Australia’s most generous scholarship program has been established at the University of Canberra, in a partnership with Snow Foundation.
The program will provide up to $30,000 per student per year for the duration of their degree, as well as holistic wrap-around support, in an innovative program carefully crafted to overcome disadvantage for under-represented cohorts, particularly in the University’s backyard of ACT and regional NSW.
The program aims to remove financial and support challenges for students from a range of backgrounds, including a significant number of Indigenous students and students from low SES backgrounds.
Snow Foundation CEO Georgina Byron crafted the idea for the program after recognising how many highly capable students were falling through the cracks.
“Our vision is to attract students with smart minds and big hearts and to enable them to reach their potential and make meaningful contributions to their communities and beyond,” Ms Snow said.
“The ripple effect of Snow Scholarships will be profound, aiming to nurture the next generation of globally aware and socially conscious leaders across sectors – whether in community, business, science, law, health or politics.”
Pro Vice-Chancellor Indigenous Leadership, Professor Maree Meredith, said the scholarships would be a gamechanger.
“People talk about life changing opportunities a bit too often, but this really is one of those opportunities, because the scholarships are matched to support the Scholars as needed across their student journey,” Professor Meredith said.
Scholarships will be awarded from 2026, and will cover on-campus accommodation, financial support for living expenses, trips home and wrap-around student support. The scholarships are a significant win for VC Stephen Parker, who is working to turn around the university’s fortunes prior to Bill Shorten assuming the University’s top job in February.
UC Chancellor Lisa Paul said UC was a natural fit for the scholarships, with 40% of students being first in family. Highlighting a key brand attribute for UC, Ms Paul said the scholarships would bring students to a university dedicated to new beginnings.
“The University of Canberra is dedicated to opportunity,” she said.
