Grants & scholarships
Learning objectives
By the end of this module you will be able to find information on:
- research grants and scholarships for UNE students
- grants and scholarships available nationally
- grants and scholarships from overseas sources.
Australian Postgraduate Awards
Most postgraduates are aware of Australian Postgraduate Awards (APA). If you are a citizen of Australia or New Zealand (or an Australian resident), you can apply for an APA to support your during full-time study for a research Masters or PhD degree.
Each year the University of New England offers a number of new APAs to higher degree students. APAs are also available for study at other Australian universities.
Further details on the APA scheme are available from the Research Services at UNE.
UNE Research grants and scholarships
An APA is not the only option. The University offers a range of grants and scholarships for postgraduates enrolled in particular disciplines and areas of study.
These scholarships often include benefits that match or exceed those available through the APA.
Further details on these and other scholarship opportunities are available from the Research Services.
Outside funding
Each week, new research funding and consulting opportunities are advertised through Research Services at UNE. These can provide you with a source of part-time or full-time employment while you continue your studies.
Another useful resource is SPIN, an online database which provides details of a wide range of funding programs.
Talk with your supervisors and other academic staff if you are interested in employment on an outside-funded project.
 | Sign up to the UNE-Consulting list and consult the SPIN database. Are there any outside programs which might provide you with financial support? |
Other Australian grant schemes
Many Australian universities, charitable organisations, companies and research institutes offer grants and scholarships. For information on many of these schemes, consult the the Joint Academic Scholarship Online Network (JASON) database. The Philanthropy Australia site also lists of grants and scholarships in the field of education.
| Visit the JASON database and create a personal profile specifying your interests. Details of any scholarships that meet your requirements will then be emailed to you. |
| Each week, the Higher Education Supplement in the Australian has details of PhD scholarships and research grants. Make a habit of reading the Supplement and note any scholarships or grants that interest you. You should also look out for scholarships and grants advertised in newsletters and magazines relating to your field of expertise. |
Overseas sources of financial support
There are a range of international programs which provide financial support during a research Masters or PhD. Examples include the prestigous Fulbright Postgraduate Award. This can include financial support for Australians planning 8-12 months of research in the United States relevant to an Australian PhD.
| If you research interests include either the United States, visit the Fulbright Award site. Consider your options under the scholarship schemes outlined on these pages. |
Grants and scholarships for international students
The Australian government has set up the Australian Scholarships site which provides details of a range of scholarship programs for overseas students. Another useful resource is the University of Sydney page regarding scholarships for international students.
Summary
This module dealt with the following:
- Australian Postgraduate Awards (APA)
- research grants and scholarships at UNE
- sources of financial support elsewhere in Australia and overseas
- grants and scholarships for international students.
 | Self-test Try these quick self-test questions to assess what you have learnt from this module. |