The Tuckwell Scholarship is one of the most prestigious undergraduate scholarships in Australia, which is awarded by the Australian National University (ANU).
The Tuckwell Scholar community selects up to 25 new scholars each year to enrol at ANU to have full support and complete any undergraduate degree, including in a special mentoring and enrichment program, which aims at personal growth, leadership, and service to the community.
Get to know all the information regarding eligibility, benefits and the process of applying to the Scholarship in this article.
2026 Tuckwell Scholarship Abstract/Summary
Host: Australian National University (ANU)
Location: Australia
Degree Scholarships: Undergraduates
Benefits: Funded tuition | Annual stipends | Relocation nd Travel allowances | Leadership development
Scholarship Duration: Full duration of chosen program (up to 5 years)
Scholarship Value: Valued between $76,000 – $136,000
Eligible Countries: Australian citizens and permanent residents
Application Status: Annual Program
Application Deadline: 9 April 2026
The Tuckwell Scholarship Programs – Overview
The Tuckwell Scholarship is a national, competitive, merit-based scholarship awarded to outstanding students in order to make a significant contribution to their communities and the wider community.
It is the largest-ever philanthropic contribution to an Australian university to support undergraduates funded by the Tuckwell Foundation. The program selects applicants based on four criteria, which include:
Academic potential and achievements;
Other significant achievements of any type;
Demonstration of the Tuckwell Attributes;
Connection and commitment to Australia.
Tuckwell scholars receive much more than financial support. They join and become members of a lifetime community that focuses on mentoring and leadership training, and civic engagement. This experience occurs as a part of the Tuckwell Scholar Program of ANU, offering one to receive personal guidance, seminars, and customised opportunities to become leaders and change-makers.
The scholarship was launched in 2013, and has so far helped hundreds of young Australians to pursue their education at ANU without paying tuition fees and live in a supportive residential setting that has allowed them to lead meaningful lives.
Deadline for Applications
In April 13, 2026, the Stage 1 application for the 2026–2027 intake will close. To find out the precise date, visit the official website .
Why You Should Apply for the Tuckwell Scholarship? – Benefits
Full Financial Support: This is a financial aid that covers all the tuition fees of an undergraduate degree at ANU (up to five years, including honours programs).
Annual Living Stipend: The program provide a living stipend which is indexed after every year because of inflation. This assists in the accommodation, meals and other living costs.
Relocation and Travel allowances: This covers a one time relocation allowance to assist the students to relocate to Canberra as well as an annual travel allowance to travel home at least once every year.
Residential Support: ANU accommodates scholars in a recognized residential college with financial support on accommodation fees.
Enrichment Program: Exposure to special academic and personal growth programs such as leadership courses, mentoring meetings, and networking activities with leading Australian and international individuals.
Community Membership: Every scholar joins the Tuckwell Scholar family, a lifetime association with peers and alumni that have similar interests in academic success and social contribution.
Tuckwell Scholarship 2026 – Eligibility Criteria
Applicants for the 2026 Tuckwell Scholarship must meet the following criteria:
be qualified to use the ANU Direct Application system to apply to study at ANU in 2026.
start and finish Year 12 full-time at an Australian school.
begin the first semester of 2026 on February 17, 2026, and be 17, 18, or 19 years old (born on or between February 18, 2006, and February 17, 2009).
possess the appropriate birth certificate, citizenship certificate, or visa by May 23, 2025, which is the deadline for Stage 2 applications this year, and be an Australian citizen, Australian Permanent Resident, or the holder of an Australian humanitarian visa.
have an Australian Tertiary Admissions Rank (ATAR) of 95 or above, as projected by their school. If an applicant’s school predicts that they will receive an ATAR of 90 or better, they are entitled to apply for a Tuckwell Scholarship under the Educational Access Scheme (EAS).
enrolled in at least one high school English course or unit during a semester in either Year 11 or Year 12, as well as at least one high school math course or unit during a semester in either Year 11 or Year 12.
How To Apply For The Tuckwell Scholarship Award
Applying for the Tuckwell Scholarship is a three-stage process. But before the application process, you should do the following:
Examine the Terms of Award;
The Tuckwell Scholarship Application Guide should be read.
Talk to a teacher, headmaster, head of year, or career counselor about your interest, qualifications, and eligibility for the Scholarship.
Finish and submit the ANU Direct Application as soon as possible and before April 9, 2026, AND
Fill out and submit the Tuckwell Scholarship Stage 1 Application Form as soon as possible – not later than 11:59 p.m. AEST on April 13, 2026.
The Tuckwell application stages inlcude:
Stage 1 – Begins on March 2, 2026, and ends on April 13, 2026
In Stage 1, applicants will be ask for personal information, including information about their extracurricular and academic activities.
After submitting, longlisted applicants in Stage 1 will request to submit additional details from their Head of Year or its equivalent. This data will be considered when selecting the 150 participants who will move on to Stage 2.
Stage 2 – Begins on May 13, 2026, and ends on May 22, 2026.
In Stage 2, the Selection Panel gains a better understanding of who you (applicants) are in addition to your accomplishments by asking more questions. It also contains a recommendation from your Principal. The program will get in touch with your principal, who will have to provide their reference by the deadline in May. This data will be considered to choose the 50 candidates who will advance to stage 3.
Stage 3 – Takes place between July 10 and 12, 2026.
The interview in Stage 3 is often conducted in person at ANU. The short-listed candidates will get exact information in mid-June. The Selection Panel will learn more about you during the interview, including how you best exhibit the Tuckwell traits and how dedicated you are to Australia.
The ultimate choice of candidates takes into account not only individual fit but also the need for a well-rounded and varied group of students. The 25 Tuckwell Scholars for 2027 will then be chosen based on this data.
Tuckwell Scholarship 2026: Required Documents
When preparing your application, make sure to have:
- Certified copy of academic transcripts (Year 11 and 12 results)
- Proof of citizenship or residency
- School principal’s verification
- Two referee reports (academic and personal)
- Personal statement or essays
- ANU Direct Application confirmation
Frequently Asked Questions
Can international students apply?
No. The Tuckwell Scholarship is only open to Australian citizens, permanent residents, or Humanitarian visa holders.
What is the selection ratio?
Each year, about 600-700 students apply, with only 25 scholarships awarded. It’s one of the most selective programs in the country.
Can I defer my scholarship?
Yes, under special circumstances, such as medical reasons or approved gap-year programs.
Can I combine Tuckwell with other scholarships?
No. The Tuckwell Scholarship cannot be held concurrently with another major university scholarship offering equivalent financial benefits.
What if I change my course after receiving the scholarship?
Course changes within ANU are permitted, provided you maintain full-time enrolment and good standing.
What happens if I fail to meet program expectations?
Scholars who fail to meet academic or engagement standards may lose the scholarship after review by the Tuckwell Program Director.