Unlocking Australian Scholarships: A Guide For International Students

how to get scholarship for international students in australia

Australia is a popular destination for international students, offering a range of scholarships, grants, and bursaries to support their studies. These opportunities are provided by the Australian Government, universities, and other public and private organisations. The scholarships are typically based on academic merit, leadership qualities, and a drive for change, with some specifically targeting students from developing countries or certain regions, such as ASEAN member states and Southeast Asian countries. The scholarships can cover tuition fees, living expenses, travel allowances, and other benefits, making it essential for international students to explore these opportunities when considering their educational journey in Australia.

Characteristics Values
Number of scholarships More than 1000
Organisations offering scholarships Australian Government, education providers, and other public and private organisations
Scholarship types Grants, bursaries, tuition fee scholarships, tuition fee waivers, tuition fee discounts, tuition fee offsets, fully funded scholarships, living allowances, stipends, relocation allowances, health insurance, travel allowances, airfare
Eligibility Academic merit, leadership qualities, drive for change, family of alumni, active agreement with university, bachelor's degree or equivalent in a STEM field of study, citizen of specific countries
Specific scholarships Australia Awards Scholarships, Research Training Program, Northcote Postgraduate Scholarship, Quad Fellowship, University of Adelaide Global Academic Excellence Scholarship, Deakin University Scholarships, Melbourne Research Scholarship, Asian Development Bank – Japan Scholarship Program, Monash Research Training Program, Bond University Scholarships, Macquarie University Scholarship

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Scholarship types and what they cover

There are several scholarships available for international students looking to study in Australia. These scholarships are offered by the Australian Government, education providers, and other public and private organisations.

The Australia Awards Scholarships (AAS) are highly prestigious and competitive scholarships offered by the Australian Government. These scholarships are designed for students from developing countries who demonstrate leadership qualities and a drive for change. AAS offers government-funded grants to cover tuition fees, return air travel, establishment allowances, contribution to living expenses, introductory academic programs, and Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC).

The Research Training Program (RTP) is another Australian Government initiative that supports domestic and international students pursuing research doctorate and research master's level degrees. RTP provides block grants to eligible universities to support students with tuition fees, stipends for living costs, and allowances related to research degrees.

The Australia for ASEAN Scholarships are specifically for students from ASEAN member states and Timor-Leste. These scholarships enable recipients to pursue a master's degree in areas such as maritime, connectivity, economic development, and sustainable development goals.

The Northcote Postgraduate Scholarship is for students from the UK, allowing them to undertake a higher degree at an Australian university for up to three years.

Various Australian universities also offer their own scholarships. For example, the Monash University Scholarship is a fully-funded scholarship for international doctoral research students, covering living, relocation, and research allowances. The University of South Australia offers master's and PhD tuition fee scholarships for international students. Griffith University Scholarships are also available for international undergraduate, postgraduate, and post-doctoral students, with both fully and partially funded options.

Additionally, the Quad Fellowship is a joint initiative between the governments of Australia, India, Japan, and the United States, aimed at fostering ties among the next generation of scientists and technologists. This scholarship is open to citizens or Legal Permanent Residents of these countries and requires a Bachelor's degree or its equivalent in a STEM field.

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Eligibility requirements

International students can receive scholarships from the Australian Government, education providers, and other public and private organisations.

The Australian Government offers the following scholarships:

  • Australia Awards Scholarships (AAS): This program is highly prestigious and competitive. It offers government-funded grants to students from a selection of developing countries who can demonstrate leadership qualities and a drive for change. The program is designed to equip students with the skills and knowledge needed to return home and contribute to their nations' development. Applicants must sign a contract agreeing to leave Australia for a minimum of two years after completing their scholarship.
  • Australia Awards: These are prestigious international scholarships and short courses run by the Australian Government and managed through the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade.
  • Research Training Program: This program provides block grants to eligible Australian universities to support domestic and overseas students undertaking higher degrees by research. Students can receive scholarships as a tuition fee offset, a stipend for general living costs, and/or allowances related to the ancillary costs of research degrees.
  • Australia for ASEAN scholarships: These are prestigious international scholarships provided by the Australian Government for students from ASEAN member states and Timor-Leste. The scholarships give recipients the opportunity to pursue a master's degree in one of the four priority areas in the ASEAN Outlook for the Indo-Pacific: maritime, connectivity, economic development, and the sustainable development goals 2030.

Education providers in Australia also offer scholarships to qualifying international students, based on academic merit. For example, the University of Adelaide offers scholarships to international students who have achieved academic merit in their previous studies. Scholarship recipients receive a 15% or 30% reduction in international tuition fees. The University of Adelaide also offers the 2025 Global Academic Excellence 50% Scholarships (International) to commencing undergraduate and postgraduate coursework international students who have demonstrated academic excellence in their previous studies.

Other scholarships include the Northcote Postgraduate Scholarship, which enables students from the UK to undertake a higher degree at an Australian university for up to three years, and the Asian Development Bank – Japan Scholarship Program, which is offered for postgraduate studies.

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Application process

The application process for scholarships in Australia can vary depending on the scholarship provider and the level of study. Here is a step-by-step guide to help you through the process of applying for scholarships as an international student:

Choose Your Scholarship:

Research and identify scholarships that align with your academic field, level of study, and eligibility criteria. Scholarships are offered by the Australian government, individual universities, and private organisations. Each scholarship will have specific requirements and benefits, so it is important to carefully review the details before applying.

Gather Necessary Documents:

Prepare essential documents, including academic transcripts, letters of recommendation, and a statement of purpose. These documents provide evidence of your academic achievements and future aspirations. Some scholarships may also require additional documentation, such as proof of financial need or extracurricular involvement.

Tailor Your Application:

Customise your application for each scholarship you apply to. Address the specific requirements, values, and goals of the scholarship programme. Highlight your academic achievements, extracurricular activities, and any unique skills or experiences that make you a strong candidate. A tailored application demonstrates your interest and passion for the scholarship.

Submit Your Application:

Most scholarship applications are submitted online through an application portal or the scholarship provider's website. However, some programmes may require hard-copy applications or have specific submission guidelines. Always refer to the official instructions provided by the scholarship provider to ensure you are following the correct procedure.

Stay Informed:

Keep yourself updated on application deadlines, eligibility requirements, and any changes to the scholarship programme. Scholarship providers may update their policies and procedures, so it is important to review their websites or handbooks regularly. Additionally, some scholarships may have rolling admissions, so applying early can increase your chances of success.

Follow Up:

After submitting your application, stay in communication with the scholarship provider. Inquire about the status of your application and provide any additional information or documentation if required. Demonstrating your continued interest and engagement can leave a positive impression.

Applying for scholarships can be a competitive process, so it is important to put your best foot forward. Start your research early, carefully review the requirements, and submit a strong and tailored application to increase your chances of securing a scholarship for your studies in Australia.

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Available scholarships for undergraduate students

Australia offers a range of scholarships for international undergraduate students. These scholarships are often merit-based, rewarding students who have demonstrated academic excellence or a commitment to learning. Here are some of the available scholarships for undergraduate international students:

University of Adelaide Scholarships

The University of Adelaide offers several scholarships for international undergraduate students. The Adelaide University Global Academic Excellence Scholarship is a highly competitive award that offers a 50% reduction in tuition fees for students who have demonstrated academic excellence in their previous studies. The university also provides scholarships for family members of Adelaide University alumni or current students, with a 10% reduction in tuition fees. Additionally, the university recognises international students who have completed a Bachelor or Master's qualification in Australia with a 15% or 30% reduction in tuition fees.

Australia Awards Scholarships (AAS)

The Australia Awards Scholarships are prestigious, competitive scholarships funded by the Australian Government. These scholarships are available for undergraduate, master's, and PhD studies and provide full tuition coverage, travel allowances, living expenses, and more. The program targets students from developing countries who demonstrate leadership qualities and a drive for positive change in their home countries.

University of Technology Sydney (UTS) Scholarships

UTS offers a range of scholarships for international undergraduate students, including the UTS Academic Excellence International Scholarship, which is awarded automatically based on academic merit. UTS also offers the UTS Study Abroad Excellence Scholarship for commencing study abroad students and the UTS Humanitarian Scholarship for undergraduate students holding Asylum Seeker Bridging Visas or Temporary Protection Visas (TPV).

University-Specific Scholarships

Various universities in Australia provide their own scholarships for international undergraduate students. For example, Griffith University offers both fully and partially funded scholarships for undergraduate, postgraduate, and post-doctoral studies. The University of South Australia has tuition fee scholarships, covering the entire period of research study for master's and PhD students. Monash University offers a fully funded master's and PhD scholarship worth up to $29,000 annually.

Country-Specific Scholarships

Some scholarships are specifically designed for citizens of certain countries. For instance, the Rotary Peace Fellowships are fully funded scholarships for master's and PhD students from various countries. The Melbourne Research Scholarship (MRS) is another example, offering full funding for master's and doctoral research students. Additionally, RMIT University provides English language bursaries for citizens of Cambodia, Japan, South Korea, Taiwan, Thailand, Vietnam, and Latin American countries.

It is recommended to explore university websites and utilise scholarship search tools to find more detailed information and discover specific scholarships that align with your qualifications and interests.

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Available scholarships for postgraduate students

Australia is home to several universities that offer scholarships to international students. These scholarships are available for undergraduate, postgraduate, and post-doctoral studies. Here is some information on available scholarships for postgraduate students:

University-specific Scholarships

Many universities in Australia offer scholarships for international students pursuing postgraduate studies. Here are some examples:

  • The University of Adelaide offers scholarships for international postgraduate students, including the 2025 Global Academic Excellence 50% Scholarships (International) and the University of Adelaide Scholarship.
  • Griffith University offers scholarships for international postgraduate students, including fully and partially funded options.
  • Queensland University offers the Queensland University Law Scholarships, a partially funded scholarship that covers 25% or 50% of tuition fees for master's studies.
  • The University of Sydney offers scholarships for international postgraduate students undertaking research programs (master's or PhD).
  • Flinders University in Adelaide provides the Flinders International Postgraduate Research Scholarships (FIPRS) for master's and PhD research students based on merit.
  • Curtin University in Perth offers international research scholarships for master's or PhD programs.
  • Monash University has the Monash Research Training Program, a fully funded master's and PhD scholarship worth up to $29,000 annually.
  • Bond University offers funded scholarships for international students, although the specifics of the award are unclear.

External Scholarships

In addition to university-specific scholarships, there are also external scholarships that can be used at participating Australian universities:

  • The Australia Awards Scholarships (AAS) are highly competitive and offer government-funded grants to students from developing countries who demonstrate leadership qualities.
  • The Australian Government Research Training Program (RTP) supports domestic and international students undertaking research master's or doctorate degrees.
  • The Northcote Postgraduate Scholarship enables students from the UK to pursue a postgraduate degree in Australia for up to three years.
  • The Asian Development Bank – Japan Scholarship Program is a funded scholarship for postgraduate international students, covering tuition, monthly allowance, housing, books, medical insurance, and travel expenses.
  • The Rotary Peace Fellowships are fully funded scholarships for master's and PhD studies, covering tuition, room and board, transportation, and internship/field-study expenses.
  • The Fulbright Program offers scholarships to American citizens across all career stages for academic and cultural exchanges in Australia.
  • Destination Australia Awards provide scholarships of up to AU$15,000 per year to international students studying at universities in regional Australia.

Frequently asked questions

There are many scholarships available for international students in Australia, including:

- The Research Training Program (RTP)

- The Australia Awards Scholarships (AAS)

- The Monash Research Training Program

- The Asian Development Bank – Japan Scholarship Program

- The Melbourne Research Scholarship (MRS)

- The Deakin Vice-Chancellor’s International Scholarship

- The Northcote Postgraduate Scholarship

- The Quad Fellowship

The Australia Awards Scholarships are prestigious scholarships that provide students with benefits such as return air travel, an establishment allowance, contribution to living expenses, introductory academic programs, and overseas health cover.

You can search for scholarships offered by Australian universities on their websites or by using a Course Search tool. You can also discuss your options with the admissions team or international office at the university.

The criteria for scholarships vary, but they often consider academic merit, leadership qualities, and a drive for change. Some scholarships are also targeted at students from specific countries or regions, such as ASEAN member states or Southeast Asian countries.

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