Studying abroad is a dream for many international students, and Australia stands out as a top destination due to its world-class education system, vibrant culture, and stunning landscapes.
However, the cost of studying in Australia can be a significant barrier for many. Fortunately, fully funded scholarships for international students in Australia offer a golden opportunity to pursue higher education without the financial burden.
These scholarships cover tuition fees, living expenses, travel costs, and more, making education accessible to talented students worldwide.
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore the best fully funded scholarships available in Australia for international students in 2025, their benefits, eligibility criteria, and how to apply.
Why Study in Australia?
Before diving into the scholarships, let’s understand why Australia is a preferred choice for international students. Home to globally ranked universities like the University of Melbourne, Australian National University (ANU), and the University of Sydney, Australia offers cutting-edge research opportunities, diverse academic programs, and a welcoming environment for international students. The country also boasts a high quality of life, a multicultural society, and excellent post-graduation employment prospects, making it an ideal place to study and build a career.
However, tuition fees and living costs can be steep, often ranging from AUD 20,000 to AUD 45,000 per year for international students, depending on the course and location. This is where fully funded scholarships come in, providing financial support to cover these expenses and allowing students to focus on their studies.
What Are Fully Funded Scholarships?
Fully funded scholarships are awards that cover all or most of the expenses associated with studying abroad. These typically include tuition fees, accommodation, travel allowances, health insurance, and a stipend for living costs. In Australia, such scholarships are offered by the government, universities, and private organizations to attract talented international students and promote global academic exchange.
Now, let’s explore some of the most prestigious fully funded scholarships available for international students in Australia in 2025.
Top Fully Funded Scholarships for International Students in Australia
1. Australia Awards Scholarships
The Australia Awards Scholarships (AAS) are among the most prestigious fully funded scholarships offered by the Australian Government. Administered by the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT), these scholarships aim to contribute to the development needs of Australia’s partner countries, particularly in the Indo-Pacific region.
Benefits:
Full tuition fees
Return air travel
Establishment allowance (to settle in Australia)
Contribution to living expenses (CLE)
Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC)
Academic support and fieldwork allowances (if applicable)
Eligibility:
Be a citizen of a participating country (e.g., countries in Asia, Africa, the Pacific, and the Middle East)
Minimum age of 18 at the time of application
Not hold Australian citizenship or permanent residency
Meet the academic and English language requirements of the chosen course
How to Apply:
Applications typically open in February and close in April each year. Visit the official Australia Awards website to check country-specific deadlines and submit your application online.
Why It’s Great:
This scholarship not only covers all major expenses but also encourages recipients to return to their home countries and contribute to development, fostering global leadership.
2. Research Training Program (RTP) Scholarships
The Australian Government Research Training Program (RTP) is designed for international students pursuing research-based postgraduate degrees (Masters by Research or PhD) at participating Australian universities.
Benefits:
Full tuition fee offset
Stipend for living expenses (up to AUD 35,000–38,500 per year, depending on the university)
Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC)
Allowances for relocation and research-related costs
Eligibility:
Be an international student enrolled in an accredited research Masters or PhD program
Demonstrate exceptional academic merit and research potential
Meet the university’s English language requirements
How to Apply:
You apply directly through the university offering your research program. Each institution has its own application process and deadlines, so check their websites (e.g., University of Melbourne, ANU, or Macquarie University).
Why It’s Great:
Ideal for students passionate about research, RTP scholarships provide comprehensive support and access to Australia’s leading research facilities.
3. Melbourne Research Scholarships (MRS)
Offered by the University of Melbourne, one of the top-ranked universities globally, the Melbourne Research Scholarships (MRS) support international students undertaking graduate research degrees (Masters or PhD).
Benefits:
Full tuition fee offset
Living allowance of AUD 38,500 per year (pro-rata, indexed annually)
Relocation grant (AUD 2,000–3,000)
Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC)
Eligibility:
Open to international students applying for a research Masters or PhD at the University of Melbourne
Strong academic record (equivalent to a first-class Honours degree)
Meet English proficiency requirements (e.g., IELTS or TOEFL)
How to Apply:
No separate application is required. Eligible candidates are automatically considered when they apply for a graduate research program at the University of Melbourne. Deadlines vary, so check the university’s scholarship page.
Why It’s Great:
With approximately 600 scholarships awarded annually, MRS offers a significant opportunity to study at a prestigious institution with robust financial backing.
4. Deakin Vice-Chancellor’s International Scholarship
Deakin University provides this fully funded scholarship to high-achieving international students enrolling in undergraduate or postgraduate coursework programs.
Benefits:
Up to 100% tuition fee coverage (depending on academic merit)
Participation in the Vice-Chancellor’s Professional Excellence Program
Priority access to on-campus accommodation
Eligibility:
Be a foreign student (not a citizen of Australia or New Zealand)
Meet Deakin’s academic and English language entry requirements
Demonstrate outstanding academic performance
How to Apply:
Submit an application form along with your course application via Deakin’s online portal. Deadlines vary by intake (e.g., Trimester 1, 2, or 3).
Why It’s Great:
This scholarship rewards academic excellence and provides additional professional development opportunities.
5. Monash Research Training Program Scholarship
Monash University, another top-tier institution, offers fully funded scholarships for international students pursuing research Masters or PhD degrees.
Benefits:
Tuition fee coverage
Annual stipend of up to AUD 29,000–35,000
Relocation and travel allowances
Health insurance (OSHC)
Eligibility:
Open to foreign students who have demonstrated exceptional academic performance
Enrollment in a research-based postgraduate program at Monash
Meet English language proficiency standards
How to Apply:
Apply directly through Monash University’s graduate research application portal. Check specific deadlines on their website.
Why It’s Great:
Monash is renowned for innovation and research, making this scholarship a gateway to cutting-edge academic opportunities.
6. University of Sydney International Scholarships (USydIS)
The University of Sydney offers fully funded scholarships to international students undertaking postgraduate research degrees.
Benefits:
Full tuition fees
Living allowance (up to AUD 40,000 per year)
Health cover and research support
Eligibility:
Be an international student applying for a Masters by Research or PhD
Demonstrate academic excellence and research potential
How to Apply:
No separate application is needed—eligible candidates are considered during the admission process. Check deadlines on the University of Sydney’s website.
Why It’s Great:
The scholarship supports students at one of Australia’s oldest and most prestigious universities.
Tips for Securing a Fully Funded Scholarship in Australia
Start Early: Scholarship deadlines often align with university admission cycles. Begin researching and preparing at least 12–18 months in advance.
Highlight Academic Excellence: Most scholarships prioritize students with strong academic records, so maintain high grades and gather relevant transcripts.
Ace the English Test: Scholarships require proof of English proficiency (e.g., IELTS score of 6.5 or higher). Prepare well in advance.
Tailor Your Application: Write compelling personal statements or essays that showcase your goals, achievements, and why you’re a perfect fit.
Seek Guidance: Contact university admissions teams or scholarship offices for clarification on requirements and processes.
Additional Fully Funded Scholarship Opportunities
Destination Australia Scholarships: Supports students studying at regional campuses, offering up to AUD 15,000 per year.
Griffith University Scholarships: Offers various fully funded options for undergraduate and postgraduate studies.
University of Technology Sydney (UTS) 100% Scholarship: Covers full tuition for undergraduate programs for exceptional students.
Conclusion
Fully funded scholarships for international students in Australia open doors to world-class education without the financial strain. Whether you’re aiming for undergraduate studies, a coursework Masters, or a research PhD, there’s a scholarship tailored to your needs. From the Australia Awards to university-specific programs like the Melbourne Research Scholarships, these opportunities provide not just funding but a chance to grow academically and professionally in a dynamic environment.
