Australia has become one of the world's most sought-after study destinations for international students, offering world-class education combined with generous scholarship opportunities. In 2026, Australian universities and the government continue to provide fully funded, partial, and merit-based scholarships to attract talented students globally.

With over 200 scholarship programs available, international students can find financial support for undergraduate, master's, and PhD programs. This guide covers everything you need to know about securing scholarships in Australia for 2026, including eligibility requirements, application processes, and tips to maximize your chances.

Table of Contents

1. Why Study in Australia?
2. Types of Scholarships
   1. Government-Funded Scholarships
   2. University-Specific Scholarships
   3. Private and Corporate Scholarships
   4. Research Scholarships
3. Top Fully Funded Scholarships in Australia for International Students
   1. Australia Awards Scholarships
   2. Research Training Program (RTP)
4. Fully Funded Undergraduate Scholarship in Australia for International Students
   1. Australia Awards Undergraduate Scholarships
   2. University-Specific Undergraduate Scholarships
   3. Application Requirements for Undergraduate Scholarships
5. Master's Scholarships in Australia for International Students
   1. Australia Awards Master's Scholarships
   2. University Master's Scholarships
6. How to Get Scholarships for International Students in Australia: Detailed Steps
7. Tips to Increase Scholarship Chances
8. Conclusion
9. FAQs - Scholarship for International Students in Australia

 

Why Study in Australia?

Australia offers compelling advantages that make it a top choice for international education:

World-Class Education System: Australian universities consistently rank among the global top 100, with institutions like the University of Melbourne, Australian National University, and University of Sydney leading in research and innovation.

Post-Study Work Opportunities: International graduates can access post-study work visas ranging from 2 to 4 years, depending on their qualification level, providing valuable career experience.

Multicultural Environment: With students from over 190 countries, Australia provides a welcoming, diverse community that enriches the learning experience.

Quality of Life: Australian cities regularly top global livability rankings, offering excellent healthcare, safety, and lifestyle amenities.

Research and Innovation: Australia invests heavily in research infrastructure, making it ideal for students pursuing advanced studies and research-intensive programs.

Practical Learning Approach: Australian education emphasizes hands-on experience, industry connections, and employability skills that prepare graduates for global careers.

 

Types of Scholarships

Understanding the different scholarship categories helps you identify the best opportunities for your situation:

Government-Funded Scholarships

These scholarships are sponsored by the Australian government to promote educational exchange and international relations. The Australia Awards Scholarship is the flagship government program, offering comprehensive support including tuition, living expenses, and travel costs.

University-Specific Scholarships

Individual universities offer merit-based and need-based scholarships to attract talented international students. These range from partial tuition waivers to fully funded packages covering all expenses.

Private and Corporate Scholarships

Organizations, foundations, and companies provide scholarships aligned with their values or industry needs. These often target specific fields like engineering, business, or sustainable development.

Research Scholarships

Designed for postgraduate research students, these scholarships support doctoral and master's by research programs, often including stipends for living expenses alongside tuition coverage.

 

Top Fully Funded Scholarships in Australia for International Students

1. Australia Awards Scholarships

The Australia Awards Scholarship represents the premier fully funded scholarship in Australia for international students. Funded by the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade, this program targets students from developing countries in the Indo-Pacific region.

Coverage: Full tuition fees, return airfare, establishment allowance, living expenses (approximately AUD 34,500 annually), health insurance, and pre-departure training.

Eligibility: Citizens of eligible countries pursuing undergraduate or postgraduate studies in priority development areas.

Application Timeline: Applications typically open in February with deadlines around April-May for the following academic year.

2. Research Training Program (RTP)

The RTP supports high-achieving research students pursuing postgraduate research degrees at Australian universities.

Coverage: Full or partial tuition fees, living stipend (approximately AUD 34,315 to AUD 53,608 annually), and overseas health cover.

Eligibility: Domestic and international students with strong academic records pursuing research master's or doctoral degrees.

Application Process: Apply through individual universities, which allocate RTP scholarships based on merit.

 

Fully Funded Undergraduate Scholarship in Australia for International Students

1. Australia Awards Undergraduate Scholarships

These prestigious scholarships specifically target undergraduate students from select countries in the Pacific and Southeast Asia.

Key Features:

• Complete tuition coverage
• Living allowance covering accommodation, food, and personal expenses
• Establishment allowance
• Comprehensive health insurance through Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC)
• Return international airfare
• Introductory academic program and support services

Priority Fields: Development-related disciplines, including agriculture, education, health, governance, and infrastructure.

Participating Universities: Scholarships are available at designated Australian universities with strong development programs.

2. University-Specific Undergraduate Scholarships

University of Sydney International Scholarships: Merit-based awards offering up to full tuition reduction for exceptional undergraduate students.

Monash International Merit Scholarship: Merit-based for high-achieving students across all undergraduate disciplines.

University of Melbourne International Undergraduate Scholarship: Offers tuition remission and a living allowance to outstanding students from specific countries.

RMIT International Excellence Scholarship: Covers up to full tuition for students demonstrating academic excellence and leadership potential.

Application Requirements for Undergraduate Scholarships

Most fully funded undergraduate scholarships require:

• Completed secondary education with outstanding grades (typically 3.70 GPA or higher)
• English language proficiency (IELTS 6.5-7.0 or equivalent)
• Evidence of leadership, community service, or extracurricular achievements
• Personal statement explaining educational goals and potential impact
• Academic references from teachers 
• Admission to an eligible undergraduate program

 

Master's Scholarships in Australia for International Students

1. Australia Awards Master's Scholarships

These remain the most comprehensive master's scholarships in Australia for international students, offering complete financial support.

Covered Expenses:

• Full tuition for 1-2 year master's programs
• Living stipends
• Health and travel insurance
• Return economy airfare
• Supplementary academic support if required
• Family support for eligible candidates with dependents

Strategic Priority Areas: Agriculture, climate change, natural resource management, governance, infrastructure, education reform, health systems strengthening, and public sector governance.

2. University Master's Scholarships

Australian National University Research Scholarships: Full tuition plus AUD 39,069 annual stipend for research master's students.

University of Queensland Graduate School Scholarships: Various awards covering tuition reduction and living allowances for coursework and research master's programs.

University of Adelaide Global Academic Excellence Scholarship: 50% tuition fee reduction for high-achieving master's students.

Macquarie University International Scholarships: Up to AUD 10,000 annually for outstanding master's students across all disciplines.

 

How to Get Scholarships for International Students in Australia: Detailed Steps

Step 1: Research and Identify Suitable Scholarships (6-12 months before application)

Start your scholarship search early by:

• Visiting official scholarship databases like Study Australia and university websites
• Reviewing eligibility criteria carefully for nationality, academic requirements, and field restrictions
• Creating a spreadsheet tracking scholarship names, deadlines, requirements, and application links

Step 2: Assess Your Eligibility and Competitiveness

Honestly evaluate your profile against scholarship requirements:

• Calculate your GPA and understand how it converts to Australian grading scales
• Take English proficiency tests (IELTS, TOEFL, PTE) well in advance to achieve the required scores
• Review your extracurricular activities, leadership roles, and community engagement
• Identify gaps in your application and work to strengthen weak areas

Step 3: Prepare Required Documents (3-6 months before deadline)

Gather essential application materials:

• Academic Transcripts: Official records from all previous institutions, certified and translated if necessary
• Degree Certificates: Attested copies of completed qualifications
• English Proficiency Results: Valid test scores meeting scholarship requirements
• Identification Documents: Passport copies and birth certificates
• Academic References: Two to three letters from professors who know your work well
• Professional References: Letters from employers for scholarships requiring work experience
• Curriculum Vitae: Comprehensive CV highlighting academic achievements, work experience, skills, and achievements

Step 4: Craft Compelling Application Essays

Your personal statement is often the decisive factor:

• Address the Prompt Directly: Answer exactly what the scholarship asks, staying within word limits
• Tell Your Story: Explain your background, motivations, and how this scholarship fits your journey
• Demonstrate Impact: Show how your education will benefit your community or country
• Be Specific: Use concrete examples and achievements rather than general statements
• Show Fit: Explain why this specific program and university align with your goals
• Proofread Thoroughly: Have multiple people review your essays for clarity and errors

Step 5: Secure Strong Letters of Recommendation

Quality recommendations significantly strengthen applications:

• Choose referees who know your work intimately and can provide specific examples
• Provide referees with your CV, personal statement, and scholarship details

Step 6: Apply for University Admission Simultaneously

Most scholarships require or prefer accepted students:

• Apply for admission to your chosen programs early
• Ensure your academic program aligns with scholarship field restrictions
• Keep track of both admission and scholarship deadlines, which may differ

Step 7: Submit Applications Before Deadlines

Avoid last-minute stress by:

• Completing applications at least one week before deadlines
• Double-checking that all required documents are attached in the correct formats
• Keeping copies of all submitted materials for your records

Step 8: Prepare for Interviews (if shortlisted)

Some scholarships require interviews:

• Research common scholarship interview questions and practice responses
• Prepare to discuss your application materials in depth
• Demonstrate cultural awareness and understanding of Australia
• Ensure good internet connectivity for virtual interviews

Step 9: Accept Offers and Complete Pre-Departure Requirements

If successful:

• Accept scholarship offers within specified timeframes
• Complete visa applications with scholarship documentation
• Attend pre-departure orientations offered by scholarship providers
• Arrange accommodation and understand living costs in your destination city
• Connect with other scholarship recipients and the university's international student services
• Prepare for cultural adjustment and academic expectations in Australia

 

Tips to Increase Scholarship Chances

Start Early and Stay Organized

Students who begin their scholarship search early have significantly higher success rates. Create a detailed timeline for test preparation, document collection, and application submission.

Tailor Each Application

Generic applications rarely succeed. Customize the essay and application to reflect the specific scholarship's values, priorities, and selection criteria. Research the scholarship provider's mission and demonstrate alignment.

Highlight Leadership and Community Impact

Scholarship providers seek students who will become change-makers. Emphasize leadership roles, volunteer work, community projects, and initiatives where you've made measurable differences. Quantify your impact whenever possible.

Demonstrate Clear Career Goals

Articulate a specific, realistic career path that shows how the scholarship will enable you to contribute to your field or your country's development. Vague aspirations weaken applications.

Perfect Your English Language Skills

Strong English proficiency scores (IELTS 7.0+ or equivalent) dramatically improve scholarship competitiveness. Invest time in language preparation even if you meet the minimum requirements.

Seek Multiple References from Different Contexts

Diversify your recommendation letters with perspectives from academic professors, employers, and community leaders who can speak to different aspects of your capabilities and character.

Show Academic Excellence Consistently

One outstanding semester isn't enough. Demonstrate sustained academic achievement throughout your educational history with consistently high grades and intellectual curiosity.

Apply to Multiple Scholarships

Don't put all your hopes on one scholarship. Apply to 4-5 different opportunities to maximize your chances. Many students receive multiple offers and can choose the best fit.

Demonstrate Cultural Adaptability

Show evidence of cross-cultural experiences, language learning, or international exposure that indicates you'll thrive in Australia's multicultural environment.

Proofread and Seek Feedback

Grammatical errors and typos suggest carelessness. Have teachers, professionals, or native English speakers review your materials before submission.

Show Genuine Passion

Authenticity resonates with selection committees. Write with genuine enthusiasm about your field, your goals, and your potential contribution rather than what you think they want to hear.

 

Conclusion

Securing a scholarship for international students in Australia is competitive but entirely achievable with proper preparation, strategic planning, and compelling applications. The fully funded scholarships in Australia for international students, including the prestigious Australia Awards Scholarship and various university-specific programs, offer life-changing opportunities for talented students worldwide.

Whether you're seeking fully funded undergraduate scholarships in Australia for international students or master's scholarships in Australia for international students, success depends on starting early, understanding eligibility requirements, crafting authentic applications, and demonstrating how your education will create a meaningful impact.

Begin your scholarship journey today. Research opportunities aligned with your goals, strengthen your application profile, and take the first step toward studying in Australia with full financial support. Your future in Australian education awaits - make 2026 the year you turn your academic dreams into reality.

Contact Possible International Educational Consultancy today, and we will help you accomplish your study goals effectively and hassle-free.

 

FAQs - Scholarship for International Students in Australia

1. Can international students get a full scholarship in Australia?

Yes, international students can get fully funded scholarships in Australia. The Australia Awards Scholarships provide complete funding, including tuition, living expenses, establishment allowance, airfare, and health insurance. Universities also offer full scholarships, like the Research Training Program and university-specific merit awards.

2. Which university in Australia gives 100% scholarships?

Several universities offer 100% scholarships: Australian National University (ANU Research Scholarships), University of Melbourne (Melbourne Graduate Research Scholarships), University of Sydney (International Scholarships), and Monash University (International Merit Scholarships). Eligibility depends on academic excellence, with most requiring 3.70+ grades and strong research potential.

3. How to get a scholarship in Australia from Nepal?

Nepalese students can apply for Australia Awards Scholarships. Applications typically open in February. You need strong academic records (3.70+ aggregate), IELTS 6.5+, and admission to an Australian university. Visit the Australia Awards website and check eligibility for your field of study.

4. How do I get a scholarship in Australia?

Start early by researching scholarships on Study Australia and university websites. Achieve strong grades, score IELTS 6.5-7.0+, secure admission to Australian universities, and prepare compelling applications with personal statements explaining your goals and impact. Apply to multiple scholarships (4-5) to increase chances, and submit all documents before deadlines.

5. How to get a 100% scholarship?

To secure 100% scholarships: maintain excellent academic records (3.70+ GPA), demonstrate leadership through community service and extracurricular activities, achieve high English proficiency scores (IELTS 7.0+), write compelling essays showing clear career goals and social impact, obtain strong recommendation letters, and apply early to programs like Australia Awards, RTP scholarships, and top university merit awards.

6. Who is eligible for an Australian scholarship?

Eligibility varies by scholarship but generally requires: citizenship from eligible countries (check specific scholarship requirements), completion of previous education level with strong grades, English proficiency (IELTS 6.5-7.0 depending on program), admission to an Australian university, meeting age requirements (typically no upper limit), and for some scholarships, commitment to return to home country after studies.