Top Scholarships in Australia for International Students 2026-27

Scholarships in Australia can make studying at a leading Australian university more affordable for international students. Funding is available through the Australian Government, universities, research programs, and other organizations, with awards ranging from partial tuition fee reductions to fully funded research scholarships.

For Indian students, scholarship eligibility varies considerably by program. Some scholarships are open to all international students, while others are available only to specific nationalities, universities, courses, or research applicants. This guide compares some of the top scholarships in Australia for international students for 2026-27, including funding, eligibility, application timelines, and options relevant to Indian students.

Students looking for more opportunities can also explore Nomad Credit’s scholarships in Australia page to find scholarships that match their study plans.

Explore Scholarships in Australia

Important Scholarship Updates for 2026-27

Before applying, international students should be aware of a few important changes to Australian scholarships:

• Australia Awards Scholarships: These Australian Government scholarships are available only to applicants from participating countries. India is not currently listed as a participating country for the long-term Australia Awards Scholarships for the 2027 intake. Indian students should verify the latest country list before applying.
• Destination Australia Program: The Australian Government has not offered new funding rounds under the Destination Australia Program since July 2024. Students can instead check individual universities for scholarships available for study at regional campuses.
• Research Training Program (RTP): There is no single national application deadline for RTP scholarships. Participating Australian universities administer applications and set their own scholarship deadlines and stipend amounts.

Scholarship availability, amounts and deadlines can change between intakes. Always verify the latest information on the official government or university scholarship page before submitting an application.

Top Scholarships in Australia for International Students: 2026-27 Comparison

International students can find Australian scholarships for undergraduate, postgraduate and research programs. Some provide partial tuition fee reductions, while research scholarships may cover tuition fees and provide a living stipend. The table below provides a quick comparison; exact funding, eligibility and application dates should always be confirmed with the scholarship provider.

Scholarship	Funding/Benefits	Study Level
Australia Awards Scholarships	Tuition, living, travel and other eligible expenses for successful applicants	Undergraduate/Postgraduate*
Research Training Program (RTP)	Fee offset, stipend and/or allowances depending on university award	Research Master’s/PhD
Maitri Scholarships	Funding varies by program and award	Postgraduate/PhD
John Allwright Fellowship	Tuition and eligible living/travel support	Postgraduate research
CSIRO Postgraduate Scholarships	Funding varies by project and scholarship	Postgraduate/PhD
Aga Khan Foundation International Scholarship Program	Funding structure varies by award	Postgraduate
Narotam Sekhsaria Scholarship	Interest-free financial assistance up to the applicable award limit	Postgraduate
University of Melbourne Graduate Research Scholarships	Fee remission and eligible living support	Research Master’s/PhD
Flinders International Postgraduate Research Scholarship	Tuition and living support subject to current award terms	Research Master’s/PhD
Monash international scholarships	Funding varies by individual scholarship	Undergraduate/Postgraduate
University of Sydney Vice-Chancellor’s International Scholarships Scheme	Up to AUD 60,000	Undergraduate/Postgraduate
UNSW International Scientia Coursework Scholarship	Full tuition or AUD 20,000 per year	Undergraduate/Postgraduate
ANU Chancellor’s International Scholarship	25% tuition reduction for eligible India-category students	Undergraduate/Postgraduate

*Australia Awards eligibility depends on nationality and the current participating-country list. India is not currently listed for the long-term Australia Awards Scholarships for the 2027 intake.

Australia Government Scholarships for International Students

The Australian Government supports international education and research through several funding programs. However, eligibility differs by nationality, university and study level. Two important programs students frequently encounter are Australia Awards Scholarships and the Research Training Program (RTP).

Australia Awards Scholarships

Australia Awards Scholarships are long-term awards funded by the Australian Government for students from participating developing countries. Depending on the award, benefits can include full tuition fees, return airfare, an establishment allowance, living expenses and Overseas Student Health Cover.

Eligibility pointers:

• Applicants must be citizens of an eligible participating country.
• Academic and English-language requirements apply.
• Applicants must satisfy the conditions specified for their country and program.
• Eligibility should be checked against the current DFAT participating-country list.

Are Indian Students Eligible for Australia Awards Scholarships?

Indian students are not currently eligible for the long-term Australia Awards Scholarships for the 2027 intake, as India is not listed among the participating countries for this scholarship program.

This should not be confused with other Australia Awards initiatives or Australia–India education programs, which can have different eligibility rules. Indian students looking for a scholarship in Australia should instead explore university scholarships, RTP opportunities, research funding and India-specific programs.

Important: Country eligibility can change between intakes. Check the official Australian Government Australia Awards website before making application plans.

Scholarships in Australia for Indian Students

Indian applicants can apply for many university, research and externally funded scholarships for Indian students in Australia. Eligibility depends on the student’s academic profile, degree level, university, field of study and the conditions of the individual scholarship.

Importantly, Indian students should not assume that every Australian Government scholarship is available to them. For example, India is not currently on the participating-country list for the long-term Australia Awards Scholarships for the 2027 intake.

Some funding routes Indian students can explore include:

Scholarship/Funding Route	Best Suited For	Funding Type
Maitri Scholarships	Eligible Indian postgraduate/research students	Program-specific funding
Research Training Program	Research Master’s and PhD applicants	Tuition/stipend support
University research scholarships	High-achieving research applicants	Full or partial funding
University merit scholarships	Undergraduate/coursework postgraduate students	Usually tuition reduction
Narotam Sekhsaria Scholarship	Indian postgraduate students	Interest-free financial assistance
ANU Chancellor’s International Scholarship	Eligible Indian undergraduate/postgraduate students	25% tuition fee reduction

How Indian Students Can Improve Their Scholarship Chances

Students searching for scholarships for Indian students to study in Australia should begin the process alongside their university applications rather than waiting until admission is finalized.

Focus on:

• maintaining a strong academic record;
• shortlisting scholarships according to course and study level;
• checking whether a separate scholarship application is required;
• preparing academic transcripts, references and supporting documents early;
• developing a strong research proposal for research-based awards;
• meeting English-language requirements where applicable; and
• checking scholarship deadlines separately from university admission deadlines.

Australian University Scholarships for International Students

Australian universities offer merit-based and research scholarships directly to international students. These awards may provide a percentage reduction in tuition fees, full fee remission, a living stipend or a combination of benefits.

Students should check scholarship opportunities directly with universities such as the University of Melbourne, Monash University, Flinders University, the University of Sydney, UNSW Sydney, Australian National University and other institutions on their shortlist.

University scholarship conditions can change by intake, course and applicant nationality. For this reason, avoid assuming that a scholarship available in one admission cycle will automatically be available with the same amount or deadline in the next.

Are There Fully Funded Scholarships in Australia?

Yes, fully funded scholarships in Australia are available, particularly for eligible research master’s and PhD students. Depending on the scholarship, full funding may include tuition fee coverage, a living stipend and other allowances.

Research scholarships such as eligible RTP awards and university graduate research scholarships are among the main funding routes for international research students.

However, students should not assume that every Australian scholarship covers all study and living expenses. Many undergraduate and coursework master’s scholarships provide a partial tuition fee reduction rather than complete funding.

When comparing scholarships, check exactly which expenses are covered, including:

• Tuition fees
• Living expenses
• Overseas Student Health Cover
• Travel expenses
• Relocation costs; and
• Research-related allowances.

Detailed Breakdown of Scholarships in Australia for International Students

Scholarships in Australia serve different purposes, from supporting academic merit to funding postgraduate research. Eligibility, funding and application requirements vary by scholarship, so students should compare each opportunity carefully before applying.

Australian Government Research Training Program Scholarship

The Australian Government Research Training Program (RTP) supports international students pursuing research master’s and PhD degrees at participating Australian universities. RTP scholarships are administered by individual universities, so funding and application dates vary.

Eligibility:

• Be enrolled in or applying for an eligible research master’s or PhD program
• Meet the university’s academic and research requirements
• Meet the university’s English-language requirements

Application Timeline:

Varies by university

Funding/Benefits:

AUD 34,315-53,608 per year, depending on the university award. Funding may also include tuition fee offsets and other eligible allowances.

Australia-India Education Council (AIEC) Fellowship

Australia-India Education Council (AIEC) Fellowship is only given to 2 students chosen every year for generous funding of AUD 23,500 for research activities. The focus is on science, and the research topic must align with any of the AIEC themes. 

Eligibility:

• Be an Indian student
• Participate in the collaboration with AIEC-funded programs 

Application Timeline: 

Application dates vary by intake. Check the official scholarship page for the latest application deadline.

Funding/Benefits: 

AUD 23,500

John Allwright Fellowship Program

The John Allwright Fellowship (JAF) is sponsored by ACIAR (Australian Centre for International Agricultural Research). The program aims to support the capacities of partner countries through joint research projects on agriculture and development. 

Eligibility:

• Be a citizen of a participating country
• Work on agricultural research 
• Be nominated by ACIAR

Application Timeline:

April 2027

Funding/Benefits: 

• Full tuition fee
• Return air travel 
• Establishment allowance

Maitri Scholarship

The Maitri Scholars Program is another exclusive funding opportunity for Indian students. Postgraduate students in the field of STEM, who secure admission to prestigious universities in Australia, are eligible to apply.

Eligibility:

• Applicants must be Indian citizens (or Australian citizens for outbound fellowships)
• Applicants should not hold Australian citizenship or permanent residency for the Australian program.

Application Timeline: 

April 2027

Funding/Benefits:

For Master’s degrees by research, the grant range is AUD 115,000 to AUD 380,000. PhDs can receive AUD 220,000 to AUD 439,000.

CSIRO Postgraduate Scholarships

CSIRO scholarships are primarily for domestic students, but international students can also apply. Applicants are selected based on their research proposal and academic merit. Your research must align with one of the CSIRO goals. 

Eligibility:

• Be a researcher 
• Your research goal must align with CSIRO objectives 
• Choose a participating Australian university

Application Timeline:

Application dates vary. Check the official scholarship page for the latest application deadline.

Funding/Benefits:

Up to AUD 40,000 per year, including stipends, tuition fees, and travel expenses.

Aga Khan Foundation Scholarship

The Aga Khan Foundation’s International Scholarship Program provides financial support to eligible postgraduate students with demonstrated financial need. Funding terms should be checked for the applicable application cycle.

Eligibility:

• Show financial need for the scholarship 
• Have excellent academic record  
• Secure admission for an eligible course 

Application Timeline:

March 2027

Funding/Benefits:

50% grant and 50% loan to study abroad 

Narotam Sekhsaria Foundation Scholarship

The Narotam Sekhsaria Foundation scholarship is actually a loan offer. If you win, you get an interest-free loan of up to INR 20 Lakhs for postgraduate study in Australia. Eligible students get selected after an examination of academic merit and financial need. 

Eligibility:

• Age must be under 30 years
• Must be awaiting to enroll in the Fall intake to a top-ranking university

Application Timeline:

March 2027

Funding/Benefits:

Up to INR 20 Lakhs interest-free loan

Melbourne Research Scholarship – The University of Melbourne 

Melbourne University’s Research Scholarships support highly achieving students across diverse disciplines. Annually, around 350 meritorious students at Melbourne University receive this scholarship.

Eligibility:

• Have academic excellence 
• Secure admission to a research program at the University of Melbourne 

Application Timeline: 

October 2027

Funding/Benefits: 

Full fee remission for the eligible study period, living allowance of approximately AUD 39,500 per year, subject to the current scholarship rate, and eligible relocation and health-cover benefits may also apply.

Flinders International Postgraduate Research Scholarship (FIPRS) – Flinders University 

The Flinders International Postgraduate Research Scholarship (FIPRS) helps international students to cover a significant amount of their tuition fee. Eligible candidates are chosen based on their academic achievements, research potential, and backgrounds. 

Eligibility:

• Have academic merit 
• Be a researcher with high academic achievements

Application Timeline: 

June 2027

Funding/Benefits: 

• Tuition fees
• Living allowance
• Establishment allowance 

Monash University International Merit Scholarship – Monash University 

Monash University offers International Merit Scholarships to recognize the academic excellence and curiosity of global students who choose to study in Monash. International students are chosen based on their academic record and a personal essay of 500 words. 

Eligibility:

• Be a student of Monash University
• Choose a full-time undergraduate or postgraduate course

Application Timeline: 

June 2027

Funding/Benefits: 

AUD 10,000 – AUD 50,000

Vice-Chancellor’s International Scholarships Scheme – University of Sydney

The University of Sydney offers this merit-based scholarship to high-achieving international students pursuing eligible undergraduate or postgraduate coursework programs.

Eligibility:

• Be an international student
• Receive an unconditional offer for an eligible course

Application Timeline:

Multiple consideration rounds are available for 2027.

Funding/Benefits:

Up to AUD 60,000

International Scientia Coursework Scholarship – UNSW Sydney

UNSW Sydney offers the International Scientia Coursework Scholarship to international students with strong academic performance, leadership skills and extracurricular achievements.

Eligibility:

• Be an international student
• Commence an eligible undergraduate or postgraduate coursework program

Application Timeline:

Term 1, 2027 applications close on 30 October 2026.

Funding/Benefits:

Full tuition fees or AUD 20,000 per year towards tuition

ANU Chancellor’s International Scholarship – Australian National University

The ANU Chancellor’s International Scholarship supports high-achieving international students, with a dedicated scholarship category for eligible students from India.

Eligibility:

• Be an international student
• Receive an offer for an eligible ANU program

Application Timeline:

No separate scholarship application is required; eligible students are automatically considered.

Funding/Benefits:

25% tuition fee reduction for eligible students in the India category

How to Apply for Scholarships in Australia

Scholarship application processes differ by provider, but international students can follow these steps to organize their applications:

1. Shortlist Your Course and Universities

Start with universities and courses that match your academic background and career plans. Check the scholarship opportunities offered by each institution at the same time.

2. Check Scholarship Eligibility

Review nationality, academic, course, study-level and English-language requirements. Research scholarships may have additional requirements related to research experience, publications, proposals or supervisor availability.

3. Compare Admission and Scholarship Deadlines

A university admission deadline and scholarship deadline may be different. Review Australia intakes and university deadlines early so that you have enough time to prepare both applications.

4. Prepare the Required Documents

Depending on the scholarship, you may need:

• Academic Transcripts and Certificates
• Passport
• English-language Test Scores
• Statement of Purpose or Personal Statement
• CV or Resume
• Letters of Recommendation
• Scholarship Essays; and
• Research Proposal for Research Degrees

5. Submit the Correct Application

Some university scholarships automatically consider eligible admission applicants, while others require a separate scholarship application. Check the instructions carefully before submission.

6. Plan for Remaining Study Costs

A scholarship may cover only part of your tuition or living expenses. If there is a funding gap, compare other financial options, including an education loan for Australia.

Find Top Scholarships With Nomad!

How to Find the Right Scholarship in Australia

With different eligibility rules across universities, degrees and scholarship providers, manually comparing every opportunity can take time. An Australia scholarship finder can help narrow down opportunities according to your study plans and profile.

Students can use Nomad Credit’s scholarship resources to explore relevant opportunities and compare available funding before applying.

Students comparing multiple university awards can also learn how AI scholarship matching works before using a scholarship finder. This can make it easier to understand how scholarship tools compare eligibility, study preferences and available funding opportunities.

Conclusion: Plan Your Australia Scholarship Journey

Scholarships in Australia can reduce the financial burden of studying abroad, but the right funding option depends on your nationality, course, academic profile and study level. International students should compare government, university and research scholarships carefully and verify current eligibility, funding and deadlines before applying.

Indian students, in particular, should check nationality restrictions instead of assuming that every Australian Government scholarship is available to them. Along with scholarships, plan early for tuition fees, living costs and any remaining funding requirements.

Nomad Credit can help you explore scholarships in Australia for international students, compare study-abroad funding options and plan the next steps toward studying in Australia.