Criteria for acceptance into the Coburn Fellowship Award eased
In a December 2024 meeting, the Victoria University Senate approved amendments to the Coburn Fellowship Award. According to Victoria College, the changes involve expanding criteria for applicants. Previously, applicants were required to be students enrolled in Victoria College and studying fine arts or the humanities. The criteria has now eased to accommodate all Victoria College students who are registered in the Faculty of Arts and Science.
The Coburn Award is a year-long study abroad program at the University of Tel Aviv. Valued at $20 000, the fellowship covers travel expenses, tuition, and accommodation. The fellowship has been subject to controversy since late 2023. The Boycott, Divestment, Sanctions movement calls for an end to “study abroad schemes in Israel for International Students.” In response to student pushback, Vic regards itself as an administrator for the “externally held fellowship” and has no plans to award the fellowship any time soon due to travel warnings.
