Academic matters
Tutorial assistance
Tutorial assistance is available if you are having difficulties in a subject, for thesis editing*, using computer packages*, statistical analysis* or English language support*.
* Not available to APS students.
Note: For APS students, tutorial assistance is subject to approval from the APS office.
Refer to the AusAID manual for the conditions of tutorial assistance.
- Find a tutor. You can arrange for a tutor yourself, or try asking your course coordinator or lecturer for recommendations. We can also help you find a tutor.
- Complete the tutorial assistance form:
Tutorial Assistance Form (coursework students) (PDF 95kB)
Tutorial Assistance Form (research students) (PDF 87kB)
Progress reports
Coursework students
Your course adviser will complete the progress report at the end of each semester on your behalf. If you fail a subject, see your course adviser as soon as possible so that arrangements can be made to complete your course by your award end date, or within the shortest possible extension. Options that are considered include:
- Sitting for a supplementary exam
- Taking an additional subject in the following semester
- Repeating a failed subject during the summer semester
- Transferring to another program
Your scholarship may be terminated if you repeatedly fail subjects.
Research students
You will receive a progress report form by e-mail towards the end of each semester. You must fill out the form in conjunction with your supervisor where appropriate. This is different from the Melbourne School of Graduate Research's Annual Progress Report.
The academic progress report indicates the progress of your research and any problems that may affect your progress. You must answer all relevant questions in the report and return it to an AusAID Student Contact Officer by the due date.
Award variations
Award variations will only be considered if there are no other options that will allow you to successfully complete your course. Refer to the ADS Handbook or ALA Scholarships Handbook for more information. It is important that you discuss any academic issues you have with us, so that we can determine the best course of action.
Transfers
A transfer will only be approved if:
- the new course can be completed within your original scholarship period
- The new course is relevant with your country's program priorities and the Partner Government requirements
Suspending your scholarship
You can suspend your scholarship if:
-
you are ill or have family/personal issues. You must return home during the suspension (unless circumstances do not allow it)
-
you will be doing an approved practical attachment (as a compulsory part of your academic program) and no contribution to living expenses is payable
The maximum suspension period is 12 months.
Extensions
An extension will be considered after all other options have been explored. Only one extension can be approved from the second year of your course. The maximum extension period is 6 months.
Applying for an extension:
- Talk to your supervisor/course coordinator if you think that you are unable to complete the course by your award end date
- Contact the AusAID Student Contact Officer (Manager) if you need an extension
- Complete the AusAID scholarship extension form with your supervisor or course coordinator and submit it to the Ground Floor, 723 Swanston Street
- The AusAID Student Contact Officer (Manager) will submit an extension request to the AusAID office in your home country. It will then be considered by AusAID and your country's government. This can take up to two months
- We will contact you when the outcome of your application is known
Academic skills programs and short courses
You are strongly encouraged to make use of the academic support services available to you. If you still need help after using the available services, you can apply for tutorial assistance.
Graduate: Academic Program for International Postgraduate Students (APIPS), UpSkills Graduate Research Program, academic assistance from your school/faculty (check with your Student Centre)
Undergraduate: Academic assistance from your school/faculty (check with your Student Centre)
Online resources
www.courseworks.unimelb.edu.au
UpSkills program
The Melbourne School of Graduate Research (MSGR) has developed extensive learning and language support programs specifically for research students. For more information, see the Melbourne School of Graduate Research website. MSGR also offers free courses, seminars and workshops.
Enrolment procedures:
ADS and ALA research students may enrol in a maximum of 2 courses per semester, paid for by AusAID. When completing the application form, put "AusAID Student" in the Payment section.
Make sure that these courses do not clash with your class times. If you have registered for a course, attend all the sessions. If you are unable to attend any of the sessions, inform MSGR as early as possible so that they can give your place to other students on the waiting list.
Thesis support program
This program provides you with individualised support through an Academic Skills Unit adviser. It aims to develop your writing skills, including your ability to identify and self-correct errors. It concentrates on issues with language and writing such as organisation and structure, flow and critical engagement. You must submit draft thesis chapters before the tutorials.
These tutorials can be arranged at any time after your first year of candidature (on your supervisor's recommendation) once you have drafted a substantial portion of your thesis.
Advisers generally read part of a chapter, identify areas of concern, then develop strategies and suggest resources for improvement. Advisers may also recommend short courses and workshops. Their role does not include reading and commenting on an entire thesis, or to edit and proofread.
The supervisor's comments on revised chapters and continuing areas of concern are welcome at any time and will be sought by the ASU adviser at intervals during the program.
How to apply
- Talk with your supervisor and complete the application form together and return it to the International Student Services (ISS) office at 723 Swanston Street.
- The Academic Skills Unit will organise the first meeting between you, your supervisor, and a language adviser and then proceed with the individual tutorials.
Time commitment
Up to 9 individual tutorials (a maximum of 13 per calendar year)