Deakin University Awards Six Indian Students Vice Chancellor's Meritorious 100% Scholarship 2026

Every year, thousands of Indian students dream of studying abroad, with Australia emerging as one of the most preferred destinations. While many secure admission to top universities, only a few receive the financial and academic support needed to turn that dream into reality. For over a decade, Deakin University's Vice Chancellor's Meritorious 100% Scholarship has been helping exceptional Indian students do just that. Now in its 12th edition, the scholarship covers full tuition fees and offers recipients an opportunity to study at one of Australia's leading universities while becoming part of a global community of future leaders. Over the years, nearly 80 Indian students have benefited from the scholarship. This year, the competition was tougher than ever, with close to 1,000 applications received for just six scholarships.

A Rigorous Selection Process

The selection journey began with nearly 1,000 applications, which were narrowed down through multiple screening rounds. The top 20 students were then shortlisted. Unlike last year, this edition introduced an additional group discussion round, with only 12 finalists advancing to the grand finale. The discussions were centred around real-world challenges. Students debated topics such as the role of artificial intelligence, balancing economic growth with sustainability, and tackling the growing impact of screen time on society. Rather than looking for polished speeches, the jury focused on how students analysed problems, collaborated with others and presented practical solutions. Basab Pratim Choudhury, Associate Director (South Asia), Deakin University, said the discussions offered valuable insights into how the younger generation approaches important issues. "The perspectives students brought during the shortlisting, group discussions and thematic debate were impressive. We also got to learn how this new generation thinks and how it is going to evolve with time," he said.

The Final Challenge

The final round, titled Ideas to Impact Showcase, challenged the 12 finalists to imagine themselves in the year 2030 after making international news. Each participant had two minutes to present the headline they hoped to achieve and explain the impact they wanted to create. The judging panel evaluated not only academic achievements but also leadership potential, values and the ability to make a meaningful difference. George Thiveos, Minister-Counsellor (Education and Research) for South Asia, Australian High Commission in New Delhi, said selecting the winners was one of the toughest parts of the competition.

"It was a very rigorous process, and the candidates were all excellent. It made for a very difficult decision because these were the final 12 selected from thousands of applications. We heard many interesting ideas and the students handled challenging questions across a wide range of topics," he said.

Ravneet Pawha, Vice President (Global Alliances) and CEO (South Asia), Deakin University Australia, said the scholarship goes beyond financial support and aims to prepare students for global careers.

"We work very hard to find the best talent. The scholarship gives students the opportunity to learn alongside Vice Chancellor's Scholars from across the world. What stood out this year was that many students focused on creating impact and solving real-world problems rather than simply making money," she said.

Among the jury members was NDTV's Sikta Deo, who said the confidence of the finalists left a strong impression.

"These students are ready to take on the world. Their confidence, their ideas and their initiatives were unlike what our generation usually thinks of. That was one of the biggest factors I considered while judging them," she said.

The Six Scholarship Winners

After multiple rounds of assessment and hours of jury deliberations, six students were selected to receive the Vice Chancellor's Meritorious 100% Scholarship 2026.

The winners are:

• Kushaan Sethi
• Nivaan Rachit Vyas
• Sanika Thelakkadan Chathoth
• Isha Datta
• Prerna Solanki
• Yogg Kunal Joshi

Sharing his excitement, Yoga Kunal Joshi said the scholarship meant much more than financial support. "It goes way beyond financial support. It will help me grow professionally. It started as a dream, and now I am living it," he said. Recalling the winning moment, Joshi added,

"It felt like déjà vu from the semi-finals. My heart is still pounding with excitement. People say hard work pays off, and today I am living that moment."

Sonika Chatra said receiving the scholarship was both an honour and a responsibility.

"This means a lot to me. I would like to thank Deakin University for believing in my passion, my vision and the impact I want to create," she said.

Isha Datta said hearing her name announced was an unforgettable experience.

"I felt like my soul entered my body the moment my name was called," she said.

Niwan Vyas said the announcement brought a huge sense of relief after months of hard work.

"The weight just came off my shoulders. It had been a long journey, and I was so happy when my name was announced," he said.

As these six students prepare to begin their academic journey at Deakin University, they will not only receive a world-class education but also become part of a global network of scholars committed to creating meaningful impact in their communities and beyond.

Disclaimer: The above sponsored content is non-editorial and has been sourced from a third party. NDTV does not guarantee, vouch for or necessarily endorse any of the above content, nor is responsible for it in any manner whatsoever.