Studying abroad is a dream for many. However, not everyone has the agency to finance their studies. To make their dreams come true, Australia offers multiple scholarships to international student. With its reputation as one of the most popular study destinations in the world, Australia offers a lot of opportunities for international students. They are known for their internationally renowned education system, which is deemed to be one of the best in the world. Australia's Government has invested over AUD$ 300 million for scholarships for international students as a further measure to support international students.

There are many types of scholarships available for international students in Australia. Applicants must demonstrate their qualifications for scholarships they are applying for in order to be considered for the scholarship. Scholarships are awarded primarily based on merit. The only exam students are required to take to show they are proficient in English will be the IELTS. Students apply for these scholarships because in these scholarships, individuals are provided with the opportunity to study and conduct research, and they gain skills and knowledge that will enable them to drive change and contribute to their own countries' development. However, you should make sure that you check the eligibility criteria and closing date of any scholarship before applying.

Criteria to apply to scholarships to study in Australia

Scholarships primarily depend on academic standing, but they can also be influenced by factors such as your destination, your subject and your level. Additionally, factors such as extracurricular activities and volunteerism can also be utilized when applying for scholarships. It is possible that you might need to declare an English language proficiency test score, such as the IELTS, which is commonly accepted by all Australian universities and colleges.

What do scholarships usually cover

A majority of scholarships cover tuition fees, although some may also cover living or travel expenses. Many research programs offer scholarships up to 100% to students, covering both tuition fees and living expenses. It is important to note that the amount of money available and type of award vary by institution. It is competitive to receive a scholarship, so applicants should apply early. It is recommended that you begin the procedure about 8-12 months before beginning the preferred intake.

General benefits of a scholarship are mentioned below:

• full tuition fees
• Return flight - payment of a single economy class return ticket to and from Australia via the shortest route
• Introduction to Academic Program (IAP)–a mandatory program before engaging in formal academic studies, providing information on living and studying in Australia
• The establishment allowance that consists of a once-off payment toward the cost of housing, books, etc
• Contribution to Living Expenses (CLE): a contribution to basic living expenses payable every two weeks at a rate set by the department.
• PCE fees - where deemed necessary, PCE may be provided for students for in-country or in-Australia training
• Scholars may qualify for additional academic support to ensure academic success or enhance their academic experience
• The Overseas Student Health Coverage (OSHC) provides coverage for the scholar's basic medical costs while overseas (except for pre-existing conditions) for the duration of the award.
• Students who are eligible for fieldwork (for research awards and Masters by coursework which have a compulsory fieldwork component) may be able to obtain one return economy class airfare via the most direct route to their country of citizenship or within Australia.

Some of the scholarships are listed below:

1. Australian Government Research and Training Program (AGRTP)
This government-funded program covers a student's tuition fee and health insurance for three years. It supports local and international students who are pursuing a Doctorate or Master's degree in research.
a. Value is $ 28,587 per annum made fortnightly
b. Deadline:
Round 1: 31st August 2021
Round 2: 15th April 2022
Sources:
*https://www.education.gov.au/research-training-program
*https://www.anu.edu.au/study/scholarships/find-a-scholarship/australian-government-research-training-program-agrtp-stipend

2. Australia Awards
This program is funded by the Department of Education and the Australian Centre for International Agricultural Research (ACIAR) and the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFAT). Basically, it aims to provide students from developing regions with an opportunity to pursue UG/PG programs at participating universities in Australia or Technical and Further Education (TAFE) institutions. Tuition, airfare, living expenses, student health insurance, and other expenses incurred during the two-year period are included. Scholarship holders must return to their home country after completion of their studies.
Sources: https://australiaawardsindia.org/opportunities/

3. Destination Australia
The scholarship's purpose is to encourage students to study in regional Australia as a means of developing regional tertiary education providers and enhancing students' learning experiences.
a. Funding will be up to $15,000 a year, beginning in 2021, for each scholarship awarded to students studying at the campus.
b. Up to four years of funding is available depending on your qualifications, as long as you remain eligible


It’s funded by the Australian Government Department of Education and is in line with the National Strategy for International Education 2025
Sources:
*https://www.studyinaustralia.gov.au/English/Australian- Education/Scholarships
*https://scholarships.uq.edu.au/scholarship/destination-australia-scholarship-international-students
*https://www.communitygrants.gov.au/sites/default/files/documents/05_2020/destination-australia-2021-round-2-questions-and-answers.pdf

4. John Allwright Fellowship (JAF)
The program allows scientists participating in Australian Centre for International Agricultural Research (ACIAR) research projects to obtain postgraduate qualifications at Australian tertiary institutions. Each year, it provides master's and PhD scholarships to agricultural researchers through the Australia Awards program.
(Note: As a result of the current COVID-19 travel restrictions, applications for 2022 will not be accepted. However, applications will be accepted in February 2022 for intake in 2023.)
Source:https://www.aciar.gov.au/Capacity-Building/John-Allwright-Fellowship