Refer Scholarships Handbook Section 1 pg1

1. What are Australia Awards and Development Awards?

The Australia Awards initiative was announced in November 2009 and consolidates all Australia’s international scholarship programs under a single scheme. The Australia Awards aim to promote knowledge, education links and enduring ties between Australia and its neighbours. The Australia Awards consist of Development Awards and Endeavour Awards,

Development Awards include the Australian Development Scholarships (ADS) and the Australian Leadership Awards (ALA). The ADS and ALA are administered by the Australian Agency for International Development (AusAID). ALAS are no longer stand-alone scholarships but administered as supplementary awards to the ADS.

The Endeavour Awards are administered by the Department of Education, Employment and Workplace Relations (DEEWR).

For more information go to the following websites: 
http:// australiaawards.gov.au
http://ausaid.gov.au/scholar/ala.cfm
http://southasiascholarships.org
http://endeavour.deewr.gov.au

2. What are the Australian Development Scholarships and Australian Leadership Award Scholarships (ADS/ALAS)? 

Australian Development Scholarships (ADS) and Australian Leadership Award Scholarships (ALAS) are long-term Development Awards scholarships administered by AusAID under the Australia Awards scheme. 

From 2011 the ADS and ALA were consolidated into a single application and selection process. The ALA is no longer a stand-alone scholarship, but a supplementary award of the ADS.

The supplementary award includes a Leadership for Development Program to enhance leadership knowledge and skills. Recipients will meet with other Australian Leadership Awardees for leadership training, development discussions and the chance to build valuable networks. Further information on the entitlements for ALAS can be found at http://www.ldp.net.au/.

ALA Scholarships are awarded to outstanding ADS applicants with potential leadership qualities and who have a minimum IELTS of 6.5 (or TOEFL equivalent) and no band below 6.0.

3. What are the major changes from last year in the application process for ADS/ALAS? 

ALAS applicants are now selected from the total pool of applicants for Intake 2013. The scholarship application form is fully integrated for ADS and ALAS applicants and ALAS is now a supplementary award to the ADS. There is no special section of the application form to be completed for ALAS as there was last year.

There are restrictions on applicants who have held a previous AusAID or Australian Government-funded scholarships. Read the Eligibility Criteria in the Scholarships Handbook.

Refer Scholarships Handbook Section 1.7.3 pg 4

4. What is Coffey International Development?

Coffey international Development (Coffey) is a public Australian company that manages international aid programs for donors. AusAID contracted Coffey (http://coffey.com) to administer the South Asia Scholarship Program (SASP) on its behalf. There are Coffey Liaison Offices in Bangladesh, Bhutan, Maldives, Nepal and Sri Lanka to support the program and advise applicants.

Refer Scholarships Handbook Section 2.9 pg 11

5. When does the selection process begin? 

Applications opened on 1 February 2012 and will close on 30 April 2012 for studies beginning in 2013. The selection process commences soon after this date. 

6. How are applicants short-listed? 

After applications are screened to ensure all eligibility requirements are met, they are assessed against criteria, including academic qualifications, English language proficiency, work experience, leadership and potential for applicants to influence development in their countries. Applicants short-listed by AusAID are invited to interview where a panel assesses analytical skills, English language skills, writing skills, knowledge of the subject field, and commitment to development of the country.

7. What documents are needed with the application form? 

Required documents are listed in the application form and must be uploaded with the application form. Applicants should also check individual country websites for any special or specific document requirements. File sizes for uploaded documents must be no more than 2MB. Tips on compressing and uploading documents are available on the SASP website (http://southasiascholarships.org).

8. What is an alternative document to a birth certificate? 

There is no alternative document.

9. How do I decide on a Priority Theme to enter on the application form?

Check your Country Profile for the Priority Themes agreed for your country and your employment sector. You must select from those listed. Contact your SASP Office to clarify matters concerned with Priority Themes.

10. Do I need a referee report as part of my application?

Yes. All applicants must provide at least two referee reports, usually one academic and one work report.  Some countries and some courses require more than this, or different combinations of reports. Check your country profile and entry requirements for the courses you select. Contact your SASP office to clarify referee requirements for your country. A referee report template is available at: http://ww.ausaid.gov.au/scholar/how-to-apply.cfm.

11. Why might an application be rejected? 

The most common reason applications are rejected is because required documents are missing. Any document missing from an application invalidates it.

12. Can a scholarship be deferred? 

Generally, no. However, under exceptional circumstances and on a case-by-case basis, AusAID may approve a deferral. AusAID requires detailed documentation to consider a deferral. Deferrals are usually for one semester, which means studies would commence in mid-2013. In rare circumstances deferrals may be approved until the following academic year. 

13. Is work experience mandatory? 

Yes, work experience relevant to the field of study is a minimum eligibility requirement. The amount of experience required varies from country to country. Internships or articleships may not count towards work experience. Check your Country Profile and contact your SASP office for more information.

14. Can my spouse apply for a scholarship while with me in Australia? 

Your spouse can apply for a scholarship; however, to meet scholarship conditions, s/he has to apply from the home country. An application cannot be made from Australia.

15. Are provisional educational degrees acceptable to meet the qualifications eligibility? 

No. AusAID will only accept final transcripts and educational degrees from accredited educational institutions. Any educational degrees obtained after 30 April 2012 will not be considered.

16. I want to apply for ALAS. But when I register on OASIS, I only find a menu for Australian Development Scholarships. How do I apply for ALAS?

There is only one application form for both ADS and ALAS. You indicate on the application form that you want to be considered for the Australian Leadership Award.

17. Where can I get a hard copy application form?

Applicants are strongly encouraged to apply on-line at: https://oasis.ausaid.gov.au.

However, if you cannot access the internet, and therefore cannot lodge on-line, contact the SASP office well before 30 April 2012 to discuss options. If you lodge a hard copy application, you must attach certified copies of supporting documents.

18. With a common application form for ADS & ALAS, how will SASP know whether I am applying for ADS or ALAS or both?

All applicants are considered for ADS; you may indicate on your application form if you want to be considered for ALA. Through the selection process, applicants who demonstrate strong leadership potential may be invited to be considered for ALA.

19. How will I know if my online application is submitted? Can I print it?  

You will receive an e-mail confirming the application has been properly submitted.  You can print your application once it is submitted.

20. Which websites should I check to prepare to apply for a Development Award?

The most useful sites to visit are: 

• http://southasiascholarship.org: for the most up-to-date information on Development Awards in South Asia. Check it regularly for updates.
• https://oasis.ausaid.gov.au: to lodge your application online; the preferred method of applying.
• http://ausaid.gov.au/scholar/publications.cfm:  to download the Scholarships Handbook 
• http://ausaid.gov.au/scholar/how-to-apply.cfm: to download the referee report template 
• http://ausaid.gov.au/scholar/pdf/ala_oasis_guide.pdf: to download the OASIS Guide 
• http://ausaid.gov.au/scholar/default.cfm: for information on Development Awards
• http://www.australiaawards.gov.au/index.html: for information on Australia Awards
• http://cricos.dest.gov.au: information on Australian universities and courses
• http://immi.gov.au: for information about Visas - Department of Immigration and Citizenship
• http://studyinaustralia.gov.au:  for advice on studying in Australia

Refer Scholarships Handbook Section 3.1 pg 13

21. Will there be reserve candidates for Development Awards this year?

Yes. The selection panel nominates a list of priority candidates, equal to the number of scholarships available. It also nominates a ranked list of reserve candidates.  Reserve candidates have met all eligibility criteria and are suitable for placement if a priority candidate withdraws or cannot be placed. 

22. How will I know if I am shortlisted, selected or held in reserve? 

If you are shortlisted, SASP will contact you to invite you to interview. If nominated (either as a priority candidate or reserve candidate), SASP will make contact to invite you to a mobilisation briefing session.

23. When will I be notified that I have been nominated for a Development Award? 

ALAS recommendations are made to Canberra in August 2012. An Interdepartmental Selection Panel makes the final decision about ALAS awardees. Successful ALAS awardees will be informed in September. Candidates recommended for ALAS but not approved will receive an ADS.ADS candidates should expect to be notified in September.

Refer Scholarships Handbook Section 2.7 pg 10  

24. Who pays for the candidates to take the IELTS test? 

Applicants bear the cost of the IELTS examination. 

25. Is the IELTS (or TOEFL) score the main factor used to select scholarship candidates? 

No, but it is a very important factor because it is a mandatory requirement of all Australian universities. Without a valid IELTS (or TOEFL) score that meets minimum entry requirements for a course, you cannot be admitted. A valid IELTS (or TOEFL) test score must be attached to your application.

26. What is a valid IELTS score?

IELTS (and TOEFL) test scores are valid for two years from the date of the result. For Intake 2013, IELTS (and TOEFL) results must be valid on 1 January 2013; therefore tests have to be taken after 1 January 2011. In some South Asian countries there are exemptions for English language proficiency requirements for women, people with disability and people from indigenous communities. It is important to check eligibility requirements for individual countries. This information can be found in Country Profiles or on the SASP website. 

27. Do applicants with foreign degrees need to submit a valid English language proficiency score?

Yes. Applicants with foreign degrees, even from English speaking countries such as the UK, USA and Canada, need to submit a valid IELTS/TOEFL score.

28. Do applicants need to submit a valid IELTS/TOEFL score if their medium of instruction was English throughout their academic career?

Yes. 

29. I sat an IELTS/ TOEFL exam on (for example) 31/10/2010. Is this valid to apply for a scholarship this year?

No. This examination date is more than two years old at 1 January 2013. Although this test is less than two years old, it will not be valid at 1 January 2013. To be valid at 1 January 2013, IELTS/TOEFL tests need to be taken after 1 January 2011.

30. When should I sit the IELTS/ TOEFL examination? 

You should to sit the exam early enough to receive the results certificate before 30 April 2012. The certificate must be a supporting document with your application. If your application does not contain an IELTS or TOEFL certificate, it will be ineligible.

Information on exam dates and times is available at http://ielts.org and http://ets.org/toefl/ .

31. How expensive is the IELTS/TOEFL exam? Can I sit for the exam without going for classes?

For details and advice on costs and preparations for examinations, contact one of the test centres.

Refer Scholarship s Handbook Section 2.7 pg 7 

32. Can I choose any university? 

AusAID scholarship awardees are accepted by most Australian universities. A list of participating universities for Intake 2013 is available at: http://ausaid.gov.au/scholar/ads-institutions.cfm.

33. How do I use CRICOS?

CRICOS is a database of all universities and their courses in Australia. Search for your preferred university and course using the search options available at http://cricos.deewr.gov.au. 

Obtain a CRICOS course code number. There are CRICOS code numbers for universities and courses; you need to enter the code for the COURSE in the application form.

34. How do I select a suitable course and enter it on the application form?

Careful research before selecting courses is essential. Visit university websites, read their handbooks and attend information sessions if they are available in your country. Once you have researched university options, visit the CRICOS website at http://cricos.dest.gov.au. 

In researching course options, make sure:

• courses align with a Priority Theme for your country;
• courses are available for international students;
• courses commence in Semester 1, 2013; 
• courses will help you contribute to sustainable development in your country;
• you meet all entry requirements to enrol in a course;
• you meet the university’s IELTS requirement for a course; and
• you select an undergraduate course no longer than 3 years or Masters courses no longer than 2 years or a Doctoral programs no longer than 4 years.

35. Do I have to do a Masters program by research if I have already completed a Masters by coursework in the same field? 

No, it is not mandatory, but recommended that you do so. Your application will be more competitive if you can demonstrate that proposed study builds on existing skills. Please note, not all countries in South Asia will consider applicants who already hold qualifications at that same level. Check with your SASP office.

36. Are there any special requirements for candidates interested in a research degree? 

Yes. You must complete the Research Proposal Details section on the application form and upload at least two academic referee reports using the template at http://ausaid.gov.au/scholar/how-to-apply.cfm. You are strongly encouraged to discuss research topics with prospective universities in advance. Check your country page on the SASP website for any specific requirements at: http://southasiascholarships.org.

37. What if my research involves fieldwork and field trips?

Fieldwork is a compulsory part of a Masters by research or PhD program. It may be undertaken in Australia or your home country.

Read Section 7.4 on page 32 of the Scholarships Handbook for more information on fieldwork. Where fieldwork is compulsory details will be recorded in OASIS by the university.

If they are not included, funds for fieldwork may not be approved. 

38. How are second preferences for courses handled?

If an institution declines your first preference, you will be considered for your second preference.  If you cannot be placed in your second preference, AusAID may advise that no placement can be offered.  If this is the case, the offer of a scholarship is withdrawn.

39. I am studying in Australia and finding it difficult to pay my tuition fees. Can I apply for a Development Award?

No.  AusAID does not cover part-degrees; all Awardees must complete a full undergraduate, Masters or PhD.  (See Scholarships Handbook, Section 2, page 7).

Refer Scholarship Handbook Section 3.2 pg 13

40. Is a university placement part of a scholarship? Should I be accepted by a university before I apply for a Development Award?

You do not need to have a placement at an Australian university before applying for a Development Award.  However, it is important to research preferred courses and ensure you satisfy all course entry requirements before completing the Proposed Study Program section of the application form.

If applying for a scholarship to study at Masters by research or Doctoral level, contact your preferred universities to develop a research proposal and identify potential supervisors. This will assist AusAID in considering your application and SASP to finalise your placement. Check with the country page on the SASP website for any specific required information at: http://www.southasiascholarships.org.

41. Do I have to pay to apply for this scholarship?

No. There are no application costs in applying for a Development Award.

Refer Scholarships Handbook Section 5 pg 21

42. What are the requirements for an Australian Student Visa 576?

Visit http://immi.gov.au for details. AusAID, SASP and DIAC conduct a mobilisation briefing workshop in each country once candidates are identified. Nominated candidate and reserve candidates are invited.

43. How long does visa processing take?

The standard time for visa processing is 8-12 weeks from the time all documents are submitted. Refer to the Department of Immigration and Citizenship (DIAC) website for more details at http://immi.gov.au.

44. Why does it take so long to get a visa?

There can be many reasons, including DIAC workloads, incomplete documentation and delays with medical clearances.

45. What happens if my visa application is rejected? Can I reapply?

Your scholarship offer is conditional on receiving an Australian Student Visa 576. If your application is rejected, your scholarship offer is withdrawn. You may apply again for the next or future intakes.

46. Is a medical examination compulsory for obtaining an Australian Student Visa 576?

Yes. A medical examination is mandatory for applications. After submitting your application DIAC will contact you about a medical examination.

Refer Scholarships Handbook Section 5 pg 21

42. What are the requirements for an Australian Student Visa 576?

Visit http://immi.gov.au for details. AusAID, SASP and DIAC conduct a mobilisation briefing workshop in each country once candidates are identified. Nominated candidate and reserve candidates are invited.

43. How long does visa processing take?

The standard time for visa processing is 8-12 weeks from the time all documents are submitted. Refer to the Department of Immigration and Citizenship (DIAC) website for more details at http://immi.gov.au.

44. Why does it take so long to get a visa?

There can be many reasons, including DIAC workloads, incomplete documentation and delays with medical clearances.

45. What happens if my visa application is rejected? Can I reapply?

Your scholarship offer is conditional on receiving an Australian Student Visa 576. If your application is rejected, your scholarship offer is withdrawn. You may apply again for the next or future intakes.

46. Is a medical examination compulsory for obtaining an Australian Student Visa 576?

Yes. A medical examination is mandatory for applications. After submitting your application DIAC will contact you about a medical examination.

Refer Scholarships Handbook Section 6.1.4 pg 26

50. Can I stop over on the way to Australia or travel to Australia early for a holiday?

No. Travel is organised by the most direct route to your final destination in Australia. Travel is cost effective, and aims to minimise risks of visa problems in third countries while in transit.

51. How do I collect my air-ticket? Who makes all the necessary travel arrangements?

After receiving an Australian Student Visa 576, SASP will book your flight for you, take care of your travel arrangements and arrange for you to receive your ticket. You need to show a copy of a valid visa to get an air-ticket.

52. What is the maximum weight of luggage allowed for students?

Luggage allowances vary between airlines. SASP will inform you about this at its pre-departure briefing.

53. What should I take to Australia?

SASP will discuss this at its pre-departure briefing. You will get a check list or information sheet about it.

54. How do I get to the city where my university is located?

You will be provided with all necessary air tickets (both international and domestic) to reach the town where your institution is located. SASP will brief you about this.

55. Will there be anyone from the university to meet me at the airport? Where will I stay?

After you receive your visa, and before you leave for Australia, contact the university Student Contact Officer (SCO) and let them know your travel details. This is the key for them to plan to meet you. Once they know your plans, they will arrange for you to be met and explain the procedures when you arrive.

As part of your contact with the SCO, explain your accommodation requirements. They can arrange temporary accommodation for your on arrival. This will be at your cost. You will need to arrange long-term accommodation. The SCO can assist you with this, but it is your responsibility.

56. How important is the Introductory Academic Program (IAP)? 

It is very important. Attendance at the IAP is mandatory. (Refer Scholarships Handbook Section 7.1 pg 30)

57. Can I contact my employer organisation during my academic year? 

Yes. Indeed it is encouraged as part of your Development Impact Plan.

58. Do I have to maintain a minimum grade to continue after the first year? 

Yes. You have to demonstrate satisfactory progress in your studies. Failure to do so may result in a scholarship being terminated.

59. Can I change my field of study once I reach Australia? 

No. Your application was assessed and you were selected based on your nominated course of study.

60. Do I need to have extra funds with me when I arrive in Australia? 

Yes. It is advisable to carry extra funds. This will help cover costs such as food and transport before you set up a bank account. 

61. How much money do I need to live in Australia? 

This depends on whether you are alone or your family accompanies you. If your family remains at home, you have to support them while you are in Australia. If your family accompanies you, DIAC requires you to have enough funds to support them in Australia.

62. Who finds long-term accommodation for me? Is there on-campus accommodation for scholarship holders? 

You need to find your own long-term accommodation although the Student Contact Officer (SCO) can assist. 

There is some on-campus accommodation but no special provision for scholarship holders. Talk to your SCO about options.

Refer Scholarships Handbook Section 6.1 pg 23

63. What are my entitlements under the Development Awards?

General entitlements are found at: http://ausaid.gov.au/scholar/studyin.cfm. For details refer to Section 6 of the Scholarships Handbook.

64. What additional leadership training is provided to ALAS awardees? 

Scholars receiving the supplementary Australian Leadership Award participate in the Leadership for Development Program which includes:

• a compulsory, national three-day conference where all ALA scholars meet each other and Australian leaders to discuss emerging issues;
• tailored workshops and other activities to enhance leadership knowledge and tools.

Other opportunities for networking may be provided while you are in Australia.
For further information on the ALA Leadership for Development Program, refer to http://ldp.net.au.

65. Do I get any money before I leave for Australia?

No.  The Establishment Allowance and fortnightly stipend is paid after you arrive in Australia and have registered with your university.

Refer Scholarships Handbook Appendix E pg 61

66. I am already on scholarship in Australia and have seen many changes to the Australia Awards program. How will this affect me?

ALAS Awardees who commenced their studies in Australia prior to 2013 retain the entitlements and conditions included in their Letters of Offer and Acceptance Agreement. 

Transitional arrangements for continuing awardees are outlined in the Scholarships Handbook Appendix E at: (http://ausaid.gov.au/scholar/publications.cfm).

77. Is Australia wheel chair friendly? 

Yes. Most public buildings (including universities), markets and parks are wheelchair friendly. Universities have special lifts, parking, toilets and library assistants for students in wheel chairs.

University accommodation and many private apartments have elevators that allow easy wheelchair access to buildings and houses. Private housing is not always customized for wheelchair access and scholars should check this when considering accommodation options.

78. Will I be able to use public transport? 

Australia has extensive public transport infrastructure (rail, tram, buses and taxis) linking different parts of a city. Most public transport is customized for wheelchair and baby pram access. Trains and buses usually have exclusive spaces for wheelchairs.

79. Will I be able to shop for groceries and other necessities?

Australia has well-developed retail outlets, located conveniently across cities and towns, where you can do weekly/monthly shopping at affordable prices. Large retail stores are designed for wheelchair access.

80. What support services will I be able to access?

Many Australian universities have dedicated disability services centres to help students with disabilities participate fully in university life. Australian universities also have health and counselling services that are free (or offered at cheaper rates) for students. They also have international student services centres where students can make appointments to discuss any matters impacting on their lives in Australia.

67. Are scholars allowed to take their families with them to Australia? 

Yes. AusAID and universities, however, strongly recommend scholars travel to Australia on their own at the start of their studies, settle into their program and familiarize themselves with their new environments before families join them. You must indicate on the application form if you intend for your family to join you. 

The Australian Government provides no additional financial support for a scholar’s dependents (spouse and children under 18). Scholars also need to arrange Overseas Health Cover for their dependents.

Under Australian visa requirements parents, parents-in-law or siblings of a scholar are not dependents. They cannot accompany scholars to Australia.

68. How can women travel around in Australian cities? 

Women move around easily and safely using public or private transport. The public transport systems in cities are reliable, safe and affordable and most international students, including women, rely on them for day-to-day use.

69. How can I find safe, secure accommodation? 

There is wide range of secure accommodation for female students. You can arrange accommodation yourself or through the university.

70. Do women face religious restrictions in Australia? 

Australia is a pluralist society, where anyone, including women, can practice their religion without restriction. Women can wear what they want, pray, go to church and Mosques as they need. Australia has effective law enforcement systems which supports women’s rights and independence. Any form of violence or discrimination against women is prohibited. 

71. Can my children get an education in Australia?

Yes. Each state has an excellent education system and it is compulsory for school-age children to attend school. Children are provided with a healthy and encouraging environment with due regard to their cultural and religious backgrounds. Professional and trained teachers make it easy for international students to adjust to a schooling system.

72. Can my children access childcare, especially if they cannot speak English? 

Yes. Your children can access childcare services, if there are spaces available at the times you want. Childcare centres are supervised by trained staff and offer meals, toilet care, activity groups, play areas, afternoon nap areas and emergency arrangements. A childcare admission form includes sections on religion. Halal food requirements can be arranged by agreement with the centre. If possible, childcare centres can arrange short-term language support for children who cannot speak English.

73. What assistance can I expect during my stay in Australia? 

All universities have student services centres to guide scholars and provide emergency support. These centres can help arrange accommodation, access family support and, where possible, meet any special needs. Australian universities also have health and counselling services that are free (or offered at cheaper rates to students) and a range of sporting, shopping and other campus facilities.

74. Can I celebrate our national, religious and cultural festivals? 

Yes. Most Australian cities have people from South Asia who have formed community groups where they come together to celebrate religious, cultural and/or national events and festivals.

75. Can I work part-time while studying in Australia? 

Yes. Awardees can work part-time for up to 20 hours a week during term time and full time during vacation periods. You must inform your Student Contact Officer before accepting work.

76. Can my spouse work while accompanying me on my scholarship?

Yes. Your spouse can work full-time while accompanying you.