What is the New Colombo Plan?
The New Colombo Plan (NCP) is an Australian Government initiative that provides funding for Australian undergraduate students to study and undertake internships in the IndoPacific region. The 2023 scholarship round continues the tradition of encouraging cultural exchange, building regional networks and developing future leaders who understand the strategic importance of the IndoPacific.
Eligibility
To be considered for a 2023 NCP scholarship, applicants must meet all of the following criteria:
- Australian citizenship (or permanent residency) at the time of application.
- Enrolled in a Commonwealth-supported undergraduate program at an Australian university.
- Must have completed at least one full year of study (or equivalent) before the start of the overseas component.
- Academic standing of at least a Credit Average (or equivalent) in the most recent semester.
- Proficiency in the language of the host country (or willingness to achieve it before departure).
- Not currently holding any other Australian Government scholarship that covers the same costs.
Benefits of the Scholarship
The NCP scholarship package is designed to make an extended overseas experience financially feasible. Typical benefits include:
- Travel allowance: Roundtrip air fare between Australia and the host country (economy class).
- Living stipend: Monthly allowance to cover accommodation, meals and incidentals for the duration of the program.
- Course fees: Tuition fees for the study component at a recognized overseas institution.
- Internship support: Additional funding for work placement costs, such as visa fees and professional insurance.
- Orientation and predeparture training: Cultural, safety and academic briefings.
All awards are paid directly to the student or to the host institution on the students behalf, ensuring clear and transparent financial management.
How to Apply
The application process is coordinated through participating Australian universities. While exact steps may vary slightly, the general workflow is:
- Check eligibility: Verify that you meet the criteria listed above.
- Identify a host institution and program: Use the NCP online portal to search for partner universities, courses and internship opportunities.
- Prepare supporting documents: Academic transcript, English proficiency proof, CV/resume, statement of purpose (500800 words) and two academic references.
- Submit a universityinternal application: Most universities have a dedicated NCP portal where you upload your documents.
- University assessment: Your institution reviews the application, may conduct an interview and forwards successful candidates to the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT).
- DFAT selection: The final selection is made by DFAT based on academic merit, leadership potential and the relevance of the proposed study/internship.
- Offer and acceptance: Successful applicants receive a formal award letter and must accept within the specified timeframe.
Key Dates for 2023
- March12023: Opening of the 2023 NCP application window.
- May312023: Closing date for universityinternal applications.
- June152023: Universities submit shortlisted candidates to DFAT.
- July302023: DFAT announces final awardees.
- September12023 March312024: Preferred period for overseas study/internship.
- June2024: Postprogram reporting and alumni survey.
Exact dates can differ between universities, so always confirm with your home institutions International Office.
Useful Resources
Why Apply?
The IndoPacific region accounts for more than half of the worlds population and a growing share of global trade. An NCP scholarship gives you the chance to:
- Gain academic knowledge from leading universities in countries such as Japan, Singapore, Indonesia and Vietnam.
- Develop practical skills through internships with multinational corporations, NGOs or government agencies.
- Build a professional network that can open doors to future employment in the region.
- Become a cultural ambassador, strengthening the relationship between Australia and its neighbours.
Former NCP scholars have gone on to careers in diplomacy, international business, research and community development, often citing their overseas experience as a turning point.
