Studying in Australia in 2025? Great choice! But tuition and living costs can add up fast That’s where university bursaries and scholarships come in handy. These supports are designed to help students both local and international meet their goals.
What Are Bursaries and Scholarships?
Scholarships usually reward merit like grades or research potential. Bursaries on the other hand often help students with financial need or specific backgrounds. In 2025 Australian universities and the government offer a rich mix of both.
Government-Funded Programs
Australia Awards Scholarships (AAS)
This prestigious program for international students from developing nations provides full tuition living stipend (approx AUD 32,500/year) return airfare, establishment allowance OSHC.
Destination Australia Scholarships
Aimed at regional campuses these offer up to AUD 15,000 per year to domestic and international students studying outside major cities.
University-Specific Bursaries & Scholarships
Explore Intl Student Awards (Generic Example)
Three award types:
- Australian Next Gen Award: 30 % tuition waiver (up to AUD 16,080) for offshore undergraduates in certain disciplines.
- International Student Support Bursary: 20 % annual tuition reduction for onshore students.
- Global Access Award: 15 % reduction for both onshore and offshore students.
AIG Education Foundation Bursary
For third-year honours and postgraduate geoscience students who are Australian citizens or permanent residents. Awards range between AUD 1,000 and 3,000.
Scholarships by Top Australian Universities
| University | Scholarship Name | Benefits | Deadlines / Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| University of Melbourne | Melbourne Research Scholarship (MRS) | Full tuition, stipend (~AUD 41,500/year), OSHC | / |
| Monash University | RTP / Silver Jubilee Scholarships | Tuition waiver, stipend (~AUD 39,820/year), OSHC | / |
| Deakin University | RTP Scholarship | Tuition waiver, stipend (~AUD 35,550/year), OSHC | / |
| University of Western Australia | Global Excellence Scholarship | Up to AUD 48 k (UG) or AUD 24 k (PG), OSHC | / |
| University of Sydney | Fully Funded Scholarships | Tuition + living costs | / |
| ANU | Chancellor’s International Scholarship | 25–50 % tuition discount | / |
Additional Examples and Grants
- Curtin Global Future Leaders Scholarship: One-off AUD 10,000 tuition credit for high achievers.
- ECU International Excellence Scholarship: 20 % tuition reduction for selected nations’ students.
- Melbourne Human Rights Scholarship: For research students focusing on human rights studies.
Quick Insights
- Bursaries vary by eligibility location degree level, and institution.
- Many top universities automatically consider research applicants for merit scholarships—no extra form required (e.g., MRS at UniMelb)
- Government initiatives like Destination Australia help distribute talent and growth outside major cities.
FAQs
Q: Who can apply for the Australia Awards Scholarships?
A: International students from eligible developing countries who meet academic and English criteria and plan to return home post-study.
Q: Can I get both a university bursary and OSHC coverage?
A: Yes. Many fully funded research scholarships include OSHC as part of the package.
Q: Are there bursaries for specific subjects or regions?
A: Yes. For example, AIG bursaries are specific to geosciences. while Destination Australia targets regional campuses