Program acknowledges the service and sacrifices of Australian Defence Force members and their families
As Australians prepare to commemorate those who have fallen in military service to the nation, the University of Wollongong (UOW) has announced the establishment of a new Veterans Scholar Scheme.
The Veterans Scholar Scheme is open to current and former serving members of the Australian Defence Force, providing a new pathway to study for those who wish to pursue an undergraduate degree at UOW and offering a tuition fee discount for veterans undertaking postgraduate study.
In recognition of the sacrifices made by the families of ADF members, and in recognition of the disruption to education that can ensue to service families, the Scheme also benefits spouses and dependants of veterans, who will be eligible for three adjustment factors added to their ATAR to calculate their selection rank for entry to UOW.
The Veterans Scholar Scheme is now available for students wishing to commence study from July.
Veterans who live in the Illawarra and seek admission to UOW are also eligible to apply for one of the two community-funded Illawarra Centenary of ANZAC Scholarships, valued at $5,000 per annum over three years. The next round for the Scholarships will open in early 2023.
Announcing the launch of the Veterans Scholar Scheme, UOW Vice-Chancellor Professor Patricia M. Davidson said: "I am pleased to launch this new UOW initiative as one way we recognise the sacrifice of those who have served or continued to serve our nation."
One initiative of the Scheme is focused on providing a new pathway to university admission for veterans. The University has put in place an admissions ranking scheme that uses an individual's military rank and years of service to calculate a selection rank out of 100 (similar to ATAR).
UOW Pro Vice-Chancellor (Strategy and Planning) Professor Sean Brawley said the University acknowledged the sacrifices made by both veterans and their families.
"The Veterans Scholar Scheme is not only about veterans themselves," Professor Brawley said.
"Spouses and dependents of veterans who wish to enrol in undergraduate study will be eligible for three adjustment points which they can add to their ATAR to finalise their selection rank."
UOW already recognises a range of courses completed by veterans while in service. The University plans to do more work in this space in the near future through a further examination of how a veteran's prior learning can be further recognised.
UOW Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Academic and Student Life) Professor Theo Farrell said: "Transition from service to study is not always easy and at UOW we will assist veterans to make the change to university life."
Illawarra veteran and National Director of the Royal Australian Regiment Association, Major General Brian 'Hori' Howard AO MC ESM (Rtd) said: "Our Association is delighted with the much needed program for veterans and their families. We are convinced that further education will lead to more satisfying employment which in turn will lead to improved mental health. Congratulations UOW!"
Veterans interested in the scheme should visit the dedicated landing page on UOW website at https://www.uow.edu.au/study/scholarships/veteran-scholar-scheme/
