Australian Scholarships for Overseas Study (Best Fully Funded)

In 2026, Australia offers a wide array of prestigious and fully funded scholarships to attract global talent and support international development. These awards go beyond tuition fee waivers, often providing living stipends, health insurance, and travel allowances to ensure a transformative academic experience.

Flagship fully funded scholarships like the Australia Awards and the Research Training Program (RTP) provide total financial coverage for high-achieving international students. These programs cover 100% of tuition fees and offer annual stipends ranging from $34,315 to $42,754. Successful applicants gain access to world-class research facilities and a global network of mentors.

This guide outlines the top 5 fully funded scholarship opportunities in Australia for the 2026–2027 intake, including their eligibility rules, benefits, and application steps.

Top 5 Fully Funded Scholarships in Australia 2026

1. Australia Awards Scholarships (AAS)

The Australia Awards are the government’s flagship development program. These are intended for high-achieving professionals from developing countries who are committed to returning home to drive positive change.

• Scholarship Summary
  • Level of Study: Undergraduate, Masters, and PhD.
  • Location: Participating Australian Universities.
  • Deadline: April 30, 2026 (for study commencing in 2027).
• Scholarship Coverage
  • Full tuition fees and return economy airfare.
  • A one-time establishment allowance ($5,000+) for initial costs.
  • A fortnightly contribution to living expenses (stipend).
  • Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) for the duration of the visa.
• Eligibility Criteria
  • Must be a citizen of an eligible participating country (Indo-Pacific, Africa, Middle East).
  • Minimum of 3 years of relevant work experience is typically required for postgraduates.
  • Applicants must return to their home country for two years after the scholarship ends.
  • Complete Application Guide.

2. Australian Government Research Training Program (RTP)

The RTP is a nationally funded scheme supporting international students undertaking Higher Degrees by Research (HDR). It is managed by individual universities.

• Scholarship Summary
  • Level of Study: Masters by Research and PhD.
  • Program Period: 2 years (Masters) / 3.5 to 4 years (PhD).
  • Deadline: Varies by university (typically August to October).
• Scholarship Coverage
  • Fee Offset: Covers 100% of tuition fees.
  • Stipend: A tax-free living allowance of $34,315 to $42,754 per year (2026 rates).
  • Allowances: Relocation grants ($2,000–$3,000) and thesis allowances.
• Application Process
  1. Find a supervisor at your chosen university.
  2. Submit an Expression of Interest (EOI).
  3. Lodge an official application for admission; you are often automatically considered for the RTP.
  4. Complete Application Guide.

3. Melbourne Research Scholarships (MRS)

Offered by the University of Melbourne, this is one of the most competitive research awards in the world. Approximately 600 scholarships are awarded each year.

• Scholarship Summary
  • Level of Study: Masters by Research and PhD.
  • Course Offered: All research disciplines at UniMelb.
• Scholarship Coverage
  • 100% tuition fee remission for up to 4 years.
  • Living allowance of $39,500 per year (2026 full-time rate).
  • $3,000 relocation grant for international students.
  • Full Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) for the student.
  • Complete Application Guide.

4. Deakin Vice-Chancellor’s Meritorious 100% Scholarship

This merit-based award is designed for exceptional students who demonstrate not only academic brilliance but also a commitment to their community.

• Scholarship Summary
  • Level of Study: Undergraduate and Postgraduate Coursework.
  • Deadline: Varies by trimester; usually one month before the start date.
• Scholarship Coverage
  • 100% Tuition Fee Waiver for the entire duration of the course.
  • Opportunity to participate in the Vice-Chancellor’s Professional Excellence Program.
• Eligibility Criteria
  • Must achieve a minimum academic performance (85% average in previous studies).
  • Must provide a personal statement and two references.
  • Complete Application Guide.

5. Destination Australia Scholarship

This initiative encourages students to study in regional Australia (outside major cities like Sydney or Melbourne) to grow regional education providers.

• Scholarship Summary
  • Level of Study: Certificate IV to PhD.
  • Location: Regional Australia (e.g., Gold Coast, Hobart, Bendigo).
  • Deadline: Rolling intakes; check specific regional campuses.
• Scholarship Coverage
  • $15,000 per year to cover study and living expenses.
  • Access to high-quality learning experiences in peaceful, community-focused settings.
• Eligibility Criteria
  • Must study full-time at a designated regional campus.
  • Must maintain residency in a regional area for the duration of the scholarship.
  • Complete Application Guide.

How to Apply

1. Identify Supervisors Early: For research degrees (RTP/MRS), securing a supervisor’s support is often a prerequisite.
2. Verify English Scores: Ensure you have a valid IELTS (6.5+) or PTE score, as most fully funded awards require proof of proficiency.
3. Check Priority Areas: Australia Awards prioritize specific sectors (e.g., Climate Change, Health, STEM). Ensure your course aligns with these goals.