The Snow Foundation and the University of Canberra (UC) have committed $20 million to establish 160 scholarships over the next decade, a program aimed at helping students access higher education. Announced today, the Snow Scholarships will provide up to $30,000 per year per student to cover tuition, accommodation, living expenses, and support services. Billed as one of the most comprehensive undergraduate scholarship programs in the country, the initiative targets students in Canberra and regional New South Wales who face significant barriers to tertiary education.
According to Snow Foundation CEO Georgina Byron, the program is a continuation of the foundation’s focus on education as a means of social impact. “We believe in the power of education as a driver of change,” Byron said. “Our vision is to attract students with smart minds and big hearts and to enable them to reach their potential and make meaningful contributions to their communities and beyond.
The ripple effect of Snow Scholarships will be profound, aiming to nurture the next generation of globally aware and socially conscious leaders across sectors – whether in community, business, science, law, health or politics.”
In addition to financial aid, the scholarships offer what the foundation describes as “wrap-around” support. Scholars will have access to tutoring, placement services, and free medical, financial, and wellbeing resources. They will also be part of a dedicated study and community space, Snow Scholar House, which aims to provide a collaborative environment.
UC Chancellor Lisa Paul praised the partnership, stating it would help advance the university’s goal of increasing diversity and equity among its students. “We are recognised globally for reducing inequalities and 40 percent of our students are the first in their family to go to university,” Paul said. “Through this collaboration with Snow Foundation, we look forward to building on our shared values of equity and inclusivity and enhancing access to higher education for underrepresented students in the ACT and regional NSW.”
The scholarships will be divided into two categories: Equity Scholarships for students from disadvantaged backgrounds and Indigenous Scholarships, aimed at supporting First Nations students. Up to 16 scholars will be selected each year based on academic performance, leadership potential, and dedication to social causes. UC Vice-Chancellor Professor Stephen Parker expressed hope that the scholarships would have a lasting impact, especially for students in the ACT and regional areas. “This partnership with the Snow Foundation will have generational impacts,” he said.
Some UC alumni have voiced support, noting how scholarships like these can make a critical difference. UC alumnus Nick Villiers, who faced homelessness and health challenges while completing his degree, said financial and community support are key to success for students from disadvantaged backgrounds. “Getting to university shouldn’t be the finish line—it should be the starting line, and we need to support people throughout their entire Uni journey,” he said.
Applications for the Snow Scholarships will open in early 2025, with the first round of recipients expected to begin studies in Semester One 2026. Further details are available on the UC website.
