Top 5 Fully Funded Australia Scholarships for International Students in 2025

The cost of studying abroad can be a significant barrier, but the good news is that several fully funded Australia scholarships for international students in 2025 are available. These scholarships cover full tuition fees, living expenses, travel allowances, and sometimes even relocation costs.

In this guide, we will explore the top 5 fully funded Australia scholarships for international students in 2025, including their benefits, eligibility criteria, application process, and deadlines.

Why Study in Australia?

Here are a few reasons why international students choose Australia:

• Top-Ranked Universities: Institutions like the University of Melbourne, ANU, and University of Sydney are ranked among the best globally.

• Post-Study Work Rights: Graduates are allowed to work in Australia after their studies.

• Cultural Diversity: Multicultural learning environment with global exposure.

• Research Excellence: Innovative and research-driven universities.

• Scholarship Opportunities: Numerous fully funded scholarships for deserving students.

 Fully Funded Australia Scholarships for International Students in 2025

Let’s now dive into the top 5 fully funded Australia scholarships for international students in 2025 that can make your academic journey smooth and affordable.

1. Australia Awards Scholarships 2025

What is it?
The Australia Awards Scholarships (AAS) are long-term development awards funded by the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade. These prestigious awards aim to contribute to the development needs of Australia’s partner countries.

Scholarship Benefits:

• Full tuition fees.

• Return air travel.

• Establishment allowance.

• Contribution to Living Expenses (CLE).

• Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC).

• Introductory Academic Program (IAP).

Eligibility Criteria:

• Citizen of a participating country in Asia, Africa, the Pacific, and the Middle East.

• Minimum age of 18.

• Not a citizen or permanent resident of Australia.

• Meet English language requirements (IELTS/TOEFL/PTE).

• Commitment to return home for at least 2 years after completion.

How to Apply:

1. Check eligibility via the Australia Awards website.

2. Apply online via the OASIS portal.

3. Submit required documents including academic transcripts, references, CV, and English test scores.

Deadline: April 30, 2026.

2. University of Melbourne Graduate Research Scholarships 2025

What is it?
Offered by the University of Melbourne, these scholarships support high-achieving domestic and international students undertaking graduate research degrees.

Scholarship Benefits:

• Full fee offset for up to 4 years.

• Living allowance of AUD $37,000 per year.

• Relocation grant (AUD $2,000–$3,000).

• Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC).

Eligibility Criteria:

• Must apply for and meet the entry requirements for a graduate research degree.

• Outstanding academic performance.

• Research potential and relevant experience.

How to Apply:

1. Apply for any eligible graduate research program.

2. Automatically considered for the scholarship if eligible.

3. Submit academic transcripts, research proposal, and letters of recommendation.

Deadline: October 31, 2025.

3. University of Sydney International Scholarships 2025 (USydIS)

What is it?
The University of Sydney offers International Scholarships for high-quality international postgraduate students who wish to undertake a research degree (Master’s or PhD).

Scholarship Benefits:

• Tuition fees.

• Annual stipend of AUD $40,109.

• Health insurance.

• Travel costs.

Eligibility Criteria:

• Must be an international student enrolled in a full-time postgraduate research degree.

• Excellent academic results.

• English proficiency (IELTS/TOEFL).

• Research potential and supervisor recommendation.

How to Apply:

1. Apply for admission to a postgraduate research program.

2. Fill out the USydIS application form available here.

3. Submit a detailed research proposal and supervisor confirmation.

Deadline: September 13, 2025.

4. Destination Australia Scholarship 2025

What is it?
Funded by the Australian Government, this scholarship aims to attract international students to study in regional Australia and support the growth of these communities.

Scholarship Benefits:

• AUD $15,000 per year (up to 4 years).

• Tuition support (for selected institutions).

• Priority support services.

Eligibility Criteria:

• Enroll in a full-time course at a regional Australian campus.

• Maintain academic performance.

• International student visa holder (Subclass 500).

• English language proficiency.

How to Apply:

1. Apply directly to a participating regional university such as Charles Sturt University, Federation University, or Southern Cross University.

2. Submit an application for the scholarship during course admission.

Participating Universities (example):

• Charles Sturt University

• La Trobe University – Bendigo Campus

• CQUniversity – Rockhampton Campus

Deadline: Varies by institution (typically between February and March 2026).

5. Research Training Program (RTP) Scholarships 2025

What is it?
Funded by the Australian Government, RTP scholarships are available to domestic and international students undertaking research doctorate and research master’s degrees.

Scholarship Benefits:

• Tuition fee offset.

• Annual living allowance of AUD $32,000–$37,000.

• Thesis allowance.

• Relocation costs.

Eligibility Criteria:

• Must be enrolled in an eligible research program.

• Academic excellence and research potential.

• International student visa.

• English proficiency.

How to Apply:

1. Apply through your chosen university (e.g., ANU, Monash, UQ).

2. Submit academic documents, research proposal, and supervisor confirmation.

3. RTP applications are usually assessed with admission applications.

Deadline: Varies by institution (typically October–December 2025).

Pro Tips for Winning Fully Funded Scholarships in Australia

1. Start Early: Begin your search and preparation at least one year ahead.

2. Write a Stand-Out Personal Statement: Highlight your achievements, leadership, and motivation.

3. Get Strong Letters of Recommendation: From professors or employers who know your academic/professional potential.

4. Ace English Tests: IELTS, TOEFL, or PTE are usually required.

5. Apply to Multiple Universities: Widen your chances by applying across different programs and institutions.

1. Australia Awards Scholarships 2025

Eligible Countries:

Australia Awards are available to citizens from countries across Asia, the Pacific, Africa, and the Middle East, including:

Asia:

• Bangladesh

• Bhutan

• Cambodia

• India

• Indonesia

• Laos

• Maldives

• Mongolia

• Myanmar

• Nepal

• Pakistan

• Philippines

• Sri Lanka

• Timor-Leste

• Vietnam

Pacific:

• Fiji

• Kiribati

• Marshall Islands

• Micronesia

• Nauru

• Papua New Guinea

• Samoa

• Solomon Islands

• Tonga

• Tuvalu

• Vanuatu

Africa:

• Botswana

• Kenya

• Lesotho

• Madagascar

• Malawi

• Mauritius

• Mozambique

• Namibia

• Rwanda

• South Africa

• Tanzania

• Uganda

• Zambia

• Zimbabwe

Middle East:

• Palestinian Territories

2. University of Melbourne Graduate Research Scholarships 2025

Eligible Countries:

This scholarship is open to applicants from all countries worldwide, including:

• Nigeria

• Ghana

• Kenya

• Pakistan

• India

• Bangladesh

• Nepal

• China

• Indonesia

• Philippines

• Brazil

• South Africa

• Egypt

• United States

• United Kingdom

• All EU Countries

• Pacific Island Nations

Note: There are no country restrictions. All international students who meet the academic and research requirements can apply.

3. University of Sydney International Scholarships (USydIS) 2025

Eligible Countries:

Open to international students from all over the world, including but not limited to:

• India

• China

• Vietnam

• Pakistan

• Indonesia

• Sri Lanka

• Nigeria

• Ghana

• South Africa

• United States

• Brazil

• Colombia

• Kenya

• Iran

• Bangladesh

• Egypt

• Mexico

• Philippines

• Malaysia

• Nepal

No restrictions on nationality apply only academic merit and research potential are considered.

4. Destination Australia Scholarship 2025

Eligible Countries:

Destination Australia Scholarships are open to international students from any country who plan to study in regional Australia. Common applicants come from:

• India

• Pakistan

• Nepal

• Bangladesh

• Philippines

• Vietnam

• Indonesia

• Nigeria

• Kenya

• Ghana

• China

• Sri Lanka

• Malaysia

• Brazil

• Colombia

Key Condition: Applicants must be willing to study at a participating regional campus of an Australian university.

5. Research Training Program (RTP) Scholarships 2025

Eligible Countries:

Open to international students of all nationalities, including:

• Nigeria

• Pakistan

• Bangladesh

• Ghana

• Kenya

• South Africa

• Zimbabwe

• Egypt

• India

• China

• Sri Lanka

• Vietnam

• Malaysia

• Indonesia

• United Kingdom

• United States

• Brazil

• Mexico

• Germany

• France

• All EU countries

Applicants must meet the research and academic qualifications set by each university, regardless of nationality.

Summary Table: Eligible Countries by Scholarship

Conclusion

With so many incredible opportunities available, international students looking to study in Australia can do so without worrying about the high costs of education. The fully funded Australia scholarships for international students in 2025 listed above provide comprehensive financial support and access to some of the best educational institutions in the world.

Start early, prepare thoroughly, and apply smartly. Your dream of studying in Australia for free could become a reality.