If you have been nominated by your university, you will receive an email inviting you to apply for a New Colombo Plan Scholarship. You will have to write and submit the application by the closing date.
1. Read the program guidelines
Your application should illustrate how your program will meet the objectives of the NCP and creation of lasting links. Tips from past scholars include:
- Become familiar with the NCP scholarship program and how you can contribute to meeting its objectives
- The panel will be looking for applicants that can succeed academically whilst thriving overseas and who will return to Australia to contribute to the future success of the NCP program
- Explain why you have chosen your host location. Show in your application why you want to go and describe the benefits of your proposed program for both Australia and the host location.
2. Learn from past experience
Speak to NCP Alumni Representatives, past scholars and your university's International Liaison Officers.
3. Respond to the selection criteria
Read the lessons learned from previous rounds and Advice to Applicants for the 2025 round. Support your claims with evidence and/or examples where possible. Consider the following advice:
- Take the time to read about the scholarship, and the meaning of its objectives, what do each of us get out of it – the country you will be studying in, for Australia and for you personally.
- Think through your answers and align these with what the program aims to achieve: lasting personal and institutional connections. How do you plan to stay connected to your host country after your program?
- Clearly state if you are applying as part of the Language Stream (as defined in the guidelines), explaining which language you will be studying and the duration. Do you have plans for using/ maintaining those language skills?
- Write your responses in your own words, use active language, specific and straight to the point.
- Follow official DFAT advice only and seek out assistance from your university as appropriate.
- What have you done in the past which demonstrates you are a good fit for the program?
- Focus on what you can do for the NCP, rather than just what you will get out of the NCP
- Prepare your application in a word document first if you can so it's easier to draft and edit
- Have a friend or colleague review your application before you submit it.
- Have a vision for life after the NCP scholarship: how will you use the experiences/ knowledge you gain overseas?
Importantly, try to demonstrate to the selection committee in your application how what you plan to do will meet the objectives of the NCP program.
4. Review the assessment criteria
Those assessing your scholarship application will want to know as much about you as a person as they do about your academic achievements, community service and any other activities you do.
Review the assessment criteria and tailor your responses closely to those criteria.
5. Research where you want to study and intern
Research your destination including the cost of living, security issues, availability of public transport and suitable housing. Will you have the support systems you need in your host location? Will you be able to support yourself with assistance from the NCP stipend?
Here are two tips from alum on researching.
'Coherent, specific plans show that you've done the research,' said one past NCP scholar.
'Your application should demonstrate that you have researched your program and the living conditions in your host country.'
This research can also help you identify both the challenges and the positive aspects of the countries you are considering undertaking your studies. It also demonstrates to the committee your planning skills and proactivity.
Need more information?
Read past scholar news stories and review the NCP social media channels available on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and You Tube.