Scholarships & Financial Assistance
Lincoln College seeks to encourage academic success, strong community values and personal development for all our students, ensuring that, as far as possible, financial circumstances are not a barrier to achieving success.
A generous scholarship and financial assistance program recognises all-round achievement, leadership potential, college and community contributions, and financial need.
Applications for scholarships and financial assistance open in mid-October 2025.
Opportunities are available for new and returning residents.
Each award has its own focus and eligibility criteria.
There is no cost to apply.
Internal Scholarships & Financial Assistance
Financial Assistance
Focus
Means-tested financial assistance is provided to new and returning residents at the discretion of the Head of College and is designed to help ease the financial burden of those in genuine need.
Eligibility
Available to new and returning full-time students living at Lincoln College for whom College fees are an obstacle to enrolment.
Criteria
- Proven financial need
- Proven academic competency
- Proven, emerging or potential contribution to College life and the wider community
- Proven, emerging or potential leadership capability
Process
All applications must be completed using the forms available on this website from mid-October 2025 and submitted by the deadline set by the Head of College.
Value
The amount of financial assistance granted will be determined at the discretion of the Head of College. Assistance will be applied as a remission of fees, credited in four equal instalments to the recipient’s College account over the course of the year.
The Rev. Dr. Geoff Scott Memorial Scholarship
(encouraging social justice, fairness, diversity and equity initiatives by a first year Singaporean and Malaysian Lincoln College student)
Focus
The Rev. Dr. Geoff Scott Scholarship honours the legacy of The Rev. Dr. Geoff Scott, former Principal of Lincoln College. Lincoln’s close association with overseas students was brought closer during Geoff’s term as Principal from 1984 to 1994. The Rev. Dr. Geoff Scott was a passionate advocate for social justice, fairness, diversity and equity. This scholarship recognises and supports students who share his vision and actively work toward a fairer, more inclusive society. It is not simply an award—it is an investment in the next generation of changemakers who, like the Rev. Dr. Geoff Scott, believe in the power of service, the importance of equity and the urgent need to dismantle barriers so all people can thrive.
Eligibility
Open to Singaporean and Malaysian students who:
- Are applying for their first year at the college
- Are from any field of study
- Who will be full-time students at a South Australian university or tertiary institution
- Who have a sound academic record
- Who can demonstrate a strong commitment via service in at least one of the areas, reflecting the Rev. Dr. Scott’s values and priorities as set out in the criteria below
Criteria
Applicants should demonstrate a strong commitment via service to at least one of the following areas, reflecting the Rev. Dr. Scott’s values and priorities:
- Advancing social justice through service – Engagement in volunteer work, advocacy, or professional practice aimed at reducing inequality and promoting fairness
- Promoting gender equity through service – Commitment to equality for all genders, recognising diversity beyond the gender binary and challenging gender-based discrimination
- Eliminating racism – Efforts to dismantle both interpersonal and systemic racism, whether through activism, education, policy change or community leadership
- Championing diversity and inclusion – Active contribution to creating inclusive environments where people of all backgrounds, abilities, cultures, sexual orientations, and identities feel valued and supported. Evidence may include service in multicultural initiatives, disability inclusion projects, LGBTQIA+ advocacy or other efforts that expand access and representation
Process
All applications must be completed using the forms available on this website from mid-October 2025 and submitted by the deadline set by the Head of College
Value
A remission of fees equivalent to ten weeks of college fees to be credited to the resident’s account across the year in four equal credits.
The Rev. Frank Hambly Memorial Scholarship
(recognising the leadership potential of a second year and above Lincoln College student)
Focus
The Rev. Frank Hambly Memorial Scholarship was established to commemorate the service to Lincoln College of the Reverend William Frank Hambly, who was Master of the College from its inception in 1952 to his death in 1972. The focus of this scholarship is to recognise and encourage leadership potential.
Eligibility
Available to Australian and International residents entering their second year and above at Lincoln College who will be full-time students at a South Australian university or tertiary institution.
Criteria
Academic achievement and leadership potential assessed via:
-
Demonstrated leadership – evidence of initiative, responsibility, and the ability to guide or influence others in academic, social, or community settings
-
Leadership in learning – achievement in study combined with mentoring, collaboration, or contributions that support the academic success of peers
-
Contribution to College life – active participation that enhances the College community, showing collaboration and positive impact
-
Service to the wider community – engagement in activities that promote inclusion, equity, or social good, demonstrating leadership beyond college
-
Character and integrity – a reputation for fairness, respect, and ethical behaviour, with potential to grow as a future leader
Process
All applications must be completed using the forms available on this website from mid-October 2025 and submitted by the deadline set by the Head of College.
Value
A remission of fees equivalent to eight weeks of college fees, to be credited to the resident’s account across the year in four equal credits.
The Jubilee Scholarship
(recognising the all-round contribution of a second year and above Lincoln College student)
Focus
The Jubilee Scholarship was instituted by Lincoln College in 2002 to celebrate its 50-year anniversary. The award has been made possible through the generous donations of past collegians. The award recognises students who embody the spirit of the College through their all-round contribution to academic, community, and college life.
Eligibility
Available to Australian residents entering their second year and above at Lincoln College who will be full-time students at a South Australian university or tertiary institution.
Criteria
-
Academic commitment and achievement – consistent effort and performance in studies, demonstrating a balanced pursuit of excellence alongside other activities
-
Contribution to College life – active involvement in College culture, activities, and initiatives, fostering inclusivity, collaboration, and community spirit
-
Contribution to the wider community – engagement in service, leadership, or advocacy that reflects social responsibility beyond the College
-
Character and personal qualities – integrity, respect, and the ability to inspire and support others, reflecting the values of Lincoln College
Process
All applications must be completed using the forms available on this website from mid-October 2025 and submitted by the deadline set by the Head of College.
Value
A remission of fees equivalent to eight weeks of college fees to be credited to the resident’s account across the year in four equal credits.
The Lincoln College First-in-Family Scholarship
(recognising resilience, determination, and leadership of a first year Lincoln College student who is first in their nuclear family to attend a tertiary institution)
Focus
The First-in-Family Scholarship was established by Lincoln College in 2025 to support students who are the first in their nuclear family to attend a tertiary institution. It recognises the resilience, determination and leadership shown by students breaking new ground in higher education and aims to ease the financial pressures of college life so recipients can thrive academically and personally.
Eligibility
Available to Australian residents entering their first year at Lincoln College who are the first in their nuclear family to be studying at a university or other tertiary institution.
Criteria
- First in nuclear family to attend university or tertiary institution
- Demonstrated resilience and determination
- Leadership potential
- Academic potential and commitment to study
-
Good character and standing
Process
All applications must be completed using the forms available on this website from mid-October 2025 and submitted by the deadline set by the Head of College.
Value
A remission of fees equivalent to eight weeks of College fees to be credited to the resident’s account across the year in four equal credits.
External Scholarships
The Ben Henderson Country Students Scholarship
(empowering a second year and above Lincoln College student from rural South Australia)
Focus
Ben Henderson, a self-made man who believed in providing a ‘hand up, not a handout’, left a generous bequest to Lincoln College to assist rural South Australian students in realising their potential. This scholarship honours his legacy by encouraging students who, in turn, may one day support others in the same way.
Eligibility
Available to second year and above Lincoln College students from a rural country area in South Australia who will be full-time students at a South Australian university or tertiary institution.
Criteria
Applicants must:
- Come from a less financially privileged background
- Reside in South Australia at least 200 km from the Adelaide GPO
- Have completed at least one year of tertiary study while in residence at the College
- Be enrolled full-time as an undergraduate at a South Australian university or tertiary place of learning
- Shown potential in their chosen field of study, with demonstrated academic ability while at College
- Have contributed actively to activities and wellbeing of College, their tertiary institution and community
- Be of good standing and character
Process
All applications must be completed using the forms available on this website from mid-October 2025 and submitted by the deadline set by the Head of College. By way of overview, the application process will consist of:
- A Written Application (submitted with supporting documents)
Applicants draft an application providing:- Personal and study details
- Documentation of financial need and rural residence
- Academic transcript and study-related achievements
- Three short written statements (up to 500 words each) on:
- Potential in chosen field of study and academic achievements
- Contribution to College, tertiary institution, and community
- Personal values and character
Two references addressing eligibility and criteria.
- Shortlisting
The Programs, Awards and Scholarships Committee reviews applications against criteria and supporting evidence. - Interview (for shortlisted candidates)
Applicants are invited to a structured interview to explore their written responses in more depth.
Value
The scholarship provides a full remission of College fees for one academic year, credited to the recipient’s College account in four equal instalments across the year.
The Dr Andrew Smith Scholarship
(recognising contribution to College life by a second year Lincoln College student)
Focus
Dr Andrew Smith was a resident, president and board member of Lincoln College. The focus of the scholarship is contribution to College life.
Eligibility
Available to residents from South Australia entering their second year at Lincoln College who will be full-time students at a South Australian university or tertiary institution.
Criteria
Contribution to College life assessed via:
- Type and frequency of participation
- Initiative and enthusiasm
- Contribution to positive culture
- Leadership and collaboration
- Variety of involvement
- References demonstrating good character and standing
Process
All applications must be completed using the forms available on this website from mid-October 2025 and submitted by the deadline set by the Head of College.
Value
A remission of fees equivalent to eight weeks of college fees, to be credited to the resident’s account across the year in four equal credits.
The Dr Jane Smith Scholarship
(recognising contribution to College life by second year and above Lincoln College student)
Focus
Dr Jane Smith is the wife of Dr Andrew Smith. Andrew is a former resident, president and board member of Lincoln College. He endowed a scholarship in Jane’s name to honour her contribution and support to the college. The focus of the scholarship is contribution to College life.
Eligibility
Available to residents from South Australia entering their second year and above at Lincoln College who will be full-time students at a South Australian university or tertiary institution.
Criteria
Contribution to College life assessed via:
- Type and frequency of participation
- Initiative and enthusiasm
- Contribution to positive culture
- Leadership and collaboration
- Variety of involvement
- References demonstrating good character and standing
Process
All applications must be completed using the forms available on this website from mid-October 2025 and submitted by the deadline set by the Head of College.
Value
A remission of fees equivalent to eight weeks of college fees, to be credited to the resident’s account across the year in four equal credits.
The Lincoln College Alumni Association Scholarship
(recognising contribution of and connection to College for a second year and above Lincoln College student)
Focus
All Lincoln residents join the Alumni Association when they leave Lincoln – it is a way of staying in touch with the College itself and friends made whilst at College. The Alumni Association funds a scholarship for Lincoln College students who can demonstrate a connection with Lincoln through their values, ideals or personal history.
Eligibility
Available to Australian and International residents entering their second year and above at Lincoln College who will be full-time students at a South Australian university or tertiary institution.
Criteria
- Contribution: Active contribution to all aspects of College life
- Academic achievement: Sound academic performance. Weight will be placed on the student’s capacity to balance academic responsibilities with wider contributions to College life
- Connection to College: Applicants must show how their values, ideals, or personal history align with the ethos of Lincoln College. This may include family or community ties to the College, embodying the spirit of collegiality, or demonstrating a commitment to sustaining Lincoln traditions and values. Preference will be given to those who show an intention to remain connected to the College community, both during and after residence
- Good character and standing: Applicants should be of good character and demonstrate integrity, inclusiveness, and respect for others. A positive reputation within the College community, along with evidence of responsible citizenship, will be important considerations
Process
All applications must be completed using the forms available on this website from mid-October 2025 and submitted by the deadline set by the Head of College.
Value
A remission of College fees of at least $3000, to be credited to the resident’s account across the year in four equal credits.
The Playford Trust Lincoln College Residential Scholarship
(supporting a first year Lincoln College student to pursue studies in STEM)
The Playford Trust Lincoln College Residential Scholarship is a partnership between the Playford Trust and Lincoln College.
The scholarship supports a first-year student, ready to commence an undergraduate degree studying science, engineering, mathematics, or technology subjects at one of South Australia’s public universities.
The aim is to help students overcome the practical and financial disadvantages associated with living away from home. The scholarship will provide financial support to a high-achieving and motivated South Australian student to make the most of their studies, achieve their potential and contribute to South Australia’s knowledge, skills and research base.
The successful recipient will receive a contribution towards their residential costs at Lincoln College to the value of $8000.
Please find here the direct link to the scholarship here: Playford Trust Scholarships and Awards
GradReady GAMSAT Principal's Scholarship
(preparing a final year Lincoln College student for the Graduate Medical Schools Admission Test)
GradReady is proud to award one Lincoln College student a GradReady GAMSAT®Attendance (Comprehensive) Course each year. The scholarship is designed for prospective medical students and provides them with comprehensive preparation for the Graduate Medical Schools Admission Test (GAMSAT®).
Please click here for more details on the course.
GradReady is an education technology company aimed at making learning more effective and engaging. GradReady has helped over 6,000 students prepare for the GAMSAT® exam since 2010. Their students have improved by an average of 24 percentile points and 90%+ have achieved medical school admissions.
Please find here the direct link to the scholarship here: https://gradready.com.au/gamsat-preparation-courses/principal_scholarship