The University of Sydney offers prestigious scholarships to international students, recognizing academic excellence and supporting the next generation of global leaders. For the 2026 academic year, these scholarships provide critical financial support, covering costs ranging from partial tuition reductions to full-ride stipends.
The University of Sydney is consistently ranked among the world’s most elite institutions. According to the QS World University Rankings 2026, it currently holds the 25th position globally. It also ranks 1st in Australia in the US News Best Global Universities 2025-2026. Hosting over 74,000 students, including 28,000 international candidates, the university fosters a vibrant, diverse community that prepares graduates for high-level careers.
This guide outlines the major scholarships available for international students in 2026, including updated award values, eligibility rules, and key deadlines.
5 University of Sydney Scholarships for International Students 2026
The university provides various funding levels for undergraduate, postgraduate, and research degrees.
1. Vice-Chancellor’s International Scholarships Scheme (VCIS)
This high-profile award has been enhanced for the 2026 intake with new top-tier values to attract the world’s best academic talent.
- Scholarship Amount: Five tiers are available: AUD $60,000, AUD $40,000, AUD $20,000, AUD $10,000, and AUD $5,000.
- Duration: The $60k and $40k awards are paid over one year (two semesters); smaller amounts are paid for one semester.
- Eligible Degrees: Undergraduate and Postgraduate coursework degrees.
- Deadline: No separate application is required. Selection is based on merit from your admission application.
- Semester 1, 2026 Rounds: Close 20 August 2025, 7 October 2025, and 17 November 2025.
- Semester 2, 2026 Rounds: Close 16 February 2026, 23 March 2026, and 4 May 2026.
2. University of Sydney International Stipend Scholarship (USydIS)
This scholarship supports high-achieving international students undertaking a Higher Degree by Research (HDR). It is often awarded alongside the Australian Government RTP scholarship.
- Scholarship Amount: A living stipend of AUD $42,754 per annum (2026 rate), indexed annually.
- Duration: Up to 3.5 years for PhD candidates and 2 years for Research Master’s.
- Benefits: Covers 100% of tuition fees, provides a relocation allowance (up to $1,485), and includes a thesis allowance.
- Deadline: Research Period 3 and 4, 2026 deadline is 19 December 2025. Research Period 1 and 2, 2027 deadline is 11 September 2026.
3. Sydney Scholars India Scholarship Program
Designed to strengthen educational ties with India, this program is one of the most generous available to Indian citizens.
- Scholarship Amount: Varies by tier. Major awards include 2 x 100% tuition fee waivers for any undergraduate degree (up to 4 years).
- Additional Awards: 10 x $20,000 first-year scholarships and 16 x $10,000 first-year scholarships.
- Eligible Nationalities: Citizens and current residents of India.
- Deadline: Applications for the 2026 cycle close on 25 May 2026.
4. Sydney International Student Award (SISA)
This award supports students from strategic global markets with a consistent tuition fee contribution.
- Scholarship Amount: A 20% contribution towards tuition fees for the entire duration of the course.
- Eligible Nationalities: Citizens of select countries in Southeast Asia (Indonesia, Vietnam, Malaysia, etc.), South Asia (India, Pakistan, Bangladesh), Africa, and Latin America.
- How to Apply: Submit a personal statement (200 words per prompt) as part of your course application.
5. Faculty-Specific Scholarships
Individual faculties offer dedicated funds for specific disciplines, such as Engineering, Business, or Law.
- Sydney Law School: Offers the Wigram Allen Scholarship (up to $6,000) and the Juris Doctor (JD) Scholarship (up to full tuition).
- Engineering: Offers the John Kinghorn Scholarship valued at approximately AUD $13,500.
General Eligibility and Application Process
Eligibility Criteria
- Academic Merit: Most scholarships are awarded based on a ranking of academic results (e.g., ATAR equivalent or GPA).
- Unconditional Offer: You must receive an unconditional offer of admission by the scholarship round close date.
- Status: You must be classified as an international student (not a permanent resident or citizen of Australia/New Zealand).
- English Proficiency: You must meet the university’s English requirements (typically IELTS 6.5 with no band below 6.0, though some courses require higher).
5 Steps to Apply
- Select a Course: Choose an undergraduate or postgraduate program from over 400 study areas.
- Submit Admission Application: Apply through the University of Sydney portal or UAC. Pay the AUD $150 application fee (unless waived).
- Receive an Unconditional Offer: Ensure your results are final so you can receive an unconditional offer.
- Scholarship Consideration:
- Automatic: For VCIS and many faculty awards, you are automatically ranked based on your admission file.
- Manual: For the Sydney Scholars India program and the International Student Award, submit the required personal statement or application form.
- Accept and Enroll: Scholarship offers are typically sent via email. You must accept both your course offer and scholarship promptly.
