Ocean Country Partnership Programme Scholarships - Application FAQs

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Eligibility


Who can apply for an Ocean Country Partnership Programme (OCPP) Scholarship?

Citizens (or those who hold refugee status) of the OCPP host country are eligible to apply. Please visit the OCPP scholarships homepage and specific OCPP country webpages for more details. 

What if the link in the myACU registration email doesn’t work?

If the direct link does not take you to the application form, please visit the myACU portal. Once you log in you will be able to access the application form through the link in the 'OCPP applications open' announcement.

Is there an age limit for OCPP Scholarships?

No. There is no upper age limit to be eligible for a OCPP Scholarship.

If I want to apply for the Master's scholarship, can I apply in the final year of my undergraduate degree? 

No. You must have already completed your undergraduate degree As part of the application process you will be asked to provide a copy of your final transcript and degree certificate. 

I have started a course but am unable to pay for the fees, can I apply for an OCPP to pay the fees?

No. OCPP Scholarships are only for new students and cannot be used to fund a course that has already been started.

Can I apply for an OCPP Scholarship to study for an undergraduate degree?

No. OCPP Scholarships are available for Master's degrees only, and some PhDs in the South Pacific.

Applying for an OCPP Scholarship


Which universities are hosting the OCPP scholarships?

Please refer to the OCPP homepage for further details on the university/universities hosting. Each country webpage will indicate which universities are hosting 

What subjects/courses can I study under the OCPP?

Please refer to the relevant OCPP country webpage for further details on the courses available. 

Can I submit more than one OCPP scholarship application?

No, only one application can be made for an OCPP scholarship

Application form queries


My country is not showing in the drop down list of the application form, why is this?

Citizens (or those who hold refugee status) of the OCPP host country are eligible to apply.  

When do I have to upload my supporting documents?

You will need to upload your supporting documents before submitting your application.

I have submitted my application and have realised that there are documents that weren't included or some of the information is incorrect. Am I able to update this information?

No. It is not possible to make any amendments, such as uploading any further documentation, once your application has been submitted. Therefore, it is extremely important that you check your application before it is submitted.

I cannot get an academic reference, what can I provide instead?

Academic references are advised, these are usually referees who have taught you or worked with you throughout your academic career. However, if you are unable to obtain academic references we would advise that you use professional referees that are able to write you references demonstrating the points outlined on the application form

My internet access is limited. Can I submit a paper copy of the application form?

No. Applications must be submitted online through Online Application System. This system will be used throughout the selection process. We recommend that you find a local alternative internet provider.

I forgot my password. What can I do?

You will need click on the 'Forgot?' link. This will send an email to reset your password, to the email address that you used for your application. Please check your junk/spam mail to ensure that the email has not been sent there.

Can I still apply if I do not have valid National ID?

You will need to submit some form of identification as proof of citizenship when completing your application. Therefore, expired ID can be submitted if you do not currently hold valid identification. 

Can the deadline for submitting my application be extended?

No. Extensions will not be granted under any circumstances.

University Applications


Do I need to apply for admission to my chosen university course separately to the OCPP application?

Yes. You will need to submit an application for admission to your chosen university course directly to the university in addition to completing an OCPP application. 

When do I have to apply for admission to my chosen university courses?

You should visit your chosen university's website for more information on their admissions procedures and when their applications open.

Do I need to have a university offer letter when applying for an OCPP Scholarship?

No. As some university application cycles will open after the OCPP award applications close, you do not need to have secured an offer and received an offer letter at your chosen institution at the time of submitting your OCPP application, however we do recommend submitting a university application at the same time.

Applications for my chosen course do not open before the deadline for submitting my OCPP application, what should I do?

You should speak with the university to determine when the applications open. In some instances, it will be possible to apply for your course once you have been selected for your award. Please note that this is not recommended, nor is it possible in all cases.

My university is asking me to pay an application fee, what should I do?

Some universities require an application fee to process your application. The OCPP will not pay this deposit and it is your responsibility to secure your university offer. 

Funding


What does an OCPP Scholarship cover?

Award recipients receive:

  • Tuition fees
  • Living allowance
  • Research support grant
  • Travel grant (case by case basis)
  • Dependent, disability and maternity costs (case by case basis)

How much will my allowance be during the scholarship?

If selected, all allowances will be stated in your award letter.

Selection


When am I likely to hear back regarding the outcome of my application?

Applicants should receive notification on the outcome of their application by December.

Will I receive feedback if my application is unsuccessful?

We are unable to provide individual feedback on why an application has been unsuccessful. However, there are general reasons why many of the applications are not successful. 

Failing to follow the application instructions will result in your application being unsuccessful. The selection committee assesses applications using the following key criteria: 

  • Academic history/references 
  • Plan of Study 
  • Impact & Policy 
  • Personal Development 

For an application to be considered for selection, applicants must ensure that: 

  • They meet all the eligibility requirements for their chosen university course. 
  • They clearly outline why they are applying to the course and institution listed on their application form. You must tailor these answers to the institution. 
  • All sections of the form including statements are completed fully, individually, and originally, not importing text from websites, or from other applications, otherwise your application will not be considered. 
  • Their intended research is focused on the country and in the subject area specified in that application cycle. 
  • Their plan of study is written clearly so that a non-specialist can understand what the aims of the study/research are and how they will be implemented. This includes expressing a clear research concept/ideas. 
  • Two referees are identified, and references are provided– references should be detailed and include the content outlined on the application form 
  • They include full details about marks/grades gained for degrees. Applicants are strongly encouraged to ensure that full supporting documentation is provided at the time of application, in the form of an official transcript. 

We strongly advise all applicants to read all of the instructions and FAQs carefully before starting their application, and then complete all of the questions fully and provide all supporting documentation requested. In addition, applicants should ensure that they leave time to proofread their application before submitting it. 

On Award

Accommodation


Is accommodation included in my scholarship?

Accommodation is not pre-arranged as part of your award, your living allowance is to be used to cover accommodation costs in addition to other living expenses. Some universities will help with arranging accommodation, however this will need to be discussed with the university directly.

If I require accommodation, who pays for it?

Scholars are responsible for finding, and paying for, their own accommodation, using their living allowance, unless stated otherwise. 

Can the OCPP help me find somewhere to live?

We are limited in the assistance we can provide for accommodation. We encourage you to contact your host university, for advice about finding accommodation if you are travelling to your host country.


 Return to the OCPP scholarships homepage.