Apart from the US, UK and Canada, Australia is among the most popular destinations for international students.
However, with recent changes to the international student cap, many prospective students have second thoughts about studying in Australia, especially those looking for permanent residency or post-study work opportunities.
There is one solution, however. International student scholarships in Australia are still available if you know where to look.
The best part? Some of them are fully funded.
Many prospective students see Australia as a great destination to study and settle down after graduation. Source: AFP
International student scholarships in Australia to check out
Australia Awards Scholarships (AAS)
The Australian government’s Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT) offers the Australia Awards Scholarships (AAS), which are fully-funded scholarships that support full-time undergraduate or postgraduate study at participating Australian universities and Technical and Further Education (TAFE) institutions.
Prospective applicants must be from a developing country, specifically citizens of one of the participating countries, predominantly in Asia, the Pacific, Africa, or the Middle East. View the full list here.
Other requirements are a strong academic record, along with demonstrated leadership potential.
However, do note that scholars are required to leave Australia for a minimum of two years after completing their scholarship.
The 2026 intake has closed, so for those interested in this opportunity, keep an eye out for the 2027 intake early next year.
The University of Sydney offers an International Scholarship that covers both tuition fees and stipend scholarships. Source: AFP
University of Sydney
One of the world’s top 50 universities, the University of Sydney offers a great option for international student scholarships in Australia.
The University of Sydney International Stipend Scholarship is awarded to international students commencing or currently enrolled in a higher degree by research.
This scholarship offers a stipend of US$27,014 per annum, along with relocation and thesis allowances. It also covers 100% of tuition fees for up to 14 research periods and includes Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC).
To be eligible, you’ll have to have an outstanding record of academic achievement and previous research experience, and apply within the relevant research periods.
University of Melbourne
This is one of the more unique international student scholarships in Australia — when you apply for a graduate course at the University of Melbourne, you are automatically considered for this scholarship.
Selection for the University of Melbourne Graduate Research Scholarships is based on academic results from previous studies and research potential, and is sought after by all high-achieving domestic and international students.
Benefits include full tuition fees — up to 4 years for doctoral, 2 years for Master’s by Research — and a fortnightly stipend of US$24,910 per year. There is also a one-off relocation allowance — US$1,294 for interstate and US$1,941 for international students — and a membership for Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC).
As mentioned, those applying for a graduate research course will not be required to submit a separate scholarship application; however, a separate application is still necessary for students who have deferred their course commencement or are currently enrolled in a graduate research course.
University of Technology Sydney
Those who apply to the University of Technology Sydney will automatically be assessed for its in-house scholarship programme, regardless of whether they’re pursuing undergraduate studies, postgraduate coursework, or postgraduate research levels. This makes it one of the more valuable international student scholarships in Australia.
Various scholarships are available that offer discounts between 20% to 75% for undergraduate and postgraduate students.
One standout is the Scholarship for Gaokao Students from People’s Republic of China, which offers a generous discount of up to 75% in hopes of attracting Chinese talent.
The Vice-Chancellor’s International Undergraduate Scholarship and the Vice-Chancellor’s International Postgraduate Coursework Scholarship provide full tuition coverage for the standard course duration; however, do note that these do not explicitly mention a living stipend.
On the other hand, the International Research Training Programme (IRTP) and the UTS President’s Scholarship explicitly provide full tuition coverage plus a living stipend for research degrees.
So if you’re interested, make sure to contact the university for more information.
Deakin University
Deakin University offers a few options for international student scholarships in Australia.
Its main offering is the Vice-Chancellor’s International Scholarship, which is awarded to students with consistently high academic performance and the potential to contribute to the university and its communities.
Upon successful application, scholars will be required to participate in the Vice-Chancellor’s Professional Excellence Programme, a personal and professional development course to help build professional networks and explore career opportunities.
For those who are unsuccessful, however, don’t fret just yet — unsuccessful applicants of the Deakin Vice-Chancellor’s International Scholarship will automatically be considered for the Deakin International Scholarship, which still offers a substantial discount on tuition fees.
There is also the Research Training Programme Scholarship (RTP)/Deakin University Postgraduate Research Scholarship (DUPR). The Australian government funds the RTP, while the university financially supports the DUPR scholarship.
Victoria University
Victoria University welcomes students to apply for its international research scholarships, which provide financial assistance to those with excellent academic qualifications who are participating in postgraduate research.
It includes a living allowance of $22,640 per year, Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), and a full tuition fee exemption.
Applicants must have achieved an average grade of H1 (above 80% VU Standard) in the Honours or final year, and meet the university’s English language proficiency requirements for enrolment in a research degree.
Priority is given to applicants who have not already obtained a PhD.
Carnegie Mellon University
Carnegie Mellon University in Adelaide offers three types of full-tuition scholarships for those pursuing their PhD at the institution.
The scholarships are awarded to first-year PhD candidates, second through sixth-year PhD candidates who remain in good standing, and PhD candidates in a joint degree programme.
International students do not need to submit a separate form for financial aid applications. They are automatically considered for funding at the time of admission.
Disclaimer: This article was last updated on June 19, 2025.
