Are you from India and have a strong passion for studying abroad? Financial costs may be a hurdle for you in pursuing your passion. If so, you don’t need to worry about it. You can fulfil your dream by studying top-quality education in Australia with the help of the Maitri Scholarship.

In this guide, we will discuss all the relevant details that you need to know about the Maitri scholarship.

What Is Maitri Scholarship?

The Maitri Scholars Program is more than just a scholarship; it’s a bridge to a future of innovation, collaboration, and excellence. This is a scholarship program that supports Indian students to study at Australian universities in STEM-related fields (science, technology, engineering, and mathematics.

 In a groundbreaking move to foster education and strengthen cultural ties between Australia and India, Australian Foreign Minister Marise Payne recently unveiled the ‘Maitri’ Scholars Program in february 2023. This visionary initiative will allocate over USD 11 million for the next four years to support Indian students in pursuing their studies at Australia’s prestigious universities.

Maitri Scholarship Program aims to create a nexus between scholars and Australian businesses, ultimately driving economic cooperation between India and Australia. Through direct grants with Australian universities, this program ensures that the right minds are at the forefront of tomorrow’s innovations.

Benefits of the Maitri Scholars Program: Your Path To Success

Studying for free can itself sound great. But to your wonder, it is just only one aspect of this wonderful scholarship program. You can avail yourself of the following benefits as beneficiary of Maitri scholarship:

• Financial Support: The program provides significant financial aid covering establishment costs, travel allowances, including an economy class airfare to Australia, visa, passport, overseas student health cover, travel insurance, and temporary accommodation.
• Tuition Fee Contribution: Recipient receives a substantial contribution towards their tuition fees, lightening the financial burden of their education.
• Monthly Stipend: A monthly stipend is provided to beneficiaries, ensuring they have the means to cover their living expenses while pursuing their studies.
• Professional Development Funding: Maitri Scholarship program allocates funds for professional development, enabling scholars to attend functions and events organized by the Centre and Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade, further enhancing their academic and professional growth.
• Alumni Community: Scholars have the opportunity to join an alumni community managed by the Centre, fostering a network of like-minded individuals for mutual support and collaboration.
• Cultural Exchange and Networking: The program facilitates cultural exchanges between India and Australia, providing scholars with a unique opportunity to experience a new culture and broaden their global perspective.
• Industry Collaboration: The program aims to connect scholars with Australian businesses, providing them with valuable industry exposure and potential job opportunities upon graduation.
• Invaluable Experience: Scholars gain access to world-class education and research facilities in Australia, enriching their academic experience and equipping them with cutting-edge knowledge and skills.
• Support for STEM Fields: The program prioritizes STEM-related disciplines, ensuring that scholars are at the forefront of technological and scientific advancements, making a lasting impact on their respective fields.
• Global Recognition and Opportunities: Graduating from a prestigious Australian university through the Maitri Scholars Program opens doors to a world of opportunities and recognition in the international academic and professional arenas.

Eligibility criteria for Maitri Scholarship:

Since you have learned about all the amazing benefits, you may be curious whether you are eligible. So, here we bring you the eligibility requirements in detail.

Nationality: Applicants must be Indian citizens to be eligible for the Maitri Scholars Program.

 

Residency Status: They should not hold current citizenship or permanent residency in Australia, ensuring that the program benefits students from India.

Enrollment Status: Eligible candidates must be newly enrolled at an Australian university, signifying that this scholarship is geared towards fresh academic pursuits.

Higher Degree by Research (HDR): Candidates must have completed an eligible Higher Degree by Research (HDR) application through the nominating Australian university. This ensures that scholars are engaged in advanced studies.

Approved Course of Study: Scholars must propose to pursue an approved course of study under the program. students pursuing Master’s and PhD in STEM-related fields are eligible; undergraduate students are not included in this.This encompasses postgraduate Higher Degree by Research (HDR) in fields like advanced manufacturing, critical technology (including batteries), critical minerals, and clean energy solutions. This focus on STEM-related fields aligns with the program’s objectives. 

Will of Participation in Professional Development Events: Applicants must be willing and able to participate in Maitri professional development events and functions organized by the Centre, Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade, or their Australian university. This encourages active involvement in the broader educational community.

Valid Student Visa: Successful applicants must hold a valid Student (subclass 500) visa for the entire duration of the scholarship, ensuring compliance with Australian immigration laws.

Adherence to Program Agreement: Scholars are required to adhere to the Maitri Scholars Program Agreement and associated documents, including the Australia Code for the Responsible Conduct of Research. This underscores the importance of ethical and responsible research practices.

University Requirements: Prospective scholars do not apply directly to the Centre. Instead, they are nominated by their prospective Australian university, streamlining the application process and ensuring that candidates meet the university’s specific requirements.

How To Apply For Maitri Scholarship?

Express Interest: Prospective scholars who plan to commence their studies in 2024 should initiate the process by expressing their interest in the Maitri Scholarship to their respective Australian universities. This step allows universities to identify potential candidates.

Nomination by University: The application process begins with the nomination of scholars by their respective Australian universities. The universities play a crucial role in selecting candidates who meet the eligibility criteria and show exceptional promise in STEM-related fields.

 

Submission of Application through GrantConnect: Australian universities interested in participating in the Maitri Scholars Program must submit their applications through GrantConnect. This platform streamlines the application process, ensuring that universities can easily communicate their intent to participate.

Evaluation by Centre for Australia-India Relations (Centre): Once the nominations are received, they will be evaluated by the Centre for Australia-India Relations. The Centre will assess the suitability of candidates based on the established criteria.

Selection of Scholars: After thorough evaluation, the Centre will select scholars who demonstrate outstanding potential in their chosen fields of study. The selection process ensures that the most promising candidates are chosen to benefit from the program.

Communication of Scholarship Offer: Successful candidates will receive formal communication regarding their selection for the Maitri Scholarship. This communication will include details about the scholarship benefits, obligations, and next steps.

Student Visa Application: Scholars who receive the scholarship offer must ensure that they hold a valid Student (subclass 500) visa for the entire duration of their scholarship. This step is crucial to ensure compliance with Australian immigration laws.

Commencement of Studies: Once all administrative and visa requirements are met, scholars can commence their studies at the nominated Australian university. This marks the beginning of an exciting educational journey supported by the Maitri Scholars Program.

What To Do Next?

If you’re an Indian student aspiring to make a mark in STEM-related fields, the Maitri Scholars Program could be your ticket to success. However, going through this complex process can daunt you. Our 10-year experienced educational consultants at Studywise can help you avail this amazing opportunity. We’ll guide you through the entire application process, ensuring that all required documents are submitted accurately and on time.

Our team will assist you in obtaining the necessary Student Visa (subclass 500) to ensure a seamless transition to Australia. Furthermore, We’ll also help you maximize your chances of securing the Maitri Scholarship by providing tips and insights for a standout application.Remember, the future belongs to those who seize the opportunity today.