Top Fully Funded PhD Scholarships in Australia

Fully funded PhD scholarships in Australia have a special place in the heart of global fully funded scholarships. They are typically allocated to research-based PhDs in Australia, making them a strong investment for those pursuing higher degrees. Most candidates choose Australia because of its advanced facilities, high-ranking universities, and excellent research opportunities. PhD applicants seeking to go to Australia actively search for keywords like “PhD scholarships Australia”, “PhD scholarship Australia”, “fully funded PhD scholarships in Australia for international students”, “PhD scholarship in Australia”, and “Australian PhD Scholarships” on search engines, indicating a high demand for Australian PhD scholarships. This blog will explore some of the most popular PhD scholarships in Australia for commencing PhD students.

Why PhD Scholarships Australia?

Since fully funded PhD scholarships in Australia not only improve a student’s academic standing and resume but also fully cover living expenses and tuition, obtaining one is extremely competitive. Each year, both domestic and foreign applicants can apply for dozens of PhD scholarships. Australia is home to several highly regarded international universities and is ranked among the top countries in the world for the quality of its education and research. It is a well-liked location for doctoral studies because of these benefits. Additionally, numerous PhD scholarships, funded by the Australian government, universities, and industrial sectors, are available in various study fields and research areas for different nationalities.

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Governmental PhD Scholarships in Australia

Research Training Program (RTP) Scholarship

The Australian government provides the Australia RTP scholarship for domestic and international PhD students through eligible Australian universities. They are a subcategory of both PhD and master’s scholarships in Australia. 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 the Australian Government Research Training Program (AGRTP) and the University of Sydney International Scholarship, respectively. The Australian government awards this top scholarship to PhD students with a base stipend value of A$33,511 up to a max of A$52,352 (2025 rate).

CSIRO’s Industry PhD (iPhD) Scholarship

A four-year industry-focused PhD project is co-developed by CSIRO, Australia’s top science agency, as well as a university, as part of the Australian Government’s National Industry PhD (iPhD) Program. Through the National iPhD Program, the Australian government does, in fact, provide industry-based scholarships for PhD researchers. They facilitate long-term cooperation between research organizations and industry and support a three-way partnership by educating new researchers in important fields. For example, you can build new and improve existing connections with universities and industry partners through the CSIRO’s iPhD Program to:

• upskill PhD students to develop capability in CSIRO priority areas and in areas of national need.
• build consortia aligned with CSIRO Research Units through iPhD projects.
• grow industry and university involvement with CSIRO exploratory research.
• provide PhD students with industry-focused training.

Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Research Scholarships

These top 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).

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University PhD Scholarships in Australia

China Scholarship Council – University of Melbourne PhD Scholarship

The University of Melbourne globally ranks 13th and 44th in 2025 according to QS and a-index World University Rankings, respectively. It is one of the top universities in Australia and has 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 global universities. 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. During this fully funded PhD in Australia, you will receive 36,063 AUD per year (2025 rate), which covers living expenses and an additional 2,000 AUD international 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 top 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.

Rosemary Johnston HDR Scholarship at UTS

This university is located in the heart of Sydney as one of the best global scientific centers. The University of Technology Sydney (UTS), as the name suggests, is one of the best technology universities in the world. UTS’s very high academic ranking attracts talented students from all over the world. The Rosemary Johnston HDR Scholarship is one of UTS’s fully funded scholarships for PhD students. It covers tuition fees and pays an annual stipend of 37,000 AUD (2025 rate) for up to 3.5 years. It will be offered to outstanding doctoral candidates in the Faculty of Arts and Social Sciences whose projects focus on children and young people, and who work with at least one supervisor in the Education disciplines.

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How to Get PhD Scholarships in Australia

Applying for PhD scholarships in Australia usually involves several steps, and understanding each one will make the journey much easier. Each of these steps can make a big difference to your chances of success in winning scholarships in Australia. Likewise, several essential documents are typically required to write and craft.

How to Apply for PhD Scholarships in Australia

Most scholarships in Australia are handled by departmental admission committees at Australian universities, even those scholarships offered by the Australian government. Therefore, visit the relevant department or school at each university you intend to apply to. Depending on the scholarship program and field of study, you may be required to provide additional documents, such as evidence of research publications, evidence of research collaborations, and proof of work experiences, internships, or industry experience. In general, you will need to prepare an academic CV, write a motivation letter (also known as a cover letter), draft a PhD research proposal, and get 3 reference letters. Additionally, you must find PhD supervisor to support your application.

You will also be asked to provide your academic transcripts, university degrees, and English test results. You need at least a bachelor’s degree when applying for master’s scholarships in Australia, and a master’s degree when applying for PhD scholarships in Australia. Your academic qualifications are the minimum criteria to show your eligibility for a scholarship in Australia. IELTS, TOEFL, or PTE scores are necessary for non-native English speakers to ensure language skills are sufficient for academic research. Always check the English proficiency minimum requirements of the universities and relevant departments before applying.

How to Tackle Challenges for Securing PhD Scholarship in Australia

PhD applicants often face challenges, and one of the biggest is finding scholarships. With limited funding available, it can be tough to cover research costs and living expenses. Many students end up juggling part-time jobs alongside their research and personal responsibilities, which can take a toll on their performance. Additionally, competition for scholarships is intense, and not everyone knows about other options like industry partnerships, private foundations, or research grants. If you are hoping to secure a fully funded PhD scholarship in Australia, focus on three things: (i) research widely to uncover hidden opportunities, (ii) get advice from your university’s research office, and (iii) build networks with professors, researchers, and professionals who might connect you with funding.

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Conclusion

Australia is a desirable location for international research students due to government scholarship programs like the RTP and National iPhD. University-specific PhD scholarships in Australia, like the Monash Graduate Scholarship and Rosemary Johnston HDR Scholarship at UTS, also play an important role in this attractiveness. You can learn about all the necessary information for the application process by carefully reading the university’s website and admission requirements. To be considered for scholarships in Australia, you must learn how to apply for PhD scholarships in Australia before the important deadlines. These scholarships give PhD candidates access to excellent research and educational opportunities, ensuring a fulfilling and financially supported academic career.

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)