
Worried about how to fund your studies in Australia? You are not the only one. Tuition fees, living expenses, and relocation costs can pile up quickly. But here is the good news. Australia offers hundreds of scholarships specifically for international students. Whether you are heading for an undergraduate degree or a PhD, there is a good chance you can study with financial support.
This guide breaks down the most popular scholarships, who is eligible, how to apply, and what kind of funding you can expect in 2025.
Why Does Australia Offer Scholarships to International Students?
The Australian education sector is globally competitive. Scholarships help attract bright minds from around the world and support academic excellence, cultural diversity, and innovation.
In 2024, over 38,000 international students received scholarships from Australian universities or the government. And with rising global student numbers, even more funding is expected in 2025.
What Types of Scholarships Are Available in Australia for 2025?
There are three main types of scholarships international students can apply for:
- Government-funded scholarships
- University-specific scholarships
- Externally funded or private scholarships
Some scholarships cover full tuition, while others offer partial fees, living allowances, or travel grants.
What Are the Top Government Scholarships for 2025?
1. Australia Awards Scholarships
Funded by the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade, these are full-ride scholarships.
- Covers: Full tuition, airfare, living costs (approx. AUD 30,000/year)
- Level: Undergraduate, postgraduate
- Eligibility: Students from Asia, the Pacific, Africa, and the Middle East
- Deadline: Usually by April each year
2. Destination Australia Program
Encourages students to study in regional Australia.
- Value: Up to AUD 15,000/year
- Level: Undergrad, postgrad
- Location: Regional campuses only
3. Research Training Program (RTP)
Ideal for Masters by Research and PhD students.
- Covers: Tuition + living stipend (AUD 29,000+/year)
- Eligibility: Research-based students at participating universities
Which Universities Offer the Best Scholarships for International Students?
University of Melbourne International Scholarships
- Value: Up to 100% tuition fee waiver
- Eligibility: Based on academic merit
UNSW International Scholarships
- Range: AUD 5,000–20,000/year
- Programs: Undergrad & postgrad
University of Sydney International Scholarships
- Value: AUD 40,000 over 4 years
- Requirement: Strong academic record
Monash International Leadership Scholarship
- Benefit: Full tuition fee waiver
- Highly competitive
Australian National University (ANU) Chancellor’s Scholarship
- Value: Up to AUD 25,000
- Additional housing discounts may apply
How to Apply for Scholarships in Australia for 2025?
Applying isn’t too complicated, but it is competitive. Here is a step-by-step breakdown:
- Shortlist universities and scholarships early
- Check eligibility: most require a minimum GPA and English test scores
- Prepare documents: transcripts, SOP, resume, reference letters
- Apply to the university first
- Submit scholarship applications (if separate)
Tip: Some scholarships are automatic, you don’t need a separate form.
Comparison Table: Top Scholarships for 2025
Scholarship Name | Coverage | Who Can Apply | Deadline |
Australia Awards | Full tuition + stipend + travel | Dev. countries (Asia, etc) | April |
Destination Australia | AUD 15,000/year | Regional uni students | Varies |
RTP | Tuition + AUD 29k+ stipend | Research students | Varies |
UniMelb Int’l Scholarships | Up to 100% tuition waiver | High achievers | Rolling |
UNSW Scholarships | AUD 5k–20k/year | All int’l students | Nov/Dec |
Monash Leadership | Full tuition | Exceptional achievers | Feb/July |
ANU Chancellor’s | Up to AUD 25,000 | All int’l students | Rolling |
Conclusion
Absolutely. If you’ve got the grades and the drive, Australia wants you here and they’re willing to help fund your journey. Whether you land a full-ride or a smaller grant, every bit helps reduce your stress and lets you focus on what matters: your studies.
Start early, stay organized, and don’t hesitate to reach out to university advisors or official portals for help.
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Frequently Asked Questions
1. What are the top scholarships in Australia for international students in 2025?
Some of the top scholarships include Australia Awards, Destination Australia, RTP, and major university-specific scholarships like those from UniMelb and ANU.
2. Can I get a full scholarship to study in Australia?
Yes, full scholarships such as Australia Awards and Monash International Leadership Scholarship cover 100% tuition and may include living expenses.
3. When is the deadline to apply for Australian scholarships in 2025?
Deadlines vary, but most government scholarships close by April, while university scholarships can have rolling or semester-based deadlines.
4. Are there scholarships for undergraduate students in Australia?
Absolutely. Programs like Destination Australia and many university-specific awards cater to undergraduate international students.
5. Is IELTS required for Australian scholarships?
Yes, most scholarships require proof of English proficiency, typically IELTS, TOEFL, or PTE scores.
6. Can I apply for more than one scholarship in Australia?
Yes, you can apply to multiple scholarships, but you usually can only accept one major award at a time.
7. Do I need to apply separately for university scholarships in Australia?
Some scholarships are automatic with your admission application, while others require a separate scholarship form.
8. What GPA is required for an Australian scholarship?
A GPA of 6.0/7 or equivalent (around 3.0/4.0) is often considered competitive, but this varies by scholarship.
9. Are there scholarships specifically for Indian students in Australia?
Yes, many Australian universities offer India-focused scholarships such as the India Global Leaders Scholarship at UQ.
10. How much does an Australian scholarship typically cover?
Scholarships may cover full tuition, partial fees (AUD 5,000–25,000), or include living costs and travel expenses.
11. Do regional universities in Australia offer scholarships?
Yes, under the Destination Australia program, regional institutions provide up to AUD 15,000 per year in support.
12. What are the eligibility criteria for Australia Awards Scholarships?
You must be from a participating developing country, meet academic and English requirements, and return home post-study.
13. Are living expenses included in Australian scholarships?
Some government-funded scholarships cover monthly stipends, while most university scholarships are tuition-based only.
14. Can I get a scholarship to study in Australia without work experience?
Yes, most undergraduate and some postgraduate scholarships do not require prior work experience.
15. Do scholarships affect student visa approval in Australia?
No, but having a scholarship strengthens your financial support evidence during your visa application process.