Melbourne, Australia – Swinburne University of Technology has announced that applications for the Pathways Access Scholarship 2025 are now open. This scholarship, funded through the Department of Education’s Higher Education Participation and Partnerships Programme (HEPPP), is set to support Australian students from low socio-economic status (SES) backgrounds, ensuring they have access to higher education opportunities.
Scholarship Benefits
The Pathways Access Scholarship offers significant financial assistance to students transitioning from Vocational Education and Training (VET) into undergraduate study. The scholarship package includes:
- Total Value: Up to $15,000 over a period of three years, with $5,000 per year paid bi-annually.
- Initial One-Off Payment: $500 provided before the commencement of studies to assist with initial expenses.
Eligibility Criteria
To qualify for the Pathways Access Scholarship, applicants must meet the following criteria:
- Enrollment Status: Must be a full-time student enrolled at Swinburne University in Semester 1, 2025, in an eligible undergraduate course.
- Previous Qualification: Must have completed a Vocational Education and Training (VET) qualification (Certificate I – IV, Diploma, Advanced Diploma, or UniLink Diploma) immediately before starting the undergraduate degree.
- Demonstrated Hardship: Applicants must provide evidence of financial and/or personal hardship. Acceptable documentation includes Centrelink statements, Health Care Card, or an ATO Payment Summary.
- Personal Statement: A 500-word personal statement is required, detailing the personal or financial disadvantages faced and how the scholarship will aid in overcoming these challenges.
Application Process
Eligible students must submit an online application form (https://www.swinburne.edu.au/study/options/scholarships/63/pathways-access-scholarship-2025/), accompanied by all necessary supporting documents. The deadline for applications is Monday, 31 March 2025.