Your local Country Education Foundation (CEF) supports youth in your area through financial grants for education and employment expenses. Our grants contribute towards apprenticeships, traineeships, cadetships, diplomas, certificate level studies, university qualifications or employment.
Apply Now
How we provide grants
CEF assistance is determined through our local grants program. When you apply for a CEF grant you will need to apply to the local CEF foundation in your area. If you are successful your grant will be awarded and managed by your local foundation.
CEF National Scholarships are applied for via the same form as our local grants but are managed by the CEF National Office. You will still need to choose your closest local foundation when completing the form.
CEF grants are non-cash. Instead you are reimbursed for education or work related expenses, or a supplier can be paid directly. Grants can cover any education or work related expenses, eg. text books, tools, work equipment, petrol, transport, accommodation, computers, internet access. Click here for a list of what can and cannot be claimed.
Please note: We are not able to provide grants for the payment of HECS fees or debt.
Who is eligible?
CEF grants are based on need, not academic success. You will however, need to demonstrate commitment to achieving your goal. The four essential selection criteria are:
- You have a demonstrated need;
- You are aged 16-25 years;
- You have attended school in or currently live in the region covered by your local CEF (view full list HERE) and
- You are able to demonstrate commitment to achieving your goal.
N.B. There may be different or additional criteria for National Scholarships via our CEF Extra program.
When to apply
Grant applications open in July annually and close on varying dates depending on the local foundation.
- Shortlisted applicants will be invited for an interview with their local committee
- Grants will be allocated after interviews have been completed and you are accepted into your chosen course/apprenticeship/training.
How to apply
Please read these instructions before completing and submitting your application form.
- Ensure you meet the eligibility criteria above.
- Review our ‘Tips for Students’ to prepare your answers.
- Create a profile so you can save and review your application later.
- Any supporting documents you would like to provide can be scanned or photographed and attached at the end of the form.
- You will be advised of the outcome of your application by mail and/or email.
- If shortlisted, you may be asked to attend an interview with your local CEF Committee.
APPLICATIONS ARE NOW OPEN.
PLEASE CHECK YOUR FOUNDATION PAGE FOR INDIVIDUAL OPEN AND CLOSE DATES
Before continuing, we strongly recommend that you read our ‘Tips for Students‘ so you can prepare your answers.
For any technical problems, please contact [email protected] or call us on 1300 652 144.
