Study in Southeast Asia on a Funded Semester Exchange
The New Colombo Plan Semester Exchange Grants enable School of International Studies students to study at select institutions in Japan, Singapore, Taiwan and Thailand.
Grants are awarded each semester from S1 2027 to S1 2028 at an amount of $15,000 which can be used for flights and educational experiences abroad.
We encourage applications from all students who wish to be part of a rewarding adventure and make their degree stand out. Learn more about the program and experiences available at each institution:
- Sophia University, Tokyo, Japan
- Nanyang Technological University, Singapore
- The National Taiwan University, Taiwan
- Mahidol University, Bangkok, Thailand
Eligibility
These scholarships are open to students enrolled in the BSS, BCRIM, BINT and any associated double degrees. This includes students enrolled in Majors of Politics, International Relations or Languages.
To receive an NCP grant, all successful applicants must ensure that 50% of their academic load while on exchange is dedicated to studying an official national language of the nation in which they will be studying. Introductory units in language learning are offered for exchange students in each of these institutions.
- Applicants cannot be enrolled in the last semester of study when on exchange.
- Applicants must be Australian citizens (these scholarships are not currently open to permanent residents or international students).
Selection criteria
Each scholarship will be awarded on a competitive basis consisting of a consideration of the following factors:
- your current grade point average [WAM of 60]
- 500-word statement of purpose that includes:
- your motivation for undertaking an exchange and learning a national language at the institution in question
- how the opportunity would benefit your future educational aspirations and/or support your professionalization goals
- what acting as an ambassador for Macquarie University while abroad means to you.
How to Apply
Applications open 11 May and close 30 June 2026 for S1 2027 exchanges. Apply here from May 11 2026.
Students must apply at the same time for Semester Exchange Programs via the Global Education and Exchange Portal.
For further questions, please contact Dr Alex Kurmann: alex.kurmann@mq.edu.au.