Global Talent Attraction Program – Candidate Merit Pool FAQs

This page was updated on 17 June 2025

The information below is updated regularly to reflect common queries about the Global Talent Attraction Program (GTAP) Candidate Merit Pool (CMP).

The GTAP CMP FAQ web page provides answers to common queries about Round 1 of the program, including applicant eligibility, assessment processes and general program queries. While we aim to provide additional guidance here, all applicants must refer to the program guidelines for full program conditions.

For any program queries or further assistance, contact the program team at gtap@science.org.au.

FAQs

Am I eligible to apply if I already hold Australian citizenship or permanent residency?

Yes, Australian citizens and permanent residents are welcome to apply for the candidate merit pool, should they meet all other application requirements.

Can I submit the application myself, or must I be nominated?

Applicants are to submit their own application and include a support letter from an Australian Academy of Science Fellow sponsoring the application.

What does the Candidate Merit Pool application assessment process involve?

All complete applications are screened for eligibility and then merit assessed by a panel of Scientific Expert Assessors against the published assessment criteria outlined on the GTAP Candidate Merit Pool web page.

Will I receive feedback if I am not selected for the merit pool?

No. The Academy does not provide individual feedback on outcomes.

Can I update my application or supporting documents after submission?

No. Applications must be complete at time of submission. Incomplete applications are ineligible and will not progress for consideration.

Do I need to secure a role or engagement in Australia before applying?

No. The Candidate Merit Pool will identify high-calibre candidates who wish to formally register their interest in relocating to Australia. Being accepted into the pool does not guarantee a funded position or impact visa application processing.

Do I need supporting referee reports as part of my application?

Yes. Two support letters are required, and at least one must be from an independent referee at an international institution outside both Australia and your home institution.

What kind of achievements are considered ‘exceptional’ or ‘outstanding’?

Examples include international top-of-field awards, recent publications in top-ranked journals, such as Nature, Lancet or Acta Numerica, or sector-defining innovation with measurable impact.

How is my application judged for career stage or sustained trajectory?

Assessors will review your responses to the application form questions, your track record, leadership roles, and research outputs for evidence of an established and sustained trajectory, and assess your application against the criteria outlined on the GTAP Candidate Merit Pool web page.

What happens once I am accepted into the candidate merit pool?

You will be notified of your acceptance and asked to approve a candidate profile for use in discussions with relevant stakeholders or prospective partner institutions.

Does being selected guarantee that I will receive a funded role or offer?

No. Acceptance into the merit pool does not guarantee a funded position or engagement. It confirms your eligibility and suitability under the defined criteria.

Can I withdraw from the merit pool at any time?

Yes. You can withdraw your consent or request your profile be removed at any time by contacting the Academy.

Is there a time limit on how long I can remain in the candidate merit pool?

Candidates typically remain in the pool for a set period (e.g. 12 months), after which a review may be conducted. Specific details will be outlined at the time of acceptance.

Who will contact me if a suitable opportunity arises?

The Academy is the contact point for all candidate enquiries and will engage with candidates if an opportunity aligns with your expertise and interests.