Indigenous Scholarships
Indigenous scholarships play an important role in creating access to education for students from regional, rural and remote communities. They help remove barriers to schooling and offer young people the chance to learn, grow and build strong foundations for their future.
Since 2005, Yalari has supported over 800 Indigenous scholarships through long-term partnerships with families, schools and communities. Today, 260 students attend 20 partner boarding schools across Australia, with 630+ alumni now working, studying and giving back in communities across the country.
This page is a starting point for families, students and supporters looking for clear information about Indigenous scholarship opportunities and how Yalari can help.
What Are Indigenous Scholarships?
Indigenous scholarships support students by helping them access education that may otherwise be out of reach. These scholarships can assist with school fees, boarding, travel, resources and ongoing guidance throughout secondary or tertiary schooling. They are designed to provide stability, encouragement and opportunity during important years of learning and personal growth.
Many Indigenous scholarships focus on students from regional, rural and remote communities, helping them attend schools with strong academic programs and pathways beyond graduation. The aim is to give young people the chance to thrive in an environment that nurtures their strengths and supports long-term development.
Scholarship programs are offered by a range of organisations across Australia. Each varies in scope, but all share a common goal: making education accessible and supporting students as they work towards their future.
Yalari Scholarship Opportunities
Yalari offers three scholarship pathways, each designed to support Indigenous students at a different stage. Every program is grounded in partnerships with families, communities and schools, and backed by people who believe in the potential of every child.
ROSEMARY BISHOP INDIGENOUS EDUCATION SCHOLARSHIP
The Rosemary Bishop Indigenous Education Scholarship provides full boarding school scholarships for Indigenous children from regional and remote communities. Scholarships begin in Year 7 and continue through to graduation, offering students consistent support during their secondary schooling.
Students attend one of Yalari’s 20 partner boarding schools, where they access strong academic programs and a wide range of opportunities. Yalari's Student Support Officers stay closely connected with students, families and schools throughout and provide regular guidance, monitor wellbeing and encourage participation in camps and development programs.
This is a long-term partnership built on respect, belief and steady support. Places are limited each year, and applications are assessed on a student's willingness to engage, interest in learning and potential to grow.
PATHWAYS SCHOLARSHIP PROGRAM
The Pathways Scholarship Program supports Yalari graduates as they move into university, vocational training or early employment. It provides guidance, mentoring and practical assistance, which includes help with living expenses, study resources and education-related fees.
Through the Yalari community, the program also encourages leadership, community involvement and long-term planning. With hundreds of alumni now studying or working across Australia, graduates stay connected to a network that supports them well beyond school.
YALARI READY PROGRAM
Yalari Ready is a year-long program designed for scholarship applicants who show strong potential but may benefit from extra academic support before entering Year 7. It strengthens foundational literacy and numeracy through dedicated teaching, structured learning and steady encouragement.
The results speak for themselves: in 2025, all seven students who transitioned from Yalari Ready into Year 7 achieved a grade of C or higher across their subjects, with many excelling in core areas. More students are now completing the program at Scots PGC, with confirmed offers to join partner schools next year.
Who Can Access Indigenous Scholarships?
Indigenous scholarships are generally available to students who need support to access education that may not be available in their home community. They typically assist students from regional, rural and remote areas who show interest in learning, willingness to engage and the potential to grow in a supportive school environment.
For Yalari specifically, families can begin the conversation at any time. Applications open annually, and the process is designed to be straightforward and supportive. If you’re unsure whether your child is eligible, our team is happy to talk it through with you.
Each scholarship provider sets its own criteria, but most share the goal of making education more accessible and providing steady support throughout schooling.
What Indigenous Scholarships Can Support
The type of support varies between programs, but Indigenous scholarships often cover:
- School and boarding fees: Assistance with tuition and accommodation costs for students attending boarding schools.
- Uniforms, textbooks and learning resources: Support with essential items needed for daily school life.
- Travel and transitions: Help with transport between home and school, especially for students living in remote areas.
- Wellbeing and mentoring: Guidance from staff or support teams who stay connected with students and families.
- Personal development opportunities: Activities, camps or programs that build confidence, skills and future pathways.
This support helps create stability for students and gives them the opportunity to focus on learning and growth.
Why Indigenous Scholarships Matter
Indigenous scholarships help students access education that may be limited in their home community. They provide stability, encouragement and opportunity during key schooling years.
The impact extends beyond the individual student. When one young person accesses a quality education, the benefits reach their family, their community and over time the next generation. A second generation of Yalari students is now in the program, which shows what consistent, long-term support can create.
Without scholarships like these, many students in regional and remote communities would have fewer options for secondary education. That’s why they matter and why families who take this step are opening a door that benefits their child, their community and the generations that follow.
Learn More About Yalari’s Indigenous Scholarships
If you’re a family considering a scholarship for your child, or a supporter who wants to understand how Yalari works, the next step is simple.
Explore the individual program pages for clear information about support, expectations and how to apply. Or contact the Yalari team directly – we’re always happy to have a conversation.
