Bursaries and hardship funds for international students in Australia is one of those topics that doesn’t get talked about enough. Many students face financial difficulties, but they don’t know that help exists. Bursaries and hardship funds can help, but they’re not always well publicised or easy to access. I’ve watched friends face financial difficulties, and some found help through bursaries and hardship funds while others didn’t know they existed.
Three years later, I’m finishing my Master’s at the University of Melbourne. I’ve researched bursaries and hardship funds and watched friends access them. Some got help when they needed it. Others didn’t, either because they didn’t know about them or because they didn’t meet the requirements. The difference was knowing what exists and how to access it.
So here’s everything I know about bursaries and hardship funds for international students in Australia, based on what actually exists.
What Are Bursaries and Hardship Funds Actually?
Let me start with the basics, because I got confused about this at first.
Bursaries are usually small amounts of money given to students based on financial need. They’re usually smaller than scholarships and are need based rather than merit based.
Hardship funds are emergency funds for students facing financial difficulties. They’re usually for unexpected situations, like medical emergencies, family crises, or other hardships.
Both are usually need based. You need to demonstrate financial need to be eligible. They’re not usually merit based like scholarships.
But here’s what nobody tells you: bursaries and hardship funds are less common than scholarships. Many universities don’t offer them, or they’re very limited. Don’t count on getting help from them.
Who Is Eligible?
This is important, because eligibility varies.
Most bursaries and hardship funds are for current students. You usually need to be enrolled and studying to be eligible.
Financial need is usually required. You need to demonstrate that you’re facing financial difficulties and can’t afford to continue studying without help.
Some have specific requirements. Some are only for students in certain situations, like medical emergencies or family crises. Others are more general.
But here’s what I’ve learned: eligibility varies by university and fund. Check with your university about what’s available and what the requirements are.
How to Access Bursaries and Hardship Funds
This is the practical part, and here’s how to do it.
Contact your university’s student services office. They can tell you what’s available and how to apply.
Check your university’s website. Some universities list bursaries and hardship funds on their websites, though they’re not always easy to find.
Contact your faculty or department. Some faculties offer bursaries or hardship funds for students in their field.
Apply early. Bursaries and hardship funds are usually limited, and they can run out. Apply as soon as you need help.
But here’s what to watch for: bursaries and hardship funds aren’t always well publicised. You might need to actively search for them or ask directly. Don’t assume they don’t exist just because you can’t find them easily.
What You Need to Apply
This is important, because applications usually require documentation.
Financial documentation is usually required. You’ll need to show your financial situation, including income, expenses, and assets. This can be uncomfortable, but it’s necessary.
Evidence of hardship might be required. If you’re applying for hardship funds, you might need to provide evidence of the hardship, like medical bills or other documentation.
Personal statements are usually required. You’ll need to explain your situation and why you need help.
But here’s what I’ve learned: applications can be intrusive, but they’re necessary. Be honest about your situation, but don’t be overly dramatic. Provide complete information, as incomplete applications are less likely to succeed.
How Much Can You Actually Get?
This is the key question, and here’s the reality.
Bursaries are usually small amounts. They might be $500 to $2,000, or sometimes more. They’re not usually enough to cover all your costs, but they can help.
Hardship funds vary. They might be small amounts for specific expenses, or larger amounts for more serious situations. It depends on the fund and your situation.
But here’s what I’ve learned: don’t expect large amounts. Bursaries and hardship funds are usually small. They can help, but they won’t solve major financial problems. You still need to have a plan for covering your costs.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are bursaries and hardship funds common?
Not very common. Many universities don’t offer them, or they’re very limited. Don’t count on getting help from them. But check what’s available at your university.
Do I need to be in serious financial trouble to be eligible?
It depends on the fund. Some are for serious hardship. Others are for students who just need a bit of help. Check the specific requirements for each fund.
How do I apply for bursaries or hardship funds?
Contact your university’s student services office. They can tell you what’s available and how to apply. Applications usually require financial documentation and personal statements.
Will applying for hardship funds affect my visa?
Usually no, but check with your university and migration agent. Applying for hardship funds usually doesn’t affect your visa, but it’s worth checking to be sure.
Can I get bursaries or hardship funds multiple times?
It depends on the fund. Some allow multiple applications. Others are one time only. Check the specific rules for each fund.
Should I count on getting help from bursaries or hardship funds?
No, don’t count on it. Bursaries and hardship funds are limited and competitive. Apply if you need help, but make sure you have a plan for covering your costs regardless.
Final Thoughts
Bursaries and hardship funds for international students in Australia exist, but they’re not common and they’re usually small amounts. They can help in difficult situations, but they won’t solve major financial problems. Don’t count on getting help from them.
If you’re facing financial difficulties, check what’s available at your university. Contact student services, check websites, and apply if you’re eligible. But make sure you have a plan for covering your costs regardless.
I’ve made plenty of mistakes since landing in Melbourne, but each one taught me something. The biggest lesson? Don’t count on help that might not be available. Plan for your costs, and if help is available, that’s a bonus. But don’t rely on it.
If you’re still planning your study journey, check out my guides on how to compare course fees in Australia and hidden costs of studying in Australia. And if you’re facing financial difficulties, contact your university’s student services office. They can tell you what help is available. But make sure you have a plan for covering your costs regardless.