USSC Public Service Merit Scholarship

1. Background

a. The USSC Public Service Merit Scholarship was established to support students enrolled in United States Studies Centre (USSC) or American Studies (AMST) units at the University of Sydney who demonstrate outstanding academic achievement and a strong commitment to public service.

b. This Scholarship is funded by the United States Studies Centre (USSC) and aims to foster interest in public policy, international relations, and civic engagement by assisting students who aspire to careers in government, diplomacy, not-for-profit organisations, education, or public administration.

2. Eligibility

a. The Scholarship is offered to an applicant who is  currently enrolled in an undergraduate or postgraduate coursework degree at the University of Sydney

b. Applicants must have successfully completed or are currently enrolled in at least one USSC or AMST unit of study.

c. Applicants must demonstrate an interest in public service and policy through academic work, extracurricular involvement, or career aspirations.

3. Selection Criteria

a. The Scholarship will be awarded on the basis of:

I. academic merit, 

II. a personal statement outlining commitment to public service (up to 800 words);

I. how USSC or AMST units might be related to this commitment, and career aspirations

II. extracurricular or professional experience related to public service (such as volunteer work, internships, or advocacy roles).

b. The Scholarship will be awarded by a selection committee comprising:

I. the Academic Director and Chair of American Studies or their nominated delegate

II. at least one other academic from the United States Studies Centre.

4. Value

a. The Scholarship is valued at $5,000 and is awarded as a one-time payment.

b. The Scholarship amount will be paid in one instalment after the census date of the relevant semester.

c. The Scholarship cannot be deferred or suspended without prior approval from the United States Studies Centre.

d. The Scholarship is not transferable to another school, faculty, university, course, or major.

e. No other amount is payable.

5. Ongoing Eligibility

a. To receive the Scholarship, the recipient must:

I. maintain enrolment in at least one USSC or AMST unit in the semester in which they receive the award

II. achieve a minimum Semester Average Mark (SAM) of 65

III. remain in good academic and disciplinary standing at the University of Sydney.

b. If the recipient does not meet the ongoing eligibility requirements, they must notify the USSC as soon as possible.

6. Termination

a. The Scholarship will be terminated if the recipient:

I. withdraws from all USSC or AMST units during the semester

II. fails to meet the academic performance requirements

III. defers or suspends their studies without prior approval

IV. is found to have provided false or misleading information in their application

V. accepts another scholarship from the University of Sydney valued at $2,500 or more for the same purpose.

b. Once the Scholarship has been terminated, it will not be reinstated, unless due to a university error.

c. If the recipient is found guilty of serious misconduct, the University reserves the right to request the reimbursement of scholarship funds.

7. Other Requirements

a. Recipients must provide the United States Studies Centre with reliable contact details for the duration of their studies.

b. Recipients may be invited to participate in USSC events, mentorship programs, or promotional activities related to the Scholarship.