First-year undergraduate scholarships

Playford Trust
Andy Thomas Space Foundation
University of Adelaide
University of South Australia

The Playford Trust, the Andy Thomas Space Foundation, the University of Adelaide and the University of South Australia are together sponsoring up to eight (8) $5000 scholarships for high–achieving school leavers hoping to begin studies at one of the two universities, with the aim of majoring in aerospace.

For information about the University of Adelaide’s aerospace study pathway, click here.  Students studying a Bachelor of Science (Space Science and Astrophysics) are also eligible to apply.

Eligible courses at the University of South Australia: Bachelor of Mathematics, Bachelor of IT, Bachelor of Software Engineering, Bachelor of Engineering (Mechanical, Electrical and Electronic, or Electrical and Mechatronic), Bachelor of Science (Astronomy and the Universe, Space Missions or Atomic, Nuclear and Radiation Science). For more information about STEM pathways click here.

Each successful student will receive $5000 to support their first year of study at the University of Adelaide or at the University of South Australia.

Aerospace engineers design and launch aircraft and equipment for the exploration of our solar system and beyond – and their career prospects are almost as endless.

The Andy Thomas Space Foundation works to develop space as a platform for innovation and economic growth, support education and training from primary to tertiary levels, and generate career opportunities.

Applications for 2024 have now closed.

Selection criteria

Apart from addressing each of the selection criteria, applicants must seek comments about their achievements, character and leadership potential from a teacher or a school referee (for example, the principal, assistant principal or coordinator).

Applicants must be:

  • ready to commence studies in an aerospace pathway at the University of Adelaide or University of South Australia, and plan to major in aerospace
  • an Australian citizen or a holder of a permanent resident visa
  • intending to spend a significant part of their career in South Australia, or be likely to provide a benefit to the State
  • a high achiever with an excellent academic record
  • of good character.

The Foundation and the Playford Trust are keen to support indigenous Australians, female students and those from regional and rural areas. Preference will be given to students who display leadership potential.

The Foundation and the Trust will jointly make the final selections.