Australia stands out as a top destination for higher education, attracting students from around the globe with its world-class universities, advanced research opportunities, and lively academic culture. For aspiring students,fully funded PhD scholarships in Australia for international students open doors to pursuing advanced education without financial constraints. These scholarships cover tuition fees, and living expenses, often including additional benefits such as travel allowances and research grants. For instance, the Australian Government Research Training Program (RTP) provides stipends of up to AUD 29,000 annually, ensuring students can focus entirely on their academic journey.
List Of Fully Funded PhD Scholarships In Australia
To support exceptional talent from around the globe, numerous fully funded PhD scholarships are available, covering tuition fees, living expenses, and research costs. If you plan to study in Australia, these scholarships provide a fantastic opportunity to achieve your academic and professional aspirations. In this section, we present a comprehensive list of prestigious, fully funded PhD scholarships in Australia designed to empower international students to achieve their academic and professional aspirations.
1. Australia Awards Scholarships
The Australia Awards Scholarships are prestigious international scholarships funded by the Australian Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT). They are designed to provide opportunities for students from developing countries to undertake full-time undergraduate or postgraduate studies at participating universities in Australia and TAFE institutions.
| Category | Details |
| Coverage | – Full tuition fees – Return air travel – Living stipend – Establishment allowance – Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) – Additional support (e.g., pre-course English training, supplementary academic assistance) |
| Eligibility | – Residents of eligible countries – Minimum age: 18 years – Not Australian citizens or permanent residents – No prior Australia Award in the last 4 years – Academic and English proficiency requirements (e.g., IELTS ≥ 6.5) |
| Selection Criteria | – Merit-based selection – Evaluated through interviews and assessments – Shortlist produced by each participating country based on available scholarships |
2. Adelaide Scholarships International
The Adelaide Scholarships International (ASI) are offered by the University of Adelaide to outstanding international students from around the globe who wish to pursue higher degrees through research. These scholarships are available in three rounds each year and cover full tuition fees as well as provide a living stipend to support students during their studies. To be eligible, applicants must have achieved a First Class Honours result or its equivalent and must be applying for a research degree in any discipline offered by the university.
| Category | Details |
| Eligibility | – Open to international students with First Class Honours or equivalent. |
| Coverage | – Tuition fee waiver – Living stipend (excludes student visa application fees). |
| Selection Criteria | – Based on academic merit and research potential – Alignment with the university’s research areas – Assessed by the Scholarship Selection Committee. |
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3. Australian Government Research Training Programme
This programme is available for both domestic and international students who wish to pursue their Master’s Research degrees or a PhD from any Australian university. This research training programme (RTP) offers student funding in three ways:
| RTP Funding Type | Details |
| RTP Fees Offset | Covers tuition fees for higher degree education, which would otherwise be paid by the student. |
| RTP Stipend | Provides financial support for living expenses such as accommodation and essential overhead costs. |
| RTP Allowances | Assists with ancillary expenses, including travel and relocation costs. |
4. Flinders International Postgraduate Scholarships
Flinders International Postgraduate Research Scholarships (FIPRS) are awarded at Flinders University to suitably eligible candidates for a higher degree in full-time research, up to two years for a Research Masters degree, and up to three years for a Research Doctorate degree.
| Category | Details |
| Eligibility | – International students applying for a full-time Research Doctorate or Research Master’s programme – Strong academic merit and research potential – No prior enrollment in a higher degree by research in Australia |
| Coverage | – Full tuition fees – Living allowance: AUD 33,990 per annum (2024, tax-exempt, indexed annually) |
| Selection Criteria | – Based on academic merit and research potential – Assessed by a Scholarships Committee – Automatically considered for the AGRTPS Scholarship |
5. University Of Melbourne Graduate Research Scholarships
Established by the University of Melbourne, the Graduate Research Scholarship is awarded to highly qualified domestic and foreign research students. This is one of the fully funded PhD scholarships in Australia for international students that covers tuition fees, living expenses, housing allowance, relocation grants, and health insurance.
| Category | Details |
| Eligibility | – Applicants must apply for or be enrolled in a graduate research degree at the University of Melbourne. – New students are automatically considered; current students must apply by October 31 each year. |
| Coverage | – 100% tuition fee remission (up to 2 years for master’s, 4 years for doctoral programmes) – Relocation grants and OSHC for international students |
| Selection Criteria | – Based on academic merit, research potential, and relevant experience – Factors include publications, professional qualifications, and contributions to original music. |
6. Bond University Scholarship
The Bond University Scholarships are designed to support both domestic and international students by providing financial assistance based on academic merit and leadership potential. These scholarships reflect Bond University’s commitment to attracting talented individuals from around the world, making quality education more accessible while fostering a diverse academic environment.
| Category | Details |
| Eligibility | – International students residing outside Australia – Must have an offer from Bond University for an undergraduate or postgraduate degree – Should not have commenced studies at Bond University (except for English at Bond University College as part of a packaged offer) |
| Coverage | – International Stand Out Scholarship: 25% tuition fee remission – International Undergraduate Excellence Scholarship: 50% tuition fee remission |
| Selection Criteria | – Academic merit (prior achievements and qualifications) – Leadership skills, community service, and extracurricular involvement – Alignment with Bond University’s values and community impact |
7. Monash University Scholarship
The Monash University Scholarships provide substantial financial support for both domestic and international students pursuing undergraduate and postgraduate studies at Monash University in Australia. Monash University also offers various other scholarships, including those specifically for research students, which provide living allowances and additional benefits to support their academic journey.
| Category | Details |
| Eligibility | – International students residing outside Australia – Must have an offer from Bond University for an undergraduate or postgraduate degree – Should not have commenced studies at Bond University (except for English at Bond University College as part of a packaged offer) |
| Coverage | – International Stand Out Scholarship: 25% tuition fee remission – International Undergraduate Excellence Scholarship: 50% tuition fee remission |
| Selection Criteria | – Academic merit (prior achievements and qualifications) – Leadership skills, community service, and extracurricular involvement – Alignment with Bond University’s values and community impact |
Eligibility Criteria for PhD Scholarships
Securing a fully funded PhD scholarship is a competitive process that requires applicants to meet a range of eligibility criteria. These criteria ensure that candidates possess the academic qualifications, research potential, and personal attributes needed to succeed in a rigorous doctoral programme. For international students exploring advanced courses in Australia, meeting these eligibility requirements is crucial to maximising their chances of success.
| Eligibility Criteria | Details |
| Academic Qualifications | Applicants must hold a relevant master’s degree or equivalent. Many scholarships require a First Class Honours degree or its equivalent from a recognised institution. |
| Research Proposal | Candidates must submit a well-defined research proposal that aligns with the university’s research focus and demonstrates their capability to conduct independent research. |
| English Language Proficiency | International applicants must demonstrate proficiency in English through standardised tests like IELTS or TOEFL. Minimum scores often required: IELTS 6.5 or TOEFL 78-84. |
| Residency Requirements | Some scholarships are restricted to domestic students, while others are open to international students from specific countries or regions. |
| No Concurrent Scholarships | Applicants may be ineligible if they already receive another scholarship that provides similar benefits, such as tuition fee offsets or living stipends. |
| Full-time Enrollment | Most scholarships require recipients to enrol in their PhD programme on a full-time basis. |
| Additional Factors | Relevant work experience, research publications, and professional qualifications may enhance an applicant’s profile. |
Studying PhD In Australia
Pursuing fully funded PhD scholarships in Australia for international students typically involves a full-time course lasting about three years, culminating in the submission of a written thesis summarising your research findings. Unlike many other countries, Australian PhDs traditionally did not require a viva voce (oral defence), with theses assessed solely by external examiners. However, some universities, like the University of Adelaide, have recently introduced an oral examination component for students commencing after mid-2022. Thesis outcomes may include awarding the degree without corrections, awarding with required amendments, revising and resubmitting, or non-award. It’s important to review the specific requirements of your chosen university, as processes may vary.
What Does Fully Funded Mean?
A fully funded scholarship means that all major expenses related to pursuing your PhD are covered by the scholarship provider, significantly reducing the financial burden on students. Here’s what it typically includes:
- Tuition Fees: Full coverage of your university tuition fees, which can amount to thousands of dollars annually for international students.
- Living Allowance (Stipend): A monthly stipend is provided to cover living expenses such as rent, food, and transportation. The stipend amount varies but usually ensures a comfortable lifestyle for students.
- Health Insurance: Many fully funded scholarships include Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), ensuring you have access to medical services during your stay in Australia.
- Travel Costs: Some scholarships cover travel expenses, such as airfare to and from Australia, and even provide allowances for conference travel or research-related trips.
- Research and Thesis Support: Funding for research-related expenses, including lab equipment, materials, and fieldwork. Additional support for thesis preparation and publication costs.
How To Apply For Fully Funded PhD Scholarships
Securing a fully funded PhD scholarship for international students in Australia can be a transformative step in your academic and professional journey. These scholarships not only alleviate financial burdens but also provide access to world-class research facilities and expert guidance in your chosen field. This section provides a guide to help you confidently apply for fully funded PhD scholarships and maximise your opportunities.
- Research Scholarships: Find scholarships that match your field and eligibility, such as Australia Awards, Adelaide Scholarships International, or university-specific options like Monash or Melbourne University.
- Check Eligibility: Ensure you meet criteria like holding a master’s degree, academic excellence, and English language proficiency (e.g., IELTS/TOEFL scores).
- Prepare Documents: Collect academic transcripts, research proposal, CV, recommendation letters, and proof of English proficiency.
- Contact Supervisors: Reach out to potential supervisors at your chosen universities for support to strengthen your application.
- Submit Applications: Apply for both the PhD programme and scholarships (some may require separate applications).
- Follow-up: Monitor email for updates, interviews, or document requests.
- Await Results: Be patient, as selection processes can take weeks to months.
Whether through government programmes like the RTP or prestigious university-specific grants, Australia offers many opportunities for deserving international students. With proper preparation, a strong application, and determination, you can turn your academic aspirations into reality. For tailored support and expert advice on your study abroad journey in Australia, visit UniScholars.
FAQs
How do I get a fully funded PhD in Australia?
To secure a fully funded PhD in Australia, explore studentships and funding programmes offered by Australian universities, many of which are tailored for exceptional and international students. Additionally, consider the Endeavour Scholarships, a government-funded programme supporting international students. Research opportunities and apply early to increase your chances.
Can I stay in Australia after my PhD?
Yes, PhD graduates can apply for permanent residency (PR) in Australia. Eligibility depends on factors like age, English proficiency, employment history, and the Australian Qualification Framework (AQF) level of the PhD.
Is it easy to get a PhD scholarship in Australia?
Securing a PhD scholarship in Australia is competitive but achievable with a strong academic record, a well-defined research proposal, and alignment with the university’s research priorities. Many scholarships, like the RTP and university-specific grants, are merit-based and cater to eligible international students.
PhD in Australia for Indian students with a scholarship
Indian students can pursue a PhD in Australia with scholarships like the Australian Government RTP, Australia Awards, and university-specific grants, which cover tuition, living expenses, and health insurance. Top universities like ANU, University of Melbourne, and Monash University offer world-class research opportunities.
How much scholarship can I get for a PhD in Australia?
PhD scholarships in Australia vary significantly depending on the university and specific programme. Generally, students can receive funding ranging from AUD $30,000 to AUD $35,000 per year for living expenses, along with tuition fee coverage, which can reach up to AUD $272,500 for the duration of the PhD through programmes like the Endeavour Scholarships
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I have done Bachelor’s in Culinary Arts from India and completed my graduation in the year 2022 .I am 22 years old. After graduation, I have done 1 year paid internship from USA .Now, I would like to take occupational experience and learn culinary skills and also do masters in Culinary arts.How can I find the college n best course / country where I can persue studying further