When international students think about studying in Australia, names like the Australia Awards or the University of Sydney International Scholarship often come to mind. But beneath the surface, there are numerous under-the-radar scholarships worth up to $55,000 or more that provide full tuition, generous stipends, relocation allowances, and even funding for family dependents.
In this guide, we uncover the best hidden $55,000 scholarships in Australia that you’ve probably never heard of and show you how to apply, qualify, and thrive.
Why Study in Australia?
- Globally ranked universities (e.g., Monash, UNSW, ANU)
- Shorter degree durations
- High quality of life and multicultural cities
- Work-rights during study (up to 24 hours/week)
- Pathway to post-study work visas and permanent residency
What Does a $55,000 Scholarship in Australia Typically Cover?
Many of these lesser-known awards cover:
- Full tuition (up to AUD 45,000/year)
- Living stipend (AUD 29,000–35,000/year)
- Relocation allowance (AUD 2,000+)
- Health insurance (OSHC for student and dependents)
- Thesis or research grant (for postgraduates)
Top $55,000 Scholarships You’ve Likely Missed
| Scholarship | Value | Eligibility | Level |
|---|---|---|---|
| RTP Stipend (Regional Universities) | AUD 55,000+ | International | PhD/Master’s |
| Destination Australia Scholarship | AUD 54,000 | International | Undergraduate/Postgrad |
| ACU International Student Scholarship | AUD 55,000 | High academic achievers | Any level |
| University of Southern Queensland HDR Scholarship | AUD 56,000 | STEM/Research | Research Degrees |
| James Cook University Merit Scholarship | AUD 52,000 | International | Undergraduate/Postgrad |
| La Trobe Regional Campus Excellence Scholarship | AUD 55,000 | Regional applicants | Any level |
Deep Dive: Hidden Scholarships with Big Value
1. RTP Stipends at Regional Universities
Funded by the Australian government and administered by universities in regional locations like University of New England, Federation University, and Charles Darwin University.
- Value: Tuition + AUD 29,000–35,000 stipend + relocation + thesis support
- Fields: All research-based degrees
- Bonus: Priority processing for PR through the regional study stream
2. Destination Australia Program
This scholarship encourages international students to study in regional Australia.
- Value: AUD 15,000/year for up to 4 years (~AUD 60,000)
- Levels: Bachelor’s, Master’s, and PhD
- Universities: Charles Sturt, Southern Cross, University of Canberra, etc.
3. Australian Catholic University (ACU) International Student Scholarship
Awarded to international students who demonstrate outstanding academic merit.
- Value: Covers 50%–100% of tuition (up to AUD 55,000 total)
- Available for: All levels, including pathway programs
- Competitive selection based on grades and statement of intent
4. USQ Research Scholarships (University of Southern Queensland)
Ideal for postgraduate researchers in STEM and climate sciences.
- Value: Up to AUD 56,000 (tuition, stipend, relocation, health cover)
- Eligibility: Academic excellence + research proposal
- Includes: Conference travel funding and research materials grant
5. James Cook University (JCU) International Merit Scholarships
Targets international students willing to study in North Queensland or Cairns.
- Value: AUD 52,000 over 3–4 years
- Areas: Tropical health, marine biology, nursing, engineering
- Additional Perks: Career support, rural internship programs
6. La Trobe Regional Excellence Scholarships
La Trobe University offers these to students studying at regional campuses like Bendigo, Albury-Wodonga, or Shepparton.
- Value: AUD 55,000 over program duration
- Includes relocation and academic merit bonuses
- Special focus: Nursing, education, agriculture, allied health
Eligibility Requirements (General)
To apply for most of these scholarships, you’ll need:
- Valid international passport
- Academic transcripts (GPA usually 3.0+ / 70%+)
- English language proficiency (IELTS/TOEFL)
- Offer letter from the host university
- Personal statement or research proposal (where required)
- Letters of recommendation
Application Tips for Success
- Apply early – Some of these scholarships close 6–8 months before intake
- Choose regional campuses – Regional study often gives an edge
- Customize your SOP – Tailor your personal statement to reflect the university’s mission
- Mention future goals – Highlight your long-term impact in your country
- Contact admissions – Build a rapport with international student advisors
Key Application Deadlines (2025–2026 Intakes)
| Scholarship | Deadline |
| RTP Stipends | Rolling (May–Oct 2025) |
| Destination Australia | Sept–Dec 2025 |
| ACU International | Oct 2025 |
| USQ Research | Sept–Nov 2025 |
| JCU Merit | July–Nov 2025 |
| La Trobe Regional | August 2025 |
How to Retain the Scholarship and Become a Citizen
Winning a scholarship to study in Australia is just the first step. Retaining your scholarship and transitioning toward permanent residency or citizenship requires commitment, academic discipline, and strategic planning. Here’s a guide to help you stay eligible for your award—and build a future in Australia.
A. Retaining Your Scholarship
To maintain your scholarship throughout your study period:
1. Meet Academic Requirements
- Maintain the minimum required GPA (often 65% or higher)
- Avoid academic probation or course failures
- Submit assignments and complete exams on time
2. Full-Time Enrollment
- Most scholarships require full-time study
- Notify your program office immediately if you plan to reduce your course load
3. Follow Visa Conditions
- Ensure you meet all student visa obligations (Subclass 500)
- Maintain valid enrollment
- Maintain overseas student health cover (OSHC)
- Avoid working more than the allowed hours (24 hours/week as of 2024)
4. Attend Classes and Engage in Research
- Regular attendance and active participation show academic commitment
- Postgraduates should regularly update their supervisor
5. Submit Reports (If Required)
- Some scholarships require progress or completion reports
- Always meet deadlines and follow formatting requirements
6. Remain in Good Standing with the University
- Avoid disciplinary action or academic misconduct
- Uphold university values and maintain respectful relationships with staff
B. Pathway to Permanent Residency and Citizenship
If you wish to stay in Australia after your studies, you can use your scholarship as a springboard toward permanent residency and eventually citizenship.
Step 1: Graduate and Apply for the Post-Study Work Visa (Subclass 485)
- Valid for 2–4 years depending on qualification and study location
- Allows full-time work rights
- Useful to gain local experience and boost PR points
Step 2: Gain Skilled Work Experience
- Secure employment in your field, especially if it’s on the Skilled Occupation List (SOL)
- Regional work or rural placements can fast-track your PR application
Step 3: Apply for Permanent Residency (PR)
- Options include:
- Skilled Independent Visa (Subclass 189)
- Skilled Nominated Visa (Subclass 190)
- Regional Visa (Subclass 491 leading to 191)
- Points are awarded for age, education, Australian study, and work experience
Step 4: Fulfill PR Conditions
- Hold PR status for at least 4 years
- Live in Australia for at least 3 of those years
- No serious legal violations
Step 5: Apply for Australian Citizenship
- Meet residency and language requirements
- Pass the citizenship test
- Take the citizenship pledge
Pro Tips
- Choose a course and scholarship that supports a long-term stay (preferably in regional areas)
- Keep all academic and immigration documents organized
- Work with a certified migration agent for PR and citizenship applications
- Volunteer or intern in your field to strengthen your PR case
- Keep renewing OSHC and maintain clean legal and tax records
Many students overlook scholarships that are just as competitive and lucrative as the well-known awards. These $55,000 scholarships in Australia are perfect for high achievers who want a transformative study experience, especially in emerging cities and regions. Scholarships don’t just fund your education—they unlock future possibilities. Stay academically focused, build professional experience, and take strategic steps toward making Australia your home.