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Scholarship in Australia: Requirements and how to apply
Live your university experience and enjoy one of the scholarships to study in Australia! Here's how you can be one of the beneficiaries.
If you’re looking to secure a scholarship to study in Australia but don’t know where to start, this article will clear up your doubts. Australia is a top study destination, attracting many students eager to pursue a university degree, master’s, or PhD. However, the high costs of tuition, housing, transportation, and living expenses can be a major challenge.
That’s why the Australian government plans to continue offering numerous scholarships in 2025 to attract international talent. Some not only cover tuition but also provide additional support to help with living expenses. Here, we’ll break down the key requirements and details of the top five scholarships for studying in Australia. Stay with us and get ready for an adventure in the world’s sixth-largest country!
Top 5 scholarships to study in Australia
Australia, the largest country in Oceania, is home to vibrant cities like Sydney and Melbourne, where some of its most prestigious universities are located. Known for its high academic standards and excellent education system, it also offers a rich cultural scene in its modern cities, along with vast, untouched landscapes waiting to be explored.
If you’re looking to study in Australia, there are many scholarships—both government and private—that can help. With a scholarship, you’ll get a student visa to stay legally until you finish your program. It’s also a good idea to have a reliable internet plan, like Holafly’s eSIM, to stay connected and track your application. Want to know the best scholarships available? Keep reading!
1. Australia Awards Scholarships (Australian Government Scholarships)
The Australia Awards scholarships, funded by the Australian government and the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade, aim to strengthen international ties and support future leaders. They are designed for international students who cannot afford tuition at an Australian university. Here are the key requirements:
- General requirements: Must be a citizen of an eligible country, have a good academic record, not be married to an Australian and have relevant work experience in the area of study.
- Coverage and benefits: Full or partial tuition waiver, living expenses, medical insurance and cultural support.
- Type of studies offered: Postgraduate studies, research or professional training programs.
- Aimed at: International students, members of the countries participating in the program.
- Form: Available on its official website (www.australiaawards.com.au).
- Opening date: February of each year.
- Closing date: April and May.
2. Destination Australia Scholarships (Department of Education)
This scholarship is available for both international and Australian students looking to study at universities in regional areas. It’s a government initiative aimed at boosting education in less populated communities and supporting rural development. If you’re open to living in a smaller, less well-known town, this could be a great opportunity. Here are the eligibility requirements:
- General requirements: Enrolled or accepted in a university located in a rural region, have a good academic record and show interest in residing in that area.
- Coverage and benefits: Up to $15,000 AUD per year ($9,500 USD) to cover tuition and living expenses.
- Type of studies offered: Undergraduate, master’s and technical programs.
- Aimed at: International and local students interested in exploring opportunities in less urbanized regions of Australia.
- Form: Directly through the participating universities, details of which are available on the official website (www.studyaustralia.gov.au).
- Opening date: Varies according to each institution, but usually starts between February and March.
- Closing date: Depending on the selected university.
3. University of Melbourne Scholarships
The University of Melbourne, founded in 1853, is one of Australia’s most prestigious and oldest institutions. It has educated many prominent politicians and boasts eight Nobel laureates among its faculty and researchers. The university offers several scholarships for international students, including the Melbourne International Undergraduate Scholarship:
- General requirements: Outstanding previous academic achievement and have been accepted into an undergraduate program at the University of Melbourne.
- Coverage and benefits: Partial or full tuition waiver, depending on the program and the assessment of the scholarship committee.
- Type of studies offered: Undergraduate in multiple disciplines.
- Aimed at: International students with outstanding academic records.
- Form: Applicants are automatically considered upon admission to the university, (www.unimelb.edu.au)
- Opening date: January of each year.
- Closing date: September for the following academic year.
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4. Research Training Program (RTP) Scholarships
This program, supported by Australia’s Department of Education, is designed for both international and domestic students pursuing a research-based master’s or PhD. It offers funding for a minimum of three years, up to a maximum of four. As one of the top research scholarships in Australia, it’s highly competitive. Check below to see if you meet the requirements:
- General requirements: Have an offer of admission to a university affiliated with the program, an outstanding academic record and previous experience.
- Coverage and benefits: Full or partial payment of tuition fees, annual stipend of $33,511 AUD ($21,150 USD) and student health insurance.
- Type of studies offered: Research, higher education and doctoral programs.
- Aimed at: International and national students interested in pursuing a doctoral degree.
- Form: Must be filled out directly at each university. More information is available on the official website (www.education.gov.au).
- Opening date: Between March and July.
- Closing date: Between August and October.
5. International Excellence Scholarships (The University of Queensland)
Located in Brisbane, the University of Queensland is one of Australia’s oldest and most prestigious institutions. Ranked among the top 40 universities worldwide in the QS World University Rankings 2025, it offers scholarships aimed at attracting talented students from around the globe to its undergraduate and postgraduate programs. Here’s what you need to know before applying:
- General requirements: Must have obtained an offer of admission to an undergraduate or graduate program. Have an outstanding academic record. In addition, you must show leadership skills or outstanding extracurricular achievements.
- Coverage and benefits: 25% to 50% tuition discount. Access to mentoring programs and professional networks.
- Type of studies offered: Undergraduate and graduate studies in various areas.
- Aimed at: International students with high academic performance and leadership potential.
- Form: Fill out the online application form available on the university’s official website (www.scholarships.uq.edu.au)
- Opening date: January.
- Closing date: October for the following academic year.
Tips on how to obtain a scholarship in Australia
If you’re thinking about studying in Australia, it’s important to know that the cost of living can be quite high for students, especially when you have to cover tuition, books, transportation, food, and accommodation. That’s why it’s essential to apply for scholarships properly, keeping in mind the tips we’re about to share:
- Research their universities: Each institution has its own selection criteria and it is important to apply where your profile fits best.
- Make sure you meet the language requirements: Many Australian universities require an English proficiency certificate, like IELTS or TOEFL, with a minimum score. For highly competitive programs, a score above the minimum can give you an advantage.
- Highlight your academic background and experience: Highlight any relevant work, research, or leadership experience related to the program you’re applying for. In Australia, your academic background plays a key role in the scholarship decision.
- Consider scholarships for priority areas: There are scholarships focused on science or technology, so applying for a specific scholarship will increase your chances.
- Consult government and regional programs: Consider studying in a less sought-after region. These scholarships usually have more favorable conditions.
- Take advantage of Study Australia’s resources: The official Study Australia portal offers practical guides, up-to-date scholarship lists, and personalized advice for international students.
- Maintain a competitive international profile: Get involved in extracurricular activities, academic competitions, or international projects that showcase your abilities.
- Apply early: Calls for applications for scholarships in Australia usually close several months before the start of the academic year.
Featured universities to study in Australia
What area would you like to study and research? This is crucial for choosing the best university in the country that fits your interests. If you’re passionate about medicine, the University of Melbourne is an excellent choice for your medical career. If you’re focused on natural resources, the University of Western Australia would be the best fit for your research. Here are more top universities and their standout programs:
| University | Featured careers | Details |
| University of Melbourne | Medicine, Engineering, Law | Recognized for its academic excellence and high position in global rankings. |
| University of Sydney | Business, Social Sciences, Arts, | Offers a wide variety of scholarships for international students. |
| National University of Australia (ANU) | International Relations, Political Science, Technology | Leading research and development in Asia-Pacific. |
| Queensland University | Biotechnology, Environmental Sciences, Economics | It hosts cutting-edge programs in sustainability and the environment. |
| University of Monash | Pharmacology, Medical Sciences, Architecture | Famous for its scientific contributions and collaboration with international institutions. |
| University of Western Australia (UWA) | Marine Sciences, Agriculture, Geology | Focused on studies related to natural resources and sustainability. |
Frequently asked questions about scholarships to study in Australia
The Australia Awards scholarship is one of the country’s most generous, covering tuition, accommodation, flights, health insurance, and a monthly stipend, along with extra academic support and pre-course guidance.
Yes, most scholarships to study in Australia cover full tuition, as well as accommodation, flights, and living expenses through a monthly stipend.
The most common requirements across institutions are: an official English certification like IELTS or TOEFL, acceptance by an Australian university, an outstanding academic record, and a recommendation letter.
Yes, many scholarships don’t require previous work experience, especially those for undergraduate and academic master’s programs. However, for some doctoral scholarships, relevant professional experience is either required or considered an asset.
Generally, yes, but some scholarships may have country-specific restrictions. For instance, the Australia Awards favor students from developing countries, while most university scholarships are available to all international students.
Admissions are usually open between March and August, depending on the program. We recommend that you start researching the scholarship and gathering all the documentation a year before. This will give you enough time for official translations, additional certificates, etc.
