Study in Australia for Free in 2026: Scholarships, Affordable Universities, and Tips
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Wondering how to study in Australia for free in 2026? While it’s true that there is no option for free education, it is possible to reduce the cost through options like fully funded scholarships and grants. Scholarships like the Australia Awards and research training programs cover tuition fees, living and travel expenses for international students.
Australia hosts top universities like ANU, the University of Sydney, and the University of Melbourne, which offer great scholarship opportunities. In 2024, over 38,000 international students received scholarships in Australia. Here are the different ways you can study in Australia for free.
How to Study in Australia for Free?
Australian universities offer financial support to international students through tuition waivers and stipends. Here are some of the best ways to make your education in Australia affordable.
Apply for Fully Funded Scholarships
If you are looking for fully-funded scholarships, there are options like the Australia Awards and Destination Australia. These scholarships can help cover your tuition, living costs, and even airfare! They are awarded based on factors like academic excellence, leadership skills, or financial need. Prestigious universities such as the University of Sydney and ANU also provide some really competitive, fully funded opportunities.
Choose Research-Based Postgraduate Programs
Many Australian universities offer fully funded research options at master’s or PhD levels. These roles include tuition waivers and a monthly stipend in exchange for research contributions. Programs like RTP (Research Training Programs) are government-backed and widely available. It’s a great option if you have a strong academic and research background.
Work While Studying
If you are an international student in Australia, you can work up to 48 hours every two weeks during the semester and unlimited hours during breaks. This is a great way to help with living costs like rent, groceries, and transportation. Plus, getting some local work experience can really enhance your resume for future job prospects.
Apply for University Grants
In addition to scholarships, many universities provide smaller grants or bursaries based on financial need or academic merit. These can help reduce your tuition or living expenses significantly. Check the financial aid section of each university's website for available funding. Some grants are automatically considered when you apply for admission.
Choose Tuition-Free Universities or Programs
Some Australian universities offer tuition-free options for high-achieving students through research programs or special agreements. These are more common at the postgraduate level, especially in STEM and research-intensive fields. Programs may be funded by the university or government schemes like RTP. Always check with your target institution for such opportunities.
Also Read: Benefits of Studying in Australia for Indian Students
Scholarships to Study in Australia for Free
If you are planning to study in Australia without paying full tuition fees, many prestigious scholarships can help cover your academic and living costs. These scholarships are offered by the Australian government, universities, and other organizations, and many of them cover full tuition, travel expenses, and even monthly stipends. Below is a list of some of the top scholarships available to international students who wish to study in Australia for free.
|
Scholarship Name |
Benefits |
Eligibility Criteria |
|
Australia Awards Scholarships (AAS) |
Full tuition, AUD 30,000+ living stipend, travel & setup allowance, OSHC |
Citizens of eligible developing countries pursuing UG or PG; preference to development-related fields |
|
Destination Australia Scholarship |
AUD 15,000 per year for up to 4 years |
Domestic & international students studying in regional universities; UG, PG, or vocational courses |
|
Research Training Program (RTP) Scholarships |
Full tuition, AUD 32,000+ stipend, research & travel allowance, OSHC |
Master’s by Research or PhD students; strong academic and research record |
|
University of Sydney International Scholarships |
Full tuition, AUD 37,000 living allowance, health insurance |
High-achieving international UG, PG, and PhD applicants; automatic consideration for coursework programs |
|
Macquarie Vice-Chancellor’s International Scholarship |
AUD 10,000 tuition fee reduction |
Bachelor’s or Master’s applicants with a minimum WAM of 65; must apply separately for the scholarship |
|
University of Melbourne Graduate Research Scholarships |
Full tuition (up to 4 years), AUD 37,000 stipend, relocation allowance of AUD 2,000-3,000, OSHC |
Master’s by Research and PhD students; excellent academic and research potential; automatic consideration |
|
Monash International Merit Scholarship |
AUD 10,000 per year for full degree duration |
UG and PG coursework applicants; WAM of 85+, with a personal statement; must have received an unconditional offer |
|
UNSW International Scholarships |
Full tuition waiver OR AUD 5,000-10,000 per year, living stipend, health cover (for select awards) |
UG, PG, and PhD students with strong academics, leadership, or research profile; some scholarships require separate applications |
|
University of Queensland (UQ) International Scholarships |
Partial fee waivers (AUD 5,000-10,000/year); some research awards cover full tuition, stipend, and insurance |
UG, PG, and PhD applicants with academic merit and leadership potential; faculty-specific options available |
|
Adelaide Global Excellence Scholarships |
15%-30% tuition fee reduction |
UG and PG coursework applicants with 75%+ academic score; automatic consideration; open across all faculties |
Quick Read: Best Scholarships in Australia for Indian Students (2025)
How to Get Scholarships in Australia?
Australia offers a variety of scholarships that cater to academic excellence, financial need, or specific criteria set by universities and government programs. Find below the steps to get scholarships in Australia.
- Strong Academic Record: Most scholarships favour students who shine academically, boasting impressive GPAs or test scores.
- Apply Early: Many scholarships come with tight deadlines, and getting your application in early can significantly boost your chances, especially since funding is often limited.
- Research Government and University Scholarships: Programs like Australia Awards and those offered by universities such as ANU, Melbourne, or UNSW can provide full or partial funding.
- Tailor Each Application: Personalize your statement and documents to align with the specific goals of the scholarship program you’re targeting.
- Secure Strong Letters of Recommendation: Choose referees from your academic or professional life who can provide detailed insights into your achievements and potential.
Explore: Cost of Studying in Australia for Indian Students in 2025
Affordable Universities in Australia for International Students
Studying in Australia can be budget-friendly if you choose the right institution. Below are some of the most affordable universities in Australia.
|
University |
Average Annual Tuition Fees (AUD) |
|
University of Divinity |
UG: 14,939 PG: 16,806 PhD: 14,000 |
|
University of Southern Queensland |
UG: 22,409 PG: 24,276 MBA: 16,806 |
|
University of Sunshine Coast |
UG: 24,276 PG: 22,409 MBA: 26,144 |
|
University of Queensland |
UG: 44,818 PG: 37,348 PhD: 54,155 |
|
Griffith University |
UG: 35,000 PG: 29,214 MBA: 40,169 |
|
Western Sydney University |
UG: 21,000 PG: 56,821 MBA: 32,993 PhD: 15,000 |
|
Charles Sturt University |
UG: 16,000 PG: 20,000 MBA: 28,011 |
|
Federation University Australia |
UG: 20,541 PG: 29,878 MBA: 22,409 |
|
Edith Cowan University |
UG: 24,276 PG: 28,011 MBA: 26,000 |
|
University of Wollongong |
UG: 40,325 PG: 20,000 MBA: 43,991 PhD: 2,870 per credit |
Must Read: Top Universities in Australia in 2025
Top Part-Time Jobs in Australia for International Students
Australia offers various part-time job opportunities for international students, allowing them to earn while studying. Here are the top part-time jobs and their average hourly wages.
|
Part-Time Job |
Average Hourly Pay (AUD) |
|
Graphic Designer |
80 |
|
Healthcare Counsellors |
50 |
|
Accounts Clerk |
46.88 |
|
Early Childhood Educator |
41.73 |
|
Online Assistant |
35 |
|
Part-Time Barista |
34.63 |
|
Delivery Drivers |
32 |
|
Sales Assistant |
26 |
|
Retail Sales Assistant |
26 |
|
Store Team Member |
25.68 |
Suggested Reading: Cost of Living in Australia in 2025
Study in Australia for Free with GetGIS!
Studying in Australia for free is possible with the right mix of scholarships, tuition-free programs, and part-time work opportunities. Affordable universities and government-funded options make education accessible for deserving international students. With thorough planning and timely applications, your dream of studying in Australia can become a reality.
GetGIS helps you with scholarship options, choose budget-friendly universities, and streamline your visa journey, turning your study-abroad dream into a successful move to Australia.
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Frequently Asked Questions
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