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ACU launches new scholarship to support best and brightest students from Southeast Asia

Australian Catholic University has launched a new scholarship program that will allow high-achieving students from Southeast Asia to pursue their studies at ACU.

The Executive Dean’s International Scholarship will financially support the best and brightest undergraduate and postgraduate students from across the region to study at ACU from 2026.

These prestigious scholarships are designed to make study more affordable for international students, combining tuition support, travel and relocation and visa fees.

The merit-based scholarship will be open to undergraduate and postgraduate students from Vietnam, the Philippines, Indonesia, Cambodia, Malaysia and Timor Leste who demonstrate academic excellence, leadership potential and a commitment to making a positive impact in their communities. 

ACU Vice-Chancellor and President Professor Zlatko Skrbis said the scholarships reflected the university’s commitment to accessible education and contribution to the Asia-Pacific region and beyond. 

“Southeast Asia is a powerhouse region that is home to a generation of ambitious young people,” Professor Skrbis said. 

“ACU is committed to investing in the future leaders who will help strengthen the ties between our countries and apply their knowledge and expertise to the big issues that impact the region.”

This scholarship is the first of its kind at ACU and reflects the university’s deepening ties to Southeast Asia through its student body, alumni, research and partnerships. 

ACU currently has 737 students from Southeast Asia enrolled across the university’s seven Australian campuses. The majority are undertaking health and education degrees.

Meantepy Hoeung graduated from ACU’s Faculty of Health Sciences and was Victorian International Student of the Year.

She left her home in Cambodia to study at ACU, and said the university was helping students from across the region make an impact in their fields. 

“I have always dreamed of working in a field where I can help save lives, bring happiness to individuals and the families and comfort those in need,” she said.

“I would encourage everyone to take the leap and pursue their educational dreams in Australia because this is the place where the possibilities for growth, success, and personal development are endless.”