Fully Funded Scholarships in Australia 2026 (No IELTS Required)

Australia hands out over 1,000 fully funded scholarships to international students every year. That’s a lot of opportunities! What is more exciting is that many of these fully funded scholarships in Australia 2026 with No IELTS Required are accepting applications right now.

Think about it. Australian universities regularly appear in the world’s top 50 rankings, and these scholarships are your ticket to that world-class education.

Let’s get right into the fully funded scholarships in Australia that need no IELTS.

What Are Fully Funded Scholarships?

Fully Funded Scholarships in Australia 2026 (No IELTS Required) cover everything you need for your studies. These scholarships usually cover tuition fees, living allowances, health insurance, travel expenses, and sometimes even family support. The average monthly stipend for these programs ranges from AUD 20,000 annually, making them incredibly valuable for international students.

The beauty of these scholarships is in their comprehensive coverage. You won’t need to worry about accommodation costs, food expenses, or medical bills. Everything is taken care of, allowing you to focus solely on your academic pursuits and research goals.

Why Australia Doesn’t Always Require IELTS

Many people assume that studying in Australia automatically requires IELTS scores. However, Fully Funded Scholarships in Australia 2026 with No IELTS Required exist because Australian universities recognizes that there are alternative ways to demonstrate English proficiency.

Universities accept students who have completed their previous education in English, studied at English-medium institutions, or come from countries where English is the primary language of instruction. Some programs even accept students with IELTS scores below 5 bands if they show other strengths in their applications.

This makes Australian education more accessible to talented students worldwide, whether or not they access IELTS testing centers in their home countries.

You should read: Study in Australia: University of Sydney Cooke and Alfred Godfrey Scholarship 2026 | Complete Application Process

Top 20 Fully Funded Scholarships in Australia 2026 with no IELTS Required

Fully Funded Scholarships in Australia 2026 (No IELTS Required)

1. Australia Awards Scholarships

This is the biggest government scholarship program in Australia. The Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade runs this program for students from developing countries.

What it covers: Full tuition fees, living allowance (AUD 3,000 monthly), return airfare, health insurance, establishment allowance, and book allowance.
Study levels: It covers levels for Bachelor’s, Master’s, and PhD programs
Duration: 2-6 years depending on your degree
When to apply: Applications open January-April 2025 for 2026 intake
Who can apply: Students from Asia, Pacific, Africa, Middle East, and Caribbean countries. You need good grades and work experience, and you must also be under 42 years old.
English requirement: No IELTS needed if you studied in English or from English-speaking countries.

You should read: Study in Australia: Monash Maxwell King PhD Scholarship 2025 | Fully Funded Opportunity

2. Melbourne Research Scholarship (MRS)

The University of Melbourne gives out about 600 research scholarships every year to top students worldwide.

What you get: AUD 31,200 yearly living allowance, all tuition fees covered, health insurance, and up to AUD 2,000 for research expenses.
Programs: Master’s by research and PhD only.
Duration: Two years for Master’s, 3.5 years for PhD.
Apply when: Applications stay open all year. Best shot? Apply by October 2025.
Requirements: Any international student with excellent grades (85% or higher). You need a research proposal and supervisor backing.
English: Skip IELTS if your previous degree used English instruction.

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3. Sydney Scholars Awards

The University of Sydney offers these prestigious awards to outstanding international students across all fields.

What it covers: Full tuition fees, AUD 29,000 yearly living allowance, health insurance, and professional development funds.
Study levels: Bachelor’s, Master’s, and PhD programs
Duration: Matches your degree length (3-4 years bachelor’s, 1-2 years master’s, 3-4 years PhD)
When to apply: November 2025 for 2026 start
Who can apply: Top 5% of students globally, and those who need outstanding academic record and show leadership experience.
English requirement: Waived for students from English-medium universities or English-speaking countries.

You should read: Study in Australia: University of Sydney Cooke and Alfred Godfrey Scholarship 2026 | Complete Application Process

4. Research Training Program (RTP) Scholarships

This scholarship is available at most Australian universities, these scholarships support research students from around the world.

What it covers: AUD 28,597 annual living stipend, full fee offset, and overseas student health cover.
Study levels: Master’s by research and PhD
Duration: 2 years for Master’s, 3.5 years for PhD (possible 6-month extension)
When to apply: Rolling applications throughout the year
Who can apply: Students with strong academic background in relevant field. Ypu need first-class honors or equivalent.
English requirement: Alternative pathways accepted including previous study in English.

You should read: Study in Australia: Fully Funded Deakin University Scholarships 2025

5. Adelaide International Excellence Scholarships

The University of Adelaide provides these competitive scholarships to attract world-class international students.

What it covers: 50% tuition fee reduction plus AUD 15,000 annual living allowance and health insurance.
Study levels: Undergraduate and postgraduate coursework
Duration: Full degree duration
When to apply: September-November 2025 for 2026 intake
Who can apply: High-achieving students with minimum 80% grades. You must demonstrate financial need.
English requirement: No IELTS required from students who completed previous studies in English.

You should read: Fully Funded HDR Scholarships 2025 at Curtin University | Study in Australia

6. Griffith International Postgraduate Research Scholarship

Griffith University offers generous support for international research students in all disciplines.

What it covers: AUD 30,000 annual living allowance, full tuition fees, health insurance, and conference allowance.
Study levels: Master’s by research and PhD
Duration: 2 years for Master’s, 3 years for PhD
When to apply: Year-round applications with main rounds in March and July
Who can apply: Students with excellent academic record and research potential. Prefer applicants with publications.
English requirement: Waived for graduates from English-taught programs.

You should read: Swinburne University of Technology Scholarship 2025 | Fully Funded Study in Australia

7. Queensland University of Technology (QUT) International Merit Scholarships

QUT in Brisbane offers fully funded international scholarships for 2026 to support outstanding students.

What it covers: Full tuition fees, AUD 27,000 living allowance, health insurance, and airport pickup.
Study levels: Bachelor’s and Master’s programs
Duration: Complete degree length
When to apply: October 2025 deadline for 2026 start
Who can apply: Students with 85%+ grades and strong English skills. Your community involvement is valued.
English requirement: No IELTS needed from English-medium education backgrounds.

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8. Charles Darwin University International Excellence Scholarships

CDU offers an exciting range of scholarships to support international students in tropical Australia.

What it covers: Full tuition waiver plus AUD 25,000 annual stipend and accommodation support.
Study levels: All levels from bachelor’s to PhD
Duration: Full program duration
When to apply: November 2025 for 2026 commencement
Who can apply: Students with strong academic record and interest in tropical studies. Your leadership experience is also preferred.
English requirement: Alternative evidence accepted including previous English-medium study.

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9. Curtin International Research Scholarship

Curtin University in Perth provides excellent research opportunities with full financial support for international students.

What it covers: AUD 31,200 annual stipend, full tuition fees, health insurance, and thesis allowance.
Study levels: Master’s by research and PhD
Duration: 2 years for Master’s, 3.5 years for PhD
When to apply: Applications accepted year-round
Who can apply: Research-focused students with honors degree or equivalent. Need supervisor confirmation.
English requirement: Waived for students from English-speaking educational institutions.

10. Macquarie University International Scholarships

Macquarie offers comprehensive support packages for international students in Sydney’s innovation district.

What it covers: Partial to full tuition coverage, up to AUD 20,000 living allowance, and mentorship programs.
Study levels: Undergraduate and postgraduate
Duration: Matches degree length
When to apply: December 2025 for 2026 intake
Who can apply: High-achieving students with community engagement. Minimum 75% grades required.
English requirement: No IELTS for students from approved English-medium institutions.

You should read: Australian Government Research Training Program (RTP) 2025 | Fully Funded Scholarships

11. Swinburne International Excellence Scholarship

Swinburne offers fully funded scholarships covering $2500 per year off course fees for international students.

What it covers: Up to AUD 35,000 tuition reduction plus living allowance of AUD 18,000 annually.
Study levels: Undergraduate and Master’s programs
Duration: Complete degree period
When to apply: August-October 2025
Who can apply: Students with strong academic performance and career goals aligned with industry needs.
English requirement: Exempted for students from English-taught previous programs.

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12. University of Technology Sydney (UTS) International Scholarships

UTS provides diverse scholarship opportunities for international students in Australia’s innovation capital.

What it covers: 25-50% tuition fee reduction plus AUD 15,000-20,000 living support and health insurance.
Study levels: Bachelor’s, Master’s, and PhD
Duration: Full degree duration
When to apply: November 2025 deadline
Who can apply: Students with excellent academic record and demonstrated leadership potential.
English requirement: Alternative pathways available for students without IELTS.

13. Deakin International Student Scholarships

Deakin University offers attractive packages for international students across multiple campuses in Victoria.

What it covers: Up to 100% tuition fee waiver plus AUD 22,000 annual living allowance and health coverage.
Study levels: All study levels
Duration: Complete program length
When to apply: September-December 2025
Who can apply: Outstanding students with minimum 80% grades and extracurricular involvement.
English requirement: No IELTS required from students with English-medium previous education.

You should read: Fully Funded Australia Awards Scholarships 2026

14. La Trobe International Excellence Scholarships

La Trobe University provides generous support for international students across Melbourne and regional campuses.

What it covers: 50% tuition reduction, AUD 18,000 yearly living allowance, and orientation support.
Study levels: Undergraduate and postgraduate coursework
Duration: Full degree period
When to apply: October-December 2025
Who can apply: High-achieving students with community service record. Your financial need is also considered.
English requirement: Waived for graduates from English-speaking institutions.

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15. University of Wollongong International Excellence Scholarships

The University of Wollongong offers opportunities for international students in 2026 with comprehensive support packages.

What it covers: Full tuition coverage, AUD 26,000 living allowance, health insurance, and research funding.
Study levels: Bachelor’s, Master’s, and PhD
Duration: Complete degree duration
When to apply: November 2025 for 2026 start
Who can apply: Students with exceptional academic achievement and research potential.
English requirement: Alternative evidence accepted for students from English-taught programs.

16. RMIT International Student Scholarships

RMIT University in Melbourne offers innovative scholarships for international students in technology and design fields.

What it covers: 20-100% tuition reduction plus living allowance up to AUD 24,000 annually.
Study levels: All study levels
Duration: Full program length
When to apply: October 2025 deadline
Who can apply: Students with strong academic background and creative portfolio where relevant.
English requirement: No IELTS needed from English-medium education backgrounds.

You should read: Study in Australia: RMIT University Scholarships 2026 (Fully Funded)

17. Flinders International Student Scholarships

Flinders University in Adelaide provides excellent scholarships for international students in health, science, and humanities.

What it covers: Up to 50% tuition fee reduction plus AUD 20,000 annual living support and health insurance.
Study levels: Undergraduate and postgraduate
Duration: Complete degree period
When to apply: November-December 2025
Who can apply: High-performing students with demonstrated academic excellence and career focus.
English requirement: Alternative pathways available for students without IELTS scores.

You should read: 2025 University of Western Australia Global Excellence Scholarship for International Students | How To Apply

18. Victoria University International Student Scholarships

Victoria University offers practical scholarships focused on industry-connected education for international students.

What it covers: 25-75% tuition reduction, living allowance up to AUD 18,000, and industry placement support.
Study levels: Undergraduate and Master’s programs
Duration: Full degree duration
When to apply: September-November 2025
Who can apply: Students with good grades and interest in industry-focused education.
English requirement: Waived for students from English-speaking educational backgrounds.

19. University of Tasmania International Scholarships

University of Tasmania provides attractive packages for international students in Australia’s island state with unique research opportunities.

What it covers: 25-50% tuition reduction plus living allowance of AUD 19,000 and research support funds.
Study levels: All levels including research degrees
Duration: Complete program length
When to apply: October-December 2025
Who can apply: Students with strong academic record and interest in environmental or marine studies.
English requirement: No IELTS required from approved English-medium institutions.

You should read: Fully Funded Macquarie University Graduate Scholarships 2025 in Australia

20. Bond University International Student Scholarships

Bond University on the Gold Coast offers premium scholarships for international students in small class settings.

What it covers: Up to 50% tuition reduction, AUD 22,000 annual living allowance, and career services support.
Study levels: Undergraduate and postgraduate
Duration: Full degree period
When to apply: November 2025 for 2026 intake
Who can apply: High-achieving students with leadership experience and clear career goals.
English requirement: Alternative evidence accepted instead of IELTS scores.

You should read: Study in Australia: Monash University James McNeil Scholarship 2025 | Fully Funded

Alternative English Proficiency Requirements

Since these are Fully Funded Scholarships in Australia 2026 with No IELTS Required, universities accept various alternatives to demonstrate English proficiency.

Previous education in English serves as the most common alternative. Students who completed their previous degree in English-medium institutions often qualify automatically, especially if the teaching was entirely in English.

Medium of instruction letters from previous institutions can substitute for IELTS scores. These official documents confirm that all courses were taught and examined in English, providing universities with confidence in students’ language abilities.

Country-specific exemptions apply to students from countries where English is an official language or the primary medium of higher education. This includes countries like India, Pakistan, Nigeria, and many others.

You should read: Study in Australia: University of New South Wales (UNSW) Scholarships 2026 | Fully Funded

Step-by-Step Application Process for Fully Funded Scholarships in Australia

Getting fully funded scholarships in Australia 2026 with no IELTS required needs careful planning and following the right steps. Here’s how to do it without stress.

Step 1: Research and Choose Your Scholarships (6-12 months before deadline)

Start by making a list of scholarships that match your field of study and background. Don’t just pick one – apply for 5-8 different programs to increase your chances. Look at what each scholarship offers and make sure you meet their basic requirements.

Check if your country is eligible for each program. Some scholarships only accept students from certain regions, while others are open to everyone. Write down all the deadlines in your calendar so you don’t miss them.

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Step 2: Gather Your Documents (4-6 months before deadline)

This step takes the longest time, so start early. You’ll need official transcripts from all your previous schools and universities. Get these certified by your institution – photocopies won’t work.

Ask for letters of recommendation from teachers, professors, or bosses who know your work well. Give them at least 2 months notice and provide them with information about the scholarship and your goals. This helps them write stronger letters for you.

Get your degree certificates translated into English if they’re in another language. Use certified translation services. Google Translate won’t cut it for scholarship applications.

Step 3: Write Your Personal Statement (2-3 months before deadline)

Your personal statement is super important. Don’t rush this part. Start by writing about your background, why you want to study your chosen field, and how the scholarship fits your career goals.

Make each personal statement different for each scholarship. Talk about why you chose that specific university or program. Show that you’ve done your homework about their courses and research opportunities.

Keep your writing clear and honest. Don’t use big fancy words just to sound smart. The people reading your application want to understand your story, not decode complicated sentences.

You should read: Study in Australia: RMIT University Scholarships 2026 (Fully Funded)

Step 4: Prepare Your Research Proposal (For research degrees – 2-3 months before deadline)

If you’re applying for master’s by research or PhD programs, you need a solid research proposal. This document should be 3-5 pages long and explain what you want to study and how you plan to do it.

Start by reading recent research papers in your field. Find a gap in the research that you can fill with your project. Make sure your proposal is realistic – you need to complete it within the time limits of your degree.

Contact potential supervisors at your chosen universities. Send them your research proposal and ask if they’d be interested in supervising your work. Having a supervisor’s support greatly improves your chances.

You should read: Study in Australia: Sydney International Undergraduate Scholarship 2026 (How to Apply)

Step 5: Complete Online Applications (1-2 months before deadline)

Most scholarships use online application systems. Create accounts early and fill in your basic information. Don’t wait until the last minute because technical problems can happen.

Upload all your documents in the correct formats. Usually, they want PDF files under certain size limits. Make sure your documents are clear and readable before uploading them.

Double-check everything before submitting. Once you submit, you usually can’t make changes. Have someone else review your application if possible – fresh eyes can spot mistakes you might miss.

Step 6: Apply for University Admission (Same time as scholarship application)

Remember, you need to apply for university admission separately from most scholarships in Australia. Some scholarships require you to have an offer of admission before they’ll consider your scholarship application.

Follow each university’s admission process carefully. They might have different requirements from the scholarship program. Submit both applications around the same time to avoid delays.

Step 7: Prepare for Interviews (If selected)

Some scholarships include interviews as part of their selection process. If you’re shortlisted, you’ll usually get 1-2 weeks notice for the interview.

Practice talking about your background, goals, and research interests. Be ready to explain why you chose that particular program and how you plan to use your education after graduation.

Interviews might happen over video call, so test your internet connection and camera beforehand. Dress professionally and find a quiet place for the call.

Check out: Study in Australia: Monash University Fully Funded Scholarship 2026

Step 8: Wait for Results and Plan Next Steps

Results usually come out 3-6 months after the application deadline. This waiting period can feel very long, but use this time productively.

If you get accepted, start planning your move to Australia. Look into visa requirements, accommodation options, and what you’ll need to bring with you.

If you don’t get selected, don’t give up. Ask for feedback if possible, and apply again next year with a stronger application. Many successful scholarship recipients needed multiple attempts before winning.

Important Deadlines to Remember

Australia Awards: Applications usually open in January and close in April/May
University scholarships: Most close between October-December for the following year.
Research scholarships: They often accept applications year-round but have main deadlines
Visa applications: Start this process immediately after getting your scholarship offer.

You should read: Apply for University of South Australia Scholarships 2025/26 – Fully Funded

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can I apply for multiple fully funded scholarships in Australia simultaneously?

A: Yes, you can apply for several scholarship programs at once to increase your chances of success.

Q: What happens if I fail to complete my scholarship program?

A: Most programs require repayment of scholarship funds if you don’t complete your studies without valid reasons.

Q: Are family members allowed to accompany scholarship recipients to Australia?

A: Some scholarships provide family support, while others are for individual recipients only. Check specific program details.

Q: Do I need to return to my home country immediately after graduation?

A: Australia Awards require recipients to return home, but other scholarships may allow temporary work visas.

Q: Can I change my field of study after receiving a scholarship?

A: Program changes require approval and may not be allowed depending on scholarship terms and conditions.

Q: What support is available for students with disabilities?

A: Australian universities provide comprehensive disability support services, and scholarships accommodate special needs where necessary.

Q: Is work allowed while studying on a scholarship?

A: Most scholarships allow limited part-time work, but full-time employment is typically restricted during study periods.

Conclusion

Fully funded scholarships in Australia 2026 with no IELTS required presents extraordinary opportunities for ambitious students worldwide. With over 1,000 scholarships available annually and comprehensive support covering all expenses, these programs make Australian education accessible to deserving students regardless of their financial backgrounds or IELTS scores.

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Fully Funded Scholarships in Australia 2026 (No IELTS Required)

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