Best scholarships in Australia for international students in 2026 is one of those topics that everyone searches for, but the information online is often vague or outdated. I needed to know what scholarships actually exist, how to find them, and what my chances were. The information was scattered and often didn’t tell me what I actually needed to know.
Three years later, I’m finishing my Master’s at the University of Melbourne. I’ve watched friends apply for scholarships, and I’ve seen what works and what doesn’t. Some got scholarships and saved significant money. Others applied but didn’t get anything. The difference was understanding what scholarships exist and how to apply properly.
So here’s everything I know about the best scholarships in Australia for international students, based on what actually works.
The Reality Check First
Let me start with this, because I wish someone had told me: scholarships are competitive, and most are partial, not full.
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.
Scholarships have requirements. You usually need good grades, strong applications, and sometimes other factors like financial need or specific backgrounds.
But here’s what I’ve learned: scholarships are worth applying for. Even partial scholarships can save you significant money. And the application process isn’t always as hard as people think.
Types of Scholarships: What Actually Exists
This is important, because understanding what exists helps you find what’s relevant to you.
University scholarships are offered by universities. They’re usually for students studying at that university. Some are merit based, some are need based, some are for specific fields or backgrounds.
Government scholarships are offered by the Australian government. They’re usually competitive and cover significant costs. Examples include Australia Awards and Endeavour Scholarships.
Country specific scholarships are for students from specific countries. Some universities and governments offer scholarships for students from certain countries or regions.
Field specific scholarships are for students in specific fields. Some scholarships are only for IT students, or engineering students, or students in other fields.
But here’s what I’ve learned: most scholarships are university scholarships. Government and country specific scholarships are less common. Focus on university scholarships, but also check government and country specific options.
How to Find Scholarships
This is the key question, and here’s how to do it.
Check university websites. Most universities list their scholarships on their websites. Look for “Scholarships” or “Financial Aid” sections.
Check government websites. The Australian government lists government scholarships on their websites. Look for “Study in Australia” or “Scholarships” sections.
Use scholarship search websites. There are websites that list scholarships, but be careful. Some are outdated or have incorrect information. Verify information from these websites against official sources.
Talk to education agents. Some agents know about scholarships, but be careful. Some agents push expensive courses because they get commissions. Don’t rely solely on agents.
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 Scholarship Application
This is important, because strong applications have better chances.
Good grades help. Most scholarships require good grades, usually a credit average or higher. Better grades mean better chances.
Strong personal statements help. Scholarship applications usually require personal statements or essays. 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.
Financial need can help. Some scholarships are need based, so demonstrating financial need can help.
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.
I’ve written about how to write a strong scholarship motivation letter if you want more detail.
Common Scholarship Mistakes
Here’s what I’ve seen go wrong, so you can avoid these mistakes:
Not researching properly. Many students apply for scholarships without researching what’s available or what’s required. Research properly before you apply.
Missing deadlines. Scholarship deadlines are strict. Missing a deadline means you can’t apply. Keep track of deadlines and apply early.
Weak applications. Many students rush their applications or don’t put enough effort into them. Take your time and put effort into your applications.
Not applying to enough scholarships. Many students only apply to one or two scholarships. Apply to multiple scholarships to increase your chances.
Assuming you won’t get one. Many students don’t apply because they assume they won’t get a scholarship. But you can’t get one if you don’t apply.
But here’s what I’ve learned: these mistakes are avoidable. Research properly, keep track of deadlines, put effort into applications, and apply to multiple scholarships. It takes time, but it’s worth it.
I’ve written about common scholarship mistakes international students make if you want more detail.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many scholarships should I apply for?
As many as you’re eligible for. Don’t limit yourself to one or two. Apply to multiple scholarships to increase your chances. But make sure you’re eligible and that you put effort into each application.
Are scholarships worth applying for?
Yes, definitely. Even partial scholarships can save you significant money. And the application process isn’t always as hard as people think. It’s worth applying, even if you don’t think you’ll get one.
Do I need perfect grades to get a scholarship?
Not necessarily. Good grades help, but perfect grades aren’t always required. Many scholarships consider other factors too, like financial need, personal statements, or relevant experience.
Can I get a scholarship after I start my course?
Sometimes yes. Some scholarships are available for current students. Check with your university about scholarships for current students. I’ve written about can you get scholarships after starting your course if you want more detail.
Are full scholarships available?
Rarely. Most scholarships are partial. Full scholarships that cover everything are very competitive and rare. Don’t count on getting a full scholarship.
Should I use an agent to find scholarships?
Agents can help, but be careful. Some agents know about scholarships, but some push expensive courses because they get commissions. Research scholarships yourself, and use agents as a supplement, not your only source.
Final Thoughts
Finding the best scholarships in Australia for international students requires research, effort, and persistence. Scholarships are competitive, and most are partial, but they’re worth applying for. Even partial scholarships can save you significant money.
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? Apply for scholarships. Don’t assume you won’t get one. Even if you don’t get a full scholarship, partial scholarships can help. And the application process helps you clarify your goals and achievements.
If you’re still planning your study journey, check out my guides on how to write a strong scholarship motivation letter and common scholarship mistakes to avoid. And if you’re looking for scholarships, check university websites, government websites, and scholarship search websites. Research properly, apply to multiple scholarships, and put effort into your applications. You might be surprised by what you can get.
