Australia has become one of the most sought-after destinations for international students. With world-class universities, high-quality education, and vibrant multicultural cities, the country attracts thousands of students every year. But as exciting as the idea of studying in Australia is, the costs can be overwhelming. Tuition fees, accommodation, and living expenses often discourage many talented students from pursuing their dreams.
The good news is that there are fully funded scholarships in Australia designed to cover tuition, living expenses, travel, and even research costs. These opportunities make it possible for international students to receive a first-class education without financial stress.
In this guide, we’ll explore:
- Why study in Australia?
- What fully funded scholarships cover
- Top fully funded scholarships for international students (2025 update)
- How to apply and tips to increase your chances
Why Study in Australia?
Australia is home to some of the best universities in the world, offering programs across diverse fields like science, business, engineering, medicine, and the arts. Here’s why it’s a top choice for students worldwide:
- Globally Ranked Universities – Institutions such as the University of Melbourne, Australian National University (ANU), University of Sydney, and University of Queensland are ranked among the top 100 globally.
- Research and Innovation – Australia is a hub for groundbreaking research in healthcare, technology, environmental studies, and agriculture.
- Multicultural Environment – With students from over 190 countries, studying in Australia means joining a vibrant and diverse community.
- Work Opportunities – International students can work part-time during studies and apply for post-study work visas.
- High Quality of Life – Cities like Sydney, Melbourne, and Brisbane consistently rank among the most livable cities in the world.
What Does a Fully Funded Scholarship in Australia Cover?
Fully funded scholarships remove the financial barriers to education by covering most or all costs, such as:
- Full tuition fees
- Living allowance or monthly stipend
- Accommodation support
- Health insurance
- Travel expenses (airfare)
- Research funding (for postgraduate students)
- Books and study materials
This allows international students to focus fully on their academics and career development.
Top Fully Funded Scholarships in Australia (2025 Update)
Here are some of the most prestigious fully funded scholarships in Australia available to international students:
1. Australia Awards Scholarships
- Level: Undergraduate and Postgraduate
- Coverage: Full tuition, return airfare, living allowance, health insurance, and academic expenses
- Eligibility: Students from Asia, Africa, the Pacific, and the Middle East
- Highlights: Aimed at building strong links between Australia and other nations through education.
2. Destination Australia Scholarships
- Level: Undergraduate and Postgraduate
- Coverage: Up to AUD $15,000 per year for tuition and living expenses
- Eligibility: Domestic and international students willing to study in regional Australian universities
- Highlights: Encourages students to live and study in less populated areas of Australia.
3. Research Training Program (RTP) Scholarships
- Level: Master’s by Research and PhD
- Coverage: Tuition fees, living allowance, and research expenses
- Eligibility: International postgraduate students
- Highlights: Supports high-quality research students across Australian universities.
4. University of Melbourne Graduate Research Scholarships
- Level: Master’s and PhD
- Coverage: Full tuition, living stipend, relocation allowance, and health cover
- Eligibility: High-achieving international graduate students
- Highlights: Among the most competitive scholarships in Australia.
5. Australian National University (ANU) Scholarships
- Level: Undergraduate, Master’s, and PhD
- Coverage: Tuition fees, stipends, and travel allowances (varies by program)
- Eligibility: International students with outstanding academic achievements
- Highlights: Offers multiple funding programs, including research-focused scholarships.
6. University of Sydney International Research Scholarships
- Level: Master’s by Research and PhD
- Coverage: Tuition fees and living allowance
- Eligibility: International students in research programs
- Highlights: Supports groundbreaking research across disciplines.
7. University of Queensland Scholarships
- Level: Undergraduate, Master’s, and PhD
- Coverage: Full tuition, living stipend, and research funding
- Eligibility: Outstanding students worldwide
- Highlights: Especially strong in science, agriculture, and business programs.
8. Macquarie University Vice-Chancellor’s International Scholarship
- Level: Undergraduate and Postgraduate
- Coverage: Partial to full tuition fee waivers (depending on merit)
- Eligibility: International students with excellent academic records
- Highlights: Focused on rewarding academic excellence.
9. Monash University Scholarships
- Level: Undergraduate, Master’s, and PhD
- Coverage: Tuition, living stipend, and relocation allowance
- Eligibility: International students pursuing research and coursework programs
- Highlights: Recognized for innovative research and academic excellence.
10. University of Adelaide Scholarships
- Level: Master’s and PhD
- Coverage: Tuition fees, living allowance, and research support
- Eligibility: International students with outstanding academic profiles
- Highlights: Focused on producing world-class researchers and leaders.
How to Apply for Fully Funded Scholarships in Australia
Applying for scholarships in Australia requires careful planning and preparation. Here are key steps:
- Research Early – Start looking for scholarships 12–18 months before your intended intake.
- Check Eligibility – Each scholarship has specific requirements such as nationality, academic background, and English language proficiency.
- Prepare Key Documents – Most scholarships require:
- Academic transcripts
- Statement of purpose or motivation letter
- Recommendation letters
- Proof of English proficiency (IELTS/TOEFL/PTE)
- Research proposal (for postgraduate programs)
- Apply Through Official Channels – Submit applications directly through scholarship portals or university websites.
- Meet Deadlines – Most scholarship deadlines fall between February and September depending on the program.
- Follow Up – Some programs may require interviews or additional documentation.
Tips for a Successful Application
- Write a Compelling Personal Statement – Clearly explain your academic goals, leadership potential, and how the scholarship will help your community.
- Highlight Achievements – Showcase awards, extracurricular activities, volunteer work, or leadership roles.
- Tailor Each Application – Customize essays and documents for each scholarship program.
- Secure Strong Recommendations – Ask professors or employers who know your strengths well.