As of June 2025, over 839,000 international students are studying in Australia, making it one of the world’s top study destinations (Department of Education). But with rising tuition and living costs, funding your education can be daunting. That’s where fully funded scholarships in Australia make a real difference. From prestigious Australia Awards and Research Training Program (RTP) grants to university-specific opportunities like the Melbourne International Scholarships and ANU Chancellor’s Scholarships, these awards can cover tuition, living stipends, health insurance, and even travel costs.
To help you navigate this competitive landscape, we’ve created the definitive guide to Australian scholarships, breaking down eligibility, deadlines, and insider tips so you can maximise your chances of funding your dream education Down Under.
What Types of Scholarships in Australia Are Available?
Australian universities, the government, and private organisations offer hundreds of scholarships designed to attract top international talent. Some of the most popular options include the Australia Awards Scholarship, the Research Training Program (RTP), the Maitri Scholarship, and university-funded options like the University of Melbourne Graduate Research Scholarship or the ANU Chancellor’s International Scholarship. Each of these has its own eligibility rules and benefits, ranging from full tuition fee coverage to generous stipends.
1. Government-Funded Scholarships
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Government scholarships are among the most prestigious and comprehensive awards for international students. They typically cover tuition fees, living expenses, travel allowances, and health insurance.
Key Government-Funded Scholarships for Indian Students:
| Scholarship | Offered By | Coverage / Benefits |
|---|---|---|
| Australia Awards Scholarships | Australian Government (DFAT) | Full tuition fees, living stipend AU$34,500/year (₹19.7 lakh), travel, OSHC, establishment allowance, academic support |
| Research Training Program (RTP) Scholarships | Australian Department of Education | Up to AU$143,000 (₹81.9 lakh), covering tuition, living allowance, relocation, thesis allowance, OSHC |
| Maitri Scholarship | Centre for Australia-India Relations | Up to AU$380,000 (₹2.17Cr), covering tuition, living allowance, and additional support |
| Destination Australia Program | Australian Government | Scholarships for domestic and international students studying in regional Australia, supporting regional campuses and local communities |
2. University-Specific Scholarships
Virtually every Australian university offers its own financial aid programs. These can be based on:
- Academic Merit: Awarded to high-achieving students.
- Field of Study: Specific to certain faculties like Engineering, Business, or Science.
- Student Background: Aimed at students from specific countries or regions.
Key University-Funded Scholarships for Indian Students:
| Scholarship | University | Coverage / Benefits |
|---|---|---|
| University of Sydney International Scholarships | University of Sydney | Up to AU$40,000 (₹22.9 lakh) in 2 instalments, covering tuition + living support |
| Monash International Leadership Scholarship | Monash University | 100% tuition fee coverage |
| University of Melbourne Graduate Research Scholarships | University of Melbourne | AU$10,000 (₹5.7 lakh) in the first year or a 50% tuition fee waiver for 3 years |
| ANU Chancellor’s International Scholarships | Australian National University | 25% or 50% tuition fee waiver |
| Dean's International Management Scholarship | Melbourne Business School | Up to 100% tuition coverage |
| Adelaide Global Excellence Scholarships | University of Adelaide | 50% tuition fee reduction + AU$30,000 (₹17.1 lakh) stipend |
| Deakin Vice-Chancellor’s International Scholarship | Deakin University | 100% tuition fees covered |
Top 10 Scholarships in Australia for International Students
Australia invests heavily in scholarships for international students, covering tuition, living expenses, health insurance, and sometimes travel. These scholarships are offered by the Australian Government, universities, and special initiatives. Below are the top 10 scholarships for international students.
1. Australia Awards Scholarships
- Offered By: Australian Government (DFAT)
- Coverage: Full tuition fees, living stipend AU$34,500/year (₹19.7 lakh), travel, OSHC, establishment allowance, academic support
- Eligibility: Citizens of participating countries, 18+ years, not married to Australian/NZ citizens, no criminal/military restrictions
- Deadline: Usually April (2026 intake: 30 April 2025)
- Language Proficiency: IELTS 6.5, TOEFL iBT 84
2. Research Training Program (RTP) Scholarships
- Offered By: Australian Department of Education
- Coverage: Up to AU$143,000 (₹81.9 lakh), including tuition, stipend, relocation, thesis allowance, OSHC
- Eligibility: Admission to a research degree at a participating university; previous RTP recipients must meet residency conditions
- Deadline:
- Round 1 – October
- Round 2 – April (varies by university)
- Language Proficiency: IELTS 6.5, TOEFL iBT 84
3. University of Sydney International Research Scholarships (USydIS)
- Offered By: University of Sydney
- Coverage: Full tuition, annual stipend AU$43,841 (₹25.1 lakh), relocation allowance, thesis allowance, OSHC
- Eligibility: International students enrolled in a master’s by research or PhD with an exceptional academic/research record
- Deadline: September/December
- Language Proficiency: IELTS 6.5, TOEFL iBT 85
4. Monash International Merit Scholarships
- Offered By: Monash University
- Coverage: Up to AU$50,000 (₹28.6 lakh) over the course duration
- Eligibility: International students with an exceptional academic record, a full course offer, maintain a distinction average
- Deadline: October
- Language Proficiency: IELTS 6.5, TOEFL iBT 79
5. Melbourne International Undergraduate Scholarships
- Offered By: University of Melbourne
- Coverage: 25% fee remission for the course duration
- Eligibility: Indian citizens with an unconditional undergrad offer, top 3% secondary school results, and no prior tertiary studies
- Deadline
- Semester 1: 31 Oct
- Semester 2: 31 Mar
- Language Proficiency: IELTS 6.5, TOEFL iBT 79
6. ANU Chancellor’s International Scholarships
- Offered By: Australian National University
- Coverage: 25–50% tuition fee waiver (₹15.5 - ₹31 lakh)
- Eligibility: International students not holding Australian/NZ citizenship or PR, not attending ANU, not in excluded programs
- Deadline: November/May
- Language Proficiency: IELTS 6.5, TOEFL iBT 79
7. Dean's International Management Scholarship
- Offered By: Melbourne Business School
- Coverage: Full tuition fees AU$81,400 (₹46.6 lakh)
- Eligibility: Full-time MBA international applicants, GMAT ≥695, no other tuition scholarships
- Deadline: January 22, 2026
- Language Proficiency: IELTS 7.0, TOEFL iBT 102
8. Adelaide Scholarships International (ASI)
- Offered By: University of Adelaide
- Coverage: Tuition fees, living stipend AU$28,092/year (₹16.1 lakh), OSHC
- Eligibility: International students admitted to a master’s by research or PhD, strong academic record, and no other scholarships
- Deadline: February/May
- Language Proficiency: IELTS 6.5, TOEFL iBT 79
9. Maitri Scholarships
- Offered By: Centre for Australia-India Relations
- Coverage: Full tuition fees AU$30,000 - AU$45,000/year (₹17.1 – ₹25.7 lakh)
- Eligibility: Indian citizens, nominated by an Australian university, meet age/marital/residency conditions
- Deadline: November
- Language Proficiency: Not specified
10. Deakin Vice-Chancellor’s International Scholarship
- Offered By: Deakin University
- Coverage: 100% or 50% tuition fees AU$30,000 - AU$45,000/year (₹17.1 - ₹25.7 lakh)
- Eligibility: International students with ≥85% average, must participate in the VCPEP program
- Deadline: At least one month before course commencement
- Language Proficiency: IELTS 6.5, TOEFL iBT 79
Top Postgraduate Scholarships in Australia for Indian Students
| Scholarship | Offered By | Coverage / Benefits |
|---|---|---|
| Macquarie University India Scholarship | Macquarie University | AU$10,000 (~₹5.7L) per year for Bachelor’s or Master’s coursework |
| Tata Scholarships | Tata Trusts | Interest-free loan (repayable, not a grant) |
| AGSM Global Reach Scholarship | UNSW Business School (AGSM) | Full tuition waiver for the Full-Time MBA program |
Top Scholarships For a PhD in Australia for International Students
Australia ranks 4th globally as a PhD destination, with 42 universities offering fully funded opportunities.
| Scholarship | Offered By | Coverage / Details |
|---|---|---|
| CSIRO Data61 PhD Scholarships | CSIRO | Years 1-2: AU$42,000 (~₹24L) Year 3: AU$44,000 (~₹25.2L) Top-up scholarships up to AU$10,000 (~₹5.7L) |
| Griffith University International Postgraduate Research Scholarships (GUIPRS) | Griffith University | Tuition fully covered up to 3.5 years, stipend AU$34,752 (~₹19.9L), OSHC included |
| Deakin University Postgraduate Research Scholarships (DUPRS) | Deakin University | Stipend AU$35,550 (~₹20.3L), tuition fee offset up to 4 years, OSHC and relocation allowance |
| University of Queensland IMB Global Challenges PhD Top-up Scholarship | University of Queensland | Top-up AU$5,000/year (₹2.8L), supports placement and career development, tuition/living not covered |
Who is Eligible? Australia Scholarship Eligibility Criteria for Indian Students
Australia scholarship eligibility criteria vary significantly between programs, but most consider a combination of the following factors:
- Academic Achievement: This is the most common criterion. Universities want to see a strong academic record.
- Nationality and Residence: Most scholarships for international students are restricted to non-Australian citizens.
- Course and Level of Study: Some scholarships are only for undergraduate students, while others target scholarships in Australia for master's or PhD candidates.
- English Language Proficiency: You must meet the university's English language requirements (e.g., IELTS, TOEFL scores).
- Other Factors: Leadership qualities, community involvement, work experience, and your statement of purpose can also be critical.
How to Apply for Scholarships in Australia?
Winning a scholarship in Australia isn’t just about luck; it’s about strategy. Indian students can maximise their chances by taking a structured, step-by-step approach: from identifying the right scholarships and meeting eligibility criteria to preparing a standout application that highlights academic excellence, leadership, and community impact. With the right plan, funding your Australian education becomes far more achievable.
Step 1: Start Your Research
Begin your search at least 12-18 months before your intended intake. Use university scholarship portals and reputable aggregator websites. Create a spreadsheet to track deadlines, requirements, and application links.
Step 2: Prepare a Standout Application Package
Your application is your story. Make it compelling.
- Academic Transcripts: Ensure you have official, translated copies.
- Proof of English Proficiency: Book your IELTS (minimum 7.0 overall is often required), TOEFL, or PTE test well in advance.
- Curriculum Vitae (CV): Highlight your academic achievements, leadership roles, volunteer work, and relevant employment.
- Statement of Purpose (SOP): This is crucial. Explain your academic goals, why you chose the specific university and course, and how you will contribute to the university community. Tailor each SOP to the specific scholarship.
- Letters of Recommendation (LORs): Choose referees (like professors or employers) who know you well and can speak to your strengths authentically.
Step 3: Submit a Flawless, Early Application
Pay close attention to detail. Ensure you’ve answered all questions and attached all documents. Submitting before the deadline shows professionalism and gives you a buffer for any technical issues.
Tips for Bagging Fully Funded Scholarships in Australia for Indian Students
Australia continues to attract international students, with over 839,000 enrolments as of June 2025 (Department of Education). Indian students represent a significant portion of this demographic, with numbers steadily increasing in recent years. With numerous scholarship opportunities available, including those at institutions in regions like Wollongong and New South Wales, it's an opportune time to consider studying in Australia.
Here are some tips to help you secure a fully funded scholarship in Australia.
- Start Early: Begin your scholarship search and application process 12 months before deadlines. This allows ample time to gather necessary documents, meet language proficiency requirements, and tailor your applications effectively.
- Understand Eligibility: Thoroughly check the scholarship requirements, including academic qualifications and language proficiency.
- Strong Application Materials: Prepare clear, error-free application documents like transcripts, recommendation letters, and personal statements.
- Personal Statement: Craft a compelling statement that aligns your goals with the scholarship’s objectives.
- Apply Broadly: Don’t limit yourself; apply for multiple scholarships to improve your odds.
- Follow Instructions: Adhere strictly to application guidelines regarding format and submission.
- Get Feedback: Have your application reviewed by someone experienced before submitting it.
- Manage Deadlines: Maintain a calendar of all scholarship deadlines and requirements. Being organised ensures you submit complete and timely applications.
- Interview Preparation: If shortlisted, you may be invited for an interview. Practice common interview questions, articulate your motivations clearly, and demonstrate your enthusiasm for the opportunity.
- Stay Positive: The application process for fully funded scholarships in Australia can be competitive and challenging. Stay positive, be persistent, and learn from any feedback received to improve future applications
Conclusion: Your Next Steps for Studying in Australia
The path to securing fully funded scholarships in Australia is clear: it requires diligence, exceptional preparation, and a proactive mindset. You now understand the types of scholarships available, the key eligibility criteria, and a proven step-by-step application strategy. While the competition is strong, your dedicated effort can set you apart. Remember, investing time in your scholarship applications is an investment in your future.
Ready to take the next step toward your education in Australia? Leap Scholar is here to guide you every step of the way - from choosing the right university to visa assistance, SOP review, scholarship selection, and so much more. Connect with a Leapscholar counsellor now!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
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How can I get a full scholarship in Australia?
Fully funded scholarships in Australia are rare. Focus on applying for fully funded scholarships in Australia, like the Australia Awards Scholarships. Most scholarships consider academic performance, leadership skills, and sometimes work experience. You should also meet the Australia scholarship eligibility criteria and submit a strong application highlighting why you deserve the funding. Research scholarships in Australia for Master's or other programs relevant to your course.
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Which country gives 100% scholarships in Australia for Indian students?
Several countries offer fully funded scholarships for Indian students, but fully funded scholarships in Australia are a top choice. Programs like the Australia Awards Scholarships cover tuition, living costs, and airfare, allowing you to study in Australia for free if selected. Other countries may offer similar benefits, but Australia remains one of the most structured and popular options.
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Where can I get a 100% scholarship?
You can apply for fully funded scholarships in Australia through programs like the Australia Awards Scholarships, university-specific scholarships in Australia for Indian students, or other government-funded scholarships in Australia.
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Who is eligible for Australia Awards?
The Australia Awards Scholarships are open to Indian students who meet the Australia scholarship eligibility criteria, including strong academic performance, leadership potential, and a commitment to contribute to their home country after graduation. Applicants must typically hold at least a bachelor’s degree and meet any program-specific requirements.
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What percentage is required for Scholarships in Australia?
Most scholarships in Australia are merit-based, so high academic performance is essential. Typically, universities expect students to be in the top 10-15% of their class or have a 75–85% average in previous studies. Some programs, like undergraduate international scholarships, may require being in the top 3% of your school or board exams.
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