Explore fully funded Australian Government scholarships for international students, including eligibility, benefits, top programs, and application steps for 2025.
Find out about top Australian Government scholarships like Australia Awards and RTP covering full academic costs.
Australia is one of the top study destinations for international students due to its world-class universities, high employment rate, safe cities, and outstanding research facilities. But the primary concern for most students is cost—Australian education can be expensive.
The good news? The Australian Government offers several fully funded scholarships every year to support international students across bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral degrees. These scholarships cover tuition fees, living stipends, travel, and additional allowances.
In this detailed guide, we will explore all fully funded Australian Government scholarships available in 2025, including eligibility criteria, benefits, application steps, deadlines, and expert tips to improve your chances.
1. Why Australia Offers Government Scholarships
Australia offers scholarships to attract talented international students, support research, and build global relationships. The country values international education because it contributes to economic growth, innovation, and cultural diversity.
Key Reasons
- To strengthen global academic partnerships
- To promote Australia as a study destination
- To support international research and development
- To address skill shortages in key industries
- To encourage talented individuals to remain in Australia after graduation
The Australian Government invests heavily in education, making these scholarships prestigious and life-changing opportunities.
2. What Are Fully Funded Scholarships?
A fully funded scholarship covers all educational and living expenses, allowing students to study without financial stress. Fully funded scholarships usually include:
Coverage Includes
- Full tuition fees
- Monthly living stipend
- Health insurance
- Travel allowance
- Establishment allowance
- Research support
- Accommodation funding
- Books and study resources
- On-arrival and settling-in expenses
Some programs also offer:
- Dependent child allowance
- Thesis funding
- Conference travel grants
3. Types of Australian Government Scholarships
Australian Government scholarships fall under three major categories:
A. Australia Awards Scholarships (AAS)
One of the largest and most prestigious government scholarship programs for international students.
B. Research Training Program (RTP)
Fully funded scholarships for research-based master’s and PhD degrees at universities across Australia.
C. Destination Australia Scholarships
Government-funded program to support studies in regional Australia.
4. Top Fully Funded Australian Government Scholarships
Let’s explore the three major fully funded scholarship programs in detail.
1. Australia Awards Scholarships (AAS)
The Australia Awards Scholarships are funded by the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT). They aim to develop leadership skills and build global partnerships.
Level of Study
- Undergraduate
- Master’s
- Research
- Vocational education (some countries)
Coverage
- Full tuition fees
- Return airfare
- Establishment allowance
- Health insurance
- Living expenses
- Fieldwork support
- Pre-course English training
Ideal For
Students from developing countries who want to study in Australia and contribute to national development.
2. Research Training Program (RTP)
The RTP Scholarship supports domestic and international students pursuing research-based degrees.
Level of Study
- Master’s by Research
- Doctoral (PhD) Programs
Coverage
- Tuition fee offset
- Living allowance
- Thesis allowance
- Research cost support
- International Health Cover
Ideal For
Students with strong academic and research backgrounds.
RTP is available at top universities such as:
- Australian National University
- University of Melbourne
- University of Sydney
- Monash University
- University of Queensland
- UNSW, Adelaide, Curtin, Deakin, Griffith, etc.
3. Destination Australia Scholarships
This program encourages international students to study in regional Australia (outside major cities like Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane).
Level
- Certificate programs
- Bachelor’s
- Master’s
- PhD
Coverage
- Financial support of up to AUD $15,000 per year
- Regional relocation allowance (varies)
Ideal For
Students seeking affordable education in regional areas with immigration benefits.
5. Eligibility Requirements for Australian Government Scholarships
Eligibility varies by program, but general requirements include:
Academic Requirements
- Strong academic performance
- Bachelor’s degree for master’s programs
- Master’s degree for PhD (RTP)
- Competitive GPA
English Proficiency
Most scholarships require:
- IELTS
- TOEFL
- PTE
Minimum scores vary per university.
Age Requirement
Some programs require applicants to be under a certain age (mainly Australia Awards).
Leadership Skills
Australia Awards Scholarships heavily emphasize:
- Community leadership
- Social development contributions
- Volunteering experience
Work Experience
Some fully funded scholarships (especially AAS) require:
- 2–3 years of work experience
Health Requirements
Medical clearance is required for visa and scholarship approval.
Country Eligibility
Australia Awards are available only for selected countries.
6. Documents Required
Applicants must prepare the following:
- Passport
- Academic transcripts
- Degree certificates
- Resume or CV
- Research proposal (for RTP)
- Statement of Purpose or Personal Statement
- Letters of Recommendation
- English proficiency test scores
- Work experience certificates (if required)
- Community involvement documentation
- Medical clearance (later stage)
7. How to Apply for Fully Funded Australian Government Scholarships (Step-by-Step Guide)
Follow these steps to apply successfully:
Step 1: Identify Eligible Scholarships
Choose between AAS, RTP, or Destination Australia based on your program and goals.
Step 2: Choose a University and Program
Most Australian Government scholarships require you to be accepted by an Australian institution first.
Step 3: Check Eligibility Carefully
Review requirements for academics, English test scores, documents, age limits, etc.
Step 4: Prepare Your Documents Early
It is recommended to begin preparations 6–12 months in advance.
Step 5: Write a Strong SOP or Research Proposal
Highlight:
- Academic achievements
- Leadership roles
- Community involvement
- Future goals
- Why you chose Australia
Step 6: Apply for Admission to the University
Your scholarship eligibility may depend on the university’s acceptance letter.
Step 7: Submit the Scholarship Application
Australia Awards require a separate application.
RTP is applied for through universities.
Step 8: Attend Interviews (If Required)
Some scholarships include an interview stage to assess:
- Communication skills
- Motivation
- Leadership potential
Step 9: Wait for Selection Results
Successful candidates receive official confirmation with instructions.
Step 10: Apply for Australian Student Visa
Once the scholarship is confirmed, apply for a subclass 500 visa.
8. Scholarships for Bachelor’s, Master’s, and PhD Degrees
Undergraduate Government Scholarships
- Australia Awards Scholarships
- Destination Australia Program
Master’s Government Scholarships
- Australia Awards Scholarships
- RTP (Research Master’s
- Destination Australia Scholarships
PhD Government Scholarships
- RTP (fully funded)
- Australia Awards (limited PhD options)
- Destination Australia Scholarships
9. Timeline for 2025 Intake
Australia Awards Government Scholarships
- Applications usually open: February–May
- Results announced: September–November
Research Training Program (RTP)
- Deadlines depend on universities (typically July–October)
Destination Australia
- Applications vary across institutions
Start preparation at least 12 months earlier.
10. Benefits of Fully Funded Australian Government Scholarships
These Government Scholarships offer life-changing opportunities, including:
- Full tuition fee coverage
- Monthly living stipend
- Relocation allowance
- Flight tickets
- Fieldwork and research support
- Priority visa processing
- Access to world-class research labs
- Opportunity for post-study work
- Pathway to permanent residency
11. Common Mistakes Applicants Make
- Applying without meeting eligibility
- Weak SOP or research proposal
- Missing deadlines
- Ignoring required documents
- Poor organization of academic records
- Not highlighting leadership experience
- Applying late or rushing the process
12. Tips to Improve Your Scholarship Chances
- Start early (at least 9–12 months before deadline)
- Maintain strong academic performance
- Build leadership and volunteer experience
- Write a compelling SOP
- Get strong recommendation letters
- Tailor each application
- Show clear career goals
- Highlight how you will contribute to Australia or your home country
- Apply to multiple universities
- Create a strong research plan (for RTP)
13. Final Checklist
Before applying, ensure you have:
- Selected your scholarship program
- Identified the right course and university
- Prepared academic documents
- Completed English tests
- Written your SOP
- Prepared letters of recommendation
- Verified deadlines
- Submitted application forms
- Prepared for interviews
Also Read: Which Canadian Scholarships Are Available for International Students in 2025?
Sources
14. FAQs
1. Are there fully funded Australian Government scholarships for international students?
Yes. The Australian Government offers several fully funded Government Scholarships, including Australia Awards Scholarships and the Research Training Program.
2. Can undergraduate students apply?
Yes, Australia Awards and Destination Australia offer support for undergraduate studies.
3. Are RTP Government Scholarships fully funded?
Yes. They cover tuition fees, living allowance, and research support.
4. Do I need IELTS for government scholarships?
Yes, most programs require IELTS, TOEFL, or PTE scores.
5. How competitive are these Government Scholarships?
Highly competitive—especially Australia Awards and RTP. Strong academics and leadership strengthen your application.
6. When should I apply for Australia Awards?
Applications generally open in February and close in May each year.