Australia is one of the most popular destinations for international students — and for good reason. It offers world-class universities, a high quality of life, and numerous opportunities to work during and after studies. What makes it even more appealing in 2026 is the wide range of fully funded scholarships available to both international and domestic students.
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Fully funded scholarships in Australia cover tuition fees, living expenses, health insurance, and sometimes airfare. These awards are highly competitive, but they open doors for talented students to study in top Australian institutions without financial burden.
Why Choose Australia for Higher Studies?
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Globally ranked universities like University of Melbourne, Australian National University, and University of Sydney
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Degrees recognized worldwide
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Post-study work rights
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Safe, multicultural environment
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High demand for skilled graduates
Top Fully Funded Scholarships in Australia 2026
1. Australia Awards Scholarships
These are prestigious, government-funded scholarships offered to students from developing countries, particularly in Asia, the Pacific, Africa, and the Middle East.
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Coverage: Full tuition, return airfare, establishment allowance, monthly stipend, health insurance
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Level: Undergraduate, postgraduate
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Eligibility: Strong academic background and leadership potential
2. Destination Australia Scholarships
Aimed at attracting students to study in regional Australia, this scholarship supports both domestic and international students.
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Coverage: Up to AUD 15,000 per year
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Level: Certificate IV to PhD programs
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Eligibility: Must study in a regional Australian campus
3. Research Training Program (RTP)
Funded by the Australian government, RTP scholarships are available to domestic and international students pursuing research-based master’s or PhD degrees.
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Coverage: Tuition fees, living allowance (around AUD 29,000 annually), research support
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Level: Master’s by research, PhD
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Eligibility: Academic excellence, research proposal
4. University-Specific Fully Funded Scholarships
Many Australian universities offer their own fully funded awards for high-achieving students.
Examples include:
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Melbourne Research Scholarships (MRS) – Full tuition and stipend at the University of Melbourne
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ANU Scholarships – Various awards including tuition, stipend, and relocation allowance
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University of Sydney International Scholarships (USydIS) – Covers tuition and living costs for research students
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Monash University Research Scholarships – Full financial support for research degrees
What These Scholarships Typically Cover
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100% Tuition Fees – You won’t pay a single dollar in tuition
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Living Allowance – Monthly stipend to cover housing, food, and transport
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Airfare – Return flights from your home country to Australia
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Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) – Required for student visa
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Establishment Grant – One-time allowance for settling in
Eligibility Criteria
Though specific requirements vary, most fully funded scholarships in Australia require:
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Excellent academic performance
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English language proficiency (IELTS, TOEFL, or equivalent)
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Strong statement of purpose or research proposal
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Letters of recommendation
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Leadership potential or community involvement (for some awards)
Tips to Increase Your Chances
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Apply early – Many scholarships have deadlines between February and May
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Tailor your application – Focus on how your goals align with the scholarship and the university
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Secure strong references – Choose academic or professional referees who can vouch for your skills
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Meet language requirements – Take your IELTS/TOEFL early and aim for high scores
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Have a clear research plan – Especially for postgraduate scholarships
