Building Australia's next generation of STEM leaders

Applications have opened for the first round of Propel scholarships – the latest initiative from Australia’s leading tech and engineering academy to build a skilled STEM workforce.

In partnership with the Australian Submarine Agency, Propel is delivering two-year, $5000 scholarships to undergraduate students studying priority disciplines associated with the AUKUS nuclear-powered submarine enterprise.

Undergraduate domestic students at Australian universities studying an eligible STEM degree, who have at least two years of full-time or equivalent study remaining, are encouraged to read the full application guidelines and consider applying.

“We’re helping build the highly-skilled workforce that will power Australia’s future,” said Australian Academy of Technological Sciences and Engineering CEO Dr Kylie Walker.

“Propel will not just financially support scholars, it will connect them with career opportunities in defence science, technology and engineering.

“We’re proud to continue backing a stronger, more diverse STEM workforce.

“By building pathways in science, technology and engineering, ATSE is helping Australia innovate, diversify, and strengthen our economy, capability and security.

“ATSE’s programs are proven – graduates are more likely to complete their studies and go on to meaningful work and we know that they consistently credit ATSE for this.”

More information on Propel eligibility is available here, with applications for the 2026 intake closing at 11:59am AEDT Monday 10 November 2025.