Embarking on a journey to pursue a master’s degree is a significant step toward personal and professional growth. Among the myriad of options available globally, Australia stands out as a coveted destination for higher education. This article looks into the realm of scholarship for masters degree in Australia, with key information on entry criteria, how to apply for a postgraduate scholarship in Australia and what kinds of benefits they provide.
Scholarship For Masters Degree In Australia
Great universities, year-round sun and an excellent quality of life. . . it’s not too hard to understand why so many international students choose to study a Masters in Australia.
If you have your own dream of heading ‘Down Under’, you’ll probably want to know what kinds of postgraduate scholarships in Australia are available. The good news is that there is plenty of it on offer, from Australia Awards Scholarships to Research Training Program funding.
We’ve summed up some of the most popular funding options for foreign Masters students at Australian universities, with key information on entry criteria, how to apply for a postgraduate scholarship in Australia and what kinds of benefits they provide.
Masters scholarships for international students in Australia
Australia’s popularity as a study abroad destination is helped by the fact that there are several kinds of fully-funded postgraduate scholarship on offer for international students. These range from government programmes and charity schemes to scholarships offered by the universities themselves.
Australia Awards
The Australia Awards are a flagship international scholarship scheme funded by Australia’s Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT). They offer a fully-funded scholarship package to international students from developing countries in Asia, the Middle East and the Pacific region.
Australia Awards Scholarships fund international Masters students to study in Australia. Recipients are expected to return to their home country and work for at least two years following the completion of their degree.
Applications to the Australia Awards Scholarships scheme can be made via the Online Australia Scholarships Information System (OASIS) or via post. The application period is usually between February and May (you can see the full list of deadlines on the DFAT website).
As you’d expect, applying for an Australia Awards Scholarship is a competitive process. The precise requirements differ from country to country, but you’ll normally need to supply copies of the following documents during the application:
- Passport
- Birth certificate
- Bachelors degree certificate
- Academic transcripts
- CV
- Personal sttement of 500 words describing why you should receive the award
- Academic and professional references
- Passport size photo
- Proof of English language proficiency (usually the equivalent of IELTS 6.5)
Shortlisted applicants will then be invited to an interview, where you’ll be expected to speak to a panel about your country’s priority areas, your proposed Masters programme and your reintegration plan.
Successful scholars will receive:
- A full tuition fee waiver
- Travel expenses in the form of a return flight to Australia
- An initial establishment grant of AUD $5,000 (USD $3,200)
- A fortnightly maintenance stipend (approximately AUD $30,000 per year – USD $19,190)
- Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC)
- Student Services and Amenities Fee (SSAF)
- Visa fees
- Other sundry expenses
The Northcote Postgraduate Scholarship
To encourage UK students to study in Australia, as well as government and university funding options, there is also the The Northcote Postgraduate Scholarship which is awarded by the Northcote Trust, and administered on the Trust’s behalf by the Britain-Australia Society.
University scholarships
Australian universities are keen to recruit promising international postgraduates (like you!) and many will offer their own funding for overseas Masters students.
A good way to see what’s available is find a Masters at an Australian university that interests you, then get in touch with the institution to see what funding there is.
You could also go directly to the international postgraduate scholarship section on a university website. We’ve done a little bit of the legwork for you on that front – below you can find a list of links to scholarships at a selection of Australia’s top universities:
- University of Melbourne
- Australian National University
- University of Sydney
- University of Queensland
- UNSW Sydney
- Monash University
- University of Adelaide
- University of Western Australia
- Queensland University of Technology
- University of Canberra
You’ll find that the nature of the scholarships varies greatly. Some will grant you a partial tuition fee waiver, while others will cover your fees and provide a regular stipend during your Masters.
Conclusion
In conclusion, pursuing a master’s degree in Australia is a transformative journey that becomes more accessible through scholarships. The benefits extend beyond academic achievement, encompassing career growth, skill development, and cultural enrichment.
FAQs
A. How to Increase the Chances of Getting a Scholarship?
Tailor your applications, highlight achievements, and seek guidance from mentors for a competitive edge.
B. Are Scholarships Available for All Fields of Study?
Yes, scholarships are available across various disciplines; explore options aligned with your academic goals.
C. Can I Work Part-Time While Studying in Australia?
Yes, international students can work part-time to support themselves during their studies.
D. What Is the Typical Duration of a Master’s Degree Program?
Most master’s programs in Australia are designed to be completed in 1 to 2 years.
E. When Should I Start the Scholarship Application Process?
Start early—research and apply well in advance to meet deadlines and enhance your chances of success.
