Queensland University of Technology (QUT) Announces Equity Scholarships Scheme for 2024

The Queensland University of Technology (QUT) has launched its Equity Scholarships Scheme for the 2024 academic year, reaffirming its commitment to making higher education accessible to all. This initiative aims to support students from diverse backgrounds who may face financial or other barriers in pursuing their academic goals.

Program Overview: The QUT Equity Scholarships Scheme is designed to provide financial assistance and support to students from underrepresented groups, enabling them to access and succeed in higher education. These scholarships reflect QUT’s dedication to fostering an inclusive and diverse learning environment.

What is the QUT Equity Scholarships Scheme?

The Equity Scholarships Scheme is an inclusive, application-based program designed to support both domestic and international students facing financial difficulties. Funded significantly by the Learning Potential Fund, the scheme encompasses a variety of scholarships and bursaries to assist students in commencing or continuing their studies at QUT.

Financial Assistance Available

For Domestic Students:

• Equity Scholarship: $4,200 for one year
• Equity Bursary: $1,800 for one year
• Equity Computer: A computer with internet access capabilities, available once every three years (if not received in 2022 or 2023)

For International Students:

• Equity Bursary: $1,800 for one year
• Equity Computer: Similar conditions as for domestic students

Named Learning Potential Fund Scholarships

These scholarships, awarded in Semester 1 each year, offer additional financial support:

Domestic Students:

• $7,500 per year for up to four years (limited availability)
• $5,000 per year for up to four years (limited availability)

International Students: Alahakoon Amini-Moghadam Learning Potential Fund Scholarship

Note: If awarded both an Equity Scholarship and a named Learning Potential Fund Scholarship, recipients will receive the higher value.

Eligibility Criteria

To be eligible, students must be enrolled or planning to enroll in an undergraduate, postgraduate, or research qualification at QUT. Additionally, applicants must be from a low-income household and experiencing financial hardship. Personal hardship, such as medical conditions, disabilities, or dependents with special needs, will also be considered.

Ineligible categories include:

• Single-unit study students
• Cross-institutional students
• QUT College students

Existing Programs and Guarantees

• Smith Family Learning for Life Students: Guaranteed $4,200 per year (or $2,100 for Semester 2 start) upon annual application.
• Q-Step Scheme Students: Guaranteed $4,200 for one year (or $2,100 for Semester 2 start) without the need to apply.

For higher-value scholarships, including Indigenous Commonwealth Scholarships, a separate application is required.

Application Process and Documentation

You can submit your application for QUT scholarship 2024 here (https://www.qut.edu.au/about/equity/equity-scholarships-scheme) and make sure to follow these terms:

• Transaction Histories: Individual transaction histories for all bank accounts covering the last two months.
• Proof of Income: Recent pay slips, Centrelink Income Statement, or ATO Notice of Assessment.
• Additional Documentation: Supporting evidence for personal hardship, regional/rural background, Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander descent, Australian South Sea Islander descent, or significant financial hardship.

Frequently Asked Questions

• Do I need to provide every document listed? No, only those that apply to your personal circumstances.
• Do I need to provide proof of income for my parent/caregiver/partner? Yes, if you are financially supported by them or live in their home.
• How do I provide proof of income? Options include pay slips, ATO Notice of Assessment, or Centrelink Income Statement.
• How do I provide transaction histories for all my bank accounts? Extract them from online banking, save them as a PDF, and upload them to your application.
• What happens after submitting my application? QUT will assess your application, request further documentation if needed, and notify you of the outcome via email.
• When will I receive my scholarship or bursary payment? Payments commence in Week 1 of classes, provided enrollment and bank details are complete.

The QUT Equity Scholarships Scheme is more than just financial aid; it’s a step towards leveling the playing field, ensuring that every student, regardless of their financial background, has the opportunity to succeed. Applications for Semester 2, 2024, open in June 2024, so start preparing your documentation and take the first step towards a brighter future at QUT.