Stafford Loans (FFELs and Direct Loans)

In addition to Perkins Loans, the U.S. Department of Education administers the Federal Family Education Loan (FFEL) Program and the William D. Ford Federal Direct Loan (Direct Loan) Program. Both the FFEL and Direct Loan programs consist of what are generally known as Stafford Loans (for students) and PLUS Loans for parents and graduate and professional degree students.

Schools generally participate in either the FFEL or Direct Loan program but sometimes participate in both. Under the Direct Loan Program, the funds for your loan come directly from the federal government. Funds for your FFEL will come from a bank, credit union, or other lender that participates in the program. Eligibility rules and loan amounts are identical under both programs, but repayment plans differ somewhat.

How can I get a FFEL or Direct Loan?

For either type of loan, you must fill out a FAFSA. After your FAFSA is processed, your school will review the results and will inform you about your loan eligibility. You also will have to sign a promissory note, a binding legal document that lists the conditions under which you're borrowing and the terms under which you agree to repay your loan.

How to Choose and Evaluate Lenders

You'll need to choose a lender if you obtain a FFEL Stafford Loan. (If you have a Direct Stafford Loan, the federal government through the U.S. Department of Education is your lender.) Schools that participate in the FFEL Program will usually have a list of preferred lenders. Student loan borrowers may choose a lender from that list, or choose a different lender they prefer (for example, a credit union). Here are a few things to think about when selecting a FFEL lender.

How much can I borrow?

It depends on your year in school and whether you have a subsidized or unsubsidized Direct or FFEL Stafford Loan. A subsidized loan is awarded on the basis of financial need. If you're eligible for a subsidized loan, the government will pay (subsidize) the interest on your loan while you're in school, for the first six months after you leave school, and if you qualify to have your payments deferred. Depending on your financial need, you may borrow subsidized money for an amount up to the annual loan borrowing limit for your level of study (see below).

You might be able to borrow loan funds beyond your subsidized loan amount even if you don't have demonstrated financial need. In that case, you'd receive an unsubsidized loan. Your school will subtract the total amount of your other financial aid from your cost of attendance to determine whether you're eligible for an unsubsidized loan. Unlike a subsidized loan, you are responsible for the interest from the time the unsubsidized loan is disbursed until it's paid in full. You can choose to pay the interest or allow it to accrue (accumulate) and be capitalized (that is, added to the principal amount of your loan). Capitalizing the interest will increase the amount you have to repay.

You can receive a subsidized loan and an unsubsidized loan for the same enrollment period as long as you don't exceed the annual loan limits.

If you're a dependent undergraduate student (excluding students whose parents cannot borrow PLUS Loans), each year you can borrow up to:

• $5,500 (for loans first disbursed on or after July 1, 2008) if you're a first-year student enrolled in a program of study that is at least a full academic year. No more than $3,500 of this amount can be in subsidized loans.
• $6,500 (for loans first disbursed on or after July 1, 2008) if you've completed your first year of study and the remainder of your program is at least a full academic year. No more than $4,500 of this amount can be in subsidized loans.
• $7,500 (for loans first disbursed on or after July 1, 2008) if you've completed two years of study and the remainder of your program is at least a full academic year. No more than $5,500 of this amount can be in subsidized loans.

If you're an independent undergraduate student (and a dependent student whose parents have applied for but were unable to get a PLUS Loan (a parent loan)), each year you can borrow up to:

• $9,500 (for loans first disbursed on or after July 1, 2008) if you're a first-year student enrolled in a program of study that is at least a full academic year. No more than $3,500 of this amount may be in subsidized loans.
• $10,500 (for loans first disbursed on or after July 1, 2008) if you've completed your first year of study and the remainder of your program is at least a full academic year. No more than $4,500 of this amount may be in subsidized loans.
• $12,500 (for loans first disbursed on or after July 1, 2008) if you've completed two years of study and the remainder of your program is at least a full academic year. No more than $5,500 of this amount may be in subsidized loans.

If you're a graduate or professional degree student, each year you can borrow up to:

• $20,500. No more than $8,500 of this amount may be in subsidized loans.

When you graduate with a graduate or professional degree, the maximum total debt allowed from Stafford Loans is $138,500. No more than $65,500 of this amount may be in subsidized loans. This maximum total graduate debt limit includes Stafford Loans received for undergraduate study. However, the aggregate loan limit for graduate and professional students enrolled in certain approved health profession programs is $224,000.

These amounts are the maximum yearly amounts you can borrow in both subsidized and unsubsidized FFELs or Direct Loans, individually or in combination. Because you can't borrow more than your cost of attendance minus the amount of any Federal Pell Grant you're eligible for and minus any other financial aid you'll get, you may receive less than the annual maximum amounts.

How will I get the loan money?

For both the Direct Loan and FFEL programs, you'll be paid through your school in at least two installments. No installment may exceed one-half of your loan amount. Your loan money must first be applied to pay for tuition and fees, room and board, and other school charges. If loan money remains, you'll receive the funds by check or in cash, unless you give the school written authorization to hold the funds until later in the enrollment period.

Generally, if you're a first-year undergraduate student and a first-time borrower, your school cannot disburse your first payment until 30 days after the first day of your enrollment period. This practice ensures you won't have a loan to repay if you don't begin classes or if you withdraw during the first 30 days of classes.

A school with a cohort default rate of less than 10 percent for each of the three most recent fiscal years for which data are available are not required to delay the delivery or disbursement of the first disbursement of a loan for 30 days for first-time, first year undergraduate borrowers.

What's the interest rate?

For all unsubsidized Stafford loans first disbursed on or after July 1, 2006, the interest rate is fixed at 6.8 percent. The interest rate for subsidized Stafford loans first disbursed on or after July 1, 2009 is fixed at 5.6 percent. This change from a variable to a fixed interest rate does not affect a borrower's variable interest rate on loans made before July 1, 2006.

For Stafford Loans first disbursed between July 1, 1998 and June 30, 2006, the interest rate is variable (adjusted annually on July 1st) but will not exceed 8.25 percent. (You'll be notified any time the variable rate changes.) The interest rate for these loans in 2009-10 is 2.48. (These rates apply to loans in repayment status; the rate may be lower during grace and deferment periods.) Click here for the 2009-10 interest rates.

For the new interest rate calculations in effect from July 1, 2009 through June 30, 2010 for variable rate Federal Subsidized Consolidation Loans, Federal Unsubsidized Consolidation Loans, Federal PLUS Consolidation Loans, Federal Subsidized Loans, Federal Unsubsidized Loans, and Federal PLUS Loans click here.

Click here for the Direct Loan interest rates as of July 1, 2009.

Interest Rate Reductions

Over a four-year period beginning July 1, 2008, the interest rate on subsidized Stafford Loans made to undergraduate students will be reduced. The applicable interest rates for loans made during this period are as follows:

First disbursement of a loan:		Interest rate on the unpaid balance
Made on or after	And made before
July 1, 2009	July 1, 2010	5.6 percent
July 1, 2010	July 1, 2011	4.5 percent
July 1, 2011	July 1, 2012	3.4 percent

These changes apply to subsidized Stafford loans first disbursed on or after July 1 of each year through June 30 of the next year. This change does not affect any prior loans made to borrowers; the terms and interest rates of those loans remain the same. These reduced interest rates apply only to subsidized loans; any unsubsidized Stafford Loan for the same undergraduate borrower would continue to be made at the current fixed interest rate of 6.8 percent.

Other than interest, is there a charge for this loan?

For Stafford Loans that are first disbursed between July 1, 2009 and June 30, 2010, there is a fee of up to 1.5 percent of the loan, deducted proportionately from each loan disbursement. For a FFEL Stafford Loan, a portion of this fee goes to the federal government, and a portion goes to the guaranty agency (the organization that administers the FFEL Program in your state) to help reduce the cost of the loans. For a Direct Stafford Loan, the entire fee goes to the government to help reduce the cost of the loans. Also, if you don't make your loan payments when scheduled, you may be charged collection costs and late fees.

New interest rate cap for Military Members

Interest rate on a borrower's loan may be changed to six percent during the borrowers active duty military service. This applies to both FFEL and Direct loans. Additionally, this law applies to borrowers in military service as of August 14, 2008.

Borrower must contact the creditor (loan holder) in writing to request the interest rate adjustment and provide a copy of the borrower's military orders.

When do I pay back my Stafford Loans?

After you graduate, leave school, or drop below half-time enrollment, you will have a six-month "grace period" before you begin repayment. During this period, you'll receive repayment information, and you'll be notified of your first payment due date. You're responsible for beginning repayment on time, even if you don't receive this information. Payments are usually due monthly.

During the grace period on a subsidized loan, you don't have to pay any principal, and you won't be charged interest. During the grace period on an unsubsidized loan, you don't have to pay any principal, but you will be charged interest. You can either pay the interest or it will be capitalized (added to your principal loan balance, thus increasing the amount you'll repay).

How do I pay back my loans?

You'll repay your FFEL Stafford Loan to a private lender or loan servicer. You'll repay your Direct Loan to the U.S. Department of Education's Direct Loan Servicing Center. Both the Direct Loan and FFEL programs offer four repayment plans you can choose from, but the terms differ slightly. You will receive more detailed information on your repayment options during entrance and exit counseling sessions your school will provide. To read more now about repayment plans under both programs, go to the Repayment Information section of this Web site.

What if I have trouble repaying the loan?

Under certain circumstances, you can receive a deferment or forbearance on your loan, as long as it's not in default. During a deferment, no payments are required. You won't be charged interest for a subsidized FFEL or Direct Stafford loan. If you have an unsubsidized Stafford Loan, you are responsible for the interest during deferment.

If you're temporarily unable to meet your repayment schedule (for example due to poor health or other unforeseen personal problems), but you're not eligible for a deferment, your lender might grant you forbearance for a limited and specified period. For more information, go to the Repayment Information section of this Web site.

Can my Stafford Loan ever be discharged (canceled)?

Yes, but only under a few circumstances. Your loan can't be canceled because you didn't complete the program of study at the school (unless you couldn't complete the program for a valid reason the school closed, for example), or because you didn't like the school or the program of study, or you didn't obtain employment after completing the program of study.

For more information about discharge, go to the Repayment Information section of this Web site.

Stafford Loans (FFELs and Direct Loans)

How can I get a FFEL or Direct Loan? How to Choose and Evaluate Lenders How much can I borrow? How will I get the loan money? What's the interest rate? Interest Rate Reductions Other than interest, is there a charge for this loan? New interest rate cap for Military Members When do I pay back my Stafford Loans? How do I pay back my loans? What if I have trouble repaying the loan? Can my Stafford Loan ever be discharged (canceled)?

Last updated/reviewed July 14, 2009

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TEACH GRANT PROGRAM

NOTE: For the TEACH Grant Fact Sheet, click here.

Through the College Cost Reduction and Access Act of 2007, Congress created the Teacher Education Assistance for College and Higher Education (TEACH) Grant Program that provides grants of up to $4,000 per year to students who intend to teach in a public or private elementary or secondary school that serves students from low-income families. If, after reading all of the information on this fact sheet, you are interested in learning more about the TEACH Grant Program, you should contact the financial aid office at the college where you will be enrolled.

Conditions

In exchange for receiving a TEACH Grant, you must agree to serve as a
full-time teacher in a high-need field in a public or private elementary or secondary school that serves low-income students (see below for more information on high-need fields and schools serving low-income students). As a recipient of a TEACH Grant, you must teach for at least four academic years within eight calendar years of completing the program of study for which you received a TEACH Grant. IMPORTANT: If you fail to complete this service obligation, all amounts of TEACH Grants that you received will be converted to a Federal Direct Unsubsidized Stafford Loan. You must then repay this loan to the U.S. Department of Education. You will be charged interest from the date the grant(s) was disbursed. Note: TEACH Grant recipients will be given a 6-month grace period prior to entering repayment if a TEACH Grant is converted to a Direct Unsubsidized Loan.

Student Eligibility Requirements

To receive a TEACH Grant you must meet the following criteria:

• Complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA), although you do not have to demonstrate financial need.
• Be a U.S. citizen or eligible non-citizen.
• Be enrolled as an undergraduate, post-baccalaureate, or graduate student in a postsecondary educational institution that has chosen to participate in the TEACH Grant Program.
• Be enrolled in course work that is necessary to begin a career in teaching or plan to complete such course work. Such course work may include subject area courses (e.g., math courses for a student who intends to be a math teacher).
• Meet certain academic achievement requirements (generally, scoring above the 75th percentile on a college admissions test or maintaining a cumulative GPA of at least 3.25).
• Sign a TEACH Grant Agreement to Serve (see below for more information on the TEACH Grant Agreement to Serve).

High-Need Field

High-need fields are the specific areas identified below ?

• Bilingual Education and English Language Acquisition.
• Foreign Language.
• Mathematics.
• Reading Specialist.
• Science.
• Special Education.
• Other identified teacher shortage areas as of the time you begin teaching in that field. These are teacher subject shortage areas (not geographic areas) that are listed in the Department of Educations Annual Teacher Shortage Area Nationwide Listing. To access the listing, please go to http://www.ed.gov/about/offices/list/ope/pol/tsa.doc.

Schools Serving Low-Income Students

Schools serving low-income students include any elementary or secondary school that is listed in the Department of Educations Annual Directory of Designated Low-Income Schools for Teacher Cancellation Benefits. To access the Directory, please go to https://www.tcli.ed.gov/CBSWebApp/tcli/TCLIPubSchoolSearch.jsp.

TEACH Grant Agreement to Serve

Each year you receive a TEACH Grant, you must sign a TEACH Grant Agreement to Serve that is available electronically on the TEACH Grant Agreement to Serve Web site. The TEACH Grant Agreement to Serve specifies the conditions under which the grant will be awarded, the teaching service requirements, and includes an acknowledgment by you that you understand that if you do not meet the teaching service requirements you must repay the grant as a Federal Direct Unsubsidized Loan, with interest accrued from the date the grant funds were disbursed. Specifically, the TEACH Grant Agreement to Serve will require the following:

• For each TEACH Grant-eligible program for which you received TEACH Grant funds, you must serve as a full-time teacher for a total of at least four academic years within eight calendar years after you completed or withdrew from the academic program for which you received the TEACH Grant.
• You must perform the teaching service as a highly-qualified teacher at a low-income school. The term highly-qualified teacher is defined in section 9101(23) of the Elementary and Secondary Education Act of 1965 or in section 602(10) of the Individuals With Disabilities Education Act.
• Your teaching service must be in a high-need field.
• You must comply with any other requirements that the Department of Education determines to be necessary.
• If you do not complete the required teaching service obligation, TEACH Grant funds you received will be converted to a Federal Direct Unsubsidized Stafford Loan that you must repay, with interest charged from the date of each TEACH Grant disbursement.

IMPORTANT REMINDER

If you receive a TEACH Grant but do not complete the required teaching service, as explained above, you will be required to repay the grants as a Federal Direct Unsubsidized Stafford Loan, with interest charged from the date of each TEACH Grant disbursement.

Next Steps

If you are interested in learning more about the TEACH Grant Program, you should contact the financial aid office at the college where you will be enrolled to find out if they will participate in the TEACH Grant Program. For a listing of the TEACH Grant eligible institutions, click here.

Disclaimer

This page provides a preliminary summary of the TEACH Grant Program based on the College Cost Reduction and Access Act of 2007. The information on this page is subject to change and is not binding on the Department of Education.

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Review of the Education Services for Overseas Students Act 2000

The Education Services for Overseas Students (ESOS) Act 2000 review issues paper has been released and submissions on the future of Australia’s international sector are now welcome.

Review of the Education Services for Overseas Students (ESOS) Act 2000 issues paper

Submissions Template

Written submissions (following the template provided) will be accepted up until 30 October 2009. Submissions can be sent via email to esosreview@deewr.gov.au or posted on an online forum.

ESOS Review Online Forum

To access the online forum please register here If you are already registered you can access the online forum here

ESOS regulates Australia’s world class education and training sector’s involvement with overseas students studying in Australia on student visas. It has helped to put Australia at the forefront of international education provision and provides a solid foundation for the sector.

The review, led by the former Federal Member for Cook, the Hon Bruce Baird, is an opportunity to further enhance the education quality and protection of international students.

The review considers the need for enhancements to the ESOS legal framework in four key areas set out in the Terms of Reference: Supporting the interests of students; delivering quality as the cornerstone of Australian education; effective regulation; and sustainability of the international education sector.

The review is expected to be completed in early 2010.

The Deputy Prime Minister Julia Gillard’s decision to bring forward the ESOS review is one of a number of measures Australian governments have implemented to continue to improve the quality of education for international students and their well-being while living, studying and working in Australia.

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International Student Hotline

International Student Hotline

1300 363 079 - Monday to Friday 8.00am to 6.00pm

The Australian Government is committed to providing the highest quality education system and making sure that international students receive the support they need while they are studying.

If you are having problems with your study, safety, accommodation or at work, you can call the International Student Hotline, which is operated by the Department of Education, Employment and Workplace Relations (DEEWR):

• For advice on who you should contact, or
• To report your concerns.

There is no need to give your name.

Your education and training institution must help you with safety and welfare issues

Your education and training institution is required by law to assist you with problems which may arise when you are studying with them. They must also have a staff member for you to contact if you are having problems with adjusting to life and study in Australia.

• Make sure you know the contact person at your institution
• Always contact this person for help when you experience problems

Contact information:

Safety
If you feel threatened or have been injured, you should report the matter to the police in your state/territory.

Discrimination
If you believe you are experiencing discrimination at your educational institution, at work or elsewhere, contact the Australian Human Rights and Equal Opportunity Commission on 1300 656 410. www.hreoc.gov.au

Accommodation
If your accommodation is unsuitable, or you think your rent is too high, contact the Tenants’ Union or Advice Service in your state/territory.

Calls received

In June 2009 the International Student Hotline:

Received 162 enquiries from students (or their relatives/friends) relating to a range of issues including a change or transfer to another provider, the deferral, suspension or cancellation of a student’s enrolment, fee refunds and provider matters, appeal processes and student welfare.

• 136 of these were enquiries primarily in relation to the interpretation of the ESOS Act and National Code and were managed at the Point of Contact through the Call Centre; and
• 26 of these enquiries from students were complaints regarding a change or transfer to another provider, complaints and appeals processes, or the deferring, suspension or cancellation of a student’s enrolment:
• 23 of these complaints were managed at the point of contact. Of those, no calls related to student welfare issues (comprising safety, accommodation, discrimination, or issues with an education agent). In each instance, DEEWR provided advice or referred students to the appropriate agency for assistance; and
• 3 remaining complaints were referred to the ESOS Mailbox for resolution.

DEEWR also managed a further 71 enquiries from providers in the month, who were seeking clarification of their rights or obligations under the ESOS legislative framework.

In July 2009 the International Student Hotline:

Received 195 enquiries from students (or their relatives/friends) relating to a range of issues including a change or transfer to another provider, the deferral, suspension or cancellation of a student’s enrolment, fee refunds, immigration issues, student welfare and provider closures.

• 166 of these were enquiries primarily in relation to the interpretation of the ESOS Act and National Code and were managed at the Point of Contact through the Call Centre; and
• 29 of these enquiries from students were complaints regarding a change or transfer to another provider, fees and refunds, some visa issues as well as complaints and appeals processes:
• 21 of these complaints were managed at the point of contact. Of those, 2 calls related to student welfare issues (regarding misleading information from a provider). In each instance, DEEWR provided advice or referred students to the appropriate agency for assistance; and
• 8 remaining complaints were referred to the ESOS Mailbox for resolution.

DEEWR also managed a further 86 enquiries from providers in the month, who were seeking clarification of their rights or obligations under the ESOS legislative framework.

In August 2009 the International Student Hotline:

Received 270 enquiries from students (or their relatives/friends) relating to a range of issues including a change or transfer to another provider, deferral, suspension or cancellation of a student’s enrolment, fee refunds, immigration issues, student welfare and provider closures.

• 214 of these were enquiries primarily in relation to the interpretation of the ESOS Act and National Code and were managed at the Point of Contact through the Call Centre; and
• 56 of these enquiries from students were complaints primarily regarding provider closures, a change or transfer to another provider, fees and refunds or complaints and appeals processes:
• 43 of these complaints were managed at the point of contact. Of those, 1 call related to student welfare issues (issues with a person allegedly posing as a migration agent). In each instance, DEEWR provided advice or referred students to the appropriate agency for assistance; and
• 13 remaining complaints were referred to the ESOS Mailbox for resolution.

DEEWR also managed a further 86 enquiries from providers in the month, who were seeking clarification of their rights or obligations under the ESOS legislative framework.

The remaining calls were from agents, government agencies or other unidentified sources.

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Australian Government responding to issues facing international students (New)

The Australian Government has implemented a number of measures to enhance the quality of education for international students and their well-being.

The Minister for Education, The Hon Julia Gillard, has announced the establishment of a student hotline - 1300 363 079. Students can anonymously raise concerns which are collated and published on this site so that all students can benefit from this information.

Read more about the International Student Hotline

There is currently a review of the Education Services for Overseas Students Act 2000. An issues paper has been released and there is a call for submissions.

Read more about the ESOS Review

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Professional Development Opportunities

The following programs provide outstanding opportunities for high achieving professionals to receive advanced training and professional development experience.

Those selected to receive these scholarships will receive a combination of study and cultural exchange that will enhance their career prospects and the contribution they can make to their respective fields.

The Australian Leadership Awards - Scholarships offers the Leadership Development Program (LDP) which is a unique professional development opportunity.

The LDP comprises a three day conference in Canberra, regional workshops and leadership coaching and practice opportunities. The LDP increases skills in leadership and enhances participants’ understanding of the challenges at national, regional and global levels. LDP aims to help scholars realise their full leadership potential and provides important networking and collaborative opportunities for ALA scholars.

hhtp://www.ldp.net.au

Australian Leadership Awards - Fellowships are for short-term study, research, and professional attachment programmes in Australia delivered by Australian organisations. ALA Fellowships offer professional development opportunities to current and future leaders from the Asia-Pacific region by leveraging existing linkages with Australia.

Applications are restricted to Australian organisations demonstrating on-going linkages with counterpart overseas organisations in eligible countries.

Partner country counterpart organisations and individual fellows may not apply directly for support however they may initiate contact with an Australian organisation to explore their interest in applying for fellowship funding.

http://www.ausaid.gov.au/scholar/alafellow.cfm

Endeavour Executive Awards provide professional development opportunities for high achievers in business, industry, education or government from participating countries. This Award provides individuals with the flexibility to design a program that advances both their professional and personal goals.

Endeavour Language Teacher Fellowships (ELTF) is an initiative of the Australian Government to support Australian language teachers to improve their language proficiency and cultural knowledge through intensive, short-term, language and culture study programs. The ELTF program was initiated in 2003 and since then 340 practising language teachers in Australian schools have benefited from this intense professional learning program.

The ELTF program has recently been significantly expanded to include trainee (pre-service) language teachers as well as increasing the number of places offered to practising language teachers

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Research Opportunities

The following research opportunities offer funding for eligible citizens of the Asia-Pacific as well as Australians wishing to further their academic and professional careers through specific research or to receive advanced qualifications.

Selection for these highly regarded awards is based on merit and are highly competitive. A proven track record of academic excellence is essential. For details regarding eligibility criteria, the value of the scholarships and other information please follow the links below.

Australian Development Scholarships (ADS) is a well-established scholarships program that aims to contribute top the long-term development needs of Australia’s partner countries to promote growth and stability. ADS are for people from developing countries to undertake full-time undergraduate or postgraduate in Australia.

More information: http://www.ausaid.gov.au/scholar/studyin.cfm

Australian Leadership Awards - Scholarships (ALAS) are academically prestigious awards that aim to develop leadership and build partnerships and linkages within the Asia-Pacific region with the flexibility to address priority regional issues. ALAS are for post-graduate studies at masters or doctoral level in Australia.

More information: http://www.ausaid.gov.au/scholar/ala.cfm

Endeavour Postgraduate and Postdoctoral Awards provide up to three years financial support to enable high-achieving international students to undertake a Masters or PhD, by coursework or research, in their chosen field of study in Australia. These Awards aim to strengthen bilateral ties between Australia and participating countries.

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About Australian Scholarships

Australian Scholarships aim to promote sustainable development and excellence in education. Scholarships help build mutual understanding between Australia and its Asia-Pacific partners.

Australian Scholarships offer educational and professional development awards to citizens of the Asia-Pacific region. These opportunities support growth in our region and build enduring links at the individual, institutional and country levels.

Awards are available to high achievers from participating countries, as well as for Australians wishing to study overseas.



A variety of educational, research and professional development opportunities are available through three programs:

Australian Development Scholarships

Australian Leadership Awards

Endeavour Awards

Educational opportunities for student exchanges, vocational education and training, undergraduate and postgraduate studies and postdoctoral research.

Research opportunities for postgraduate and postdoctoral research and professional attachments.

Professional development opportunities for people in business, industry, community groups, education and government.

On this site you will find information about each of the opportunities, including eligibility criteria, value of awards and key dates.

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AusAID Scholarships and Fellowships

The Australian Agency for International Development (AusAID) offers scholarships and fellowships to people from eligible developing countries. These study awards have been developed in partnership with government and private organisations to promote growth and stability and contribute to the alleviation of poverty. AusAID aims to allocate study awards on a gender equal basis and encourages people with disabilities and people from social and ethnic minorities to apply. There are currently three primary AusAID study award programs that offer study and professional development opportunities to be undertaken in Australia.

Australian Development Scholarships

Australian Development Scholarships (ADS) aim to contribute to the long-term development needs ofAustralia’s partner countries to promote growth and stability. Each country-specific ADS program selects candidates and courses according to higher education and development priorities that have been agreed upon with individual partner country governments. ADS are awarded to people from developing countries to undertake full-time vocational, undergraduate or postgraduate study in Australia. More information: http://www.ausaid.gov.au/scholar/studyin.cfm

Australian Leadership Awards - Scholarships

Australian Leadership Awards - Scholarships (ALA Scholarships) aim to develop leadership and build partnerships and linkages within the Asia-Pacific region with the flexibility to address priority regional issues. ALA Scholarships are highly competitive academically prestigious awards that target individuals from AusAID’s developing partner countries who are committed to the sustainable development of their country. The ALA Scholarship program funds post-graduate studies at masters or doctoral level in Australia. More information: http://www.ausaid.gov.au/scholar/ala.cfm

Note: ALA Scholarships are not available for Pakistani applicants. Pakistani applicants are eligible to apply for the Australian Pakistan Scholarship Program (APSP). Details are available on the Australian Embassy’s website at http://www.pakistan.embassy.gov.au/islm/APSP.html

Australian Leadership Awards - Fellowships

Australian Leadership Awards - Fellowships (ALA Fellowships) are for short-term study, research, and professional attachment programs in Australia. ALA Fellowships offer professional development opportunities to current and future leaders from developing countries in the Asia-Pacific region.

Applications are restricted to Australian organisations demonstrating on-going linkages with counterpart overseas organisations in eligible countries. Interested individuals and organisations in partner countries cannot apply directly for ALAF support but should contact an appropriate Australian organisation to explore the possibility of applying for fellowship funding. More information: http://www.ausaid.gov.au/scholar/alafellow.cf

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Australian Leadership Awards Scholarships

AusAID wishes to advise that the ALA Scholarship round for the 2010 academic year has now closed. We are currently reviewing all submissions and will notify all applicants of the results by the end of October 2009.

The Australian Leadership Awards (ALA) program aims to develop leadership, build partnerships and linkages within the Asia-Pacific, and address priority regional issues. The ALA program is comprised of Scholarships and Fellowships. Awardees are selected from the public, private and community sectors within countries where Australia has a significant aid program.

ALA Scholarships are offered to high achievers from the Asia-Pacific region to undertake postgraduate study (Masters or Doctorate) at an Australian university. Study programs must relate to AusAID’s priority areas of disability, economic growth, education, environment, food security, gender, governance, health, human rights, infrastructure, regional stability, rural development and water & sanitation. Scholars also undertake an extensive Leadership Development Program while in Australia.

Selection for ALA Scholarships is highly competitive, based on leadership qualities and on academic excellence.

ALA Scholarships are an investment in the future of the Asia-Pacific region. In this regard, ALA scholars are required to return to their home country or the region for two years after they have completed their studies.

Goal of the ALA Scholarship Program

The goal of the ALA Scholarships program closely reflects the objective of AusAID awards. That is, through the provision of award opportunities, AusAID Awards seek to develop capacity of individuals and their workplaces to contribute to

• long-term development, stability and security of Australia’s partner countries
• establishment and maintenance of mutually beneficial linkages between partner countries and Australia, as well as within regional networks

Objectives of the ALA Scholarship Program

By providing ALA Scholarship awardees with opportunities to develop selected leadership skills1 and establish professional networks, the program intends to address the following objectives.

1. Positive contributions by ALA Scholarship alumni to policies, practices and research relevant to respective country program objectives2, which are relatively greater than the contributions of other AusAID scholarship alumni.
2. Participation in professional networking opportunities by ALA Scholarship alumni at the local, regional and global level, relevant to respective country program objectives, which is relatively greater than the level of professional networking of other AusAID scholarship alumni.

Leadership Development Program (LDP)

"REALISING THE LEADERSHIP POTENTIAL OF EACH SCHOLAR"

Through the enhancement of leadership skills, ALA Scholarships seek to empower awardees to lead social and economic policy and development outcomes in their own countries and in the region. Current and future leaders in the Asia-Pacific region are provided with a unique opportunity to explore and harness their leadership potential.

AusAID has invested A$10.128 million over four years to deliver a comprehensive Leadership Development Program (LDP) to all ALA scholars.

The LDP comprises a three day conference in Canberra, regional workshops and leadership coaching and practical opportunities. The LDP increases skills in leadership and enhances participants’ understanding of the challenges at national, regional and global levels. The LDP aims to help scholars realise their full leadership potential and provides important networking and collaborative opportunities.

Scholarship Details

Fields of study

Levels of study

Who should apply?

Scholarship benefits

Participating Higher Education Institutions

Application information

Further information

Useful links

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July 2009

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Australian Scholarships

Australian Scholarships aim to promote sustainable development and excellence in education. Scholarships help build mutual understanding between Australia and its Asia-Pacific partners.

Australian Scholarships offer educational and professional development awards to citizens of the Asia-Pacific region. These opportunities support growth in our region and build enduring links at the individual, institutional and country levels.

Awards are available to high achievers from participating countries, as well as for Australians wishing to study overseas.



A variety of educational, research and professional development opportunities are available through three programs:

Australian Development Scholarships

Australian Leadership Awards

Endeavour Awards

Educational opportunities for student exchanges, vocational education and training, undergraduate and postgraduate studies and postdoctoral research.

Research opportunities for postgraduate and postdoctoral research and professional attachments.

Professional development opportunities for people in business, industry, community groups, education and government.

On this site you will find information about each of the opportunities, including eligibility criteria, value of awards and key dates.

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Study in Australia

Welcome to the official Australian Government site for studying in Australia. To start your journey, read on.

Live

Australia is one of the best places in the world to live while you learn. The standard of living is amongst the highest in the world, yet costs remain competitive. On your breaks from study, you will have a wide choice of activities to enrich your experience - from cultural festivals, concerts and museums, to major sporting events.

Learn

Australian education has a strong international reputation for excellence. Whether you study at a university, school, vocational or English language institute, you will receive a quality education that will form a strong foundation for your future success.

Grow

The benefits of living and learning in Australia are both personal and academic. Your years in Australia will give you the best platform to succeed in your career, and prepare you for the challenges of the work place. It won’t just be your mind that develops - your time in the classroom will change you as a person.

Use this website to find out about courses, institutions, studying and living costs, the application process, visa requirements and much more. If you’ve already decided on an institution, use the search function to learn more about that university, training course or language school.

If you haven’t decided yet, let our Study Wizard guide you through all the steps of selecting a course and enrolling to study in Australia. You can also use the Student Response Facility if you can’t find the information you are looking for.

Australia is the perfect place to live, learn and grow.

Study in Your Country - AusLIST

If you want an Australian education but can’t travel here to receive it, you’ll be pleased to hear that many Australian institutions now provide education and training to students living outside of Australia. Some of these institutions have established their own campuses in other countries, while others offer courses in partnership with overseas institutions.

Study in Your Country - AusLIST

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Australia Africa Fellowships

The 2007-08 round of the Australia Africa Fellowships (AAF) Program is now closed.

Australia Africa Fellowships (AAF) are a component of the Australian Scholarships for Africa program. Australia Africa Fellowships are for short term study, research and professional attachment programs in Australia delivered by Australian organisations.

The Australian Scholarships for Africa program is an initiative of the Australian Government that aims to promote sustainable development in Africa. The program includes postgraduate level Australian Development Scholarships and a limited number of short-term fellowships under the Australia Africa Fellowships Program.

Through the AAF Program, AusAID aims to increase the number of leaders and professionals capable of advancing regional reform, development and governance in Africa. It will increase exchange of knowledge and information within Africa and build common purpose and understanding between Australia and Africa through the development of effective networks.

Australia Africa Fellowships complement the longer term Australian Development Scholarship by providing opportunities to senior officials and mid-career professionals who cannot leave their positions for extended periods.

The AAF Program will provide the Australian Government with the ability to respond quickly to evolving priorities within the region, using fellowships to build expertise and leadership around these priorities.

Australia Africa Fellowships are available only in the nominated fields of extractive industries governance and project management (infrastructure development).

Eligibility
Australian Host Organisations

Applications are restricted to Australian organisations.

Australian organisations from a wide range of academic, research, business, industry, media, NGOs, professional groups and government may apply to host Australia Africa fellows. To qualify, organisations will be required to demonstrate relevance of the proposed programs to the priority areas.

Partner country counterpart organisations and individual fellows are not eligible to apply for support.

Fellows

AusAID, in cooperation with the relevant partner governments in Africa, will be responsible for selection of fellows.

Application information

Australia Africa Fellowships will be awarded to Australian organisations through a one-step competitive grant process.

Further information

If the material on this website does not provide the necessary help, please direct all enquiries to: australiaafricafellowships@dfat.gov.au

To view files marked PDF you need Acrobat Reader, available as a free download (see also the 'About this site' link below).

December 2007

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Australian Regional Development Scholarships (ARDS)

Australian Regional Development Scholarships provide opportunities to people from some developing countries to study at selected education institutions outside Australia.

The purpose of the scholarships is for people to gain knowledge and skills which will help the development of their home country.

Am I eligible for a scholarship and how do I apply?

Australian Regional Development Scholarships are currently restricted to Pacific countries.

Enquiries about scholarships should be made with the Australian Diplomatic Mission. For example, scholarship information for citizens of the Solomon Islands is only available from the Australian Diplomatic Mission in Honiara.

Diplomatic Missions in other countries or AusAID Offices in Australia cannot provide country specific information about the availability of scholarships.

The postal address for the Australian Diplomatic Mission is available by clicking on the 'City' indicated below:

Country of Citizenship	Contact [external website]
Cook Islands	Canberra
East Timor	Dili
Federated States of Micronesia	Pohnpei
Fiji	Suva
French Polynesia	Noumea
Kiribati	Tarawa
Marshall Islands	Pohnpei
Nauru	Suva
New Caledonia	Noumea
Niue	Apia
Papua New Guinea	Port Moresby
Palau	Pohnpei
Solomon Islands	Honiara
Tokelau	Apia
Tonga	Nuku'alofa
Tuvalu	Suva
Vanuatu	Port Vila

How are people selected for scholarships?

Applicants compete on their merit which includes academic achievement and other selection criteria. The selection criteria vary between countries and are developed jointly by the Australian and partner governments.

AusAID has a gender/equity policy (half of the scholarships are awarded to women and half to men).

To be eligible for a scholarship applicants must:

• be a citizen of and a resident in the ARDS participating country
• not have or be entitled to permanent residence in Australia; and not be married or engaged to be married to a person who holds or is eligible to hold Australian or New Zealand citizenship or permanent residence status (unless their country does not issue passports - the Cook Islands, Niue and Tokelau)
• meet specific eligibility criteria imposed by the Government of the applicant's country of citizenship
• satisfy host government's immigration requirements for regional students
• not hold another scholarship during the period of the ARDS
• not be transferring from another scholarship
• not hold or have held an Australian Government Scholarship in the two years preceding the proposed time of commencement of the ARDS (excluding Papua New Guinea Secondary School Project students)

Where can I study?

Currently Australian Regional Development Scholarships are offered to people from the Pacific to study at Pacific tertiary institutions in Papua New Guinea, the Solomon Islands, Vanuatu, New Caledonia, Fiji and Samoa.

What can I study?

Australian Regional Development Scholarship students study a wide range of disciplines at selected education institutions outside Australia.

The scholarship numbers and fields of study for each country are determined annually as part of Australia's bilateral development assistance program with that country.

Some countries may limit the level of study (technical, undergraduate or postgraduate) and give priority to certain fields of study to better meet development needs.

Country specific information is available from the Australian Diplomatic Mission in the country of citizenship.

What is the length of scholarships?

The scholarships are offered for the minimum period that the individual could be expected to complete the academic program. Scholarships may include preparatory programs (including English language tuition) which are normally limited to one year.

Applicants considering studying for particular professions (eg medicine, legal studies, etc) should note that they are expected to complete their practical training in their own country. Only under exceptional circumstances do scholarships include a practical training period required for professional registration.

What are the scholarship conditions?

Applicants who are offered a scholarship will be asked to sign an undertaking declaring that they will comply with the conditions of that scholarship. Partner countries may impose their own conditions on the scholarship.

Conditions include:

• studying full time and meeting all course requirements
• not changing enrolment without the prior written approval of AusAID
• making satisfactory academic progress
• complying with restrictions on employment in the country of study
• accepting that the scholarship may be withdrawn by the Australian Government
• returning to the home country on completion of the scholarship
• restrictions on returning to the country of study or travelling to Australia within 2 years of the completion of the scholarship
• repaying the total amount of the scholarship if condition (f) or (g) are not adhered to

Do I get financial assistance while studying?

Scholarship entitlements vary between countries and institution of enrolment.

Generally entitlements cover a return airfare from your home country to the country of study, academic and other compulsory fees, an establishment allowance and a living allowance paid fortnightly.

In some countries the living allowance may be paid at a higher rate when the student is joined long term by one or more family members. No assistance is available with the airfares of family members.

2007

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Scholarships

The Australian Government's overseas aid program aims to increase access to and the quality of education and training for people in partner countries. The program provides selective assistance in distance education, higher education and
institutional strengthening.

Australian scholarships

Australian scholarships provide educational, research and professional development opportunities to support growth in the region and to build enduring links at the individual, institutional and country levels.

Award programs, managed by the Australian Agency for International Development (AusAID) are:

• Australian Development Scholarships (ADS) managed by AusAID, strengthen human resource capacity in Australia's partner countries to contribute to long-term development needs and promote greater stability within the Asia-Pacific region.
• Australian Leadership Awards (ALA) a regional program managed by AusAID, aims to develop leadership, build partnerships and links, and address priority issues in the Asia-Pacific region. Australian Leadership Awards comprises:
  • ALA - Scholarships
  • ALA - Fellowships

Our Scholarships Overview [PDF 125KB] factsheet provides information about awardee entitlements and life in Australia for potential applicants.

Endeavour program managed by DEEWR focuses on strengthening education linkages, skills and knowledge throughout the Asia-Pacific region, while showcasing Australia's excellence in education, science and training. Information on DEEWR Endeavour Awards is available from the Department of Education, Employment and Workplace Relations [external website].

Our Australian Scholarships fact sheet [PDF 482KB] provides further information.

Other AusAID Scholarships

Other scholarships offered through AusAID are:

• Australian Regional Development Scholarships
• Australia Africa Fellowship

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