How an Indian Scholar Earned the Fully Funded Vice-Chancellor’s Meritorious Scholarship to Pursue a Master’s in Biotechnology at Deakin University, Australia

Hi! I’m Mathanki Mehra, originally from India, and currently pursuing a Master of Biotechnology at Deakin University in Australia. I’ve always been passionate about understanding the intricate mechanisms of life, especially in the plant world. This fascination with plant biology inspired me to pursue further education in biotechnology, where I could explore innovative solutions in sustainable agriculture and environmental science. Outside academics, I enjoy writing, content creation, and blending scientific ideas with creative communication.

Vice-Chancellor's Meritorious 100% Scholarship Details

I’m incredibly honoured to have received the Vice-Chancellor's Meritorious 100% Scholarship from Deakin University, which covers my full tuition fees for the duration of my degree. This scholarship is awarded to high-achieving international students based on academic excellence and leadership potential.

Deakin was the only university I applied to in Australia. I had researched it extensively and felt confident it was the right fit for both my academic and personal goals, so I decided to focus all my energy on making a strong, targeted application here.

Educational Background

I completed my Bachelor’s degree in Biotechnology with a GPA of 8.39/10. During my undergraduate studies, I was actively involved in both research and volunteering activities. One of the highlights of my academic journey was winning a national award from ICAR (Indian Council of Agricultural Research) for my work on speed breeding in maize — a recognition that validated my passion for plant research and sustainable agriculture. These experiences helped me build a solid foundation in both scientific research and community engagement.

How Did You Prepare to Apply to Deakin University?

Since Deakin was my sole choice, I channelled my efforts into understanding their values, course structure, research opportunities, and scholarship criteria. I attended virtual info sessions and connected with current students and faculty to get firsthand insights. This helped me craft a highly personalized application that aligned with what Deakin was looking for in its students.

Standardized Tests & Preparation

I took the IELTS and scored an overall band of 8.0. My preparation involved self-study using online resources, especially practice tests, and regularly timing myself to simulate the exam environment. Since my academic background was in English, the preparation mainly focused on refining strategies rather than language learning.

How Did You Prepare to Apply for the Deakin Vice-Chancellor's Scholarship?

I spent considerable time refining my Statement of Purpose, tailoring it specifically to reflect not only my academic achievements but also my long-term goals and how Deakin aligns with them. I also emphasized my extracurricular engagements, leadership roles, and how I intended to contribute to the university community. I reached out to mentors and former professors for feedback and had multiple drafts reviewed before final submission.

What Do You Think Made Your Application Stand Out?

I believe it was the balance of academic performance and personal narrative that set my application apart. Instead of listing accomplishments, I focused on telling a story of my passion for biotechnology, the impact I hoped to create, and how my journey so far had shaped those ambitions. Additionally, being involved in mentoring, volunteering, and science communication added depth to my application.

What Would You Have Done Differently?

Looking back, I would have started the application process even earlier. That would have given me more time to apply to a broader range of scholarships and polish my materials further. Also, I’d recommend building relationships with referees well in advance so that the recommendation letters are personalized and strong.

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

• Start Early: Give yourself at least 6–12 months of preparation time.
• Tell Your Story: Don’t just share your achievements — explain why they matter and how they connect to your goals.
• Be Authentic: Your passion and personality should shine through your application.
• Seek Feedback: Don’t hesitate to ask mentors or peers to review your essays and give honest feedback.
• Believe in Yourself: It’s easy to feel like you’re not “good enough” — but remember, no one else has your unique journey.