Scholarships in Australia: A Complete Guide 2025

Although studying at any Australian university is expensive, Australian universities and the government provide special financial support, i.e., scholarships in Australia. Getting scholarships in Australia is intense and competitive. A full scholarship covers all fees and living expenses for the students. Hundreds of scholarships are available at undergraduate, master’s, and doctoral degree levels for domestic and international applicants, especially from the best universities in Australia. Students who get these scholarships can easily start studying in Australia with amazing adventures. Here, we’ll explore the different conditions of scholarships in Australia.

Undergraduate and Master’s Scholarships in Australia

Undergraduate and master’s scholarships in Australia are generally NOT fully funded and are harder to obtain. Fully funded financial support is rarely available at lower levels of study, so students often face greater challenges in obtaining scholarships for undergraduate programs. Academic performance, especially grades and overall GPA, is a major factor when applying for undergraduate and master’s scholarships in Australia. Australian Tertiary Admission Rank (ATAR) score is another parameter that universities care about. Many Australian universities prefer students who perform exceptionally well. Let’s look at a few examples of undergraduate and graduate scholarships provided by different Australian universities to see what standards they frequently take into account.

Flinders University – Scholarships Australia

Aurora Women in STEM Scholarship Australia

This is one of the undergraduate scholarships in Australia that supports high-achieving women beginning their first year in a Bachelor’s of Science program at Flinders University, specifically those enrolled in PHYS1101 and PHYS1102. It has been made possible through the generous contribution of Associate Professor Maria Parappilly. One Aurora Woman scholarship, valued at 1,000 AUD, will be awarded annually as long as funding continues. The amount will be disbursed in two parts, following the census dates of each semester. Selection is based on academic performance, primarily ATAR scores. In the case of a tie, performance in relevant school subjects will be used as a deciding factor.

Bendigo Bank University Scholarship for Indigenous Students

The Bendigo Bank University Scholarship for Indigenous Students is designed to support Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander individuals of any age who are beginning their first Bachelor’s degree at an Australian university in 2024. It targets those passionate about community leadership who are facing difficult personal circumstances. The scholarship helps cover a range of education-related costs, including accommodation, course expenses (excluding HELP fees), study materials, equipment, textbooks, tutoring, and domestic educational travel. Each recipient will receive 6,500 AUD annually for two years, provided they meet the eligibility requirements and maintain satisfactory academic progress.

Griffith University – Scholarships Australia

Vice Chancellor’s Academic Achievement Scholarship

The Vice Chancellor’s Academic Achievement is one of the undergraduate scholarships in Australia designed by Griffith University to support commencing students. Valued at 15,000 AUD, the scholarship includes membership in the Student Academy of Excellence and access to a travel grant. Eligibility criteria include being an Australian citizen, permanent resident, New Zealand citizen, or international student who completed Years 11 and 12 in Australia, and achieving an unadjusted ATAR of 95.45 or above (or equivalent). The scholarship considers both academic excellence and educational disadvantages that applicants face, such as financial hardship or personal challenges.

Victoria University – International Scholarships Australia

STEM Accommodation Scholarship

The STEM Accommodation Scholarship at Victoria University (VU) offers eligible international students applying from outside Australia the opportunity to save up to 15,500 AUD through free accommodation at UniLodge VU for up to one year. The merit-based scholarship is available for students enrolling in STEM-related undergraduate or master’s degrees. Awards are given on a first-come, first-served basis and require strong academic performance. VU especially encourages female applicants as part of its initiative to close the gender gap in STEM. UniLodge VU provides a secure, friendly, and fully furnished living environment directly across from the Footscray Park campus.

University of Sydney – International Scholarships

Dialysis Australia Nursing Scholarship

One of the top universities in Sydney offers this scholarship in Australia. Undergraduate students enrolled in the University of Sydney‘s Susan Wakil School of Nursing and Midwifery are supported by this scholarship. It was first implemented in 2023 to help students facing social or financial difficulties. The Dialysis Australia Nursing Scholarship offers benefits for a maximum of three years, which include AUD 24,000 annually to cover living expenses at a college or student residence connected to the university and an annual cash payment of AUD 8,500, which is given out in two equal installments each semester.

PhD Scholarships in Australia: Fully Funded PhD in Australia

A fully funded PhD in Australia has a special place in the hearts of international students. Fully funded PhD scholarships in Australia are typically research-based, making them a strong investment for those pursuing higher degrees. The applicants who seek to go to Australia actively search for terms like PhD scholarships Australia, PhD scholarships in Australia, PhD scholarship Australia, fully funded PhD scholarships in Australia for international students, PhD scholarship in Australia, Australian PhD scholarships, etc.

Usually, applicants contact research supervisors before officially applying to universities or scholarships. Most candidates choose Australia because of its advanced facilities, high-ranking universities, and excellent research opportunities. In terms of the quality of education, this country is at the top of the global list. Australia has the top universities in the world. This factor has encouraged many candidates to pursue doctoral studies in this country. Herein, we will provide details about some of top fully funded PhD scholarships in Australia.

Governmental PhD Scholarships in Australia

Research Training Program (RTP)

The Australian government runs the Research Training Program (RTP). RTP provides block grants to Australian universities on a calendar-year basis. It supports overseas students undertaking research doctorate and master’s degrees, known as higher degrees by research (HDRs). The objectives of the RTP scheme are:

• Providing flexible funding arrangements to support the training of international students undertaking HDRs at Australian universities.
• Delivering graduates with the skills required to build careers in academia and industry.
• Supporting collaboration between universities, industry, and other research end-users.
• Supporting overseas students undertaking HDR studies at Australian universities.

Students can be offered RTP Scholarships for one or more of the following:

• Tuition fees offset.
• Stipend for general living costs.
• Allowances related to the ancillary cost of research degrees.

These fully funded PhD scholarships in Australia for international students will include 3 years of study fees and also 6 months of extension. The Australian government supports the PhD candidates and their families during this period. This support will also include health coverage. Watch the following video to learn about the step-by-step RTP application process:

These PhD scholarships in Australia are distributed to applicants from most Australian universities, including the University of Sydney, Australian National University (ANU), the University of Melbourne, UNSW Sydney, etc. RTP grant is administered by universities with their own application and selection process. Students need to contact their chosen provider directly to discuss how to apply for the RTP scheme. Be aware that each university may list this scholarship with a different title on its website. For instance, ANU and the University of Sydney name it as the Australian Government Research Training Program (AGRTP) and the University of Sydney International Scholarship, respectively, with the following details:

ANU – AGRTP

The Australian National University ranks fourth in this country according to QS World University Rankings. The university has a strong track record of collaboration and industrial partnerships, making it one of the best research centers in the world. Scholarships are given to PhD candidates by the government of Australia. We suggest contacting or communicating with your prospective supervisor before applying for your field of study. Please visit this page if you would like to apply for this scholarship via the ANU application.

University of Sydney International Scholarship

As one of the world’s top 50 universities, the University of Sydney has the best research and teaching quality for those who want to pursue a PhD. This university offers a wide range of academic programs for PhD candidates worldwide. Since this university has a wide range of fields of study, the chance of getting a scholarship is relatively high. Australian government awards this scholarship to PhD students with a value of A$ 40,000 – A$ 42,000 (2025 rate). These costs will include both tuition fees and a stipend. If you would like to apply for this scholarship via the University of Sydney application, please visit this page. You can find out about the key deadlines here.

Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Research Scholarships

These fully funded PhD scholarships in Australia are funded by the Australian Government and administered through university applications. They are intended to support applicants who identify as Indigenous Australians, i.e., of Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander heritage. The scholarship is available to eligible students enrolling in an HDR program managed by the Graduate Research School. It includes an annual stipend of $50,000 and a research operating and travel allowance of $5,000 (2025 rate).

Earmarked Scholarships at University of Queensland

One of the most prestigious research and study centers that provides competitive PhD scholarships in Australia for international students is the University of Queensland. The high quality and innovativeness of research projects have made this university one of the top in the world. All international students can apply for PhD scholarships in Australia at this university. Choosing the University of Queensland is an excellent option if you intend to study at a highly ranked university with a leading educational system. The Australian Government provides the Earmarked scholarships to assist PhD students.

An Earmarked PhD scholarship includes tuition fees and living expenses, which makes it a good opportunity for students. This scholarship is for projects aligned with recently awarded Category 1 Research Grants. Therefore, PhD students have the chance to contribute to large projects of national significance and work with leading researchers.

University PhD Scholarships in Australia

China Scholarship Council – University of Melbourne PhD Scholarship

The University of Melbourne ranks 13th and 39th among the universities in the world in 2025 according to Times Higher Education (THE) and QS World University Rankings, respectively. This university is one of the best research facilities in the world, which provides Chinese students with unique PhD scholarships in Australia. This issue has made many PhD applicants choose the University of Melbourne as their study destination. This university has the best student communities. The activity, competition, and enthusiasm among the students of this university are very high and most people find their potential talents in the excellent environment.

Both the China Scholarship Council and the University of Melbourne provide these PhD scholarships in Australia only for citizens of the People’s Republic of China. The University of Melbourne and the China Scholarship Council will cover return airfares, a stipend of 22,800 AUD per year (2025 rate), and visa application fees. A supplemental living allowance of 15,700 AUD per year (2025 rate) goes along with the full tuition scholarship for up to four years.

Graduate Research Scholarship at University of Melbourne

Applying for this university is very easy. Because you will not need to fill out a separate form to apply for a full scholarship. When you apply for this university, your name will be automatically included in the list of Graduate Research Scholarship applicants. They will assess your education history, research background, GPA, English proficiency test scores, etc. As a winner, you will get 34,400 AUD per year (2023 rate) for up to 3.5 years. If you need to relocate, you will be given 3,000 AUD for relocation.

Monash Graduate Scholarship (MGS)

Monash University is one of the best universities in Australia and the world. According to QS World University Rankings, this university ranked 58th in the world in 2022. Being one of the world’s top universities makes Monash University one of the most popular study and research destinations for PhD students. This university is continuing its activity in six separate locations in the state of Victoria. Students from all over the world can apply for MGS Scholarships from this university. As part of this scholarship, you will receive 30,000 AUD per year (2023 rate), which covers living expenses and an additional 1,500 AUD relocation grant. All students from all over the world can apply for a scholarship from Monash University.

William T. Southcott Scholarship at University of South Australia

The University of South Australia’s high-quality research projects, best professors, and cutting-edge facilities hugely impact its ranking. All students worldwide can apply for the William T. Southcott Scholarship if they intend to continue studying in practical Engineering. This PhD scholarship in Australia is worth 36‚000 AUD per year (2025 rate), covering 3 to 3.5 years of study. This scholarship is for PhD studies in one of the following fields: Civil Engineering, Transport Engineering, Water Resources Management, Engineering Management, Autonomous Systems, Telecommunications, Electrical Engineering, Electronic Engineering, Mechatronic Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Information Engineering, and Systems Engineering.

International Research Scholarship at University of Technology Sydney

This university is located in the heart of Sydney, which is one of the best scientific centers in the world. The University of Technology Sydney (UTS), as the name suggests, is one of the best technology universities in the world. The academic ranking of UTS is very high, which is why it attracts talented students from all over the world. The International Research Scholarship covers only tuition fees for up to 3.5 years, and all international students can apply for it.

Last words on PhD Scholarships Australia

We mentioned some examples of PhD scholarships in Australia here, which are one of the most popular options in the world. In addition to introducing the universities, we have provided links to each separately so that you can visit the university’s website and read the exact conditions for obtaining scholarships. To get a fully funded PhD in Australia, you must apply before the key deadlines. You should also contact academic supervisors or the university graduate team before submitting an official application for a university or scholarship. By thoroughly reading the university’s websites and admission requirements, you will learn about all the required details and be able to apply for any PhD scholarships in Australia.

Why Australia is Your Study Destination?

Leadership in Education and Research

Australia is one of the best countries for immigration and study destinations. This country has a strong economy and the best education opportunities. Australian universities are among the top-ranked universities in the world. Australian universities have a high-quality educational and research system. These are why many international students choose Australia for their studies. This country is one of the best options for those who want to have a completely different and compelling experience in the future. It provides special conditions for most students as they have various scholarship options.

Many fields of study require special facilities and conditions so that students can progress in their areas. While some countries may not have such facilities, Australia has the best global research equipment, facilities, and professors. Thus, after receiving a scholarship, your only thought will be to study and work on the best science projects without limitations and restrictions. Finally, you will receive one of Australia’s best and the world’s most meritorious degrees.

Beautiful Nature and Tourism

Beyond simply being aesthetically pleasing, Australia’s magnificent landscapes and well-known tourist spots provide an unforgettable setting for your academic career. The nation is a haven for adventurers and nature lovers, with its breathtaking Great Barrier Reef, historic Daintree Rainforest, Uluru, and the Gold Coast’s immaculate beaches. Cities like Sydney and Melbourne skillfully combine access to national parks, walks along the coast, and exciting cultural events with urban living. Studying in Australia entails getting a top-notch education and living a life full of exploration, travel, and spending time in nature.

How to Apply for Scholarships in Australia

We have discussed the general conditions required for receiving scholarships at different degree levels. But have you ever thought about applying for scholarships in Australia? Herein, our goal is to gather as much information as you need within this process. The application process is more important than anything else that you must know! To put it another way, you should know what steps you must take from the beginning to the stage of applying. We outlined the significant stages of securing fully funded PhD positions in a 5-step guideline.

Scholarship applications involve several steps, each vital in the overall process. A clear understanding of what each stage entails is essential for any applicant. For example, these steps include writing an academic CV, preparing a motivation letter, obtaining recommendation letters, and communicating with academic supervisors (for PhD applicants). Each step is critical and can significantly impact your chances of being awarded a scholarship. Applyindex offers an all-in-one academic assistant designed to support applicants through every step, making it more manageable and efficient. However, please note that scholarship applications must still be submitted separately through their official websites or the universities’ websites.

Database of Scholarships in Australia

Australian Capital Territory

• Australian National University (ANU): https://www.anu.edu.au/study/scholarships/find-a-scholarship
• University of Canberra: https://www.canberra.edu.au/future-students/study-at-uc/scholarships

New South Wales

• Australian Catholic University (ACU): https://www.acu.edu.au/study-at-acu/fees-and-scholarships
• Charles Sturt University: https://www.csu.edu.au/scholarships
• Macquarie University: https://www.mq.edu.au/study/admissions-and-entry/scholarships
• Southern Cross University: https://www.scu.edu.au/scholarships/
• University of New England (UNE): https://www.une.edu.au/scholarships
• UNSW Sydney: https://research.unsw.edu.au/graduate-research-scholarships
• University of Newcastle: https://www.newcastle.edu.au/scholarships
• University of Sydney: https://www.sydney.edu.au/scholarships/
• UTS: https://www.uts.edu.au/study/scholarships
• Western Sydney University: https://www.westernsydney.edu.au/future/why-western/scholarships
• University of Wollongong (UOW): https://www.uow.edu.au/study/scholarships/

Northern Territory

• Charles Darwin University: https://www.cdu.edu.au/scholarships

Queensland

• Bond University: https://bond.edu.au/entry-to-bond/scholarships
• CQ University: https://www.cqu.edu.au/courses/future-students/scholarships
• Griffith University: https://www.griffith.edu.au/scholarships
• James Cook University (JCU): https://www.jcu.edu.au/scholarships
• Queensland University of Technology (QUT): https://www.qut.edu.au/study/fees-and-scholarships/scholarships
• University of Queensland (UQ): https://scholarships.uq.edu.au/
• University of Southern Queensland: https://www.unisq.edu.au/scholarships
• UniSC: https://www.usc.edu.au/study/scholarships

South Australia

• Flinders University: https://www.flinders.edu.au/scholarships?q=
• Torrens University Australia: https://www.torrens.edu.au/how-to-apply/fees-scholarships/scholarships
• University of Adelaide: https://www.adelaide.edu.au/scholarships/
• University of South Australia: https://i.unisa.edu.au/students/scholarships/

Tasmania

• University of Tasmania: https://www.utas.edu.au/study/scholarships-fees-and-costs

Victoria

• Deakin University: https://www.deakin.edu.au/study/fees-and-scholarships/scholarships
• Federation University of Australia: https://federation.edu.au/current-students/starting-at-federation/scholarships
• La Trobe University: https://www.latrobe.edu.au/study/scholarships
• Monash University: https://www.monash.edu/study/fees-scholarships/scholarships/find-a-scholarship
• RMIT University: https://www.rmit.edu.au/study-with-us/international-students/apply-to-rmit-international-students/fees-and-scholarships/scholarships
• Swinburne University of Technology: https://www.swinburne.edu.au/study/options/scholarships/
• University of Divinity: https://divinity.edu.au/scholarships-and-grants/
• University of Melbourne: https://scholarships.unimelb.edu.au/
• Victoria University (VU): https://www.vu.edu.au/study-at-vu/fees-scholarships/scholarships 

Western Australia

• Curtin University: https://scholarships.curtin.edu.au/
• Edith Cowan University: https://www.ecu.edu.au/scholarships/overview
• Murdoch University: https://www.murdoch.edu.au/study/scholarships
• University of Notre Dame Australia: https://www.notredame.edu.au/current-students/opportunities/scholarships
• University of Western Australia: https://www.uwa.edu.au/study/fees-and-scholarships

Frequently Asked Questions