The University of York, in collaboration with the Roberta Sykes Indigenous Education Foundation, is pleased to announce the availability of the Roberta Sykes Scholarship for the academic year 2026/2027.
The University of York, founded in 1963, is a leading research university located in York, England. It began with just 230 students and three departments, but has since grown into a world-renowned institution with a wide range of disciplines and a strong reputation for teaching and research excellence. Known for its collegiate system, the university fosters a close-knit academic community and has consistently ranked among the top universities in the UK and globally.
Table of Briefs
| Key Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Provider | Roberta Sykes Indigenous Education Foundation |
| Funding Amount | AUD $75,000 per year |
| Duration | Initially 1 year renewable upon reapplication |
| Study Level | Postgraduate taught & postgraduate research |
| Location | Recognised universities outside of Australia |
| Eligible Applicants | Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students from Australia |
| Applications Open | 13 October 2025 |
| Application Deadline | 30 January 2026 |
| Academic Year | 2026/2027 |
Background
The Roberta Sykes Scholarship was established by the Roberta Sykes Indigenous Education Foundation to honour the legacy of Dr. Roberta “Bobbi” Sykes (1943–2010), an Aboriginal activist, poet, and educator who dedicated her life to advancing the rights of Indigenous Australians. Roberta Sykes herself studied at Harvard University, where she became the first Australian Black woman to graduate with a doctorate.
Eligibility Criteria
To apply for the Roberta Sykes Scholarship, students must:
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Be Australian citizens.
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Be of Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander descent.
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Identify as an Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander.
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Be accepted as such by the community in which they live or have lived.
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Be admitted or intending to study a postgraduate program (taught or research) at a recognised overseas university.
Benefits
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Financial Support: Up to AUD $75,000 per year.
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Coverage: Funds are meant to provide supplementary assistance for tuition fees, living costs, and other expenses associated with studying abroad.
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Renewal: Awarded initially for one year, with the option to reapply for continuation of funding for the same program.
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Purpose: To ensure Indigenous students gain global educational opportunities and return with knowledge and skills to strengthen their communities.
Application Process
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Check Eligibility: Confirm Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander descent and acceptance by the community.
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Secure Admission: Obtain or apply for admission to a recognised overseas university in a postgraduate program.
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Prepare Application Materials: Likely includes personal statements, proof of acceptance/enrolment, references, and financial documentation check official website for exact requirements.
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Submit Application: Applications must be submitted through the official Roberta Sykes Scholarship website before the deadline.
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Deadline: Friday, 30 January 2026 at 12pm GMT.
Important Dates
Applications Deadline: 30 January 2026.
Conclusion
The Roberta Sykes Scholarship is more than financial aid it is an investment in Indigenous leadership and community advancement. With generous funding and the opportunity to study overseas, this scholarship opens doors for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students to gain world-class education and bring back valuable knowledge to Australia.