credentials, the selection committee will prioritize candidates who have demonstrated exceptional leadership potential, a commitment to making a positive global impact, and the ability to thrive in a diverse, multicultural environment.
“As a young woman from Indonesia who aspires to become a renewable energy engineer, this scholarship represents an incredible opportunity to pursue my dreams on the global stage,” said Sari Wijaya, a prospective applicant. “The resources and support provided by the Melbourne Global Scholars program will allow me to fully immerse myself in my studies and truly maximize my impact.”
The launch of this scholarship builds on the University of Melbourne’s longstanding reputation for academic excellence and its growing emphasis on internationalization. In recent years, the university has invested heavily in expanding its global partnerships, study abroad programs, and international student recruitment efforts.[1] Additionally, it has established several research and innovation hubs focused on tackling pressing global challenges, from climate change to public health.[2]
“In an increasingly interconnected and complex world, we recognize the vital importance of cultivating globally-engaged graduates who can navigate diverse cultural contexts and collaborate across borders,” said Professor Mahmood. “The Melbourne Global Scholars program is our bold step forward in cementing the University of Melbourne as a premier destination for the world’s brightest international students.”
The application process for the inaugural cohort of Melbourne Global Scholars will open on September 1, 2024, with a deadline of November 30, 2024. In addition to the standard application materials, candidates will be required to submit a personal statement highlighting their global experiences and aspirations, as well as a video introduction showcasing their unique talents and perspectives.
Finalists will be invited to participate in a virtual interview process, where they will have the opportunity to engage with current faculty, researchers, and student ambassadors from the University of Melbourne. Recipients will be announced by January 2025 for the 2025-2026 academic year.
Beyond the financial support, the Melbourne Global Scholars program will provide recipients with a comprehensive suite of academic, professional, and personal development resources, including:
- Dedicated academic advising and tutoring support to ensure success in their studies
- Guaranteed research assistant or internship placements at the university’s global research hubs
- Access to leadership training, career coaching, and entrepreneurship workshops
- Membership in a close-knit community of peer scholars from diverse backgrounds
- Opportunities for cross-cultural exchange, language learning, and international travel
“This scholarship has the potential to be truly transformative, not just for the individual recipients, but for the University of Melbourne and the global community as a whole,” said Wijaya. “I’m honored to have the chance to be part of this pioneering initiative and contribute to a more equitable, interconnected, and innovative future.”
For more information on the Melbourne Global Scholars program, including eligibility criteria and the application process, prospective students can visit the University of Melbourne’s website at [www.unimelb.edu.au/global-scholars].
References:
[1] University of Melbourne. (2022). University of Melbourne Expands Global Footprint with New International Partnerships. https://about.unimelb.edu.au/newsroom/news/2022/july/university-of-melbourne-expands-global-footprint-with-new-international-partnerships
[2] University of Melbourne. (2023). University of Melbourne Establishes New Interdisciplinary Hubs to Address Global Challenges. https://about.unimelb.edu.au/newsroom/news/2023/april/university-of-melbourne-establishes-new-interdisciplinary-hubs-to-address-global-challenges
Scholarship Eligibility and Criteria:
- Open to international students (non-Australian citizens) seeking to pursue a bachelor’s or master’s degree at the University of Melbourne
- Applicants must have received an offer of admission to an eligible degree program for the 2025-2026 academic year
- Strong academic record, with a minimum cumulative GPA of 3.8 (or equivalent)
- Demonstrated leadership experience, community engagement, and a commitment to making a positive global impact
- Ability to thrive in a diverse, multicultural environment and contribute to an inclusive campus community
Application Process and Timeline:
- Application period: September 1, 2024 – November 30, 2024
- Required materials:
- Academic transcripts
- Standardized test scores (if applicable)
- 2 letters of recommendation
- Personal statement (750 words)
- Video introduction (3 minutes max)
- Finalists invited to virtual interviews in December 2024
- Recipients announced by January 2025 for the 2025-2026 academic year
Scholarship Benefits:
- Full tuition coverage for the duration of the degree program (up to 4 years for bachelor’s, 2 years for master’s)
- Annual living stipend of AU$35,000 to cover housing, meals, textbooks, and other expenses
- Dedicated academic advising, tutoring, and peer mentoring support
- Guaranteed research assistant or internship placements at the university’s global research hubs
- Leadership training, career coaching, and entrepreneurship workshops
- Opportunities for cross-cultural exchange, language learning, and international travel
- Membership in a close-knit community of global scholars
Program Impact and University Initiatives:
- Aims to enhance the university’s global reputation and attract top international talent
- Aligned with the university’s strategic vision to be a leader in international education and research
- Complements existing international student support services and global engagement programs
- Contributes to the university’s efforts to foster a more diverse, inclusive, and globally-minded campus community
For the most up-to-date information, interested students should visit the University of Melbourne’s website at [www.unimelb.edu.au/global-scholars].