What you’ll learn
- How migrants, refugees, asylum seekers and international students can locate scholarships in Australia beyond the Australia Awards.
- Where to find reliable information, what types of funding exist, and how to prepare a competitive application.
- Practical tips to avoid common pitfalls and maximise your chances of success.
---
Quick Facts
| Programme or guide name | Country | Study level | Funding information | Eligibility overview | Application deadline | Official website |
|-------------------------|---------|-------------|---------------------|----------------------|----------------------|------------------|
| Australia Awards Scholarships | Australia | Masters | Full tuition, living allowance, travel, health insurance | Citizens of participating countries; specific eligibility varies | Check the official website for current details | Australia Awards |
For all other scholarship options, check the relevant official websites for the latest details.
---
Who This Guide Is For
This guide is written for:
- Migrants who have recently arrived in Australia and are looking for financial support to pursue higher education.
- Refugees and asylum seekers who are eligible to study in Australia and want to explore scholarship opportunities.
- International students from countries that are not covered by the Australia Awards but who still wish to study in Australia.
Limitations
- The information presented is based on publicly available sources and does not constitute legal or immigration advice.
- Scholarship availability, eligibility, and funding levels can change; always verify with the official source before acting.
---
Eligibility and Important Requirements
General Eligibility Themes
| Theme | What it means | Why it matters |
|-------|---------------|----------------|
| Nationality or country of origin | Some scholarships are open to students from specific countries or regions. | Determines whether you can apply. |
| Academic standing | Many scholarships require a minimum GPA or equivalent academic achievement. | Demonstrates readiness for higher‑level study. |
| Field of study | Certain scholarships target specific disciplines (e.g., STEM, humanities). | Aligns your research interests with the scholarship’s focus. |
| Visa status | Some scholarships require you to hold a valid student visa or be eligible to obtain one. | Ensures you can legally study in Australia. |
| Financial need | Some awards consider your financial circumstances. | May influence the amount of support offered. |
Key Points for Migrants
- Australia Awards: Eligibility depends on your country of citizenship and the participating countries list.
- University‑specific scholarships: Each institution sets its own criteria; many are open to all international students, including migrants.
- State government scholarships: Some Australian states offer funding for international students; eligibility often includes residency or citizenship status.
- Private foundations: Foundations may have their own eligibility rules, sometimes focusing on leadership potential or community impact.
> Tip: Start by identifying the scholarship’s eligibility checklist on its official page. If any requirement is unclear, contact the scholarship office directly.
---
What Funding or Support May Be Available
1. Australia Awards Scholarships
- Scope: Full funding for a Master’s degree, including tuition, living allowance, travel, and health insurance.
- Target: Citizens of participating countries; specific eligibility varies by country.
- Application: Through the Australian Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT).
2. University‑Specific Scholarships
- Examples:
- University of Sydney International Scholarship
- University of Queensland International Scholarship
- What they offer: Partial or full tuition waivers, living stipends, or research grants.
- Who can apply: International students, including migrants, who meet the university’s criteria.
- How to find them: Visit the university’s international students or scholarships page.
3. State Government Scholarships
- Examples:
- Victoria State Scholarship
- What they offer: Varies by state; may include tuition assistance or living support.
- Who can apply: International students, sometimes with a preference for those from specific regions or with particular academic achievements.
4. Private Foundations and Corporate Scholarships
- Examples:
- Commonwealth Bank Scholarship
- What they offer: Often targeted at leadership, community service, or specific research areas.
- Who can apply: International students, including migrants, who meet the foundation’s criteria.
> Important: Funding amounts, coverage, and application windows differ widely. Always consult the official scholarship page for precise information.
---
How to Prepare an Application
| Step | What to Do | Why it Matters |
|------|------------|----------------|
| 1. Identify suitable scholarships | Search university websites, state education portals, and the Australia Awards site. | Ensures you focus on awards that match your profile. |
| 2. Review eligibility | Check nationality, academic, and visa requirements. | Avoids wasting time on ineligible applications. |
| 3. Gather academic records | Transcripts, degree certificates, and English proficiency test scores. | Required proof of academic readiness. |
| 4. Prepare a strong statement of purpose | Highlight your research interests, career goals, and why you need funding. | Demonstrates motivation and fit with the scholarship. |
| 5. Secure reference letters | Ask professors or employers who can attest to your academic or professional abilities. | Adds credibility to your application. |
| 6. Complete the application form | Follow the instructions on the scholarship’s official page. | Ensures all required fields are filled correctly. |
| 7. Submit before the deadline | Keep a calendar of deadlines and submit early. | Reduces last‑minute technical issues. |
> Pro Tip: Create a checklist for each scholarship to track documents, deadlines, and specific requirements.
---
Documents Applicants May Need
| Document | Typical Use | Where to Obtain |
|----------|-------------|-----------------|
| Academic transcripts | Proof of previous study | Your previous institution |
| Degree certificates | Confirmation of qualification | Your previous institution |
| English proficiency test scores (IELTS, TOEFL, PTE) | Demonstrate English language ability | Test provider |
| Passport copy | Identity verification | Your passport |
| Visa status documents | Proof of legal right to study | Immigration department |
| Statement of purpose | Outline research goals | Your own writing |
| Reference letters | Academic or professional endorsement | Professors, employers |
| Curriculum Vitae (CV) | Summary of experience | Your own writing |
| Financial statements (if required) | Proof of financial need | Your bank or financial institution |
> Note: Exact document requirements vary by scholarship. Always check the official application guide.
---
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Applying for scholarships you’re ineligible for
- Submitting incomplete or incorrect documents
- Missing deadlines
- Failing to tailor your statement of purpose
- Neglecting to ask for reference letters early
- Assuming a scholarship is automatically awarded
---
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I apply for the Australia Awards Scholarship if I’m a refugee or asylum seeker?
The Australia Awards are open to citizens of participating countries. Refugees and asylum seekers may be eligible if they hold citizenship of a participating country. Check the official Australia Awards page for the list of eligible countries and any additional requirements.
2. Are university scholarships in Australia open to migrants who are not citizens?
Yes, many Australian universities offer scholarships that are open to all international students, including migrants. Eligibility criteria vary by scholarship, so review each university’s scholarship page for details.
3. Do I need a student visa to apply for scholarships in Australia?
Most scholarships require you to hold or be eligible for a valid Australian student visa. However, some scholarships may allow you to apply before obtaining a visa, provided you can demonstrate your intent to study. Verify visa requirements on the scholarship’s official page.
4. How can I find scholarships that cover living expenses, not just tuition?
Look for scholarships that explicitly mention a living stipend or allowance. University scholarships often list the components of the award. State government scholarships may also include living support. Always read the scholarship description carefully.
5. Is it possible to combine multiple scholarships to cover all costs?
In some cases, you can combine awards, such as a university scholarship with a state government scholarship. However, each scholarship’s terms may restrict combining funds. Check the terms and conditions of each award and consult the scholarship office if you’re unsure.
6. What should I do if I’m unsure about my eligibility for a particular scholarship?
Contact the scholarship’s designated email address or phone number. Most scholarship offices provide a point of contact for eligibility queries. It’s better to confirm early than to submit an ineligible application.
---
Official Sources
---
Related Guides
- Scholarships for refugees
- Fully funded scholarships
- Australia scholarships
- Scholarship deadlines 2026
---
Last Reviewed: 2026-10-08