Explore top Australia scholarships that cover accommodation, travel, and living expenses. Complete 2025 guide for international students.
Explore Australian scholarships that offer full coverage including housing, airfare, and monthly stipends.
Studying in Australia is a dream for thousands of international students every year. Its world-class universities, modern infrastructure, multicultural communities, and strong global recognition make it one of the top five study destinations worldwide. However, the cost of living in Australia—including accommodation, transportation, health insurance, and travel—can be expensive for many students. This brings us to a major question asked by students: Are there scholarships in Australia that cover accommodation and travel?
The short answer is yes. Australia offers several generous scholarships funded by the government, universities, and external organizations that cover not only tuition fees but also accommodation, travel allowances, and living expenses. In this detailed guide, we break down everything you need to know about scholarships that fully or partially fund your stay in Australia.
Why Scholarships with Accommodation and Travel Support Are Important
Australia is known for high living standards, which also means higher living expenses. Some of the biggest costs international students face include:
1. Accommodation Cost
Accommodation can range between AUD 150 to AUD 500 per week depending on the city and type of housing. Cities like Sydney and Melbourne are the most expensive, while Perth, Adelaide, and Hobart are relatively more affordable.
2. Travel and Transportation Cost
Depending on where you are travelling from, flight tickets to Australia can cost between AUD 800 to AUD 2,000. Additionally, monthly public transport costs range from AUD 100 to AUD 200 depending on the city.
3. Utility and Basic Living Costs
Students must also consider expenses such as groceries, internet, electricity, and entertainment.
This is why fully-funded scholarships that include accommodation, travel, and living allowances are highly valuable. They reduce financial stress and allow students to focus on academic and personal growth.
Types of Scholarships in Australia That Cover Accommodation and Travel
Not all scholarships offer the same benefits. Some cover only tuition fees, while others provide a full package, including travel, settlement allowances, accommodation, and monthly stipends. Below are the major categories:
1. Government-Funded Scholarships
These are usually the most generous and widely recognized. They are fully funded and include travel, living expenses, and sometimes accommodation support. Examples include Australia Awards and the Research Training Program.
2. University-Funded Scholarships
Many top universities in Australia offer scholarships that include housing subsidies, travel support, or stipends. The exact benefits vary between universities.
3. External Organization Scholarships
Private organizations, NGOs, and industry groups sometimes provide additional support, including accommodation or travel allowances.
Top Scholarships in Australia Covering Accommodation and Travel (2025 Update)
Below is the detailed list of the best scholarships offering travel and accommodation benefits.
1. Australia Awards Scholarships (AAS)
Best for: Students from developing countries
Covers: Tuition, accommodation, travel, living allowance, insurance
Australia Awards Scholarships are among the most prestigious and generous scholarships available for international students. Fully funded by the Australian government, they aim to promote development in partner countries.
Benefits:
- Full tuition fees
- Return air travel
- Establishment allowance (for accommodation setup)
- Contribution to Living Expenses (CLE)
- Health insurance
- Pre-course English fees
- On-arrival accommodation support
- Fieldwork support (for research students)
The accommodation support under AAS ensures students can settle comfortably without worrying about initial costs.
2. Research Training Program (RTP) Scholarships
Best for: Master’s by Research and PhD students
Covers: Living stipends, travel allowances, medical cover, tuition fee offsets
The Australian Government’s RTP scholarship is designed specifically for research students and provides:
Benefits:
- Living allowance
- Fee offsets
- Relocation allowance (covers travel + initial accommodation)
- Thesis allowance
- Health cover
While it may not directly pay for on-campus housing, the relocation allowance and stipends are often enough to cover accommodation expenses.
3. Destination Australia Scholarships
Best for: Students studying in regional Australia
Covers: Living expenses (can be used for accommodation), travel allowance (varies)
This scholarship encourages students to study in regional areas such as Tasmania, Queensland, and South Australia.
Benefits:
- AUD 15,000 to AUD 45,000 per year
- Funds can be used for housing and travel
- Encourages students to live in regional communities
Students often use these funds for accommodation, especially since regional housing is more affordable.
4. University of Sydney International Scholarship
Best for: Research students
Covers: Tuition, living costs, relocation allowance
This scholarship supports postgraduate research students across disciplines.
Benefits:
- Annual stipend
- Tuition fee offset
- Relocation support (covering travel + initial housing)
- Medical cover
The relocation allowance is specifically designed to help students secure accommodation upon arrival.
5. University of Melbourne Graduate Research Scholarships
Best for: Master’s and PhD students
Covers: Full tuition, living allowance, relocation allowance, health cover
One of the top-ranking universities globally, the University of Melbourne offers high-value scholarships.
Benefits:
- Full tuition
- Annual stipend
- Relocation grant (covers travel and settlement)
- Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC)
Students have the option to use stipends for accommodation expenses.
6. Monash University International Scholarships
Best for: Undergraduate and postgraduate students
Covers: Living allowances, airfare (for some), accommodation support (case-based)
Monash offers various scholarships that partially or fully support expenses.
Common Benefits:
- Annual living allowance
- Travel allowances
- Accommodation support for selected high-achieving candidates
- Tuition fee coverage
Special programs like the Monash International Leadership Scholarship are known to assist with housing costs.
7. ANU Chancellor’s International Scholarship
Best for: Undergraduate and postgraduate coursework students
Covers: Tuition, living stipends (sometimes), relocation allowances
Australian National University provides various scholarship packages for international students.
Benefits:
- Tuition reduction
- Relocation payment for travel
- Stipend support (varies by category)
Students may use stipends towards housing expenses.
8. University of Queensland Scholarships
Best for: High academic achievers
Covers: Housing subsidies, relocation allowances, travel grants
UQ often includes accommodation support for top-performing students.
Benefits:
- Living allowances
- Travel grants
- Housing support (for specific scholarship categories)
9. Macquarie University International Scholarship
Best for: Merit-based awards
Covers: Partial tuition, travel grants, settlement support
Macquarie’s research scholarships often include travel and accommodation-related allowances.
10. Flinders University Scholarships
Best for: Research students
Covers: Living allowances, travel allowances, establishment allowance
These scholarships benefit students needing additional support for relocation and living expenses.
How Much Accommodation Do Scholarships Typically Cover?
Scholarships in Australia vary widely in their accommodation coverage:
Fully Covered Accommodation
- Australia Awards
- Some university-specific leadership scholarships
Partially Covered Accommodation
- Destination Australia
- University stipends (used for rent)
- RTP relocation allowance
Case-by-Case Accommodation Assistance
Some universities offer on-campus housing discounts, priority placement, or subsidies.
Do Scholarships Include Travel Allowances?
Yes. Many top scholarships include travel support. Below are typical categories:
1. Return Economy Airfare
Offered by:
- Australia Awards
- Some university research scholarships
2. Relocation Allowances
Usually includes:
- Travel cost reimbursement
- Initial accommodation support
3. Domestic Travel Grants
Useful for research projects requiring fieldwork.
Eligibility Criteria for Scholarships Covering Accommodation and Travel
Eligibility varies by scholarship type but commonly includes:
General Requirements:
- Strong academic background
- English language proficiency (IELTS/TOEFL/PTE)
- Valid passport and visa
- Statement of purpose
- Letters of recommendation
Specific Requirements:
- Research proposal (for PhD/Master by Research)
- Country eligibility (for Australia Awards)
- Enrollment in a regional campus (for Destination Australia)
How to Apply for These Scholarships
1. Research the Right Scholarship
Begin early—6 to 12 months before your intended intake.
2. Prepare Documents
Common documents include:
- Academic transcripts
- Passport
- Resume/CV
- SOP or Personal Statement
- Recommendation letters
- English test scores
- Research proposal (if applicable)
3. Submit Application
Apply through:
- University website
- Scholarship portals
- Government scholarship portals
4. Attend Interview
Some Australian scholarships require an online interview.
5. Receive Final Decision
Successful candidates receive an offer letter with instructions.
Tips to Increase Your Chance of Winning Australian scholarships Covering Accommodation and Travel
1. Maintain Strong Grades
High academic performance is a major selection factor.
2. Highlight Leadership Skills
Several Australian scholarships reward community involvement.
3. Write a Powerful Statement of Purpose
Clearly explain:
- Your goals
- Why Australia
- Why you need financial support
4. Choose In-Demand Fields
Australian scholarships are often available for:
- Engineering
- Health
- IT
- Agriculture
- Sustainability
5. Apply Early
Early applications often get priority consideration.
Is It Possible to Get 100% of Living Costs Covered?
Yes. Scholarships like Australia Awards and some university-funded research Australian scholarships cover almost everything, including:
- Tuition
- Travel
- Living expenses
- Accommodation
- Health insurance
These are highly competitive but achievable with strong applications.
Best Cities in Australia with Affordable Living Costs
While Australian scholarships help financially, choosing an affordable city can reduce your overall expenses.
Most Affordable:
- Adelaide
- Hobart
- Perth
- Canberra
Moderately Affordable:
- Brisbane
- Gold Coast
Most Expensive:
- Sydney
- Melbourne
Students studying in regional or smaller cities often enjoy lower rent and cost of living.
Also Read: Which Canadian Scholarships Are Available for International Students in 2025?
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FAQs
1. Are there Australian scholarships in that fully fund accommodation and travel?
Yes. Australian scholarships like Australia Awards and RTP offer travel, living allowance, and accommodation support.
2. Can I get free housing in Australia as an international student?
Some Australian scholarships provide free or subsidized housing, especially government-funded programs.
3. Do university Australian scholarships include travel allowances?
Some do, especially research Australian scholarships that provide relocation grants.
4. What is the average stipend for living expenses in Australia?
Average stipends range from AUD 20,000 to AUD 50,000 annually depending on the scholarship.
5. Do scholarship funds cover on-campus accommodation?
Yes, some Australian scholarships directly support on-campus housing or give allowances that can be used for rent.
6. Is it hard to win fully funded Australian scholarships?
They are competitive but achievable with strong academic profiles and a well-written application.
7. Do Australian scholarships cover medical insurance?
Most major Australian scholarships include OSHC (Overseas Student Health Cover).
8. Can I work part-time in Australia while on scholarship?
Yes, most student visa holders can work up to 48 hours per fortnight.
9. Do regional Australian scholarships offer better housing benefits?
Yes, Destination Australia scholarships allow students to live in affordable regional areas.
10. When should I start applying for Australian scholarships?
Start preparing at least 6–12 months before university intake.