How to Apply for the Flinders International Postgraduate Scholarships

The Flinders International Postgraduate Scholarships are prestigious awards offered by Flinders University in Australia to high achieving international students pursuing postgraduate study. These scholarships aim to attract top talent from around the world to undertake research and coursework programs at Flinders.

This post covers everything you need to know about the Flinders International Postgraduate Scholarships including eligibility criteria, application process, value of the award, and tips for drafting a strong application.

Overview of the Flinders International Postgraduate Scholarships

The Flinders International Postgraduate Scholarships provide both coursework and research students the opportunity to pursue postgraduate study at Flinders University. These scholarships are awarded based on academic merit and cover tuition fees as well as provide a living allowance.

Some key facts about the scholarships:

• Awarding Body: Flinders University, Australia
• Scholarship Value:
  • Research scholarships valued up to $28,092 per year (full-time study)
  • Coursework scholarships valued up to $27,082 per year (full-time study)
• Duration: Up to 2 years for Masters, 3 years for Doctorate
• Eligible Nationalities: All international students
• Eligible Programs: Research and coursework Masters & Doctoral programs
• Application Deadlines:
  • Semester 1 entry – August 31
  • Semester 2 entry – November 30

The Flinders International Postgraduate Scholarships are extremely competitive, so having an outstanding academic record is important for selection. Publications, awards, internships and other achievements can also strengthen your application.

Am I Eligible for the Flinders International Postgraduate Scholarships?

To be eligible for the Flinders International Postgraduate Scholarships, you must meet the following criteria:

1. Citizenship Requirements

You must be an international student with citizenship from countries other than Australia or New Zealand. Applicants cannot be Australian citizens, permanent residents or New Zealand citizens.

2. Academic Requirements

To qualify, you must have completed at least a 4-year undergraduate degree with an outstanding academic record. Specific grade requirements are:

• Research applicants: First Class Honors degree or equivalent
• Coursework applicants: 70% average or higher in your undergraduate degree

3. English Language Requirements

If English is not your native language, you will need to demonstrate English proficiency with one of the following:

• IELTS (Academic): Overall 7.0 with no sub-scores below 6.5
• TOEFL iBT: Overall 94 with minimum sub-scores of 24 for reading, listening, and writing, and 23 for speaking
• PTE Academic: Overall 65 with no sub-scores below 58
• Cambridge CAE: Overall 176 with no sub-scores below 169
• OET: B grade or higher in all sub-tests

Note that some graduate programs may require higher English test scores.

4. Admission to Eligible Program

To receive the scholarship, you must have an unconditional offer of admission to an eligible postgraduate program at Flinders University before applying. This can be either a Masters by Research, Masters by Coursework, or Doctoral degree.

Double check that you meet all the above eligibility requirements before applying for the Flinders International Postgraduate Scholarships. Meeting the minimum criteria does not guarantee selection which is competitive based on academic excellence.

How Do I Apply for the Flinders International Postgraduate Scholarships?

Here are the steps to apply for the Flinders International Postgraduate Scholarships:

1. Find an Eligible Program

• Browse postgraduate programs on the Flinders website and find a program you are interested in. Ensure it is a research, coursework Masters, or Doctoral degree.
• Apply for this program and receive an unconditional letter of offer.

2. Check Application Deadlines

• Flinders has two scholarship intakes per year – one for each semester. The deadlines are:

• • Semester 1 (February to June) – August 31
  • Semester 2 (July to November) – November 30
• Meet the deadline for the semester you intend to commence your studies.

3. Prepare Required Documents

• Once you have an offer for a graduate program at Flinders, start preparing supporting documents needed for the scholarship application:
• • Academic transcripts
  • Curriculum vitae or resume
  • Proof of English language proficiency
  • Academic referee reports (optional)
  • Personal statement

4. Submit Online Application

• Access the online application form via the Flinders scholarships website.
• Fill in all details and upload the required documents. Make sure to address selection criteria.
• Submit the completed application before the deadline.
• You can expect to hear back regarding the outcome within 6-8 weeks.

Put your best foot forward and submit a detailed, well-prepared application for the Flinders International Postgraduate Scholarships to increase your chances of success.

How are Flinders International Postgraduate Scholarships Awarded?

The Flinders International Postgraduate Scholarships are awarded based on academic merit, taking into account your entire study background and achievements. Here are some key factors considered:

• Academic excellence – Your grades, GPA, class rank indicate academic excellence. Research publications and prizes can further demonstrate this.
• Quality of previous university – Graduating from a top-ranked university gives your application a boost.
• Relevance of studies – Your previous area of study should relate to the program you are applying for.
• Research potential – For research applicants, strong analytical skills and research promise determined via proposal, publications and referee reports.
• Unique experiences – Extracurricular activities, internships, leadership roles make your application stand out.
• Financial need – They may assess why you require the scholarship and how it will support your postgraduate study.

The Flinders Scholarships Committee reviews and ranks all eligible applicants based on the strength of their overall background and grades. Top candidates are awarded the scholarships.

So make your application as competitive as possible by highlighting both academic and personal achievements.

What Does the Flinders International Postgraduate Scholarship Cover?

The Flinders International Postgraduate Scholarships are generous awards that provide substantial financial support. Here are the benefits covered:

Tuition Fees

The scholarship covers your tuition fees for the entire duration of your degree:

• Full tuition fees for Masters by Research and Doctoral degrees
• Up to $27,082 per year for Masters by Coursework degrees

Living Allowance

A tax-free stipend is provided each year to assist with living costs:

• $28,092 per year for Masters by Research and Doctoral students
• $27,082 for Masters by Coursework students

Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC)

OSHC is provided for visa purposes.

Travel Allowance

Up to $3,000 is provided to cover travel expenses for relocating to undertake your studies at Flinders University. This applies to students coming from interstate or overseas.

Thesis Allowance

Research students can claim up to $840 for thesis production costs.

Visa Costs

Scholarship recipients get visa application costs covered.

The Flinders International Postgraduate Scholarships therefore provide comprehensive support so you can fully focus on succeeding in your postgraduate program.

What are my Obligations as a Flinders International Postgraduate Scholarship Recipient?

Here are the key obligations to fulfill as a recipient of the Flinders International Postgraduate Scholarship:

• Maintain full-time enrolment in your Masters or PhD program at Flinders University.
• Make satisfactory progress in your program by meeting milestones and deadlines. This is monitored by your department.
• Abide by rules of the University and your department. Fulfill any academic requirements set.
• Submit a progress report to the scholarships team each semester.
• The scholarship cannot be deferred or transferred, except under exceptional circumstances.
• You cannot hold another major scholarship, award or grant concurrently.
• PhD students may be expected to undertake a limited amount of teaching or research duties.
• Acknowledge the support of Flinders University in any publications or media communications.
• Inform the scholarships team of any leave of absence or withdrawal from your degree immediately.
• Return any overpaid scholarship money if you withdraw or transfer out of Flinders University.

Ensure you review and understand the full terms and conditions of the Flinders International Postgraduate Scholarship offered. Contact the scholarships office if you have any queries.

Tips for Writing a Strong Flinders International Postgraduate Scholarship Application

Here are some top tips for drafting a winning Flinders International Postgraduate Scholarship application:

1. Start early

Don’t wait until the last minute! Give yourself plenty of time to prepare a detailed application addressing all aspects.

2. Follow instructions

Carefully review the application form and provide all documents required. Follow the word limits given.

3. Choose referees wisely

Ask academics who know your abilities well and can endorse you convincingly. Provide them plenty of time to write the letter.

4. Write a compelling personal statement

This is your chance to showcase your achievements. Explain your research interests, goals, and motivations clearly.

5. Demonstrate your research skills

Research applicants should highlight any publications, conferences, lab skills etc. to prove research potential.

6. Proofread extensively

Refine your application and eliminate all typos, errors and inconsistencies. Ask others to review it too.

7. Submit a polished application

Present a professional application free of grammatical errors. Use your best writing skills.

With meticulous preparation and a well-written application addressing selection criteria, you can greatly enhance your chances of winning this prestigious scholarship.

Flinders International Postgraduate Scholarship FAQs

Here are answers to some common questions about the Flinders International Postgraduate Scholarships:

Are current Flinders University students eligible for the scholarships?

No, the scholarships are only offered to new international students commencing postgraduate study at Flinders. Current students cannot apply.

When do I need to apply by?

There are two annual application deadlines – August 31 for Semester 1 (February start) and November 30 for Semester 2 (July start).

Can I receive the scholarship for part-time study?

No, you must be enrolled as a full-time student to receive this scholarship. Part-time study is not covered.

How many of these scholarships are offered?

Flinders University offers approximately 30 new scholarships per year across research and coursework degrees.

How will I be notified about the application outcome?

You will receive an email from Flinders 6-8 weeks after the application deadline regarding your scholarship application status.

Can I defer the scholarship if successful?

Generally no, deferrals are not allowed except rare circumstances like illness. You must take up the scholarship in the semester awarded.

What happens if I take a leave of absence from my degree?

The scholarship will be suspended. It will only recommence once you resume study after the leave.

Am I guaranteed a scholarship if I meet the minimum criteria?

No, meeting basic criteria does not assure selection. The scholarships are highly competitive based on academic excellence.