9 May 2024
Each year, thousands of students aspire to study in Australia. However, for many, the costs associated with studying in Australia can pose a challenge. International students need to figure out their finances to meet the costs associated with tuition, travel, visa, documentation, living, entertainment, and supplies, among others. Academic institutes in Australia offer a lot of different kinds of scholarships to international students to help them manage their finances. The Australian Government, private organizations, and public establishments are also focused on providing bursaries, grants, and scholarships. When planning to apply for scholarships, it is critical for international students to check the criteria and eligibility and ensure that they are able to meet specific requirements. In this article, we will explore everything you need to know about scholarships in Australia.
What are the criteria for applying for scholarships for international students in Australia?
Scholarships in Australia can be both merit and need-based. However, it is important to meet the minimum set criteria before applying for scholarships. The specific needs that international students need to meet largely depend on the level of their education, the subject, course, and programs that they plan to attend, and the college and university that they wish to attend. Here are the general criteria for applying for scholarships for international students in Australia:
- A good academic score
- Extracurricular activities
- Volunteering experience
- Personal statement
- Proof of funds
- Scores for language proficiency tests like TOEFL, PTE, Duolingo English Test, and IELTS
It is essential to refer to the official documentation for the scholarships that you wish to attend for any particular requirements.
What expenses are covered for international students through scholarships in Australia?
Most scholarships offered in Australia for international students typically tend to cover tuition fees. Some scholarships can also cover traveling and living expenses. International students who are applying for research programs may avail themselves of 100% scholarships that cover both living expenses and tuition fees. Generally, the expenses covered by the scholarship tend to depend on the academic institute, the organization offering these expenses, and the type of scholarship offered. As scholarships in Australia tend to be competitive in nature, it is recommended to plan properly and start the scholarship process approximately 8 to 12 months prior to the start of the intake.
What different scholarship programs are available for international students studying in Australia?
Here are some well-known scholarship programs that international students can apply to fund their education in Australia:
Australian Government Research and Training Program
Also known as the AGRTP, this scholarship is funded by the Australian government. This scholarship covers the costs associated with health insurance and tuition fees for around three years. This award is focused on supporting research master’s and doctorate degrees. Generally, 34,000 AUD is offered to international students per annum.
Australia Awards Scholarship
The Australia Awards Scholarship is funded by the Department of Foreign Affairs and, the Department of Education, and the Australian Centre for International Agricultural Research. This award offers international students from developing countries a chance to study their undergraduate and graduate courses at participating academic institutes in TAFE or Australia and technical and further education educational organizations. This scholarship covers expenses related to Overseas Student Health Cover, living expenses, airfare, tuition fees, and other related costs for two years.
Destination Australia scholarship
The Destination Australia scholarship focuses on helping international students pursue their education in regional Australia. This award regionally works with tertiary education providers in the country and offers an educational experience to international students. Typically, the scholarship offers 15,000 AUD per annum as well as 1,500 for administration and promotional assistance. Once international students obtain this scholarship, they are eligible to receive funds for up to four years.
John Allwright Fellowship
Also known as the JAF, this scholarship is offered to postgraduates who wish to participate in master’s and doctorate programs by the ACIAR or the Australian Centre for International Agricultural Research. This award is furnished via the Australia Awards System to agricultural researchers. International students who are eligible to apply for the John Allwright Fellowship should apply early to get a headstart on their application.
Conclusion
There are a lot of different kinds of scholarships available in Australia for international students, such as those for particular areas of education, sports scholarships, research scholarships, need-based scholarships, and merit-based scholarships. The eligibility criteria for both need- and merit-based scholarships in Australia depend greatly on the program that international students wish to attend as well as the award provider.
Typically, international students can obtain these scholarships on the basis of their research potential, leadership skills, community involvement, financial condition, and academic scores. Generally, international students are required to produce their previous academic transcripts, letters of recommendation, personal essays, application forms, and other documents when applying for a scholarship in Australia.
Need more information related to scholarships for study abroad? Contact our experts at Landmark Immigration.
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