BCG First Nations Internship and Scholarship Program Scholarship 2026

Boston Consulting Group (BCG) has a proud history of supporting Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples in Australia, as well as Māori and Pacific Island students. The BCG First Nations Internship & Scholarship Program 2026 is designed to recognise outstanding talent and empower First Nations emerging leaders who are eager to make a difference and create impact. Selected recipients receive $20,000 in scholarship funding, an 8‑week paid internship at a BCG office in Australia or New Zealand, mentorship, and a pathway to a full‑time graduate role.

If you are a penultimate‑year student of Aboriginal, Torres Strait Islander, Māori, or Pacific Island origin, this opportunity could be life‑changing. For students exploring other funded opportunities in Australia, you can browse fully funded scholarships in Australia  to discover additional programs that support your academic and professional journey.

Overview of the Program

BCG’s purpose is to unlock the potential of those who advance the world. Through this program, BCG seeks driven, curious students from all academic disciplines who are excited by challenges and want to have a positive impact on their communities – whether local, national, or global. The program combines financial support, hands‑on experience, and professional development to help you become a future leader and change‑maker.

• Host Organisation: Boston Consulting Group (BCG) – Australia & New Zealand

• Program Type: Internship + Scholarship

• Scholarship Amount: $20,000

• Internship Duration: 8 weeks

• Application Period: March 30 – July 24, 2026 (12 PM AEST)

• Eligible Offices: Auckland, Canberra, Melbourne, Perth, or Sydney

For students also considering opportunities in New Zealand, you can explore latest scholarships in New Zealand  to see what other programs are available in the region.

What Recipients Receive

As a BCG First Nations Internship and Scholarship recipient, you will:

• Receive $20,000 in scholarship funding

• Join a BCG office as an intern for 8 weeks – gaining real‑world experience before graduation

• Learn about BCG’s work and explore how you can make a difference with clients, colleagues, and communities

• Be assigned a mentor through the remainder of your studies

• Have a buddy (a current BCG consultant) who will support you during your internship

• Build strong relationships and connect with peers through various activities

• Have a pathway to a full‑time graduate role with BCG Australia and New Zealand

Eligibility Criteria

To apply for the BCG First Nations Internship and Scholarship, you must:

• Be of Aboriginal, Torres Strait Islander, Māori, or Pacific Island origin

• Be a citizen or permanent resident of Australia or New Zealand

• Be in your penultimate year of undergraduate or postgraduate tertiary studies (i.e., you will have one full year of study remaining after the internship)

BCG deeply values diversity of thought, background, and experience. The firm strongly encourages applications from individuals of all backgrounds, promoting a diverse array of perspectives. Your unique experiences are highly valued.

What BCG Is Looking For

An exceptional candidate for this Scholarship program will demonstrate:

• A track record of achievement and impact – academic, professional, or community‑based

• An appetite for tackling and solving complex problems

• An ability to engage with and influence others

• Initiative, creativity, tenacity, and resilience

• Alignment with BCG’s purpose and values

There is no “standard type” – students from all disciplines (arts, science, business, engineering, law, etc.) are encouraged to apply.

Application Process

The selection process has several stages, designed to help BCG learn about you and for you to learn about consulting:

Step 1: Submit Online Application

• Select up to three office preferences (Auckland, Canberra, Melbourne, Perth, or Sydney – with your first choice in Australia or New Zealand)

• Prepare a cover letter and resume (BCG runs workshops in April to help with these)

Step 2: Online Case Assessment

• Eligible candidates receive an invitation to complete an online case assessment

Step 3: Application Review

• The BCG team reviews your application and case assessment

Step 4: First‑Round Case Interviews

• Shortlisted candidates are invited for interviews

• Each candidate is allocated a current BCG consultant as a “buddy” to answer questions about consulting, BCG, or the interview process

Note: As a scholarship applicant, you will also be considered for a graduate Associate position with BCG.

For students interested in other scholarship opportunities across Asia, you can review financial aids for students in Asia to compare programs in neighbouring regions.

Application Deadline

Applications for the First Nations Internship & Scholarship Program will be open from March 30 to July 24, 2026, at 12 PM AEST. Applications have closed for previous cycles, but the 2026 window is approaching. Mark your calendar and prepare early.

Why Choose the BCG First Nations Program

This program offers several distinct advantages:

• Generous financial support – $20,000 scholarship to support your studies

• Paid, real‑world experience – an 8‑week internship at a global consulting leader

• Mentorship and buddy support – guidance from experienced BCG consultants

• Pathway to a full‑time graduate role – a direct route into BCG after graduation

• Community and belonging – join a caring, diverse, and inclusive community of exceptional people

• Accelerated learning – tackle tough challenges and develop skills that serve you for a lifetime

Final Thoughts

The BCG First Nations Internship & Scholarship Program 2026 is a transformative opportunity for Aboriginal, Torres Strait Islander, Māori, and Pacific Island students in their penultimate year of study. With $20,000 in funding, an 8‑week internship at a top global consulting firm, and a clear pathway to a graduate role, this program empowers you to unlock your potential and make a positive impact on your community.

BCG is not looking for a “standard type” – they want driven, curious, and resilient students from all backgrounds who are excited by challenges. If that sounds like you, prepare your application, attend BCG’s April workshops, and submit your materials before the July 24 deadline.

Apply Now for BCG First Nations Internship & Scholarship