Scholarships for Masters in IT and engineering in Australia is one of those topics that comes up a lot. These fields are popular, and students want to know what scholarships are available. The information online is scattered and often doesn’t focus on these specific fields. I needed a comprehensive list of what’s actually available.
Three years later, I’m finishing my Master’s at the University of Melbourne. I’ve researched scholarships extensively and watched friends apply. Some found scholarships in IT and engineering. Others didn’t, but the research helped them understand their options. The difference was knowing where to look and what exists.
So here’s everything I know about scholarships for Masters in IT and engineering in Australia, based on what actually exists.
The Reality Check First
Let me start with this, because I wish someone had told me: scholarships for IT and engineering Masters exist, but they’re competitive and most are partial.
Most scholarships cover only part of your costs. A scholarship might cover 25% of your fees, or $5,000 per year, or similar. Full scholarships that cover everything are rare and very competitive.
Scholarships are competitive. Many students apply, and only a few get them. Don’t assume you’ll get a scholarship. Apply, but don’t count on it.
Field specific scholarships exist, but they’re not always well publicised. You need to research to find them.
But here’s what I’ve learned: scholarships are worth applying for. Even partial scholarships can save you significant money. And IT and engineering are fields where scholarships are sometimes available.
University Scholarships for IT and Engineering
This is where most students find scholarships, and here’s what exists.
Most universities offer scholarships for IT and engineering students. These are usually merit based, requiring good grades (usually distinction average or higher).
Some universities offer field specific scholarships. These are only for IT or engineering students. They’re usually competitive but worth applying for.
Some universities offer scholarships for specific specialisations. For example, scholarships for data science, cybersecurity, or specific engineering fields.
But here’s what I’ve learned: university scholarships vary widely. Some universities offer many scholarships. Others offer few. Research specific universities to find what’s available.
I’ve written about university funded scholarships in Australia if you want more detail on how to find and apply.
Government Scholarships
This is less common, but it’s worth checking.
Some government scholarships are available for IT and engineering students. These are usually very competitive and cover significant costs.
Australia Awards sometimes include IT and engineering fields. Check if your country is eligible and if IT or engineering is included.
Endeavour Scholarships sometimes include IT and engineering. Check current availability, as the program has changed over time.
But here’s what to watch for: government scholarships are very competitive. Don’t count on getting one. Apply if you’re eligible, but focus on university scholarships too.
I’ve written about government scholarships for international students if you want more detail.
Industry Scholarships
This is less common but can be valuable, and here’s what exists.
Some companies offer scholarships for IT and engineering students. These are usually for students who will work for the company after graduation.
Some professional associations offer scholarships. Engineering and IT professional associations sometimes offer scholarships for students.
But here’s what I’ve learned: industry scholarships are less common than university scholarships. Don’t count on them, but check if they’re available in your field.
How to Find IT and Engineering Scholarships
This is the practical part, and here’s how to do it.
Check university websites. Most universities list scholarships on their websites. Look for “Scholarships” sections and filter by field or search for IT or engineering.
Check course pages. When you’re looking at specific IT or engineering Masters programs, check if there are scholarships available for those programs.
Contact university departments. IT and engineering departments sometimes know about scholarships that aren’t well publicised. Contact them directly and ask.
Use scholarship search websites. There are websites that list scholarships, but be careful. Some are outdated. Verify information from these websites against official sources.
But here’s what to watch for: scholarship information changes regularly. What’s available this year might not be available next year. Check current information, not old information.
What Makes a Strong Application
This is important, because strong applications have better chances.
Good grades are essential. Most IT and engineering scholarships require good grades, usually distinction average or higher. Better grades mean better chances.
Relevant experience helps. Work experience in IT or engineering, projects, or other relevant experience can help.
Strong personal statements help. Scholarship applications usually require personal statements. Strong statements that show your goals, achievements, and need can help.
Clear goals help. Scholarships want to see that you have clear goals and that studying IT or engineering will help you achieve them.
But here’s what I’ve learned: there’s no formula for getting scholarships. Different scholarships value different things. Research specific scholarships to understand what they value, and tailor your application accordingly.
I’ve written about how to write a strong scholarship motivation letter if you want more detail.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are there many scholarships for IT and engineering Masters?
There are some, but not as many as you might hope. Most scholarships are university scholarships, and they’re competitive. Field specific scholarships exist but are less common.
Do I need perfect grades to get IT or engineering scholarships?
Not necessarily, but good grades help. Most scholarships require distinction average or higher. Better grades mean better chances, but other factors matter too.
Are IT or engineering scholarships usually full or partial?
Most are partial. Full scholarships that cover everything are rare and very competitive. Most students who get scholarships get partial scholarships.
Should I apply for IT or engineering specific scholarships or general scholarships?
Apply for both. Don’t limit yourself to field specific scholarships. Apply to general scholarships too. More applications mean more chances.
How do I find IT or engineering scholarships?
Check university websites, check course pages, contact university departments, and use scholarship search websites. Research thoroughly, as scholarships aren’t always well publicised.
Can I get a scholarship after I start my IT or engineering Masters?
Sometimes yes. Some scholarships are available for current students. Check with your university about scholarships for current students.
Final Thoughts
Scholarships for Masters in IT and engineering in Australia exist, but they’re competitive and most are partial. University scholarships are the most common type. Government and industry scholarships are less common. Research thoroughly, apply to multiple scholarships, and don’t count on getting one.
Don’t assume you won’t get a scholarship. Apply to multiple scholarships, put effort into your applications, and don’t give up. It takes time, but it’s worth it.
I’ve made plenty of mistakes since landing in Melbourne, but each one taught me something. The biggest lesson? Research and persistence matter. Don’t give up if you can’t find scholarships easily. Keep looking, contact universities directly, and apply to multiple scholarships. You might be surprised by what you can find.
If you’re still planning your Masters journey, check out my guides on Masters in IT and computer science in Australia and best scholarships in Australia for international students. And if you’re looking for IT or engineering scholarships, research thoroughly, apply to multiple scholarships, and put effort into your applications. Scholarships are competitive, but they’re worth applying for.