Australia remains one of the most sought-after study destinations for higher education, known for its world-class universities, multicultural lifestyle, and globally recognized degrees. But the cost of studying abroad can be intimidating. That’s where fully funded scholarships in Australia come in.
Whether you’re pursuing a bachelor’s degree, a master’s, or a PhD, this guide lists the most generous, prestigious, and recurring fully funded scholarships for international students in Australia, including specific opportunities for Indian students and students seeking MBA or research funding. This comprehensive article aims to ensure you have all the information needed to embark on your academic journey Down Under.​
Why Pursue Fully Funded Scholarships in Australia?
Securing a fully funded scholarship in Australia is more than just a financial win. It provides:
- Tuition fee coverage
- Monthly living stipends
- Airfare, relocation, and insurance benefits
- Prestige, mentorship, and research opportunities
- Pathways to internships or permanent residency
Let’s explore the most popular fully funded scholarships to study in Australia in 2025 and beyond.
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Top Fully Funded Scholarships in Australia for 2025
Here are some of the best opportunities categorized by type and level.
1. Australia Awards Scholarships
- Type: Government-funded
- Eligibility: Citizens of eligible countries including India, Pakistan, Sri Lanka, Nigeria, Kenya, and others.
- Level: Bachelor’s, Master’s, PhD
- Coverage: Full tuition, return airfare, establishment allowance, living expenses, Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), and academic support.
- Ideal For: Students from developing nations looking for fully funded undergraduate scholarships in Australia or research funding.
2. Research Training Program (RTP) by Australian Government
- Type: Government-funded
- Eligibility: Domestic & international postgraduate research students
- Level: Masters by Research & PhD
- Coverage: Tuition, annual stipend (~AUD 34,000), thesis allowance, and relocation.
- Duration: Up to 2 years (Masters) / 3.5 years (PhD)
3. University of Melbourne Graduate Research Scholarships
- Type: University-based (recurring)
- Eligibility: High-achieving students across all nationalities
- Level: Masters, PhD
- Coverage: Full tuition fee waiver, living allowance (~AUD 37,000/year), relocation, and OSHC
- Available Slots: Over 600 awards annually
4. Monash University Research Scholarships
- Type: University-based
- Level: Postgraduate research
- Coverage: Full tuition + stipend (AUD 33,000+), plus relocation and research funding
- Additional: Women in STEM and Indigenous-focused scholarships available
5. University of Sydney International Scholarship (USydIS)
- Type: University-based
- Eligibility: Research students from all countries
- Level: Masters by Research, PhD
- Coverage: Tuition + stipend (~AUD 40,000 per year)
- Note: Very competitive; requires prior research experience
6. Deakin Vice-Chancellor’s International Scholarship
- Level: Bachelor’s, Master’s
- Coverage: 100% or 50% tuition waiver, access to leadership programs
- Note: High-achieving students; limited spots
7. University of Adelaide Global Academic Excellence Scholarship
- Level: UG & PG coursework
- Coverage: 50% tuition reduction
- Note: For top 5% academic performers globally
8. UWA Global Excellence Scholarship
- Level: UG, PG
- Coverage: Up to AUD 48,000 (UG) and AUD 24,000 (PG)
- Note: Automatically awarded based on academic merit
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Comparative Table of Top Scholarships
Scholarship Name | Coverage | Levels | Application Deadline |
Australia Awards Scholarships | Full tuition, airfare, living expenses | UG, Masters, PhD | 30 April 2025 |
Research Training Program (RTP) Scholarships | Tuition, living allowance, other allowances | Masters, PhD | Varies by university |
University of Melbourne Graduate Research | Tuition, living allowance, health insurance | Masters, PhD | Varies |
Monash University Research Scholarships | Tuition, living allowance, relocation | Masters, PhD | 31 March 2025 |
University of Sydney International Scholarships | Tuition, living allowance | Masters, PhD | Varies |
Deakin Vice-Chancellor’s International Scholarship | 100% or 50% tuition fee waiver | UG, Masters | Varies |
University of Adelaide Global Academic Excellence | 50% tuition fee reduction | UG, Masters | Varies |
UWA Global Excellence Scholarship | Up to AUD 48,000 (UG), AUD 24,000 (PG) | UG, Masters | Varies |
Disclaimer: The fee, eligibility, and other information are subject to change. Please refer to the official scholarship sponsor or university website for updated information.
Scholarships Tailored for Indian Students
Australia offers several scholarships specifically for Indian students:​
- Maitri Scholarships: Offered by the Centre for Australia-India Relations, providing up to AUD 380,000.
- Ashok Khurana Scholarship: For outstanding Indian postgraduate students at the University of Adelaide, covering 50% of tuition and providing a stipend.
- Macquarie University India Scholarship: Offers AUD 10,000 per year.
- Tata Scholarships: Ranging from AUD 1,700 to AUD 17,000.
Fully Funded MBA Scholarships in Australia
MBA degrees in Australia can cost upwards of AUD 60,000. Luckily, some universities offer fully funded MBA scholarships in Australia:
-
AGSM Global Reach Scholarship (UNSW)
- Covers full tuition
- Based on leadership & impact potential
- Covers full tuition
-
Melbourne Business School Scholarships
- Merit-based, full and partial tuition
- Leadership development included
- Merit-based, full and partial tuition
-
University of Sydney Business School International Scholarship
- Covers 100% tuition + industry placement
Scholarship Application for Students in Australia
Fully Funded Undergraduate Scholarships in Australia
While research and postgrad programs dominate funding, these options exist for undergrads too:
- Australia Awards Scholarship
- Deakin Vice Chancellor Scholarship
- Adelaide Global Academic Excellence Award
- University of Tasmania Scholarships
These are open to all international students, including those from Asia and Africa.
Pro Tips for Winning a Fully Funded Scholarship in Australia
- Apply Early: Most deadlines fall between February–May.
- Maintain High Grades: Minimum 70–80% marks required.
- Craft a Strong SOP: Tailor your story to the program values.
- Show Leadership: Many programs favor applicants with leadership or social impact.
- Proof of English: IELTS/TOEFL with a good score is mandatory.
Conclusion
Australia has one of the most generous, accessible, and prestigious scholarship ecosystems in the world. Suppose you’re looking for a fully funded scholarship in while studying in Australia. In that case, the options span every level, from fully funded undergraduate scholarships for international students in Australia to PhD fully funded scholarships in Australia and high-value fully funded MBA scholarships in Australia.
Whether you’re an Indian student, a research scholar, or someone pursuing your dreams abroad, now is the time to take that step.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1: Are there fully funded scholarships in Australia for international students?
Yes! Options like the Australia Awards, RTP, and university-funded schemes cover tuition, living costs, airfare, and more.
Q2: What are the best fully funded scholarships for Indian students in Australia?
The top choices are Maitri Scholarships, Ashok Khurana Award, Macquarie India Scholarship, and Australia Awards.
Q3: How can I get a fully funded MBA scholarship in Australia?
Apply to programs at UNSW, Melbourne Business School, and Sydney Business School. Focus on leadership, GMAT scores, and impact.
Q4: Do undergraduate students get fully funded scholarships in Australia?
Yes. Deakin, Adelaide, and UWA offer undergrad scholarships with tuition waivers and merit-based awards.
Q5: When should I apply for fully funded scholarships in Australia?
Applications typically open in late December and close by May for most programs. Always check the university’s deadlines.