Studying in Australia is a dream for many students, yet the cost of tuition, accommodation, travel, and daily living expenses often makes that dream feel out of reach. Every year, thousands of students search for Australia scholarships for international students, hoping to find funding that will allow them to study at some of the world’s leading universities. Unfortunately, many applicants lose valuable opportunities after applying for the wrong scholarships, missing application deadlines, or failing to meet eligibility requirements.
Fortunately, the Australian Government and several universities continue to invest in fully funded scholarships that cover tuition fees, living costs, health insurance, and travel expenses for eligible international students. If you are planning to study in Australia in 2026, you may be wondering:
- Which Australian scholarships for international students are fully funded?
- Who is eligible to apply for these scholarships?
- Which Australian universities offer the best funding opportunities?
- What documents do I need to prepare before applying?
- How can I improve my chances of receiving a scholarship?
This guide provides clear answers to these important questions and introduces some of the best Australian scholarships for international students available in 2026. You will discover government-funded and university-funded scholarships, understand their eligibility requirements, learn about the benefits they offer, and find official application links to help you submit a stronger application. Whether you want to study for an undergraduate, master’s, or PhD degree, this guide will help you take the next step towards achieving your study goals in Australia with confidence.
Top Australia Scholarships for International Students
1. Australia Awards Scholarships
The Australia Awards Scholarships are among the most prestigious Australia scholarships for international students. Funded by the Australian Government through the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT), these scholarships help students from eligible developing countries study at leading Australian universities. The programme aims to develop future leaders who can return home and contribute to the social and economic development of their countries.
The scholarship is fully funded and covers full tuition fees, return airfare, an establishment allowance to help students settle in Australia, living expenses, Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), and academic support where required. Some students may also receive additional assistance for preparatory studies or fieldwork, depending on their programme.
Applicants must meet the eligibility requirements for their country, satisfy the academic and English language requirements, and demonstrate leadership potential. Preparing a strong personal statement and submitting all required documents before the deadline can improve your chances of success.
Official Application: https://www.australiaawards.gov.au/
2. Australian Government Research Training Program (RTP) Scholarships
The Australian Government Research Training Program (RTP) Scholarships are one of the most valuable Australia scholarships for international students who want to pursue a master’s by research or a PhD. The Australian Government provides funding to participating universities, which then award scholarships to outstanding domestic and international research students.
The RTP Scholarship usually covers full tuition fees, provides a generous living allowance, and includes Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC). Some universities also offer relocation support and research funding to help students complete their studies successfully.
Selection is highly competitive and is based mainly on academic excellence, research experience, publications, and the quality of the proposed research project. Applicants should first secure admission into an eligible research programme before applying for the scholarship.
Official Information: https://www.education.gov.au/research-block-grants/research-training-program
3. University of Melbourne Graduate Research Scholarships
The University of Melbourne Graduate Research Scholarships are among the most competitive Australia scholarships for international students. These scholarships are available to exceptional students enrolling in graduate research programmes at one of Australia’s highest-ranked universities.
Successful applicants receive full tuition fee coverage for up to two years for a master’s by research or up to four years for a doctoral degree. The scholarship also includes a generous annual living allowance, relocation assistance for eligible students, and Overseas Student Health Cover for international students.
The University of Melbourne is internationally recognised for research excellence across medicine, engineering, business, science, law, education, and many other fields. Students also benefit from world-class research facilities and experienced academic supervisors.
Applicants are automatically considered for the scholarship when they apply for an eligible graduate research programme, provided they meet the admission requirements.
Official Application: https://study.unimelb.edu.au/how-to-apply/scholarships/graduate-research-scholarships
4. Australian National University (ANU) Research Training Program Scholarship
The Australian National University (ANU) Research Training Program Scholarship is another outstanding option among Australia scholarships for international students. ANU uses funding from the Australian Government’s RTP scheme to support talented research students from around the world.
The scholarship provides full tuition fee coverage, a tax-free living stipend, Overseas Student Health Cover, and in some cases, relocation assistance. These benefits allow students to focus fully on their research without worrying about major financial expenses.
ANU is consistently ranked among Australia’s leading research universities and offers excellent opportunities in science, engineering, medicine, social sciences, law, business, and the humanities. Students work closely with experienced researchers and gain access to modern research facilities.
Applicants should first apply for admission into an eligible master’s by research or PhD programme. Selection is based on academic merit, research potential, and previous achievements.
Official Application: https://www.anu.edu.au/study/scholarships
5. Monash International Tuition Scholarship (MITS)
The Monash International Tuition Scholarship (MITS) is one of the leading Australia scholarships for international students pursuing research degrees at Monash University. The scholarship supports outstanding international students who demonstrate excellent academic performance and strong research potential.
MITS covers the full cost of tuition fees for the duration of an eligible master’s by research or doctoral programme. Many successful applicants are also considered for additional Monash scholarships that provide a living allowance, making it possible to receive a fully funded study package.
Monash University is recognised worldwide for its research, innovation, and strong industry partnerships. Students benefit from advanced laboratories, experienced supervisors, and opportunities to collaborate on internationally recognised research projects.
Applicants must first receive admission into an eligible graduate research programme before they can be considered for the scholarship. Strong academic results, research experience, and a well-prepared research proposal can improve the likelihood of being selected.
Official Application: https://www.monash.edu/study/fees-scholarships/scholarships/find-a-scholarship/monash-international-tuition-scholarship-mits
6. University of Sydney International Scholarship
The University of Sydney International Scholarship is one of the leading Australia scholarships for international students who want to study for a master’s by research or a PhD. The scholarship is awarded to outstanding international students with excellent academic records and strong research potential. It allows students to focus on their studies without worrying about major financial expenses.
The scholarship is fully funded and generally covers full tuition fees and provides a generous annual living allowance. Successful students may also receive Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) and other research-related support where applicable. The University of Sydney is known worldwide for its excellent teaching, modern research facilities, and experienced academic supervisors.
Applicants should first apply for admission into an eligible research degree. A strong academic background, quality research proposal, and supporting documents can improve the chances of receiving this scholarship.
Official Application: https://www.sydney.edu.au/scholarships
7. University of Adelaide Research Scholarship
The University of Adelaide Research Scholarship is another excellent option among Australia scholarships for international students. The university offers these scholarships to attract highly talented students from around the world who want to undertake master’s by research or doctoral programmes.
The scholarship usually covers full tuition fees, provides a generous living stipend, includes Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), and may also offer relocation assistance for eligible students. These benefits allow international students to concentrate on their research and academic development.
The University of Adelaide has built a strong reputation for research in agriculture, engineering, health sciences, business, environmental sciences, and technology. Students also benefit from excellent laboratories, libraries, and research support services.
Applicants should secure admission into an eligible research programme before applying. Strong academic achievements and research experience can significantly strengthen an application.
Official Application: https://www.adelaide.edu.au/graduate-research/scholarships
8. University of Queensland Graduate School Scholarships
The University of Queensland Graduate School Scholarships are highly respected Australia scholarships for international students who wish to pursue advanced research degrees. These scholarships support exceptional students with strong academic records and outstanding research ability.
Successful applicants normally receive full tuition fee coverage, a tax-free living allowance, and Overseas Student Health Cover. Some scholarship recipients may also receive financial support for relocation and research activities, depending on the programme.
The University of Queensland is recognised internationally for its research excellence in medicine, engineering, environmental science, agriculture, business, and technology. Students have access to modern research facilities and opportunities to collaborate with leading researchers from around the world.
Applicants should prepare a strong research proposal, meet all admission requirements, and submit complete application documents before the closing date.
Official Application: https://graduate-school.uq.edu.au/scholarships
9. UNSW International Research Scholarship
The UNSW International Research Scholarship is one of the competitive Australia scholarships for international students offered by the University of New South Wales. The scholarship supports international students who demonstrate excellent academic performance and outstanding research potential.
The scholarship generally provides full tuition fee coverage and a living stipend throughout the approved research programme. Eligible students may also receive Overseas Student Health Cover and other financial support depending on the scholarship package awarded.
UNSW is one of Australia’s leading research universities and is well known for programmes in engineering, computer science, business, law, medicine, and the sciences. Students benefit from world-class research facilities and opportunities to work on innovative projects with experienced supervisors.
Applicants should first gain admission into an eligible master’s by research or PhD programme. Academic excellence, research achievements, and a well-prepared application can improve the likelihood of selection.
Official Application: https://www.unsw.edu.au/research/hdr/scholarships
10. Deakin University Research Scholarship (DUPR)
The Deakin University Research Scholarship (DUPR) is an outstanding choice among Australia scholarships for international students pursuing research degrees. The scholarship is designed to support talented international students who wish to complete a master’s by research or doctoral programme at Deakin University.
The scholarship usually covers full tuition fees, provides a generous annual living allowance, and includes Overseas Student Health Cover for eligible international students. Some students may also receive relocation assistance and additional research support throughout their studies.
Deakin University is recognised for its innovative teaching, high-quality research, and strong partnerships with industry. Students have access to excellent research facilities, experienced supervisors, and opportunities to develop valuable professional skills during their studies.
Applicants should first apply for an eligible research programme and prepare a strong research proposal along with all required academic documents. Careful preparation and excellent academic performance can greatly improve the chances of receiving this scholarship.
Official Application: https://www.deakin.edu.au/study/fees-and-scholarships/scholarships