FAQs for Applicants

Q 1: Do all vets' kids who apply get grants?
A: No. There are eligibility rules and selection criteria, as given earlier. We can only offer a limited number of grants or bursaries each year. About one in five who apply is successful.

Q 2: How and when do I apply?
A: First see if you are eligible. Then register interest on our 1800 number now if you have not done so. You will be sent an application form. Send that completed Application Form to reach us by the closing date of 31 October. We acknowledge each application on receipt. If you do not hear from us within a week, contact us.

Q 3: I am planning to defer studies. When do I apply?
A: Awards must be taken up in the year of selection. For example, apply in 2006 for studies to start or to continue studies in 2007.

Q 4: What information do you want to prove I'm eligible and should be selected?
A: It is all in the Application Form. Note that late, ineligible, incomplete or inadequately documented applications are not considered by the Committee.

Q 5: I won't have my final Year 12 school report or results until after applications close. What about them and other things that might change after I apply?
A: We must have a copy of your latest school reports, end of year results and advice about course offers made, immediately after you get them. There are often developments after submitting the application which can influence selection; eg changes in study plans or financial or family circumstances. Keep us informed.

Q 6: What do the selectors look for?
A: We look for three things when deciding who to select each year. These things are:

1. What do your reports, results, interests, employment or activities say about you and your course plans? Do you have the potential to make the best use of financial assistance offered?
2. How does the planned course help you into a rewarding career to which you seem suited?
3. Which candidates have the academic ability and drive to complete their course, but are least able to do so satisfactorily without financial hardship?

Q 7: Who decides on my application?
A: The Trust uses an honorary selection Committee of professional educationalists from all States. Additionally, the Committee has three veteran members. The Committee considers each year's applications and makes selections. The Committee's decision is final. There is no appeal.

Q 8: My father is disabled. Is this considered?
A: Those who apply for grants are assessed on their own merits, not those of others. However, if family circumstances have affected educational performance, these are considered.

Q 9: My dad does a lot of good work for veterans. Will that be taken into account?
A: No. It is the applicant we assess not the veteran.

Q 10: I did not do well academically in my last studies but expect to do better next year. How do I bring this to the Committee's attention?
A: The Application Form asks you to tell us anything you believe relevant. Other things we want to know include family circumstances, health, employment, interests and career goals.

Q 11: I really want to be a top chef but my school marks are not too good. Do I have a chance?
A: Yes! You are assessed against the needs of your chosen course and similar applicants. We have a target selection quota each year for vocational studies.

Q 12: Can we have more than one selected in the family?
A: There is no barrier to more that one child in a family being selected, but no applicant can be selected for more than one of AVCAT's schemes (other than the George Quinsey). No applicant can receive more than one Long Tan Bursary.

Q 13: I'm over 25 and want to start a course next year. What do you mean by exceptional circumstances?
A: There is no absolute age limit. Each case is treated on its merits. However, the exceptional circumstances leading to the late start in education or its completion must relate to the veteran's service.

Q 14: Why aren't there more schemes for my State or Territory, or for service other than Vietnam?
A: AVCAT can only offer schemes for which organizations and individuals have given us money. We would love to help more. Donations to AVCAT are tax deductible. Please see How You Can Help.

Q 15: Does AVCAT offer assistance for tertiary study costs to veterans or their spouses or other relatives?
A: No. Only children and grandchildren.

Q 16: I really need financial help so I can study. If you don't help me, who can?
A: Each year we suggest if we can, organizations of similar purpose to AVCAT that might be able to assist those we cannot. See also Related Links.

Q17. If I give AVCAT personal and confidential information about me or my financial and health circumstances will that be given to DVA?
A. No. The only such information given to DVA is a short word picture on the small panel of recommended applicants for the Long Tan Bursary. And that is only given with the applicants' prior, written agreement.

Q 18: The full information on my parents' veteran benefits, or father's service is available from DVA. Why do I have to provide it to you?
A: AVCAT is not a part of DVA or the Services and does not have access to information held by DVA.

Q 19: If I need help with the form or other information or someone I know wants to make a donation, what do I do?
A: Contact us.