How an Indonesian Scholar Secured the Australia Awards Fully Funded Scholarship to Study International Relations at the University of Melbourne

Hi, everyone. My name’s Arum Dyah Rinjani, and people usually call me Arum. I am from Mataram, West Nusa Tenggara, Indonesia. I am an Australia Awards recipient (2021), and have concluded my master’s study in International Relations at the University of Melbourne in 2023, graduating with a Second Class Honours A (GPA: 3.81/4.00).

Australia Awards Scholarship Details

Australia Awards is a fully-funded scholarship offered by the Australian Government and organized by Australia’s Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade. It’s a prestigious long-term scholarship offered to emerging leaders from developing countries for study, research, and professional development in Australia for postgraduate programs. I was lucky enough to be one of the 50 awardees selected by the Australia Awards Scholarship from 6,500+ eligible applicants in 2021.

Throughout my study in Melbourne, I received many scholarship entitlements from AAS, including

• DFAT Student & Dependant Visa fees
• Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC)
• Establishment allowance (paid after arrival in Australia, AUD5000)
• Fortnightly living allowance (CLE) (Around AUD1300)
• Introductory Academic Program (4–6 weeks)
• Full tuition fees for Master’s or PhD
• Supplementary academic support if needed (AUD500/semester)
• One-way homeward airfare after studies
• Professional development and networking opportunities during and after study

In addition, AAS is also known for its comprehensive Pre-Departure Training in Indonesia (mine was conducted in Bali). I also received a monthly stipend throughout my PDT (9 weeks, IDR 3.300K/month).

Educational Background

I hold a Bachelor's degree in International Relations from the University of Mataram. I graduated Cum Laude with a 3.90/4.00 GPA in Since I pursued the same academic field for my master’s degree, I didn’t need extensive preparation, as I already had a solid academic foundation. However, before starting my studies at the University of Melbourne, I needed to carefully decide on my specialization. I chose International Governance and Law.

How Did You Prepare to Apply to the University of Melbourne?

As an Australia Awards recipient, I was not required to apply directly to my target universities (the University of Melbourne and ANU), as the Australia Awards in Indonesia Office facilitated the application process on my behalf. I was only required to submit the necessary documents for the university application; the rest was handled by the Australia Awards in Indonesia Office, for which I was truly grateful.

I received an intensive three-month IELTS preparation program from the Provincial Government of West Nusa Tenggara through Rumah Bahasa. Although I had previously taken IELTS courses and a prediction test, this program significantly deepened my understanding. The intensive format allowed me to sharpen my skills and gain a stronger grasp of the test components, which helped me feel more confident and well-prepared.

How Did You Prepare to Apply for the Australia Awards Scholarship?

I began my preparation by thoroughly reviewing the Australia Awards website and handbook, which provided essential information for prospective recipients. Next, I reached out to past awardees and asked for their feedback on my essay. Crafting the essay was the most challenging and time-consuming part of the process, as I had to thoughtfully translate my aspirations into words. I went through multiple drafts, revising and refining it until I was confident it was ready for submission. I also researched university websites to ensure that my target programs aligned with the knowledge and skills I aimed to gain. Additionally, I attended webinars organized by Australia Awards in Indonesia to further enrich my understanding of the program.

How Is (was) Your Experience at the University of Melbourne?

Unimelb was an incredible place for me to study. Academically, it offers strong support systems, including academic assistance programs that were especially helpful during my first semester as I adjusted to a new environment. My lecturers were also highly supportive, and I thoroughly enjoyed learning from them. Beyond academics, Unimelb provides a wide range of student clubs facilitating diverse interests—from sports and music to professional development and casual hobbies. It also places great emphasis on students’ mental health and well-being, which I think is an important aspect for an international student like me who was away from my primary support system (family and friends in Indonesia).

How Do You Rate the University of Melbourne Academically and Why? 

Definitely a 9 out of 10. Unimelb offers outstanding academic opportunities and provides strong support to help students thrive. It possesses comprehensive access to a vast range of academic resources, and I found it incredibly valuable for my studies.

How Does the University of Melbourne Support International Students? 

Both Unimelb and the Australia Awards possess a wide range of services to support international students academically, mentally, and beyond, and they were also highly attentive to students’ well-being and consistently ensured that learning took place under the most supportive and ideal conditions.

What Do You Think Made Your Application Stand Out?

I believe my essay was a key factor that made my application stand out. In it, I thoughtfully articulated my aspirations, long-term goals, and how the Australia Awards would serve as a bridge to achieving them. I connected my personal background, professional experiences, and future contributions to my community. It helped me present a clear and compelling narrative of purpose and impact.

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

Honestly, I wouldn’t change a thing if I had to go through the process again. When I applied for the Australia Awards in 2021, I came in with a deeper sense of purpose and determination, having learned so much from my rejection in 2020. That experience taught me valuable lessons and helped me grow. I took my time, carefully reflecting on my goals and revising my essay over the course of two to three months, not including the time spent preparing other required documents. Every sentence mattered to me. I wanted to make sure that this time, I put forward the strongest and most authentic version of myself. The journey wasn’t easy, but it was meaningful and worth every effort.

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

Every meaningful journey takes time—and so does this one. Give yourself the space to truly get to know who you are, what drives you, and where you want to go. Understanding your goals and aspirations is the foundation of a strong application. Once you have that clarity, take your time to prepare. A scholarship application isn’t something you can complete in a single night—it’s a process that demands patience, effort, and heart. It may feel overwhelming at times, but trust that every step you take will be worth it in the end.