Australia is a top choice for international students because of its world-renowned universities, welcoming and diverse culture and exciting student life. Students worldwide are drawn to Australia’s wide range of programs, excellent research opportunities and promising job prospects after graduation.
Scholarships for international students help cover some of the biggest costs of studying abroad, including tuition fees, airfare and even living expenses. For many students, getting a scholarship in Australia is the key to making their dreams a reality. Luckily, a generous variety of Australian scholarships are available from government-funded ones to those provided by universities and private organisations—ensuring plenty of options for different needs and backgrounds. These scholarships not only reduce financial stress but also recognise and reward academic excellence and potential.
Where to get a scholarship in Australia
There are several ways to secure scholarships for international students in Australia. Here are some avenues to explore:
Australian government scholarships
- Australia Awards Scholarships: Funded by the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade, the Australia Awards Scholarships provide opportunities for people from selected developing countries, particularly those located in the Indo-Pacific region, to undertake full-time undergraduate or postgraduate study at participating Australian institutions such as universities and Technical and Further Education (TAFE) institutions. These scholarships include full tuition fees, travel costs, establishment allowance and even a Contribution to Living Expenses (CLE).
- Destination Australia Program: This program by the Department of Education funds eligible tertiary education providers to offer scholarships to domestic and international students to study and live in regional Australia. This 2024, the program offers scholarship funding of up to $15,000 per student per year for approximately 550 domestic and international students commencing their studies. To apply for this scholarship in Australia, international students must do so directly with their education providers
Institution scholarships
- Merit-based scholarships: Many universities and institutions offer Australian scholarships based on academic excellence, which are a great opportunity for international students who have shown outstanding academic achievements. These scholarships can range from covering tuition fees, living allowances and research grants.
- Research scholarships: Postgraduate students can apply for research-specific Australian scholarships, such as the Department of Education’s Research Training Program (RTP), which provides block grants to higher education providers (HEPs) to support students undertaking research doctorate and research masters degrees and can cover tuition fees offset, general living costs and allowances.
External scholarships
- Non-governmental organisations (NGOs): Various organisations provide scholarships in Australia for international students, such as Rotary International which offers a wide range of scholarships.
- Corporate scholarships: Some multinational companies and private foundations offer scholarships to support students in specific fields of study.
- Country-specific scholarships: Some scholarships are tailored for students from specific countries. For instance, the prestigious Australia for ASEAN scholarships provide students from ASEAN member states and Timor-Leste the opportunity to pursue a master’s degree to make a difference 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). On the other hand, the Northcote Postgraduate Scholarship enables students from the United Kingdom to undertake a higher degree at an Australian university for up to three years. It covers visa costs, compulsory university fees, airfare and a quarterly living allowance.
Field-specific scholarships
There are Australian scholarships for international students targeted at those pursuing studies in specific fields, like engineering, IT or health sciences. One example is the CSIRO (Commonwealth Scientific and Industrial Research Organisation) Postgraduate Scholarships. This provides enhanced opportunities in science and engineering for outstanding graduates enrolling at Australian tertiary institutions as full-time postgraduates for research leading to the award of a PhD.
There are countless scholarships for international students in Australia. Students must thoroughly do their research on how to apply for a scholarship in Australia by checking eligibility criteria, deadlines and specific application processes for the scholarship program of their choice. To help students do this, connect with our business development experts today!
