Scholarships at UWA
Rewarding academic excellence and potential
At St Catherine’s, scholarships are central to our commitment to attracting exceptional students and helping them make the most of their university experience.
Our scholarship program is the most extensive on College Row, with over $1.6M awarded across a broad range of residential scholarships recognising academic excellence, leadership, community contribution, regional and rural students, First Nations students, financial need, sporting and creative achievement and postgraduate study.
Scholarships range from $5,000 to full residential fees, with major scholarships covering 50% or 100% of College fees. Together, they represent a substantial annual investment in students with the ability, ambition and potential to thrive at university and contribute to the College community.
Some scholarships recognise exceptional achievement while others open the door for students for whom living at College might otherwise be out of reach. With one application, students can be considered across the St Catherine’s scholarship program, making it easier to find the support that best matches their achievements, circumstances and aspirations.
Alumni and friends can support a scholarship here.
Scholarship applications for 2027 are open
Before applying, we strongly recommend that applicants download and read our Scholarship Application Guide.
Key information
New applicants must have applied for and received an offer to St Catherine’s College to be eligible to apply for a scholarship.
Returning residents must have applied for readmission to be considered.
Scholarships vary in value and criteria and are awarded as fee reductions, credited in two tranches (Semester 1 and Semester 2).
Only one application is required to be considered for all scholarships. The College will determine the most suitable scholarship(s) for each applicant.
Shortlisted candidates for high-value scholarships may be asked to interview.
Important Dates
The main scholarship round for new-to-College and returner applications runs until 21 November 2026, with first-round offers made by 4 December 2026, conditional on providing proof of achieving a specific final ATAR. For those new to College but accepted after 21 November, a small round will consider scholarship applications if received by 8 January 2027.
Scholarship Categories
Our scholarships reflect exceptional value and support, and are grouped by focus area to recognise the diverse achievements and potential of our residents. Browse scholarships by category below. Expand each scholarship to view eligibility, value and application requirements.
Academic Excellence
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Full-fee scholarship for up to 4 years. The Beazley Medal is the highest honour a senior secondary student in Western Australia can receive and is named after Kim Edward Beazley AO, who was a teacher and Federal Minister for Education. St Catherine’s College offers to fully fund Beazley medallists for the duration of their studies.
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St Catherine’s College proudly partners with the Fogarty Foundation to offer one of Australia’s most comprehensive undergraduate experiences to students admitted to the UWA Fogarty program.
Regional School Students
Fully funded accommodation at St Catherine’s for the duration of your undergraduate degree (full-time study). Value: approximately $30,000 per annum
$1,000 one-off relocation grant in first year to assist with your move to UWA
$500 per annum to assist with academic and personal development activities
Metro School Students
50% reduction in accommodation fees at St Catherine’s for the duration of your undergraduate degree (full-time study). Value: approximately $15,000 per annum
$500 per annum to assist with academic and personal development activities
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Up to 50% fee reduction for 1 year, renewable on successful annual application for up to 4 years. Established in 2010 and made possible by The Shirley McLeod Foundation. This scholarship commemorates Shirley McLeod, a former resident of the College whose life was tragically cut short in the second year of her university degree. Awarded to a student who displays academic excellence, commitment to community service and capacity for leadership.
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Up to 50% fee reduction for 1 year, but renewable on successful annual application for up to 4 years. To support the residence of UWA Winthrop Scholars.
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Up to 50% fee reduction 1 year only. Established to honour Graduate Women WA, a branch of the Australian Federation of Graduate Women and whose tireless work helped found St Catherine’s in 1946. Awarded to a female student who displays academic excellence and a strong sense of engagement in wider community issues.
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$10,000 for 1 year, but renewable on successful annual application for up to 4 years. To support the residence of students enrolled in UWA Bachelor of Philosophy (Honours) program. Named in honour of Dr Roberta Jull, one of the driving forces behind the establishment of St Catherine’s College and a leading advocate for university education for women.
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$10,000 for 1 year, renewable on successful annual application for up to 4 years. For students awarded a UWA Lawrence Scholarship and/or achieve an Australian Tertiary Admission Rank (ATAR) of at least 99.90; or in the opinion of the St Catherine’s Scholarships Committee have attained other academic or outstanding achievement.
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$10,000 for 1 year, renewable on successful annual application for up to $10,000 and 4 years. To support the residence of UWA Connect Scholars.
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Up to $10,000 for 1 year only. Dr Constable is a former Education Minister and was WA’s longest-serving female state MP. This scholarship is awarded to a student who displays academic excellence and offers an all-round contribution to the College.
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Up to $10,000 for 1 year, renewable on successful annual application for up to 4 years. Wendy MacGibbon is a friend of the College who established this scholarship after years witnessing the work of the College and the success of the students. Awarded to an undergraduate student who displays the potential for personal achievement both in academic pursuits and in being a good global citizen.
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$10,000 for 1 year only. This Scholarship, funded by monies bequeathed to St Catherine’s from the Estate of Enid Russell, provides financial support to a student pursuing academic achievement and excellence. Enid Russell was the first West Australian woman to graduate in Law and in 1931, practised in the Supreme Court. For a student accepted at any WA University.
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Up to $10,000 for 1 year only. This Scholarship recognises a friend of the College and one of WA’s greatest advocates for conservation, Professor Kingsley Dixon AO. This scholarship is awarded to a student who displays academic excellence and strong engagement in the protection and conservation of our natural environment.
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$10,000 for 1 year, renewable on successful annual application for up to 4 years. Margaret Medcalf is a distinguished archivist who has helped preserve Western Australia's history. She established this scholarship to support an undergraduate student with the potential for personal achievement both in academic pursuits and as an outstanding global citizen.
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$5,000 for 1 year only. Established as a fitting memorial to a pioneering librarian and dedicated advocate for women's education who made significant contributions to UWA and the broader community. Soon after retiring she embarked on great sailing and camping adventures while exploring WA’s flora and fauna. This scholarship is awarded to a student with academic potential as well as a sense of adventure and desire to test their boundaries intellectually and physically.
Equity & Access
Each year, we offer scholarships specifically for students with strong academic potential or community service, but who also experience financial hardship.
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Up to 50% fee reduction for 1 year, renewable on successful annual application for up to 4 years. Commemorates the fighting spirit of Nye Polson. This Scholarship provides financial support to students who pursue a university education, but face challenges of distance, economic disadvantage, cultural difference, disability, health issues or the responsibility and care for another person.
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$10,000 for 1 year, renewable on successful annual application for up to 4 years. Established in 2014 by Jane Powell and Jane Fenwick, who forged their friendship at St Catherine’s in the 1970s, this discreet scholarship aims to provide an opportunity for a student who would find it highly unlikely to attend university and live at College without financial assistance. Awarded to a female student who is a positive all-rounder that shows a strong sense of engagement in wider community issues.
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Up to $10,000 for 1 year only. Jean Rogerson was the UWA Warden of Convocation for 8 years and a Senate member for 30 years. This scholarship supports a student pursuing academic achievement and excellence, but is at an educational disadvantage (distance, finance, cultural or family responsibilities). Awarded to a returning student who displays academic excellence and a strong sense of engagement in wider community issues.
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Up to $10,000 for 1 year only. To support a student with strong academic potential, but at an educational disadvantage (distance, finance, cultural or family responsibilities). Must have strong leadership qualities and a strong sense of engagement in wider community issues.
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$5,000 for 1 year only. Named in honour of Ruth Johnson MBE, a noted botanist and mycologist who gave more than 30 years of distinguished service to St Catherine’s, including many years as Chair of the College Council. The Ruth Johnson Gallery at the College also bears her name. Awarded to two students studying biomedical, biological or health sciences who demonstrate strong academic potential and aspire to use their education to make a positive difference in the world.
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$5,000 for 1 year only. Named in honour of Eileen Lathlain Johnson in recognition of her contribution to St Catherine’s College. She was made a Fellow of the College in 1962. Awarded to a student who demonstrates strong academic potential, character and a commitment to contributing positively to College and community life.
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$5,000 for 1 year only. Named in honour of M.O. ‘Mo’ Stevens, an early supporter of St Catherine’s who served on its original fundraising committee and College Council. A long-serving member of the UWA Senate and Life Member of the Guild of Undergraduates, she worked in the interests of the College throughout her life. Awarded to a student who demonstrates strong academic potential and an outstanding record of service and contribution to their school or wider community.
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$5,000 for 1 year only. Named in honour of May Marshall, whose tireless work helped establish St Catherine’s and who went on to serve the College for 20 years as a member of its Board. Awarded to a student who demonstrates initiative, determination and a willingness to work with others to turn ideas into positive change.
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$5,000 for 1 year only. Named in honour of Alan Foyster, who chaired the College’s Buildings Sub-Committee and played an important role in overseeing the development of St Catherine’s and keeping the project on budget. Awarded to a student studying engineering, architecture, construction, commerce or a related discipline who demonstrates strong academic potential and a practical approach to problem-solving.
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$5,000 for 1 year only. Named in honour of Sir Ross McDonald, a long-serving member and Chair of the St Catherine’s Board and a strong advocate for the College. Awarded to a student studying law or a related discipline who demonstrates strong academic potential, integrity and a commitment to serving their community.
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$5,000 for 1 year only. Named in honour of Rose Watson, an early UWA graduate who helped raise funds for St Catherine’s and subsequently gave many years of service as a member of the College Board. Awarded to a student who demonstrates initiative and a strong record of volunteering, fundraising or contributing to causes that benefit others.
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$5,000 for 1 year only. Named in honour of Margaret Battye, a tireless advocate for the establishment of St Catherine’s and Western Australia’s first State Historian. The College’s Battye Library also bears her name. Awarded to a student studying the humanities, history, law, politics or a related discipline who demonstrates intellectual curiosity and a strong interest in understanding, preserving or contributing to our society and its history.
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$5,000 for 1 year only. For students experiencing financial hardship who display strong academic potential and an undergraduate recipient of the UWA Alumni Fairway.
Bursaries
We offer bursaries to support residents that would otherwise be unable to attend the College due to financial hardship.
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$5,000 for 1 year only. Named in honour of Margaret Bennett, whose dedicated work contributed to the establishment and development of St Catherine’s College. To support a resident that would otherwise be unable to attend the College due to financial hardship.
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$5,000 for 1 year only. Named in honour of Dorothy Forsaith, whose dedicated work contributed to the establishment and development of St Catherine’s College. To support a resident that would otherwise be unable to attend the College due to financial hardship.
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$5,000 for 1 year only. Named in honour of Evelyn Darker, a committed member of the Women’s College Fund Committee whose work helped make St Catherine’s possible. To support a resident that would otherwise be unable to attend the College due to financial hardship.
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$5,000 for 1 year only. Named in honour of Euphemia Ross, whose remarkable association with the Women’s College Fund Committee extended from 1928 to 1971. To support a resident that would otherwise be unable to attend the College due to financial hardship.
Indigenous Scholars
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Up to $10,000 for 1 year only. At UWA, Leah Cohen completed a Bachelor of Arts in 1934 and a Bachelor of Law in 1937. She was one of the first 10 women in WA to study law. Awarded to a student who identifies as Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander and demonstrates strong academic potential.
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Up to $10,000 for 1 year only. Awarded to a student who identifies as Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander and demonstrates strong academic potential.
Regional Excellence
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$5,000 for 1 year only. Named in honour of Mabel McRae, a tireless fundraiser for St Catherine’s whose own wish to attend university inspired her commitment to helping establish the College and expanding educational opportunities for others. Awarded to a regional student who has demonstrated a strong commitment to their school or local community.
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$5,000 for 1 year only. Named in honour of Molly Lukis, Western Australia’s State Archivist and a long-serving member of the St Catherine’s Board and friend of the College. Awarded to a regional student who demonstrates intellectual curiosity and a genuine enthusiasm for learning beyond the classroom. This may be demonstrated through independent learning or research, participation in academic, cultural or community activities, exploration of ideas beyond their formal studies or a strong interest in understanding the world around them.
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$5,000 for 1 year only. Named in honour of Sir Albert Wolff, who was born in Geraldton and went on to become Chief Justice and Lieutenant-Governor of Western Australia. A strong advocate for education and public service, Sir Albert was the first Chair of the St Catherine’s College Board and played an important role in the College’s early history. Awarded to an outstanding regional student with an Australian Tertiary Admission Rank (ATAR) of 95 and above who demonstrates intellectual curiosity and the potential to make a significant contribution through their future studies, profession or community.
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$5,000 for 1 year only. Named in honour of Dr Merab Tauman, an academic and economic historian who spent part of her childhood in regional Western Australia before pursuing an academic career at UWA and postgraduate study in London. A former Chair of the St Catherine’s Board, she made a significant contribution to university education and to the College. Awarded to a regional student accepted at any WA university with an ATAR of 90 or above who demonstrates intellectual ambition, a strong commitment to their education and the potential to make the most of the academic and personal opportunities available through university and College life.
Sport, Arts & Leadership
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Up to $5,000 for 1 year only. Named in honour of Donald J Carmichael, an early and longstanding supporter and donor to St Catherine’s College. Awarded to a student admitted to their university’s elite sports program who demonstrates outstanding sporting achievement, dedication to their sport and a strong commitment to balancing their sporting and university aspirations.
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Up to $5,000 for 1 year only. Named in honour of Henrietta Drake-Brockman, daughter of Dr Roberta Jull and part of a family with a significant place in the history of St Catherine’s College. Awarded to a student who demonstrates outstanding sporting achievement together with leadership, teamwork and a positive contribution to their school, club or sporting community.
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$5,000 for 1 year only. Named in honour of Emily Pelloe, a Western Australian botanical artist, botanist and author whose work brought together scientific observation and artistic expression. Her significant legacy to St Catherine’s includes approximately 400 paintings and sketches left to the College. Awarded to a student who demonstrates outstanding achievement or potential in the visual or creative arts, particularly where their work reflects curiosity about the natural world, science, environment or the intersection of art and other disciplines.
Postgraduate Scholars
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$5,000 for 1 year only. Established in 1996 when St Catherine’s became bequest benefactors of the Estate of M.E. Wood. Malvina Evalyn Wood was an undergraduate of UWA, spent time in Crosby Hall in London, Reid Hall in Paris and an International House in New York. Awarded to a student pursuing postgraduate coursework or research at any WA university and who displays academic excellence and a strong sense of engagement in wider community issues.
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Up to $5,000 for 1 year only. Named in honour of Barbara Levien, a former Warden of St Catherine’s College whose leadership contributed to the life and development of the College. Awarded to a postgraduate student accepted at any WA university with a minimum GPA of 6.5 who demonstrates intellectual ambition, a strong commitment to their field of study and the potential for their postgraduate education or research to make a meaningful contribution to their profession, community or wider society.
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Up to $5,000 for 1 year only. Named in honour of Patricia Church, a former Warden of St Catherine’s College whose leadership contributed to the life and development of the College. Awarded to a postgraduate student accepted at any WA university who demonstrates leadership, initiative and a strong record of contribution to their university, profession or community, together with the potential to enrich the intellectual and community life of St Catherine’s.
Exchange Scholars
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Named in honour of Eva Eden, a former Warden of St Catherine’s College whose leadership contributed to the life and development of the College. Awarded to an exchange or study abroad student who will reside at St Catherine’s for the full academic year and who demonstrates curiosity, openness to new experiences and a willingness to contribute actively to the College community.
Additional Recognition
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Each year GradReady offer a St Catherine’s student wishing to study Medicine, the opportunity to undertake the GAMSAT® Preparation Course free of charge upon successful application.
For full scholarship details, eligibility and application dates, please contact the College.
Support a
St Catherine’s scholarship
Many scholarships on this page exist because of the generosity of College alumni, families and friends. A gift of any size helps open the door to College life for students who might otherwise miss out.
