How a Pakistani Scholar Earned the Fully Funded Australia Awards Scholarship for a Master’s in Development Studies at the University of Melbourne

My name is Farwa Abbas. I am from Lahore, Pakistan. I am a Civil Servant with 12 years of Experience in the Public Sector. Before that, I also worked in the private sector. I am the first girl in my family to attend university, enter the Civil Services, and earn a degree from abroad. I was serving in the social protection cash transfer program of Pakistan, BISP, where, while working as Director of International Coordination and Cooperation, I dealt with international development partners such as ADB, the World Bank, IMF, GIZ, and others. Serving in that role at times, I felt I was not getting the thought or the concept behind some of our discussions with the development partners. A member from the World Bank team encouraged me to I should go for further studies to build my capacity. I opted for a Master's in Development Studies because I was working in the Federal Government in that area, so it aligned with my work. I secured a scholarship from Seoul National University and the University of Melbourne; I decided to pursue the degree in Australia, considering the possible language barrier in Korea.

Australia Awards Scholarship Details

I opted for a Master's in Development Studies because I was working in the Federal Government in that area, so it aligned with my work. I secured a scholarship from Seoul National University and the University of Melbourne; I decided to pursue the degree in Australia, considering the possible language barrier in Korea. I won an Australia Awards scholarship, which is funded by DFAT, Australia.

It is an open merit scholarship that is awarded annually. I opted for a Master's of Development studies from the University of Melbourne, as I did my research, I liked Melbourne city, considering it’s very vibrant, multicultural, and full of cultural events and arts. Australia awards scholarships that cover all expenses, including medical, visa, insurance, travel, fees, settlement allowance, and a monthly stipend. As I got 2 2-year scholarship, they also gave me a return family reunion ticket.

Educational Background

I previously did a BS in Telecommunication from Superior University, Lahore, Pakistan. I have always studied on scholarship throughout my academic life. Then I got into the civil services, which provided me with diverse experience. I also did certifications from the International Monetary Fund (IMF) on financial inclusion and inclusive growth. I have done training on gender mainstreaming in Korea. So I linked all my experience, education, and certification as I proposed that I wanted to work on the digital and financial literacy of women living below the poverty line.

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

In the case of the Australia Awards, you have to first apply for the scholarship, and once you secure the scholarship, you get admission into the university. I checked the programs offered by different departments and the courses taught in those programs to decide which one is more suitable for me. Also, I considered the city where the university is located because I am a very social person, so I wanted to be in the city. I took IELTS as GRE was not required for my degree. As English is our official language so we use it every day in our work. I prepared for the IELTS in 2 days by practising YouTube exercises.

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

I prepared my application. I was required to give a Development Impact Linkages Plan, which I made on the topic of digital and financial literacy for women. I made my personal statements stating my passion for the field of social protection and determination to use the knowledge gained for the development of the country, as I still have a long career ahead of me as a civil servant.

What Do You Think Made Your Application Stand Out?

I think it was logical. I drafted my development plan with clear targets and considering all stakeholders. It was very detailed. Then my volunteer work in my student life and my present job were relevant.

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

I don’t think I will do anything different. Because when we apply, we are not all sure about the outcomes. I did not expect to get selected. I was even reluctant to submit my application. I guess the best thing to do is have some hope and faith.

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

Apply, but think about why you really want to do it and what your passion is. Critically evaluate your application yourself. Always ask questions and be inquisitive.