University Scholars Leadership Symposium Grant

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<p>Applications are currently closed and will open in Semester 1, 2027.</p>

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Overview

About the grant

The University Scholars Leadership Symposium (USLS) Grant provides funding for a select group of University of Sydney students to attend the USLS Conference.

About the symposium

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".

Grant inclusions

Included

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.

Not included

The grant does not cover personal expenses, additional travel, entertainment or visa fees if required.

Who can apply

Requirements

To be eligible to attend the USLS and apply for the USLS grant, 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.

What you can expect

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.

When to apply

Applications will open in Semester 1, 2027.

How to apply

Application requirements

You need to apply on the Programs portal and include the following requirements:

your details and responses to three short questions
resume/CV
applicant declaration and submission.

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Selection criteria

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.

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.

Receiving an outcome

Shortlisted candidates will be invited to attend an interview in mid-May.

Successful applicants will be notified by Wednesday 20 May 2026.

Contact us

If you have questions or want further information, you can email the Student Life team at studentlife.office@sydney.edu.au.

Last updated: 02 June 2026

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