University Scholars Leadership Symposium Grant
The University Scholars Leadership Symposium (USLS) Grant provides funding for a select group of University of Sydney students to attend the USLS Conference.
Hosted by Humanitarian Affairs Asia, this annual symposium brings together emerging leaders from around the world to explore humanitarian issues, engage in leadership development, and collaborate on global challenges.
The 2026 University Scholars Leadership Symposium will be held in Bangkok, Thailand. It runs from 4 to 7 August 2026 with the theme of "Lead the Change".
What the grant includes
- Return flights from Sydney to Bangkok.
- Registration for the USLS, including:
- five nights of twin-shared accommodation
- local transport during official activities
- five breakfasts, four lunches, and five coffee breaks
- symposium materials, including a souvenir T-shirt and an electronic certificate.
- A stipend for additional expenses.
The grant does not cover personal expenses, additional travel, entertainment, or visa fees if required.
Eligibility
To be eligible to attend the USLS you will need to:
- be an Australian or New Zealand citizen, permanent resident, or an international student with a valid visa
- be currently enrolled in an undergraduate or postgraduate coursework or research degree at the University of Sydney, and at minimum, be continuing your studies until the end of 2027
- have completed:
- 24 credit points if you're a coursework student
- 1 research period if you're studying a research course.
- be available to travel from 3–9 August 2026
- hold a valid passport and and be eligible to obtain a visa to enter Thailand if relevant
- be available to contribute to an interdisciplinary co-curricular initiative upon returning from USLS, to be delivered by Semester 1, 2027.
How to apply
Applications open on Monday 30 March 2026, and close at 9 am, Wednesday 22 April 2026.
The application includes:
- your details and responses to three short answer questions
- resume/CV
- applicant declaration and submission.
The USLS Grant is awarded through a competitive selection process. Applications will be reviewed by a panel within each Faculty or University School, with at least two staff members assessing submissions against the selection criteria. Shortlisted candidates will be invited to attend an interview in mid-May, and the successful candidates will be notified afterwards.
You will be evaluated based on:
- clarity, depth, and thoughtfulness of responses to the short answer questions (25%)
- alignment of your experiences (as outlined in your resume/CV) with the objectives of the USLS Grant (50%)
- interview performance (25%).
The selection process also considers diversity and representation to ensure a delegation that reflects the University of Sydney’s student community.
Successful applicants will be notified by Wednesday 20 May 2026.
Program expectations
Successful applicants will represent the University at the event and as such are expected to:
- attend any required pre-departure orientation sessions
- adhere to University travel policies and local laws while overseas
- participate in an interdisciplinary co-curricular project upon return, inspired by their USLS experience
- share their experience within the University community and act as a USLS ambassador.
Information session about applying
Attend our information session to discover how you can represent the University of Sydney at USLS. Hear from our team as we share the qualities of a successful application and gain insights from a former attendee of the Symposium. The session will also provide an opportunity to address any questions you have about the application process.
Date and time: 12–2 pm, Wednesday 15th April 2026
Location: Online via Zoom
Contacting us with questions
If you have questions or want further information, you can email the Student Life team using studentlife.office@sydney.edu.au.