Scholarships for South Asian students in Australia is one of those topics that comes up a lot. Students from South Asia want to know if there are scholarships specifically for them. The information online is often vague or doesn’t focus on South Asian countries specifically. I needed to know what actually exists for students from South Asia.
Three years later, I’m finishing my Master’s at the University of Melbourne. I’m from South Asia myself, and I’ve researched scholarships extensively. Some South Asian students find country specific scholarships. Others don’t, but find other scholarships that work. The difference was knowing what exists and where to look.
So here’s everything I know about scholarships for South Asian students in Australia, based on what actually exists.
The Reality Check First
Let me start with this, because I wish someone had told me: country specific scholarships for South Asian students exist, but they’re not as common as you might hope.
Most scholarships are open to all international students, not specific countries. Country specific scholarships are less common.
Some universities offer scholarships for students from specific regions, including South Asia. These are usually competitive but worth applying for.
Some government programs target specific countries, including some South Asian countries. Australia Awards, for example, includes some South Asian countries.
But here’s what I’ve learned: don’t limit yourself to country specific scholarships. Apply to general scholarships too. More applications mean more chances.
Australia Awards: For Some South Asian Countries
This is the main government program that includes some South Asian countries.
Australia Awards are available for students from some South Asian countries, including Bangladesh, Nepal, Pakistan, and Sri Lanka. India is usually not included, but check current availability.
They cover full costs: course fees, living allowance, travel, and other expenses. This is significant, which is why they’re so competitive.
They’re very competitive. Many students apply, and only a few get them. You need excellent grades, strong applications, and usually relevant work experience.
But here’s what I’ve learned: Australia Awards are worth applying for if you’re eligible. They’re competitive, but they cover everything. Even if you don’t get one, the application process is valuable experience.
I’ve written about government scholarships for international students if you want more detail.
University Scholarships for South Asian Students
This is where most South Asian students find scholarships, and here’s what exists.
Some universities offer scholarships specifically for South Asian students. These are usually merit based and competitive.
Some universities offer regional scholarships that include South Asia. These might be for “Asian students” or “developing country students” rather than specifically South Asian.
Most university scholarships are open to all international students, including South Asian students. Don’t limit yourself to country specific scholarships.
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.
Country Specific Programs
This is less common, but it’s worth checking.
Some programs are specific to individual South Asian countries. For example, some programs might be specifically for Indian students, or Pakistani students, or students from other specific countries.
These programs vary by country and change over time. Check current availability for your specific country.
But here’s what to watch for: country specific programs are less common than general programs. Don’t count on them, but check if they’re available for your country.
How to Find Scholarships for South Asian Students
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 search for your country or region.
Check government websites. The Australian government lists government scholarships on their websites. Check if your country is included in Australia Awards or other programs.
Contact education agents from your country. Some agents know about country specific scholarships. But be careful. Some agents push expensive courses because they get commissions. Don’t rely solely on agents.
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: don’t limit yourself to country specific scholarships. Apply to general scholarships too. More applications mean more chances.
What Makes a Strong Application
This is important, because strong applications have better chances regardless of whether the scholarship is country specific.
Good grades are essential. Most scholarships require good grades. Better grades mean better chances.
Strong personal statements help. Scholarship applications usually require personal statements. Strong statements that show your goals, achievements, and need can help.
Relevant experience helps. Work experience, volunteer work, or other experience that’s relevant to your field can help.
Clear goals help. Scholarships want to see that you have clear goals and that studying in Australia 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 specifically for South Asian students?
There are some, but not as many as you might hope. Most scholarships are open to all international students. Country specific scholarships are less common.
Do I need to be from a specific South Asian country?
It depends on the scholarship. Some scholarships are for specific countries. Others are for the region. Most are open to all international students. Check the specific requirements.
Should I only apply for country specific scholarships?
No, don’t limit yourself. Apply to both country specific and general scholarships. More applications mean more chances.
How do I find scholarships for my specific country?
Check university websites, check government websites, contact education agents, and use scholarship search websites. Research thoroughly, as scholarships aren’t always well publicised.
Are South Asian students eligible for Australia Awards?
Some are. Australia Awards are available for students from some South Asian countries, including Bangladesh, Nepal, Pakistan, and Sri Lanka. India is usually not included, but check current availability.
Can I get a scholarship if I’m from India?
Yes, but country specific scholarships for Indian students are less common. Most scholarships are open to all international students, including Indian students. Apply to general scholarships, and check if any India specific scholarships exist.
Final Thoughts
Scholarships for South Asian students in Australia exist, but they’re not as common as you might hope. Most scholarships are open to all international students. Country specific scholarships are less common. Australia Awards include some South Asian countries, but they’re very competitive.
Don’t limit yourself to country specific scholarships. Apply to general scholarships too. More applications mean more chances.
I’ve made plenty of mistakes since landing in Melbourne, but each one taught me something. The biggest lesson? Don’t limit yourself. Apply to both country specific and general scholarships. Research thoroughly, apply to multiple scholarships, and put effort into your applications. You might be surprised by what you can find.
If you’re still planning your study journey, check out my guides on best scholarships in Australia for international students and university funded scholarships. And if you’re looking for scholarships, don’t limit yourself to country specific options. Apply to general scholarships too. More applications mean more chances.