Study in Australia: Understanding the Types of International Scholarships

Studying in Australia can be a life-changing experience for Indian students. Australia is an ideal destination for international education, with top-notch universities, a culturally diverse atmosphere, and awe-inspiring landscapes. However, the financial aspect can be a significant hurdle, especially for Indian students. Scholarships can play a vital role in alleviating this financial burden.

Scholarships for Indian students aspiring to study in Australia serve as vital support, making the pursuit of education abroad more accessible. These financial aids alleviate the burden of high tuition costs and foster a more inclusive and diverse academic environment. The government, specific universities, and other private institutions fund these scholarships. They cover tuition fees and living expenses partly or wholly. Prospective students can apply for several scholarships catered to different fields of study. Here are the most sought-after scholarships in Australia.

Types of Scholarships in Australia for Indian Students

The following types of scholarships are classified into six types, and they are,

• Merit-Based Scholarships: As the name suggests, this scholarship is for students with exceptional academic records. The qualifications are met according to the university. Chancellor’s Scholarships, Vice-Chancellor’s Scholarships, Dean’s Scholarships, etc. fall under this category.
• Faculty and Departmental Scholarships: Typically, a merit-based scholarship but department-wise, taking particular courses.
• Sports Scholarships: Students who excel in sports can avail of this scholarship. The eligibility criteria can vary based on university requirements.
• Accommodation Scholarships: Prospective students who do not qualify for merit-based or sports scholarships can apply for this scholarship. This covers room rent and student costs.
• Equity Scholarships: This scholarship is exclusive to a specific group of students with harsh financial situations, physical impediments, medical conditions, etc.
• Government-Funded Scholarships: This type of scholarship is mostly fully funded because of the defined criteria – merit student, financially unstable student, disability, etc. They cover tuition fees and living costs.

Popular Scholarships in Australia for Indian Students

Australia Awards Scholarships:

The Australia Awards Scholarship is a fully funded program that provides financial assistance for undergraduate and postgraduate students from developing countries. This scholarship covers the cost of tuition, travel, and living expenses. To be eligible for this program, you must be a citizen of an eligible country, have strong academic qualifications, and demonstrate that you will significantly contribute to your home country after graduation.

The Endeavour Scholarships

The Australian Government provides the Endeavour Scholarships. It is merit-based, competitive, and provides students up to AU $272,500 for study, research, and professional development. This is also offered to non-Australians, including Canadians, Indians, and Americans, who want to study for four years in Australia for undergraduate, postgraduate, and doctorate studies. The Endeavour Executive Fellowship also provides opportunities for high-achieving professionals from participating countries to pursue professional development opportunities worth up to AU$18,500 in business, industry, education, or government areas. ​

Australian Government Research Training Program Scholarship​

This scholarship for international students is granted by individual universities in collaboration with the Department of Education in Australia. The application procedure and selection criteria vary from one university to another. Primarily proposed for students enrolling in Research Masters and Research Doctorate programs, these scholarships extend coverage to one or more: tuition fees, cost of living, and other study-related expenses. A Research Masters scholarship is valid for two years, but a Research Doctorate award is valid for at least three and up to four years. Successful applicants may be eligible for financial assistance of up to $124,000, covering tuition and providing a stipend for living expenses.

Destination Australia Scholarship

The Destination Australia Scholarship supports students in pursuing their education at tertiary Australian universities and institutions. This scholarship aims to harness international students' socio-cultural and economic contributions, particularly empowering regional Australia. Successful candidates are required to reside and study in remote and regional areas, as defined by locations outside major Australian cities. International students are provided coverage up to $15,000 per year, with a maximum duration of 4 years.

CSIRO Scholarship Program (Ph.D.)

This scholarship is offered to outstanding graduates who enroll at Australian tertiary universities each year. Students can get this scholarship for three years minimum and extend it to one more year. CSIRO is committed to researchers working with established scientists. The official CSIRO website confirms that at least 50 scholarships are given every year for international students. Students are also given a stipend of $42,000 for the 1st and 2nd year, which gradually increases to $44,000 from the 3rd year.

Charles Darwin Scholarship (CDS)

CDS supports 5 students yearly who fulfill the academic and English proficiency exam standards and offers a significant financial boost since they pay for all annual tuition fees and living expenses while on campus. With this program, CDU hopes to lessen these worthy students' financial burdens so they can concentrate on their studies without worrying about paying for their tuition and housing, creating a favorable climate for learning and development. Prospective students get access to yearly tuition fees and accommodation and are paid $AUD 12,900 annually.

Melbourne Research Scholarship

This scholarship is awarded for international Master's by Research students and up to four years for doctorate applicants. It pays full fees for a maximum of two and four years. It offers restricted paid leave and a stipend of $37,000 per year for Master's students and up to 3.5 years for PhD applicants, supporting their academic path. Additionally, depending on whether students are transferring from within Australia or abroad, a one-time relocation allowance of $2,000 or $3,000 is provided. Students from overseas who need a student visa can take advantage of the Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) Single Membership. This scholarship aims to provide complete assistance to Melbourne-based students pursuing advanced research degrees.