Quick Answer
Yes, international students can get scholarships in Australia for both the 2026 and 2027 academic years. Australia is unusual: while the government-funded Australia Awards are the most prestigious, individual universities are often the most generous and numerous funders. Many universities offer automatic or application-based scholarships ranging from a few thousand dollars to full tuition plus a living allowance. The Research Training Program (RTP) provides funded research degrees at many institutions. Always verify current deadlines and amounts on official pages.
Australia Scholarships at a Glance
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Main funding sources | Australian Government (Australia Awards, RTP), universities, private organisations |
| Most generous source | Individual Australian universities |
| Government flagship | Australia Awards Scholarships (AAS) |
| Research funding | Research Training Program (RTP) |
| Destination Australia | No new funding rounds from July 2024; existing recipients supported |
| English requirement | Varies by university and scholarship; no universal IELTS |
Types of Scholarships for International Students in Australia
Australian scholarships fall into three main categories. University-funded awards are the most numerous and often the easiest to miss if you only look at government programmes.
| Scholarship Type | Who Funds It | Key Characteristics |
|---|---|---|
| Government-Funded | Australian Government (DFAT, Department of Education) | Highly competitive; often fully funded; may require returning home after study. Australia Awards target specific developing countries. |
| University-Funded | Individual Australian universities | Most common source for international students; automatic or application-based; amounts from a few thousand dollars to full tuition plus stipend. |
| Private / Organization-Funded | Charities, industry bodies, corporate foundations | Often targeted by nationality, field, or research area. Smaller amounts but worth applying. |
Scholarships by Study Level
Undergraduate Scholarships
Undergraduate scholarships are often university-specific merit awards, typically ranging from AU$5,000 to AU$40,000 over the course of a degree. Some universities automatically consider international students when they apply for admission, while others require a separate scholarship application. Australia Awards also fund undergraduate study for students from eligible developing countries, but these are highly competitive.
Master’s Scholarships
Master’s by coursework students have access to university-specific international scholarships, Destination Australia Awards (historically), and, for eligible nationalities, Australia Awards Scholarships. Research master’s students can access the Research Training Program (RTP).
PhD Scholarships
PhD funding in Australia is the most generous and structured. The Research Training Program (RTP) provides a tuition fee offset and living allowance stipend. Individual universities offer competitive research scholarships that mirror RTP funding. International PhD applicants should prioritise RTP-eligible programmes and treat acceptance without full funding as unusual.
Top Scholarship Programmes for International Students
These programmes represent some of the largest and most recognised funding pathways. Always check official websites for current deadlines and eligibility.
Australia Awards Scholarships (AAS)
Fully funded scholarships for students from partner countries in the Asia-Pacific, Africa, and the Middle East. Cover full tuition, return air travel, living stipend, health cover, and other costs. Recipients must leave Australia for a minimum of two years after completion. MBA applicants should see our Australia Awards MBA Scholarship Guide.
Research Training Program (RTP)
The Australian Government’s primary funding scheme for research students at master’s and PhD levels. Provides a tuition fee offset and living stipend. International students are eligible, but you apply through your chosen university, which allocates RTP places.
Destination Australia Awards
Historically provided scholarships of up to AU$15,000 per student per year for study at regional campuses. The latest programme-wide funding round supported 551 students at 87 regional campuses. Important: the Australian Government has confirmed no new funding rounds from 1 July 2024, though existing recipients may continue receiving support. Do not treat this as a new/current intake.
University of Sydney International Scholarships
The University of Sydney awards over AU$135 million in scholarships annually. Its Vice-Chancellor’s International Scholarships Scheme typically offers up to AU$40,000, and some 2026 intakes may qualify for an additional value up to AU$60,000 — check the current terms before assuming eligibility.
Melbourne Research Scholarship
The University of Melbourne’s flagship research scholarship provides a AU$39,500 per year (2026 full-time rate) living allowance, full fee offset, and Overseas Student Health Cover. Available for up to 2 years for a Master’s by Research or 3.5 years for a doctoral degree.
How to Apply for Australian Scholarships — Step by Step
- Shortlist your target universities. Start by identifying 3–5 universities and reviewing their international scholarship pages in detail.
- Check Australia Awards eligibility. If your country is on the DFAT partner list, begin preparing at least 12 months before your intended start.
- Prepare documents early. Transcripts, personal statement, recommendation letters, CV, and English proficiency (IELTS/PTE/TOEFL). For GPA conversion, see our Australia GPA Guide.
- Apply for university admission and scholarships in parallel. Many scholarships require an offer first, so submit early.
- Tailor each application. Mention specific researchers, labs, or programme features. Avoid generic essays.
- Plan for remaining costs. Visa fees, OSHC, and living expenses above stipend may still apply.
Common Mistakes That Weaken Your Australian Scholarship Application
- Only looking at government scholarships. University-funded awards are more numerous and often your primary target.
- Not checking if the scholarship is automatic. Some are awarded automatically based on admission; know which type each is.
- Applying to only one scholarship. Spread applications across multiple sources.
- Missing the English language requirement. Secure your IELTS/PTE/TOEFL result well before deadlines.
- Ignoring regional campus opportunities. Historically, Destination Australia Awards and lower costs made regional study attractive — but no new rounds from July 2024; check current alternatives.
- Submitting a generic personal statement. Customise every application to the specific university and award.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I get a scholarship in Australia without IELTS?
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Are there fully funded scholarships for international students in Australia?
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When should I start applying for Australia Awards?
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Do I need to pay to apply for an Australian scholarship?
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Official Resources
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Christian Chinonso is the founder of LearnViaHub, with 6+ years of research experience in international education, GPA systems, and study-abroad guidance for international students.Christian Chinonso is the founder of LearnViaHub, with 6+ years of research experience in international education — including GPA systems, scholarships, student financing, and study-abroad guidance — for students worldwide.