Recognising the pursuit of excellence

With our High Performers Scholarships, the University of Newcastle recognises the exceptional academic achievements of students commencing an undergraduate program. Understanding that academic excellence can be demonstrated in a number of ways, the scholarships are available to students who commence undergraduate studies through a range of pathways.

20 High Performers Scholarships
$10,000 value each year
Leadership and academic mentoring opportunities
Recognising excellence across study pathways

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Each High Performers Scholarship is worth A$10,000 each year for the standard duration of the degree. Recipients also gain opportunities for formal recognition by the Vice-Chancellor and access to leadership training and academic mentoring programs.

All scholarships are awarded based on academic merit and entry rank. With the exception of the Regional High School Dux Scholarship, no additional scholarship application is required.

Year 12 School Leavers

This category is for Year 12 School Leavers that have completed secondary school in the year prior to commencing a degree. An ATAR or equivalent of 99 or higher is required.

Indigenous Year 12 School Leavers

This category is for Indigenous Year 12 School Leavers that have completed secondary school in the year prior to commencing a degree. An ATAR or equivalent of 95 or higher is required.

Early Entry Program and Schools Recommendation Scheme

This category is for students with outstanding performance in year 11 commensurate with a final raw ATAR of 99 or higher, and that have received an offer via the University of Newcastle Early Entry Program round and/or through the Schools Recommendation Scheme admission round.

Enabling Programs

This category is for students who have completed a University of Newcastle Enabling Program with a selection rank or equivalent of 95 or higher.

Regional High School Dux

This category is for students that have been recognised as Dux by their remote or regional High School in the year prior to commencing a degree program. An ATAR or equivalent of 95 or higher is required.

An application is required for this category. Documentation must be provided as proof of Dux award or ranking as top student. Apply here by 10 Jan 2024.

View other available scholarships

Scholarships are now open for application.

Shaping Futures Scholarships for Early Entry

These scholarships, worth A$4,000 each, help to support students manage their academic progress while also facing difficult personal circumstances. There are 24 scholarships available to students receiving an admission offer via Early Entry or Schools Recommendation Scheme. Eligible students include those facing financial hardship, medical disadvantage, or who have a regional or remote disadvantage. Apply  here.

Tertiary Access Payment (TAP)

The Tertiary Access Payment is a one-off payment of up to $5000 to help school leavers with the cost of moving from regional and remote areas for tertiary study. This is for study after you've finished Year 12 or equivalent. Please visit Services Australia for more information.

Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Scholarship

This $40,000  was established through contributions from the university, industry donors, community organisations and the annual Reconciliation Scholarship Dinner Dance to support an undergraduate student for the duration of their degree. Apply here.

Student Residences Scholarship

These four scholarships, worth A$4,000 each, were established to help the students most in need, that live in accommodation from Student Living. Eligible students include those in a carer role, sole parents, refugees, Indigenous students, or those facing physical, mental, financial language or medical hardship, or have a regional or remote disadvantage. Apply here.

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