Vice Chancellor’s International Scholarship Recipient, Anupam Sarkar from Bangladesh, Shares His Journey of Pursuing a Master of Accounting at Macquarie University, Australia

My name is Anupam Sarkar, and I am from Dhaka, Bangladesh. I am a Chartered Accountant (CA ANZ, Australia) and a Certified Practicing Accountant (CPA, Australia), with more than eight years of professional experience in accounting, auditing, and finance. I have worked with leading organizations such as Deloitte in Bangladesh and BFS Partners in Australia, where I developed expertise in IFRS financial reporting, audit, and internal controls. I pursued further education in accounting to strengthen my technical expertise and gain international exposure that would support a global career.

Can You Tell Us About the Scholarship You Received?

I received the Vice Chancellor’s International Scholarship from Macquarie University, Sydney, awarded to the top 1% of international students. The scholarship covered a significant portion of my tuition fees during my Master’s program and allowed me to pursue my studies in Australia with reduced financial pressure.

Were You Offered Any Other Scholarships?

No. The Vice Chancellor’s International Scholarship at Macquarie University was the only scholarship I applied for and received.

What Is Your Educational Background?

I completed my Master of Accounting in Professional Practice at Macquarie University, graduating with a GPA of 3.2/4.0. Prior to that, I earned a BSc in Applied Accounting (Upper Second-Class Honours) from Oxford Brookes University, UK, and also completed the ACCA Qualification with all first-time passes. In addition, I am a Chartered Accountant (CA ANZ, Australia) and a CPA (Australia). During my studies, I was awarded a High Achiever’s Certificate at Macquarie University, and earlier, I was recognized in the ACCA Business Case Competition as Champion in 2016 and Runner-up in 2015. These achievements gave me both academic and practical preparation for advanced studies and a professional career.

How Did You Prepare to Apply to Macquarie University?

• Finding Information: I researched universities and scholarships through official university websites, education fairs, and by speaking with alumni.
• Standardized Tests: I took the IELTS to meet English language requirements. I prepared through self-study, practice tests, and mock exams.
• Application Strategy: I emphasized my academic achievements, professional certifications, and extracurricular leadership roles, tailoring each application to match the university’s values and priorities.

How Did You Prepare Specifically for the Scholarship Application?

I highlighted the combination of my academic results, professional qualifications, and leadership achievements. My application showed how I could contribute positively to Macquarie University’s academic and student community, supported by my track record of academic awards, mentoring, and professional success.

How Was Your Experience at Macquarie University?

My experience was excellent. The program was rigorous and practical, with a strong balance of technical knowledge and case-based learning. I was active in the Accounting Students Association, which gave me opportunities for networking, leadership, and community involvement.

How Would You Rate Macquarie University Academically?

Very highly. The faculty at Macquarie University combined academic expertise with industry experience, which made the program practical and globally relevant. The coursework was strongly aligned with professional accounting standards, which supported my journey towards becoming a CA in Australia.

How Does Macquarie University Support International Students?

Macquarie University provides excellent support for international students. From visa and accommodation assistance to academic workshops and career guidance, the university ensures that students can transition smoothly. I also benefited from the mentoring ecosystem, and later gave back by serving as an Early Career Mentor with CPA Australia.

What Do You Think Made Your Application Stand Out?

I believe it was the combination of academic excellence, global professional qualifications (CA ANZ and CPA Australia), and leadership achievements. My record of success in competitions and professional roles demonstrated that I could thrive in and contribute to a challenging international academic environment.

What Would You Have Done Differently if You Were Going Through the Process Again?

I would have applied to multiple universities and scholarships earlier in the process to create more flexibility in financial planning and program options.

What Advice Would You Give to Those Applying for a Similar Scholarship?

1. Plan early; start preparing applications at least a year in advance.
2. Showcase more than grades; highlight leadership, professional qualifications, and extracurricular achievements.
3. Customize your application; align your profile with the scholarship’s values.
4. Engage with mentors and alumni; they can provide valuable guidance.
5. Strengthen English proficiency; strong communication skills are crucial for success both academically and professionally.