As an Indian student, getting a scholarship to study in Australia is achievable if you apply strategically. I applied to several institutions and carefully checked the eligibility criteria for each scholarship, such as the Australian Government RTP scholarship and Australia Awards scholarship.
I focused on maintaining a strong academic record throughout my studies, which helped me qualify for multiple bursaries and grants offered by Australian colleges, universities, and government organizations.
It's essential to start early, research thoroughly, and submit applications well within the deadlines to maximize your chances of securing financial aid for your studies in Australia.
How to Get Scholarship for Indian Students in Australia
The key criteria forscholarships for Indian Students in Australia include academic performance and the chosen field of study. Besides strong grades, eligibility depends on subject alignment, institution choice, and location suitability.
Volunteering, community service, and co-curricular activities can also influence decisions. Australian Government Scholarships for Indian Students require direct application to the offering institution with an admission acceptance letter.
Applicants must also highlight their contributions to the community in their application statement and declare English proficiency test scores like IELTS.
Types of Scholarships in Australia for Indian Students
Australia offers various scholarships for Indian students. Here are some of the main types:
Merit-Based
Merit-based scholarships are awarded to students who demonstrate outstanding academic achievements. These scholarships are available to undergraduate and postgraduate students who are studying abroad in Australia.
To qualify, students typically need a high ATAR score or GPA with evidence of academic excellence and extracurricular accomplishments. The application process usually involves submitting academic transcripts, personal statements, and letters of recommendation.
Equity Scholarships
Equity scholarships are designed to support students who have faced significant challenges or disadvantages in their academic journey. These scholarships aim to provide financial assistance to:
Students from low-income backgrounds
Students with disabilities
Students from rural or remote areas
First-generation university students
Equity scholarships help level the playing field by addressing barriers to education and supporting students in achieving their academic goals.
Faculty & Departmental Scholarships
Many universities offer scholarships specific to certain faculties or departments. These scholarships are intended to attract and support students in particular fields of study, such as engineering, business, health sciences, or the arts.
Eligibility criteria and the application process can vary, but they often include:
Academic merit
Research potential
Specific requirements related to the field of study
Students should check with their faculties for available opportunities and detailed eligibility criteria.
Sports Scholarships
Sports scholarships are available for students who excel in athletics and wish to pursue their studies while continuing to compete at a high level in their sport.
These scholarships provide:
Financial support
Access to top-tier training facilities
Academic tutoring to help balance academic and athletic commitments
Eligibility usually requires demonstrating significant achievements in sports and maintaining a satisfactory academic record.
Accommodation Scholarships
Accommodation scholarships help students cover the costs of living while studying. These scholarships can be especially beneficial for international students who must relocate to Australia for their studies.
Accommodation scholarships may cover the following:
Full or partial costs of on-campus housing
Full or partial costs of off-campus housing
Eligibility criteria can vary but often include financial need, academic merit, and distance from home.
Government Scholarships
The Australian government offers a range of scholarships to support local and international students.
Australia Awards Scholarships
Aimed at students from developing countries
Covers full tuition, airfare, living expenses, and more
Destination Australia Awards
Encourages students to study in regional and remote areas of Australia
Offers up to AUD 15,000 per year
Government scholarships are highly competitive and have specific eligibility requirements, such as academic excellence, leadership potential, and a commitment to contributing to the development of one's home country.
Research Training Program (RTP)
The Research Training Program (RTP) provides scholarships at the postgraduate level.
These scholarships are available to domestic and international students.
RTP scholarships enable recipients to pursue research degrees at participating Australian universities.
It is valued up to $143,881.
What are Requirements & Eligibility for Indian Students to Apply for Scholarships in Australia
Applicants must meet the following eligibility criteria to apply for scholarships in Australia.
Specific Requirements for Indian Applicants
Recent graduate (2018 or later) from one of the target institutions or in the final year of a tertiary-level qualification equivalent to an Australian Bachelor’s degree.
Minimum CGPA of 7.5.
Endorsement letter from a target institution in India.
Degree certificates (Bachelor's and any Post Graduate level) or certified academic transcripts (showing results for each semester and overall GPA, translated to English if necessary).
Certificates of special achievements or merit relevant to the proposed study program.
IELTS/TOEFL/PTE certificate:
IELTS (Academic) score of 6.5 or higher overall, with no individual band score below 6.0 or
TOEFL (iBT) score of at least 84, with a minimum of 21 in all subtests or
Pearson Test of English Academic (PTE Academic) overall score of 58, with no communicative skill score less than 50.
Application Process
Submission:
All applications must be submitted online through OASIS at https://oasis.dfat.gov.au/.
Supporting Documents:
Include a personal statement (500 words), a personal CV, two academic referee reports (using a prescribed template), and a letter of endorsement from the institution.
Assessment Criteria:
Applications will be evaluated based on academic excellence, leadership potential, and how the scholarship will strengthen Australia-India linkages.
Interview:
Shortlisted candidates will be invited for an interview, including a writing exercise.
Application Templates:
Templates for documents such as referee reports are available on the official website.
6 Fully Funded Scholarships for Indian Students
Fully-funded scholarships cover all educational expenses, including tuition, living costs, and travel. Some notablefully funded scholarships for Indian students in Australia include:
Scholarship Name
Description
Value (AUD)
Australian Government RTP Scholarship
Covers 100% tuition fees, overseas health coverage, and living costs for master’s and doctoral candidates.
$40,109 annually
(INR 22,30,089)
Australia Awards Scholarship
It covers tuition, air travel, living expenses, health coverage, and additional study expenses for up to two years for undergraduate and postgraduate students.
-
Destination Australia Scholarship
Funded by the Australian Government, encourages international students to study in regional Australia, supporting regional education providers and offering a high-quality learning environment.
$15,000 annually
(INR 8,34,010)
Endeavour Postgraduate Scholarships
Fully funded scholarship covering tuition, travel allowance, establishment allowance, monthly living stipend, and health and travel insurance.
Up to $272,500 (INR 1,51,51,199)
(For 4-year postgraduate)
Monash International Leadership Scholarship
The scholarship is for international students enrolling full-time in an undergraduate or postgraduate degree at Monash in Australia. It covers full course fees until degree completion,
100% of course fees paid
International Scientia Coursework Scholarship
The International Scientia Coursework Scholarship at UNSW is for international students starting full-time undergraduate or postgraduate programs on campus in Term 1, 2024. It offers either full tuition fee coverage or $20,000 annually towards tuition fees.
It is not enough to just browse through information regarding scholarships in Australia. You should always prepare in advance and enhance your chances of landing a scholarship.
Here are some tips that you should not forget:
To get scholarships in Australia, focus on academic excellence. High scores in Class XII or undergraduate studies are crucial. Start early to improve your GPA for better chances of securing funding for your studies in Australia.
Another major aspect is the scholarship statement or application statement. This is carefully assessed by organizational committees and educational institutions before granting scholarships. You should practice writing a crisp and well-thought-out application statement outlining your academic journey, why you deserve the scholarship, what you can contribute to an institution or any field of study, and other achievements.
Many scholarship providers often insist on personal interviews with eligible applicants before deciding. Hence, ensure that you are calm and composed during your interview while answering questions honestly and confidently.
Extracurricular activities and community participation/volunteering may also come in handy for some Australian scholarships.Hence, scale up your activities in these areas as well.
Start your scholarship search and application process early. Pay attention to deadlines and ensure all required documents are prepared and submitted accurately.
Highlight your understanding of global issues and how your academic pursuits and career goals aim to address these challenges. Demonstrating a global perspective and potential impact can strengthen your scholarship application.
If financial need is a consideration for the scholarship, clearly demonstrate your financial situation and how receiving the scholarship would alleviate financial barriers to your education and career goals.
How to Apply for Scholarships in Australia for Indian Students
To enhance your chances of securing scholarships to study in Australia, follow these steps and prepare the required documents accurately and timely. Here's a streamlined process for Indian students:
Before You Apply:
Check the opening and closing dates for applications from India on the Australia Awards Scholarships website.
Review the Australia Scholarships Policy Handbook for eligibility criteria and application details in India.
Determine if you must apply online or by mail based on India's country profile.
Applying Online:
Register on the scholarship portal, answer eligibility questions, and receive login credentials.
Prepare your application online, including drafting and finalizing it before the deadline.
Submit your application well in advance to avoid last-minute issues.
Applying by Mail:
Contact the relevant authorities in India for a hard-copy application form if required.
Complete the form, gather the necessary documents, and submit them by the specified deadline.
Supporting Documentation:
Gather academic transcripts, English proficiency scores, letters of recommendation, and a personal statement.
Australian Scholarships for Indian Students: Application Deadlines
The application deadlines vary for each scholarship. Here are some typical deadlines to keep in mind:
Scholarship
Deadline
University of Sydney International Scholarship
September and December
Griffith Vice Chancellor’s International Scholarship
30 November 2024
UNSW Scholarships for International Students
31 March 2024
Adelaide Global Academic Excellence Scholarships for International Students
31 May 2024
Fully-Funded Rotary Peace Fellowships
25 February 2025
Australia Awards Scholarships
30 April 2024
CDU Vice-Chancellor’s International High Achievers Scholarships
Live Your Study Abroad Dream with Scholarship for Indian Students in Australia
This curated list of scholarships for Indian students in Australia offers a range of opportunities at the bachelor’s, master’s, and PhD levels, including government-funded, externally funded, and university-specific options. Explore these scholarships, plan, and start your application early to maximize your chances of studying in Australia hassle-free.
Want to know more about studying in Australia expenses or the visa process? Then, get in touch with our counselors.
FAQs
How difficult is it to get a scholarship in Australia?
Getting your preferred scholarship in Australia is tough due to high competition. Focus on improving your academic scores, engage in extracurriculars, and apply to multiple providers while checking eligibility closely.
Can I get a 100% scholarship to study in Australia?
Australia offers fully funded scholarships for international students in various fields, such as the Australian Government RTP Scholarship, Endeavour Postgraduate Scholarship, and Destination Australia Scholarships.
How much is a percentage required for a scholarship in Australia?
Scholarship requirements vary widely depending on the type of scholarship and institution. Generally, a high academic percentage or GPA is required for merit-based scholarships, often around 7.5 or higher.
What are the best scholarships for studying in Australia?
Some of the best scholarships for studying in Australia include the Australia Awards Scholarships, Endeavour Scholarships and Fellowships, and various university-specific scholarships like the University of Sydney International Scholarships.
When is the best time to apply for scholarships in Australia?
It's best to apply for scholarships as early as possible, typically a year before your intended start date. Deadlines vary, so check specific scholarship requirements.
Which test is required for a scholarship in Australia?
For most scholarships, proof of English proficiency is required. Accepted tests usually include IELTS, TOEFL, and PTE Academic. Minimum score requirements vary by scholarship and institution.
How do scholarships work in Australia?
Scholarships in Australia provide financial support to cover tuition fees, living expenses, and sometimes additional costs like travel and health insurance.
They are typically awarded based on academic merit, financial need, or other specific criteria.
What is the amount provided by Australian scholarships?
The amount provided by Australian scholarships varies widely. Some fully funded scholarships for Indian students in Australia cover tuition, living expenses, and other costs, while others may cover partial expenses.
How competitive are the scholarships for Indian students in Australia?
Scholarships for Indian students in Australia are highly competitive due to the many applicants. Academic excellence, leadership potential, and contribution to the community often play significant roles in selection.
Can I work part-time while studying on a scholarship in Australia?
Yes, most international students on scholarships in Australia can work part-time during their studies. Visa conditions usually allow up to 40 hours every 2 weeks during the semester and full-time during semester breaks.
How do I apply for an Australian student visa after receiving a scholarship?
After receiving a scholarship, you must apply for a student visa (subclass 500). The process involves proof of enrollment in a registered course, meeting health and character requirements, and showing sufficient funds to cover living costs.
With over a decade of expertise in international education, Jyotsna has held impactful roles at the British Council, Unilodgers, a prominent UK university, and IDP Education, empowering countless students by not only enhancing their educational experiences but also by offering them guidance in securing essential scholarships and financial aid. She is dedicated to helping students achieve their academic goals through tailored guidance and financial support.
Tanya is a skilled content writer and marketing strategist with deep expertise in the EdTech industry. She has a proven track record of producing engaging content and developing effective marketing strategies for leading platforms. At upGrad Abroad, Tanya focuses on providing study-abroad aspirants with accurate and relevant information, significantly contributing to the growth of educational technology.
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