Practicum Support Scheme (PSS)

The Notre Dame Practicum Support Scheme (PSS) is available to all students who are undertaking a full-time compulsory practicum as part of their program. Established in 2023, this scheme is designed to assist students facing financial hardship or unable to work during their compulsory practicum placement.

As a Notre Dame run scheme:

  • The program opens at the start of each semester.
  • It is funded by philanthropic donations and the Student Services and Amenities Fee (SSAF).
  • The program is centrally managed by the Student Success Scholarships Office.
  • The Grant values range from $500 to $1,000, depending on the placement duration.
  • Recipients can hold this grant alongside another University scholarship.

Eligibility

You may be eligible for the Practicum Support Scheme if you are:

  • Currently enrolled in a diploma, undergraduate or postgraduate program at the University.
  • Enrolled in a full-time, compulsory practicum of four (4) or more consecutive weeks in the relevant
    study period.

For further details on eligibility and selection criteria, please read the Grant Conditions.

How to apply

Application process

  1. Find the application form listed under the Scholarship Finder
    1. Practicum Support Scheme Grant
    2. Practicum Support Scheme Grant (Nursing)
  2. Prepare your documents for the selection criteria.
    1. Include course details associated with your practicum.
    2. Include a personal statement outlining how you meet the selection criteria.
      1. Declare in your personal statement if you have applied for, or are receiving the Commonwealth Practicum Payment (CPP).
    3. Provide at least one other supporting document that best demonstrates how you meet the criteria. This could include:
      1. Financial need, such as:
        1. Receipt of government means-tested support payments.
        2. Financial hardship evidenced through low-income or a short statement of specific need.
        3. Significant additional costs associated with practicum placement (e.g., relocation costs).
      2. Personal circumstances impacting educational opportunities:
        1. Carer or parenting responsibilities.
        2. Refugee or asylum seeker background.
        3. Students living with a disability or long-term medical condition.
        4. Students from non-English speaking backgrounds.
  3. Complete and submit your application
  4. Check your email for updates
    1. You’ll receive updates on your application status via your student email.
    2. Students should ensure that they do not block any emails from HES.

Find tips on preparing your application and frequently asked questions about eligibility, application, payment, and scholarship continuation on our Scholarships page.

Duration and payment of funds

The Practicum Support Scheme is:

  • Tenable for the relevant study period (one semester).
  • Not transferable to any other organisation or institution.
  • Paid directly to you as a one-time instalment using the provided payment details.

For further details on duration, payment method and requirements, please read the Grant Conditions.

Contact us

If you have questions about your application or eligibility for the Practicum Support Scheme Grant, a member of our team is here to help.

Email: scholarships@nd.edu.au
Fremantle: +61 8 9433 0545
Sydney: +61 2 8204 4228