Australia is considered as one of the best destinations for Indian students seeking quality education, world-class research opportunities, and global career prospects. Nevertheless, the high costs of study abroad are often the biggest hindrances for most of the aspirant students. To make education more accessible, there are various scholarships in Australia for Indian students , offering financial assistance to undergraduate, postgraduate, and PhD candidates. These scholarships, sponsored by the Australian government, universities, and private organizations, help reduce tuition fees, living expenses, and other academic costs.
If you're wondering how to get a scholarship to study in Australia, the good news is that numerous options exist, ranging from fully funded scholarships for Indian students in Australia to merit-based and need-based financial aid. Whether you are looking for a scholarship for a master’s in Australia for Indian students, funding for doctoral research, or support for undergraduate studies, there are ample opportunities to explore. This article helps you with some of the best available scholarships and makes you aware of eligibility criteria, coverage, and procedures for applying so that you can secure financial aid for your education in Australia.
Scholarships for Indian Students in Australia
Australian institutions and the government offer a plethora of scholarships to attract bright minds from India. These scholarships aim to ease the financial burden and encourage academic excellence. If you are worried as how to get scholarship in Australia for international students, then here is a list that can help you.
Fully Funded Scholarships for Indian Students in Australia
Fully funded scholarships cover tuition fees, living expenses, and sometimes additional costs like airfare and health insurance. Here are some prominent options:
1. Australia Awards Scholarships
Fully funded by the Australian government, the Australia Awards Scholarships are scholarships available to Indian students in Australia. They cover full tuition fees, return air travel, establishment allowance, and living expenses. They are available for undergraduate and postgraduate degrees across various fields such as engineering, health sciences, and environmental studies. To apply, candidates must demonstrate academic excellence and a commitment to contributing to their home country's development upon graduation. Detailed information on eligibility and application procedures can be found on the official Australia Awards website.
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Coverage: Full tuition fees, return air travel, establishment allowance, and living expenses.
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Eligibility: Indian students pursuing undergraduate or postgraduate degrees.
Fields of Study: Various disciplines, including engineering, health sciences, and environmental studies.
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Key Requirement: Commitment to return to India and contribute to national development after completion.
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Application Deadline: For the 2026 intake, applications open on February 1, 2025, and close on April 30, 2025
2. Destination Australia Program
The Destination Australia Program aims to attract international students to study in regional Australia. It offers scholarships of up to AUD 15,000 per year to support students pursuing studies from Certificate IV level to PhD in various disciplines. This initiative provides the financial assistance as well as allows the students to experience the unique educational and cultural environment of regional Australia. Interested applicants should check the participating institutions and their specific course offerings.
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Coverage: Up to AUD 15,000 per year.
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Eligibility: International students, including Indians, studying in regional Australia.
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Fields of Study: All disciplines offered by participating institutions.
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Study Level: Available for courses from Certificate IV to PhD.
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Application Deadline: As of July 1, 2024, the Australian Government has ceased further funding rounds for this program. Current recipients will continue to be supported for the remainder of their studies.
3. Research Training Program (RTP)
For those interested in research-based postgraduate degrees, the Research Training Program (RTP) provides block grants to Australian universities to support both domestic and international students. The RTP covers tuition fees and offers a stipend for living expenses. Eligible candidates can pursue research doctorates and master's degrees across a wide range of fields. Applicants should contact their chosen university directly to inquire about available RTP scholarships and application processes.
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Coverage: Tuition fees and a stipend for living expenses.
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Eligibility: International students, including Indians, pursuing research-based postgraduate degrees.
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Fields of Study: Wide range of research disciplines.
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Study Level: Research doctorates and master's degrees.
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Application Deadline: Varies by university; applicants should check with their chosen institution for specific dates.
Scholarship for Master's in Australia for Indian Students
Several scholarships are specifically designed for master's programs:
University-Specific Scholarships: Many Australian universities offer scholarships for international master's students based on academic merit.
1. Rotary Peace Fellowship
The Rotary Peace Fellowship is a prestigious, fully funded scholarship for students pursuing a master's degree in peace and conflict resolution. Offered at The University of Queensland, this scholarship covers full tuition fees, accommodation, travel costs, and field-study expenses. It is ideal for students dedicated to global peacebuilding and international diplomacy. If you are wondering how to get a scholarship in Australia for international students, this program requires strong leadership experience and a commitment to promoting peace worldwide. The application deadline typically falls between February and May each year.
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Coverage: Fully funded; includes tuition and fees, room and board, round-trip transportation, and internship/field-study expenses.
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Eligibility: International students committed to studying peace and development issues.
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Fields of Study: International studies, peace, and conflict studies.
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Participating Institution: The University of Queensland's Graduate Centre of Governance and International Affairs.
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Application Deadline: Applications typically open in February and close in May each year.
2. Macquarie University Vice-Chancellor’s International Scholarship
Macquarie University offers this scholarship to academically excellent international students pursuing a master’s degree. The grant is a form of tuition reduction up to $10,000 AUD. The selection is bases on merit, requiring students to have a high WAM (Weighted Average Mark) equivalent of 65. Open throughout the year, this scholarship is an excellent opportunity for students seeking scholarships for Indian students to study in Australia.
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Coverage: Up to AUD 10,000 applied towards tuition fees.
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Eligibility: International students with a minimum WAM equivalent of 65 for postgraduate applications and who meet the Academic and English requirements for a Macquarie University Bachelor or Postgraduate Coursework Degree.
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Fields of Study: All full-time undergraduate and postgraduate coursework programs at the North Ryde campus.
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Application Deadline: Open year-round, but applicants are encouraged to apply early.
3. University of Sydney International Research Scholarship (USydIS)
The USydIS is one of the most sought-after PhD scholarships for Indian students in Australia, also available for research-based master’s students. It covers tuition fees and provides a living stipend, helping students reduce how much it costs to study in Australia from India. Applicants must have an outstanding academic record and a strong research proposal. The deadline varies depending on the research intake, so students must check the university’s website for exact dates.
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Coverage: Tuition fees and a stipend for living expenses.
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Eligibility: International students commencing a full-time postgraduate research degree.
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Fields of Study: All research disciplines.
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Application Deadline: Applications are accepted throughout the year; specific deadlines depend on the research period.
4. University of Queensland Law Scholarships
This scholarship is for international students coming to the University of Queensland for its law programs. It pays for 25-50% of tuition fees, making it an attractive scholarship for those seeking a master's in Australia for Indian students. For eligibility, a student needs to have a high academic background and leadership potential. This scholarship provides great financial support for those who want to make a career in legal studies in Australia. The deadlines for application vary, and candidates should check the university's official website for updates.
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Coverage: 25-50% reduction in tuition fees.
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Eligibility: International students applying for master's degree programs in law.
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Fields of Study: Law.
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Application Deadline: Varies; applicants should check the university's official website for current deadlines.
5. Endeavour Postgraduate Scholarship Awards
These provide financial support for international applicants to undertake a postgraduate qualification at a master's or PhD level.
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Coverage: Financial support of up to AUD 119,500 for up to 2.5 years, including up to 6 months of English language training if required.
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Eligibility: International students, including Indians, undertaking vocational education and training.
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Fields of Study: Diploma, Advanced Diploma, or Associate Degree programs.
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Application Deadline: Program status and application deadlines should be verified on the official Endeavour Scholarships and Fellowships website.
Scholarships for Indian Students to Study in Australia After 12th
For students aiming to pursue undergraduate studies post-12th grade:
International Undergraduate Scholarships: Universities like the University of Melbourne and the University of Sydney offer scholarships to high-achieving international students.
Vice-Chancellor's International High Achievers Scholarships: Offered by institutions such as Charles Darwin University, these scholarships recognize academic excellence in international students commencing undergraduate studies. The Vice-Chancellor's International High Achievers Scholarships (VCIHAS) is a prestigious merit-based award offered by various top Australian universities to attract outstanding international students. This scholarship is designed to support students with excellent academic records who wish to pursue undergraduate or postgraduate studies in Australia. It significantly reduces tuition fees and helps students manage how much it costs to study in Australia from India. It is one of the best undergraduate scholarships for indian students in australia.
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Coverage: Up to 50% reduction in tuition fees for the entire duration of the course.
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Eligibility: International students, including Indian students, with outstanding academic achievements, applying for undergraduate or postgraduate coursework programs.
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Fields of Study: Available for a wide range of undergraduate and postgraduate courses, excluding certain fields like medicine or research degrees. Specific courses and eligibility are listed on the university’s website.
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Application Deadline: Deadlines vary by university, typically closing in May or October for the next intake. It’s advisable to check the university’s official website for the exact dates.
Further Reading: How to Study Abroad After 12th
PhD Scholarships for Indian Students in Australia
For doctoral aspirants:
University Research Scholarships: Many universities offer scholarships that cover tuition fees and provide stipends for PhD candidates. Here is the list:
- University of Melbourne
- Australian National University (ANU)
- University of Sydney
- University of Queensland (UQ)
- University of New South Wales (UNSW)
CSIRO Postgraduate Scholarships: The Commonwealth Scientific and Industrial Research Organisation offers scholarships in partnership with universities for PhD students to work on projects aligned with CSIRO's priority research areas.
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Coverage: Stipend for living expenses, tuition fees, and additional research costs.
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Eligibility: International students, including Indian students, pursuing a research-based master's or PhD program. Applicants must be enrolled in a course related to science, technology, engineering, or mathematics (STEM).
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Fields of Study: Primarily for postgraduate research in the fields of science, engineering, and technology, with a focus on areas such as environmental science, biotechnology, and advanced manufacturing.
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Application Deadline: Varies; applicants are encouraged to visit the CSIRO website for the most current deadline information, typically open for applications in early spring and closing by late summer.
How Much Does It Cost to Study in Australia from India?
The cost varies depending on the course and institution:
- Tuition Fees: Undergraduate courses range from AUD 20,000 to AUD 45,000 per year, while postgraduate courses can range from AUD 22,000 to AUD 50,000 per year.
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Living Expenses: The Department of Home Affairs recommends a budget of AUD 21,041 per year for living costs.
Recommended Article: How to Save Money While Studying Abroad
How to Get a Scholarship in Australia for International Students?
Securing a scholarship involves thorough research and meticulous preparation:
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Academic Excellence: Maintain a strong academic record, as many scholarships are merit-based.
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Early Application: Be aware of application deadlines and submit your applications well in advance.
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Personal Statement: Craft a compelling personal statement that highlights your achievements, goals, and reasons for choosing Australia.
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Letters of Recommendation: Obtain strong recommendations from academic or professional references.
Must Read: Letter Of Recommendation Sample For Students
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English Proficiency: Ensure you meet the English language requirements, typically through tests like IELTS or TOEFL.
If you are wondering as How Many Indian Students Study in Australia, then as of recent data, there are over 115,000 Indian students on student visas in Australia, making them one of the largest groups of international students in the country.
Must Read: How to get scholarship to study abroad
Conclusion
In conclusion, a simple answer for the most commonly asked question does australia offer scholarships to international students is Yes!! Australia offers a multitude of scholarship opportunities for Indian students across various levels of study. By understanding the available options and meticulously preparing your applications, you can embark on a rewarding educational journey in Australia.
FAQs
Q. What are the most common types of scholarships available for Indian students in Australia?
A. The most common types of scholarships for Indian students in Australia include merit-based scholarships, research scholarships, and university-specific scholarships. These scholarships typically cover tuition fees, living expenses, and sometimes additional costs like travel and accommodation.
Q. What are the eligibility criteria for most Australian scholarships for Indian students?
A. Eligibility criteria for Australian scholarships generally include academic excellence, proof of English proficiency (like IELTS or TOEFL), and meeting the specific requirements of the scholarship program or university. Some scholarships may also require relevant work experience or a research proposal for postgraduate programs.
Q. How can Indian students find and apply for Australian scholarships?
A. Indian students can find Australian scholarships by visiting university websites, scholarship portals, and government scholarship listings. They can apply by submitting the required documents, such as academic transcripts, a statement of purpose, and references, directly through online application systems or via email to the respective universities.
Q. What are the deadlines for applying for Australian scholarships?
A. Deadlines for applying for Australian scholarships vary depending on the university and the scholarship program. Generally, most scholarships have deadlines between March and October for the following academic year, so students should check individual university websites for exact dates.
Q. What are some tips for writing a strong scholarship application as an Indian student?
A. To write a strong scholarship application, Indian students should focus on highlighting their academic achievements, leadership skills, and relevant extracurricular activities. It's also important to tailor the statement of purpose to the specific scholarship, demonstrating how the scholarship aligns with their future goals and how they plan to contribute to the field of study.
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