The Deakin Scholarship for Excellence is one of the most sought-after awards at Deakin University, designed to acknowledge and support exceptional domestic students who have achieved outstanding academic results or demonstrated remarkable accomplishments in extracurricular fields. This comprehensive guide outlines everything you need to know — from eligibility criteria and application procedures to tips for crafting a winning submission — ensuring you have the best chance of success.
| Host Country | Australia |
| Host Institute | Deakin University |
| Level | Bachelors, Graduates |
| Eligible Nationality | All |
| Fellowship Type | Funded |
| Benefits | Up to $10,000 per year |
| Duration | Full-time duration of the course |
| Opening Date | 8 September 2025 |
| Closing Date | Various |
About Deakin University
Founded in 1974, Deakin University stands as one of Australia’s most dynamic and forward-thinking higher education institutions. With campuses located in Melbourne, Geelong, and Warrnambool, alongside a world-class online learning platform, Deakin offers a diverse range of undergraduate, postgraduate, and research programs tailored to meet global industry needs. The university is widely recognised for its innovative teaching approaches, cutting-edge research initiatives, and strong commitment to inclusivity and student success. Consistently ranked among the top Australian universities for student satisfaction and graduate employability, Deakin continues to foster a vibrant academic community where students are empowered to excel in their chosen fields.
1. Introduction to the Deakin Scholarship for Excellence
The Deakin Scholarship for Excellence offers substantial financial support to undergraduate and postgraduate by coursework students who exemplify academic distinction or excellence in leadership, community engagement, sport, or the arts. It is intended not only to relieve financial pressures but also to recognize and encourage exceptional performance and contribution.
Core objectives of the scholarship include:
- Rewarding high-performing students for academic and personal excellence.
- Supporting the development of leadership and community service skills.
- Providing financial assistance to allow students to focus on study and career goals.
2. Scholarship Value and Benefits
One of the defining features of the Deakin Scholarship for Excellence is its generous financial contribution, which is tailored to the program level.
| Program Level | Annual Value | Payment Method | Duration |
|---|---|---|---|
| Undergraduate (Bachelor/Honours) | Up to $5,000 ($625 per credit point) | Cash or tuition contribution | Normal full-time course duration |
| Postgraduate by Coursework | Up to $10,000 ($1,250 per credit point) | Cash or tuition contribution | Normal full-time course duration |
Additional benefits:
- Recognition in the academic community.
- Opportunity to showcase achievements in official Deakin communications.
- Increased competitiveness for future awards, employment, and postgraduate opportunities.
3. Eligibility Requirements
To qualify for the Deakin Scholarship for Excellence, applicants must meet specific academic and enrolment requirements, alongside demonstrated achievement in one or more recognized categories.
Undergraduate Applicants
- Must be domestic students enrolled full-time in a Commonwealth Supported Place (CSP).
- Must demonstrate at least one of the following:
- ATAR of 85 or higher (commencing students).
- Weighted Average Mark (WAM) of 80 or above (current students).
- Outstanding leadership or service in community, school, or workplace.
- Elite-level sporting representation.
- Significant achievement in visual, performing, or literary arts.
- Evidence of exceptional accomplishments outside standard academic performance.
Postgraduate by Coursework Applicants
- Must be domestic students enrolled in a CSP or full-fee paying place, studying at least two credit points per trimester.
- Must meet the same achievement benchmarks as undergraduate applicants.
Ongoing eligibility condition: Recipients must maintain a WAM of at least 65 for the scholarship’s duration.
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4. Application Process – Step by Step
Applying for the Deakin Scholarship for Excellence requires careful preparation to ensure all eligibility requirements are met and supporting documentation is of the highest standard.
- Check eligibility criteria
Confirm that you meet the academic thresholds and achievement requirements for your program level. - Prepare supporting evidence
- Academic transcripts or proof of ATAR/WAM.
- Certificates, awards, or letters verifying leadership, sporting, artistic, or community achievements.
- Any other documentation demonstrating exceptional performance.
- Access the Deakin Scholarship Application Portal
Log in and select the correct category (undergraduate or postgraduate) for the relevant trimester intake. - Complete the application form
Provide clear and concise responses to all questions, ensuring your achievements are described with measurable outcomes. - Upload supporting documentation
Adhere to file type and size requirements; incorrect formatting may lead to disqualification. - Submit before the deadline
Late or incomplete applications will not be considered.
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5. Application Deadlines
For the 2026–2027 academic cycle:
- Applications open on: 8 September 2025
- Closing date: Various
6. Selection Criteria
The Deakin Scholarship for Excellence selection panel assesses applications based on:
- Academic merit: High ATAR or WAM scores carry significant weight.
- Documented achievements: Leadership, sport, arts, and community contributions are all considered.
- Potential for ongoing contribution: How you intend to apply your skills and knowledge during your studies and beyond.
- Overall application quality: Clarity, professionalism, and completeness of submitted materials.
Applicants experiencing financial or personal hardship may be given additional consideration.
7. Tips for a Successful Application
- Start early: Give yourself ample time to gather documents and prepare responses.
- Be specific: Use measurable evidence (e.g., “Led a fundraising initiative that raised $10,000 for local charities”).
- Highlight impact: Explain how your achievements have benefited others.
- Tailor your application: Align your responses with the scholarship’s objectives.
- Proofread: Ensure your application is free from errors and clearly structured.
8. Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Missing the deadline.
- Providing vague or unverified achievements.
- Submitting incomplete documentation.
- Failing to address how you meet the criteria.
- Overlooking the ongoing WAM requirement.
9. Maintaining the Scholarship
To continue receiving the Deakin Scholarship for Excellence, recipients must:
- Maintain a WAM of 65 or higher.
- Remain enrolled in an eligible program.
- Comply with all conditions set out in the scholarship offer.
Failure to meet these conditions may result in the scholarship being withdrawn.
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10. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1: What is the Deakin Scholarship for Excellence?
A merit-based scholarship for domestic undergraduate and postgraduate by coursework students demonstrating outstanding academic results or significant extracurricular achievements.
Q2: Who can apply?
Domestic students in eligible programs who meet academic thresholds and achievement criteria.
Q3: How much funding is available?
Up to $5,000 per year for undergraduates and up to $10,000 per year for postgraduates.
Q4: How is the scholarship paid?
Either as cash or applied directly to tuition fees.
Q5: When will I know the outcome?
Typically 4–6 weeks after the closing date.
Q6: Can I hold other scholarships at the same time?
Yes, if conditions for each are met.
Q7: What happens if my WAM drops below 65?
The scholarship may be withdrawn if academic performance falls below the requirement.