Young Technologists Scholarship

FAQs

What is a Westpac Young Technologist Scholarship?

The Westpac Young Technologist Scholarship supports Australia’s future technologists by providing funding for talented individuals to study at one of our five partner universities and includes the Disruptive Leaders Program, a bespoke leadership program, and lifelong membership to the W100 Alumni Network. 

How many Scholarships will be awarded each year?

There will be up to 35 scholarships awarded each year, about 7 scholarships at each of our five partner universities.

What is the value of each scholarship?

The Westpac Young Technologist Scholarship is valued at $20,000 and includes funding to the scholar of $5,000 per year for three years ($15,000 total) and the Disruptive Leaders Program, valued at $5,000. 

Who administers the funding?

Westpac Scholars Trust distributes the scholarship funds to the partner universities. The universities distribute the funds directly to the awarded scholars yearly ($5,000 per year). 

What is the duration of the scholarship?

The duration of the scholarship is three years.

Do I need to study full time?

Yes. It is a requirement of the scholarship to study full time.

What are the academic requirements to apply for a scholarship?

You must have completed your final year of high school or similar and be enrolled at one of our five partner universities in a degree that is STEM related.

What fields of study are applicable for the scholarship?

Simply, a STEM related degree. What is STEM? STEM is the acronym that stands for Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math, we observe these fields of study with fairly broad discretion. These essentially make up the eligibility criteria to be awarded a Westpac Young Technologist Scholarship.

Do I need to already have received an offer to study at one of our participating universities prior to applying?

A candidate does not need to have received an offer of a place at a participating university prior to submitting an application, however, if an applicant is successful in being selected and awarded the scholarship, this will be conditional upon receiving official confirmation from one of our five participating universities have granted you a place in an eligible program of study. 

Who can apply?

We’re looking for the best and brightest minds who have decided a technology-focused future is right for them. Your interest in technology matches your drive to improve the communities around you. We want to help you realise this potential. To be eligible to apply, applicants must:

1. be an Australian citizen or permanent resident; 
2. have completed high school within the last two years; 
3. have chosen to commence an approved technology-related degree next year at one of our five partner universities;  
4. be able to attend the Young Tech, Disruptive Leaders Program in Singapore (July 2026); and 
5. be able to attend the Westpac Scholars Summit on 7-8 April 2025
   
   

Which universities are participating in the program and what fields of study are applicable for the scholarship?

The Westpac Young Technologist Scholarship program is offered at our five partner universities. Eligible degrees can be located on our partner university websites:

• Murdoch University
• Queensland University of Technology
• RMIT University
• Western Sydney University
• University of Wollongong

Can I submit more than one application in a year?

An applicant may only submit one application per year. 

If successful, can I defer the scholarship?

No. Recipients will be notified in February/March 2025 and the study must commence in 2025.

Can I apply in the future if I am unsuccessful?

As long as you meet the eligibility criteria, you can apply for a Westpac Young Technologist Scholarship in future years.

Can I apply if I have already commenced my study?

No, the scholarship is only available to students expecting to commence their studies within two years of leaving high school.

Do I need to be a Westpac customer or employee?

No. The scholarship is open to all Australian citizens or permanent residents who meet the eligibility criteria.

Can I apply if I am a Westpac employee or related to one?

Yes. The scholarship is open to all Australian citizens or permanent residents who meet the eligibility criteria. 

What can I use my scholarship funds for?

Scholarship funds may be used to support your studies, including course fees, living expenses etc.

Will scholars be required to hold travel insurance while undertaking the international component of their Scholarship via the Disruptive Leaders Program in Singapore?

Scholars must be covered by appropriate health and travel insurance (including coverage for existing conditions) for the duration of their time overseas. Check with your university about this.

Will the Westpac Scholars Trust provide scholars with taxation advice?

Scholars are responsible and encouraged to seek taxation advice regarding their individual circumstances. Westpac Scholars Trust makes no representation or warranty in relation to the taxation implications of any funds provided by the Trust to a Scholar.

When can I apply and when do applications close?

Applications open 2 September 2024 and close at 5:00pm AEDT on Monday 13 January 2025.

How do I apply?

All applications must be submitted through the Westpac Scholars Trust’s online application system available via the scholarship landing page.

What is required to be a strong applicant?

Successful candidates will be able to demonstrate the following:

• academic excellence and achievements to date; 
• the ability to articulate their future ambitions and interest in contributing to Australia’s technology landscape; 
• the attributes of a Westpac Young Technologist Scholar;  
• a strong desire to contribute to and be an engaged member of the W100 Alumni Network; and 
• a strong sense of connection to Australia and the desire to give back.
  
  

Can you please provide an overview of the selection process?

The selection process consists of four stages:

• Stage 1: Eligibility and quality checks 
• Stage 2: University shortlisting 
• Stage 3: Interviews with university & Westpac Scholars Trust (late January – late February) 
• Stage 4: Notification of outcomes (February - March)
  
  

How do I know if the Westpac Scholars Trust has received my application?

Once you have submitted your online application, you will receive an email confirming that your application has been received. This email will include your application number along with a copy of your application. 

When will applicants find out if they are successful?

Applicants will be notified if they have been successful in obtaining a scholarship in late February - early March 2025.

I missed the application window, can I still apply?

No, late applications will not be accepted.

Can I get feedback on my application if I am unsuccessful?

Unfortunately Westpac Scholars Trust is unable to provide individual feedback due to the volume of applications we receive. However we will provide feedback for candidates who attend interviews.

I am having technical problems with the online application system, who can I contact?

Please contact us on westpacscholars@westpac.com.au.