Selection criteria and process

Selection for an ALA Scholarship is highly competitive, based on leadership qualities and academic competence. As the Australian Government values the contribution and perspectives of all people, including those most marginalised such as women, people with disability, ethnic minorities, rural populations and the socio-economically disadvantaged, any barriers to their participation will be taken into account in the selection process to ensure equity.

Applications are checked to ensure they meet the eligibility criteria. Australia’s Diplomatic Missions (Posts) short-list applications from their country/region. Candidates may be invited to attend an interview and/or undergo further screening as part of the short-listing process. Posts recommend candidates to AusAID (Canberra). The final selection is conducted in Canberra.

Decisions of the selection panel are final and confidential and no correspondence regarding outcomes of the selection process will be entered into.

Selection criteria

Applicants will be assessed against the following selection criteria:

Academic compentence	Level of results achieved in a degree/s from a recognised university Relevant prizes and awards (including prestige and influence of awarding body) Publications (quality rather than quantity) Link between past studies and proposed field of study
Demonstrated professional and personal leadership attributes	Relevant work experience in field related to the candidate’s proposed course of study Career progression evident, including promotions Membership of professional bodies Community work (e.g. church, university communities, union organisations, other voluntary work) Community awards and acceptance Achievements beyond academia and personal barriers overcome Leadership attributes pertinent to a development practitioner (e.g. strategic thinking and an inspirational approach)
Potential outcomes	How well the candidate’s background fits the preferred profile(s) defined for AusAID’s country/regional program objectives (or closest equivalent) How well the candidate’s proposed course of study and initial reintegration plan match relevant AusAID country/regional program objectives

March 2009