Fully Funded Scholarships in Australia 2027: Complete Guide for Domestic and International Students
Fully Funded Scholarships in Australia 2027 offer opportunities for eligible students to receive tuition support, living allowances and other forms of financial assistance. Some awards are designed for Australian domestic students, while others accept international applicants. The funding available depends on the university, degree and scholarship conditions.
This guide explains the leading scholarship opportunities to investigate for 2027, who can apply, what the awards may cover, how to meet the requirements and where to find official application information. It also highlights options for students already living and studying in Australia.
Important: Scholarship conditions and deadlines change. The dates below are based on published university information where available as of October 2026. Always confirm the current requirements before applying.
What Are Fully Funded Scholarships in Australia?
Fully funded scholarships are awards that cover the major expenses associated with a student’s education. Depending on the program, this may include tuition fees, a living stipend, research expenses and other approved costs.
In Australia, scholarship funding generally falls into three categories.
Full tuition scholarships: Pay some or all eligible tuition fees but may not cover everyday living costs.
Living stipend scholarships: Provide regular financial support for accommodation, food, transport and other living expenses.
Comprehensive scholarships: Combine tuition support, a living allowance and potentially additional benefits.
For example, a research scholarship may cover tuition fees and provide an annual stipend. Another scholarship may cover tuition only, leaving the student responsible for rent and other expenses.
The Australian Government’s Research Training Program (RTP) supports eligible domestic and international students undertaking research master’s and doctoral degrees. Participating universities administer the scholarships and determine their application processes. Official RTP information.
Before applying, check whether the award covers both tuition and living costs. A scholarship described as a 100% tuition award is not necessarily fully funded in the broader sense.
Top Fully Funded Scholarships in Australia 2027
The opportunities below are particularly relevant to students considering postgraduate research, including people already living in Australia. Most comprehensive packages are concentrated at the research master’s and PhD levels. Undergraduate students should also investigate university-specific merit awards and financial assistance programs.
1. Australian Government Research Training Program (RTP) Scholarships
The Research Training Program is one of the most important funding pathways for students seeking research degrees in Australia.
The Australian Government provides funding to eligible universities, which award scholarships to qualifying students.
Study levels: Research master’s and PhD.
Who can apply?
Australian domestic students who meet the relevant requirements.
International students who meet the requirements of participating universities.
Eligible applicants commencing or, where permitted, already enrolled in a higher degree by research.
What can the funding cover?
A tuition fee offset.
A stipend to help with living costs.
Approved allowances for certain research-related expenses, relocation or other eligible costs.
Not every recipient receives every type of support. The package depends on the university and the specific award.
Deadline: Each university sets its own application timetable.
For example, the University of Sydney publishes separate application information for domestic and international research applicants. Its published 2027 RTP stipend rate is AUD $44,293 per year, with eligibility and additional benefits subject to the relevant award conditions. See the official RTP information for domestic students and international students.
Why consider it? RTP is worth investigating if you want to complete a research master’s or PhD without paying the full cost yourself.
2. University of Melbourne Graduate Research Scholarships
The University of Melbourne offers graduate research scholarships for eligible students undertaking research degrees.
These awards are especially relevant to students planning a research master’s or PhD in areas such as science, engineering, health, education, business and the humanities, depending on available programs.
Study levels: Eligible graduate research degrees.
Potential benefits include:
- Full fee coverage for eligible recipients.
- A living allowance.
- Relocation support for eligible students.
Overseas Student Health Cover for eligible international recipients under the applicable award.
Eligibility: Applicants must satisfy the university’s entry requirements and scholarship selection criteria. Academic results, research potential and other relevant achievements may be considered.
Deadline: Check the university’s official scholarship page for the applicable 2027 round and whether a separate application is required.
Some eligible applicants may be considered automatically for particular awards, while others may need to complete additional steps.
Official resource: University of Melbourne Graduate Research Scholarships.
3. Macquarie University Research Scholarships
Macquarie University offers research scholarship opportunities, including Research Training Program and university-funded research excellence awards.
These scholarships are particularly relevant to applicants pursuing a Master of Research, a combined research pathway or a PhD.
Study levels: Selected research master’s and PhD programs.
Who can apply?
Domestic applicants for the relevant domestic scholarship round.
International applicants for eligible international scholarship rounds.
Potential benefits: Depending on the award, funding may include a living stipend and tuition fee support.
Published 2027 opportunity: Macquarie University’s domestic research scholarship round for Session 1, 2027 lists RTP and Macquarie Research Excellence scholarships, with applications scheduled to close on 31 October 2026 at 11 p.m. The published stipend is AUD $40,900 per year.
The international scholarship round for Session 1, 2027 had a published closing date of 31 July 2026, so applicants should check for subsequent rounds rather than assume that the earlier round remains open.
Official resources: Macquarie domestic research scholarships and international research scholarships.
4. RMIT Research Funded Scholarships
RMIT University offers research funding opportunities for eligible domestic and international candidates.
Depending on the scholarship, a successful applicant may receive a living stipend and tuition fee support.
Study levels: Eligible research master’s and PhD programs.
Selection considerations may include:
- Academic performance.
- Research experience.
- The quality of the research proposal.
- Relevant publications or professional achievements.
- Availability of an appropriate research supervisor.
RMIT published separate domestic and international application schedules for its 2027 research scholarship round. The published full-application deadlines were 30 October 2026 for domestic applicants and 30 September 2026 for international applicants.
Because the international deadline has passed, international applicants should check whether another round or a project-specific scholarship is available. Domestic applicants should verify all remaining submission requirements immediately.
Official resource: RMIT research degrees and scholarships.
5. University of Sydney Postgraduate Research Awards
The University of Sydney also offers university-funded postgraduate research awards alongside its RTP opportunities.
These may be suitable for domestic research students undertaking eligible higher degrees by research.
Potential benefits: A living stipend and approved allowances, depending on the award.
Eligibility: Applicants must meet the relevant research degree admission requirements and competitive scholarship criteria.
Deadline: Check the university’s published application timeline for the relevant research period. Scholarship deadlines may differ from course admission deadlines.
Current research students may also be eligible to apply in certain rounds, subject to the rules of the award.
Official resource: University of Sydney domestic research scholarships.
Scholarship comparison for 2027
Scholarship comparison for 2027
| Scholarship | Main study level | Potential funding | Main audience |
|---|---|---|---|
| Australian Government RTP | Research master’s and PhD | Tuition offset, stipend and/or allowances | Domestic and international |
| Melbourne Graduate Research Scholarships | Graduate research | Tuition and living support for eligible awards | Domestic and international, subject to criteria |
| Macquarie RTP/MQRES | Research master’s and PhD | Stipend and eligible tuition support | Domestic or international, depending on round |
| RMIT research scholarships | Research master’s and PhD | Stipend and fee support, depending on eligibility | Domestic and international |
| Sydney postgraduate research awards | Research master’s and PhD | Stipend and eligible allowances | Domestic or international, depending on award |
Note: These are examples of established scholarship pathways, not a guarantee that every program is accepting applications on 6 October 2026. Always check the official page for the current round, benefits and eligibility.
Benefits of Fully Funded Scholarships in Australia 2027
A comprehensive scholarship can make a major difference to a student’s finances and academic progress.
1. Reduced tuition costs
A full fee scholarship can remove eligible tuition charges, allowing students to focus on their studies rather than searching for ways to pay university fees.
2. Help with everyday living expenses
A stipend can contribute towards rent, food, transport, utilities and other essential costs. However, students should prepare a budget because the stipend may not cover every expense in every Australian city.
3. More time for research
Research students often need to balance experiments, fieldwork, writing and academic supervision. Financial support can reduce the need for extensive paid work alongside study.
4. Access to university resources
Scholarship recipients study within academic communities that may provide access to research facilities, specialist equipment, libraries, seminars and professional networks.
5. Support for career development
A funded research degree can strengthen a student’s skills and qualifications for future roles in academia, industry, government or other relevant sectors.
Who Can Apply for Scholarships in Australia?
Eligibility depends on the award. It is important to understand how Australian universities classify applicants.
Domestic students
For scholarship purposes, domestic status may include Australian citizens, Australian permanent residents and eligible New Zealand citizens, depending on the university and award rules.
Domestic students may be able to access government-supported research funding, university scholarships, equity assistance and awards for specific groups or fields of study.
International students already in Australia
International students currently studying in Australia can also investigate scholarships, particularly those available to international research candidates.
Being physically present in Australia does not automatically make a student a domestic applicant. Universities generally determine status according to citizenship, residency and the rules of the particular award.
Students planning to begin in 2027
Students who have not yet enrolled should check whether the scholarship requires a separate course admission application. Some awards are assessed alongside admission, while others have a separate scholarship process.
Fully Funded Scholarships in Australia 2027 Requirements
Although requirements vary, applicants should prepare for the following common criteria.
Academic qualifications
You must hold the qualification required for your intended degree. Research master’s and PhD scholarships often require strong previous academic results and evidence of research ability.
Research proposal
Many research scholarships require a proposal that explains:
- The problem or question you want to investigate.
- Why the topic matters.
- Your research aims and proposed methods.
- How the project may contribute to existing knowledge.
- English language proficiency
Applicants may need to meet university English language requirements. Accepted evidence and exemption rules vary by institution and course.
Referee reports
Universities may request academic or professional references. Select referees who can provide specific evidence of your skills, achievements and potential.
Supervisor or faculty approval
Some research programs expect applicants to identify a suitable supervisor before submitting a formal application. Others manage supervisor matching after an application is received.
Citizenship or residency requirements
Read the eligibility rules carefully. A scholarship restricted to domestic applicants may not accept an international student, even if that student already lives in Australia.
How to Apply for Fully Funded Scholarships in Australia 2027
Step 1: Decide what degree you want to pursue
Identify whether you are applying for undergraduate study, coursework postgraduate study, a research master’s or a PhD. Your degree level will determine which funding opportunities are relevant.
Step 2: Search official scholarship pages
Start with the university’s scholarship database and research degrees page. The Australian Government’s Research Training Program website explains how RTP funding works.
Step 3: Check domestic or international eligibility
Confirm how the university classifies your application. If you are unsure, contact its scholarships or admissions team before submitting.
Step 4: Prepare your documents
Common documents include:
- Academic transcripts and certificates.
- Curriculum vitae or résumé.
- Passport or relevant citizenship documentation.
- Research proposal, if required.
- English test results, if required.
- Referee details or recommendation letters.
- Evidence of research experience or publications, where applicable.
Step 5: Submit your admission and scholarship applications
Follow the university’s instructions. Applying for a degree does not always mean you have automatically applied for a scholarship.
Step 6: Track deadlines and application status
Keep a record of submission dates, reference requests and any additional documents. Check your email regularly for requests from the university.
Which Scholarships Are Open Now for 2027?
As of October 2026, some universities have already published 2027 scholarship rounds, while others may have closed their first rounds or are preparing later opportunities.
For example, Macquarie University’s domestic research scholarship round lists a 31 October 2026 deadline. RMIT’s published domestic full-application deadline is also 30 October 2026. These dates apply to the specified scholarship rounds, not to every scholarship at those universities.
The University of Sydney publishes separate research scholarship timelines for domestic and international applicants.
To find opportunities that remain open:
- Visit the university’s official scholarship page.
- Select your study level and domestic or international status.
- Confirm the deadline and required documents.
- Check whether the scholarship accepts applications from current students.
- Contact the university if the published information is unclear.
- Do not assume a scholarship is open simply because an older article appears in search results.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Applying for the wrong applicant category: Check whether you qualify as domestic or international.
Confusing tuition coverage with full funding: Confirm whether living expenses are included.
Missing a separate scholarship application: Some universities require admission and scholarship applications to be submitted separately.
Submitting an incomplete research proposal: Make sure the proposal explains the purpose, methods and expected contribution of the project.
Relying on outdated deadlines: Use current official information rather than an old scholarship roundup.
Paying for a guaranteed scholarship: Be cautious of anyone demanding payment in exchange for a promise of selection. No legitimate adviser can guarantee a competitive scholarship outcome.
Tips to Increase Your Chances of Winning
Match your application to the scholarship. Explain why your academic goals align with the award’s purpose.
Show evidence of achievement. Include relevant grades, projects, research experience, publications or professional accomplishments.
Write a clear research proposal. Make the topic focused, practical and academically worthwhile.
Choose suitable referees. Give them enough time to prepare detailed recommendations.
Apply to more than one suitable opportunity. Keep track of the different requirements and deadlines.
Ask questions early. Contact the university if you need clarification about eligibility, supervisor approval or the funding package.
Prepare a realistic budget. Even a generous scholarship may not cover every personal expense.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can Australian citizens get fully funded scholarships in Australia?
Yes. Australian citizens may be eligible for domestic scholarships, including RTP and university-funded research awards, if they meet the relevant academic and other conditions.
2. Can international students already living in Australia apply?
Yes, some scholarships accept international applicants who are already studying or living in Australia. Eligibility depends on the specific award, course and university.
3. Which Australian university offers 100% scholarships?
There is no single university that guarantees full scholarships to all students. Universities such as Melbourne, Sydney, Macquarie and RMIT offer selected research scholarship opportunities that may combine tuition support and a stipend, subject to eligibility and selection.
4. Are fully funded scholarships available for undergraduate students?
Some undergraduate scholarships offer substantial or full tuition support, but many of Australia’s most comprehensive university-funded packages focus on research master’s and PhD students. Undergraduate applicants should search for awards specifically designed for their degree level.
5. Can a current university student apply for a scholarship?
Sometimes. Certain research scholarships accept applications from eligible students already enrolled in a higher degree by research. Other awards are limited to commencing students or specific entry periods.
6. What GPA do I need to win a scholarship?
There is no single minimum GPA for every Australian scholarship. Universities may assess grades alongside research experience, academic references, proposal quality and other achievements. Check the specific selection criteria.
7. Where can I find legitimate Australian scholarships?
Start with official university scholarship pages and the Australian Government’s education websites. The Study Australia scholarship search is another useful starting point for exploring scholarships by study level and subject.
8. What is the difference between a full scholarship and a fully funded scholarship?
A full tuition scholarship generally pays eligible tuition fees. A fully funded package usually provides broader financial support and may include tuition, a living stipend and other approved costs. Always check the written award conditions.
Start Your Search for Fully Funded Scholarships in Australia 2027
Fully Funded Scholarships in Australia 2027 can help Australian domestic students, international students already in the country and eligible new applicants take the next step in their education.
The best starting points are the Australian Government Research Training Program and the research scholarship pages of universities such as Melbourne, Sydney, Macquarie and RMIT. However, the right opportunity depends on your degree, academic record, applicant status and research interests.
Do not wait until applications close. Identify suitable scholarships, prepare your documents, contact the university when necessary and verify every deadline through official sources.
Your next qualification may be closer than you think. Start researching today, prepare a strong application and give yourself the best possible chance of securing funding for 2027.
RELATED ARTICLES:
Australian student visa requirements for international students
Best universities in Australia for international students
Which Australian University Offers 100% Scholarships for South African Masters Students