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Australia has become one of the most popular study destinations for international students, offering world-class universities and excellent career opportunities. In 2024, over 1.09 million international student enrolments were recorded in Australia, marking a 15% increase compared to pre-pandemic levels. However, the cost of studying abroad can be overwhelming for many students and families.

To help with these expenses, a range of scholarships in Australia is available, designed to make education in the country more affordable and accessible. To help international students manage education costs, a variety of options are available, from fully funded to partial scholarships provided by Australia Awards, university scholarships from top universities like the University of Melbourne, and organisations such as the International Education Association of Australia help international students manage education costs.

This comprehensive guide will walk you through the top 6 scholarships in Australia for Filipino students, eligibility requirements, and practical tips to strengthen your application. Let us explore why scholarships matter first.

Top 6 Scholarships in Australia (with Benefits)

Here are six outstanding scholarships in Australia for Filipinos that can help reduce the high education costs for international students:

1. Australia Awards Scholarships

This Australian Government programme is one of the most comprehensive, fully funded scholarships available, primarily for postgraduate students from developing countries, including the Philippines. It aims to support future leaders who will contribute to their home country's development.

Benefits: Covers full tuition fees, living expenses (Contribution to Living Expenses – CLE), health insurance (Overseas Student Health Cover – OSHC), return airfare, and an establishment allowance. It may also include an Introductory Academic Programme (IAP) and supplementary academic support.

Eligibility

• Must be a citizen of the Philippines and reside in the country.
• Be at least 18 years of age on February 1 of the year of commencing the scholarship.
• Meet the specific academic requirements for their chosen course and institution.
• Have at least two years' cumulative work experience (some exceptions apply).
• Not be married to, engaged to, or a de facto of a person who holds Australian or New Zealand citizenship or permanent residency.
• Satisfy the admission requirements of the institution at which the award is to be undertaken.
• Meet the English language proficiency requirements (typically IELTS Academic 6.5 with no band score less than 6.0, or equivalent).
• Commit to contributing to the development of the Philippines upon return.

Application Process

• Online Application: Apply via the Online Australia Awards Scholarships Information System (OASIS).
• Required Documents: Upload all required supporting documents as outlined in the Australia Awards Scholarships Policy Handbook and the country-specific requirements for the Philippines.
• Interview and Selection: Shortlisted candidates will undergo an interview process. Successful candidates are typically notified via email.

2. La Trobe University Excellence Scholarship

A strong alternative to the Destination Australia Scholarship for those looking to study outside of major metropolitan centres, La Trobe University offers a range of scholarships, including the La Trobe University Excellence Scholarship. La Trobe has several campuses, with many located in regional Victoria (e.g., Bendigo, Albury-Wodonga), providing a regional study experience similar to what the Destination Australia scholarship encouraged. This scholarship supports high-achieving international students across various fields. (Note: Destination Australia Scholarship has been discontinued for new applicants since 2024)

Benefits: Up to a 50% tuition fee reduction for the duration of the course. The exact percentage depends on the applicant's academic merit.

Eligibility

• Be an international student commencing a full-time undergraduate or postgraduate coursework degree at La Trobe University.
• Demonstrate an excellent academic record (e.g., equivalent to an Australian ATAR of 80+ for undergraduate, or a WAM of 70+ for postgraduate). Specific academic thresholds may apply per faculty or course.
• Meet the English language proficiency requirements for their chosen course.
• Not be a citizen of Australia or New Zealand, or an Australian Permanent Resident.

Application Process

• Apply for Admission: First, apply for admission to a La Trobe University course.
• Automatic Consideration: Eligible students who receive an offer of admission are often automatically considered for this scholarship. However, some specific scholarships might require a separate application form or a personal statement. It is advisable to check the specific scholarship terms on the La Trobe University website.
• Offer: Successful scholarship recipients will be notified alongside their offer of admission or shortly thereafter.

3. Research Training Programme (RTP)

The RTP provides comprehensive support for Master's and PhD candidates, making it a prominent option among postgraduate scholarships in Australia for students pursuing research-based degrees. It is an Australian Government initiative administered by individual universities.

Benefits: Covers full tuition fees for international students and provides an annual living allowance (stipend), which is approximately AU $33,637 (2024 rate, subject to annual indexing) to assist with general living costs. It may also cover ancillary costs related to the research degree, such as Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC).

Eligibility

• Be an international student undertaking a Master's by Research or PhD degree at an Australian university.
• Demonstrate exceptional research potential and academic merit, typically evidenced by a strong academic record, research publications, or relevant research experience.
• Meet the English language proficiency requirements of the university.
• Not be receiving an equivalent scholarship from the Australian Government.
• Hold an unconditional offer of admission to a higher degree by research programme at an eligible Australian university.

Application Process

• Apply for Admission: Candidates must first apply for and secure an offer of admission to a Master's by Research or PhD programme at an Australian university.
• Scholarship Application: Each university manages its RTP scholarship applications. Students usually apply directly to their chosen university for an RTP scholarship. The application process often involves submitting a research proposal, academic transcripts, CV, and referee reports.
• Deadlines: Application deadlines vary significantly by university. Many universities have major application rounds in September/October for commencement in the following year, but some have multiple rounds throughout the year. Check the specific university's graduate research or scholarship website.

4. University of Sydney International Scholarships

The University of Sydney offers various scholarship programmes for international students, with some of the most competitive awards specifically for postgraduate research degrees. These scholarships aim to attract high-calibre international students.

Benefits: Can provide full tuition fee offsets along with a living allowance, with awards typically aligning with the RTP stipend (approximately AU $40,109 for 2024, subject to change). Some coursework scholarships may offer partial tuition fee reductions.

Eligibility

• Be an international student (not an Australian or New Zealand citizen, or an Australian Permanent Resident).
• Have applied for or be currently enrolled in a Master's by Research or PhD programme at the University of Sydney for research scholarships. For coursework scholarships, specific degree eligibility applies.
• Possess a strong academic record and demonstrated research potential (for research degrees).
• Meet the English language proficiency requirements.
• Hold an unconditional offer of admission (or be currently enrolled).

Application Process

• Apply for Admission: Apply for your chosen degree programme at the University of Sydney. For research degrees, ensure you have secured an unconditional offer of admission.
• Automatic Consideration/Separate Application: For some research scholarships (e.g., the University of Sydney International Scholarship for postgraduate research), eligible candidates are automatically considered upon application for admission. For others, particularly coursework scholarships, a separate application may be required, often involving a personal statement. Check the specific scholarship details on the University of Sydney's scholarship website.
• Deadlines: Application periods vary. Research scholarships often have multiple application rounds throughout the year, while coursework scholarships may have specific deadlines tied to admission offers.

5. UNSW International Scholarships

The University of New South Wales (UNSW) provides multiple scholarship opportunities for outstanding international students pursuing undergraduate or postgraduate coursework degrees. These are merit-based awards.

Benefits: The value varies, with some scholarships offering up to AU $20,000 per year as a tuition fee reduction. Some highly competitive scholarships may offer full tuition.

Eligibility

• Be an international student commencing full-time study on campus in a UNSW undergraduate or postgraduate coursework programme.
• Have received an unconditional offer of admission into an eligible programme.
• Demonstrate strong academic merit.
• May require demonstration of leadership skills, extracurricular activities, or a compelling reason for studying at UNSW.
• Meet English language proficiency requirements.

Application Process

• Apply for Admission: Obtain an offer of admission to a UNSW programme.
• Scholarship Application: UNSW typically has a centralised scholarship application system. Applicants usually submit one scholarship application, and they are then considered for all eligible scholarships they meet the criteria for.
• Required Documents: This generally includes academic transcripts, English language test scores, a CV, and possibly a personal statement addressing academic merit, leadership, and reasons for studying at UNSW.
• Deadlines: Scholarship application rounds are often aligned with admission periods. Students can refer to the UNSW scholarships website or get in touch with us for specific deadlines and detailed application instructions.

6. Macquarie University Vice-Chancellor's International Scholarship

This award is for international students demonstrating exceptional academic performance across all disciplines offered by Macquarie University.

Benefits: Offers up to AU $10,000 per year, applied towards tuition fees.

Eligibility

• Be a full-time international student commencing an undergraduate or postgraduate coursework degree (excluding Graduate Certificates).
• Achieve a minimum Weighted Average Mark (WAM) equivalent of 65 for postgraduate applications or a minimum ATAR equivalent of 85 for undergraduate applications.
• Hold a valid offer letter to study at Macquarie University.
• Meet English language proficiency requirements.
• Not be a citizen of Australia or New Zealand, or hold permanent residency in Australia.
• Not be concurrently receiving any other Macquarie University scholarship.

Application Process

• Apply for Admission: First, apply for and receive a valid offer letter to study at Macquarie University.
• Scholarship Application: Complete a separate online scholarship application form.
• Deadlines: Applications are typically open year-round, but as it's a limited scholarship, early application after receiving an offer of admission is encouraged.

How to Qualify for Scholarships in Australia?

• Strong academic record with a high GPA (typically 3.0 or above, but exact requirements vary by programme)
• Standardised test scores like IELTS Academic (usually 6.5-7 bands) or TOEFL iBT
• Relevant academic background for your chosen field of study
• Previous educational achievements and award
• Leadership experience in school, community, or workplace
• Volunteer work and community service involvement
• Clear career goals and motivation for studying in Australia
• Valid passport as proof of citizenship
• Official academic transcripts and certificates (with certified English translations if needed)
• English language test scores (IELTS Academic, TOEFL iBT, or PTE Academic) meeting scholarship criteria
• Detailed CV outlining academic and work experience
• Letters of Recommendation (LOR) from teachers, professors, or employers
• Personal statement or essay explaining goals and motivation

When learning how to apply for Australian scholarships, it is important to first understand the common selection criteria. While specific criteria vary between programmes, most scholarships evaluate candidates based on three main areas:

Scholarships in Australia: Academic Requirements

• Strong academic record with a high GPA (typically 3.0 or above, but exact requirements vary by programme)
• Standardised test scores like IELTS Academic (usually 6.5-7 bands) or TOEFL iBT
• Relevant academic background for your chosen field of study
• Previous educational achievements and awards

Scholarships in Australia: Personal Qualities

• Leadership experience in school, community, or workplace
• Volunteer work and community service involvement
• Clear career goals and motivation for studying in Australia

Scholarships in Australia: Documentation Needed

• Valid passport as proof of citizenship
• Official academic transcripts and certificates (with certified English translations if needed)
• English language test scores (IELTS Academic, TOEFL iBT, or PTE Academic) meeting scholarship criteria
• Detailed CV outlining academic and work experience
• Letters of Recommendation (LOR) from teachers, professors, or employers
• Personal statement or essay explaining goals and motivation

Students looking to study in Australia with scholarship support can access both partial and fully funded options, making higher education more attainable for those from diverse financial backgrounds.

Remember that scholarship criteria can vary significantly between universities and programmes. Some scholarships require you to secure admission to an Australian university before applying, while others allow simultaneous applications. Always check specific requirements for each scholarship you are interested in.

Why Scholarships in Australia Matter for International Students?

Studying in Australia comes with significant financial costs for international students. Tuition fees, accommodation, living expenses, and other study-related costs can quickly add up, making quality education seem out of reach for many students.

• Reducing financial burden: Scholarships often cover partial or full tuition fees. This significantly lowers the overall cost of studying in Australia.
• Supporting academic focus: With fewer financial concerns, students can dedicate more time and energy to their academic work. This can lead to improved performance and better outcomes.
• Enabling access to top universities: Scholarships make it possible to attend institutions that might otherwise be financially out of reach. This broadens academic and career prospects.
• Covering living expenses: Many scholarships include allowances for accommodation, meals, transport, and daily essentials. This helps students manage their day-to-day costs more easily.
• Creating networking opportunities: Scholarship programmes often connect students with peers, alumni, and professionals. These relationships can lead to mentorship and future career opportunities.

Scholarships in Australia provide financial support that enables students to access the Australian education that would otherwise be out of reach for many. However, students should always learn to manage their expectations as there is a lot of competition when it comes to applying to scholarships in Australia or any financial grant for that matter. If things don't go your way you can always fall back on education loans to study abroad.

With careful planning, thorough research, and well-prepared applications, the cost of studying abroad can be significantly reduced while gaining entry to strong academic programmes and career opportunities. Early preparation, understanding eligibility criteria, and demonstrating commitment and capability increases the likelihood of success. Scholarship committees seek candidates who will excel academically and contribute positively to their communities. Filipino students looking for more information on scholarships in Australia can get in touch with our AECC counsellors for a list of the best scholarships in Australia suited to their profile. 

Top Scholarships in Australia FAQs