Australia offers a world-class medical education within an advanced healthcare system. For international students, securing a scholarship can make studying medicine or a related health science in Australia a reality. These awards help cover the significant costs associated with a medical education.
It is important to understand a key fact. Full-ride scholarships for the direct Doctor of Medicine (MD) or Bachelor of Medicine, Bachelor of Surgery (MBBS) degrees are extremely rare for international students in Australia. These programs are highly competitive and have limited places.
However, numerous scholarships are available for other excellent degrees in the health and medical sector. Australian universities provide substantial funding for postgraduate research degrees (Masters and PhDs) in medical science and for coursework master’s degrees in fields like Public Health. These programs offer a fantastic pathway to a successful career in global healthcare.
Successful scholarship applicants demonstrate exceptional abilities. Committees primarily look for three key attributes: outstanding academic scores in science subjects, relevant research or clinical experience, and a genuine commitment to improving health outcomes.
Pathways to a Medical Career in Australia
International students can pursue a medical career through several degree pathways. While direct MD scholarships are scarce, these three related programs offer more accessible scholarship opportunities.
1. Postgraduate Medical Research (PhD & Master’s)
This is the most well-funded pathway for international students. A PhD or Master’s by Research in a field like immunology, cancer biology, or neuroscience allows you to work with leading researchers. These degrees are heavily supported by government and university scholarships.
2. Undergraduate Biomedical Science
An undergraduate degree like a Bachelor of Biomedical Science or Medical Science serves as an excellent foundation. It can lead to postgraduate medicine (the GAMSAT pathway) or a career in medical research. Many universities offer scholarships for high-achieving undergraduate science students.
3. Public Health and Health Sciences
A Master of Public Health (MPH), Health Administration, or a similar degree opens doors to non-clinical careers in the health sector. These programs focus on health policy, epidemiology, and health promotion. Scholarships like the Australia Awards often fund students in these critical areas.
Key Medical & Health Scholarships for 2026 Intakes
1. Research Training Program (RTP) Scholarship
The Australian Government’s RTP is the primary source of funding for postgraduate research. It supports PhD and Master’s by Research students in all fields, including every area of medical research.
- Who it’s for: High-achieving international and domestic students accepted into a research-focused postgraduate degree.
- What it covers: The RTP provides a full tuition fee waiver and a tax-free living stipend of approximately $35,000 AUD per year.
- How to Apply: You are automatically considered when you apply for a graduate research program at any participating Australian university.
Australia Government Scholarships for International Students (Complete Process)
2. Australia Awards Scholarships
This prestigious government scholarship aims to build capacity in developing countries. It is an excellent option for students pursuing a Master of Public Health or a related coursework degree.
- Who it’s for: International students from eligible partner countries in Asia, the Pacific, Africa, and the Middle East.
- What it covers: This is a comprehensive award that includes all tuition fees, return flights, health cover, and a generous living stipend.
- How to Apply: You must apply directly through the Australia Awards office in your home country. Applications for the 2027 intake will open in early 2026
Australia Awards Scholarships Eligibility Criteria – How to Apply
3. University of Melbourne – Graduate Research Scholarships
The University of Melbourne has a world-leading Faculty of Medicine, Dentistry and Health Sciences. Its graduate research scholarships attract top talent globally.
- Who it’s for: Outstanding international and domestic students enrolling in a PhD or research master’s degree.
- What it covers: The scholarship provides a 100% fee waiver, a living allowance of approximately $37,000 AUD per year, and a relocation allowance.
- How to Apply: Consideration is automatic when you apply for your research course at the University of Melbourne.
Melbourne Research Scholarship 2026 (Full Process)
4. University of Sydney – Faculty of Medicine and Health Scholarships
The University of Sydney offers various scholarships for students within its medical and health faculty. These are often funded by industry partners and philanthropic donations.
- Who it’s for: International and domestic students in postgraduate research or, occasionally, specific coursework programs.
- What it covers: Awards vary widely, from one-time travel grants of $5,000 AUD to full stipends and tuition coverage for top PhD candidates.
- How to Apply: You can search and apply for specific awards via the university’s scholarship portal.
University of Sydney Scholarships 2026 | Complete Process
5. Monash University – Faculty of Medicine, Nursing and Health Sciences Awards
Monash University is a leader in medical research and education. The faculty provides a range of scholarships to support its students.
- Who it’s for: Primarily postgraduate research students (international and domestic) within the faculty.
- What it covers: Top candidates receive a full scholarship package including a tuition fee waiver and a living stipend of around $35,019 AUD per year.
- How to Apply: You are typically considered for these awards when you apply for your research degree at Monash.
Monash University Scholarship 2026 (Fully Funded): How to apply?
How to Prepare a Strong Medical Scholarship Application
A successful application for a medical or health sciences program requires meticulous preparation. Follow these four primary steps to present a competitive profile.
Step 1: Demonstrate Academic Excellence in Science
To meet eligibility criteria, you must have outstanding grades. Committees require high scores in key subjects, such as chemistry, biology, and advanced mathematics. You must also achieve a competitive score on any required entrance exams.
Step 2: Gain Relevant Practical Experience
Scholarship panels value real-world experience in a healthcare environment. Strengthen an application by detailing your experience in hospital volunteering, clinical shadowing, and laboratory research. This demonstrates your commitment to the field.
Step 3: Craft a Powerful Personal Statement
Your personal statement explains your motivation for pursuing a career in medicine or health. It should clearly articulate your personal story, your career ambitions, and how this specific program will help you achieve them.
Step 4: Prepare for the Interview
Many medical and health programs require an interview. You should prepare for formats like the Multiple Mini Interview (MMI), which assesses your communication skills, ethical reasoning, and critical thinking abilities.
