Italian Australian Foundation Bursary

About

The Italian Australian Foundation Bursary supports third year and Honours students of Italian descent studying Italian language, history and/or culture who are in financial need.

Applications open

15 June 2026

Applications close

2 August 2026

Benefits

Up to $10,000 is available and several awards may be offered from this total amount. Award payments will be made as a single lump-sum.

Eligibility

To be eligible for this bursary, you must:

• be a third year student majoring in Italian Studies; or,
• be enrolled or enrolling in Honours in Italian Studies;
• demonstrate financial disadvantage;
• be of Italian descent; and,
• be an Australian permanent resident or citizen.

Selection criteria

The bursary will be awarded to the students most impacted in their academic work by financial disadvantage.

The value of the scholarship and recipients will be determined after considering the applicants' statement outlining the positive impact of the scholarship, proposed program of study and access to other financial resources.

Conditions

Recipients are required to:

• accept the award online within 21 days; and,
• submit a final report.

Outcome

Applicants are advised of the outcome via email. Applicants typically receive alerts around 8-10 weeks after the closing date. However, for University of Melbourne Student Financial Assessment awards, delays are common due to the timing of data processing.

Application process

Eligible applicants must complete the online application form, including:

• a 300-500 word statement outlining how the bursary would positively impact your life and assist with your academic work, with reference to the importance of Italian language, history and/or culture to your studies;
• evidence of a complete and submitted University of Melbourne Student Financial Assessment form;
• at least one academic reference;
• current statement of results;
• copy of Australian residency or citizenship;
• copy of proof of Italian descent (e.g., a copy of your parent's or grandparent's passport, birth certificate, citizenship certificate or death certificate). The selection committee may request a certified copy at a later date; and,
• any other information to support your application that may assist the committee in making its decision.

Apply

Enquiries

artsawards-info@unimelb.edu.au

About the donors

The Italian Australian Foundation seeks to improve the lives of people of Italian origin and descent, through the delivery of services to the community and by providing opportunities for students to undertake professional development. In this spirit, the Foundation supports a broad program of fellowships and bursaries designed to provide opportunities for students to undertake further studies, skills specialisation and vocational training.

Recipient feedback

Justin Rousis

My trip to Trieste last year has benefited my academic development in many ways, allowing me to refine and develop my language skills. The immersive experience equipped me with an understanding of the Italian language and culture, which I have always wanted to achieve.

The information listed here is subject to change without notice. Information describing the number and value of scholarships awarded is indicative.