The University of Melbourne is one of the most prestigious institutions in the Southern Hemisphere, offering international students the opportunity to study at a world-class university with generous scholarship support. For talented students looking to pursue a degree in Australia, this scholarship is more than financial aid—it’s a gateway to high-quality education, global exposure, and long-term career development.
In this article, we break down how international students can access the University of Melbourne scholarship, the eligibility criteria, application steps, and the full benefits of studying in Australia under a funded scholarship program.
Why Study in Australia?
Australia has remained one of the top destinations for international education, thanks to its:
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Globally ranked universities
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High quality of life and multicultural environment
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Safe and welcoming atmosphere
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Opportunities for post-graduation employment and permanent residency
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Strong academic support and international student services
And with a scholarship from the University of Melbourne, students can offset the cost of studying abroad while gaining access to top-tier academic resources.
University of Melbourne Scholarship Overview
The University of Melbourne offers a wide range of scholarships for international students across undergraduate, master’s, and doctoral levels. These scholarships are designed to support outstanding academic achievers, individuals from underrepresented backgrounds, and those demonstrating leadership and community involvement.
In 2025, fully funded and partially funded scholarships are available to international students in various faculties including Arts, Science, Engineering, Business, Law, and Health Sciences.
Types of Scholarships Available
1. Merit-Based Scholarships
These are awarded based on academic performance. Students with top grades and test scores are considered automatically for some awards upon application to a course.
Popular options include:
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Melbourne International Undergraduate Scholarship
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Graduate Research Scholarship
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Melbourne Graduate Scholarship
2. Equity and Need-Based Scholarships
These are for students who face financial barriers or come from disadvantaged backgrounds. Applicants are required to demonstrate need through personal statements and documentation.
3. Research and Doctoral Scholarships
Graduate students pursuing Master’s by Research or PhD programs can apply for full scholarships that cover tuition fees, living stipends, and research costs.
Who Can Apply?
To be eligible for a University of Melbourne scholarship as an international student in 2025, you must:
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Be a citizen of a country other than Australia or New Zealand
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Have applied or gained admission to an eligible program at the University of Melbourne
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Demonstrate excellent academic results (high GPA or equivalent)
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Meet the English language requirements (IELTS, TOEFL, or PTE results accepted)
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For some scholarships, provide evidence of financial need, leadership, or community engagement
Benefits of the Scholarship
Receiving a University of Melbourne scholarship comes with a range of advantages, including:
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Full or partial tuition fee coverage
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Annual living allowance (up to AUD $37,000 for postgraduate researchers)
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Relocation support (for students moving from overseas)
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Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) for the duration of the visa
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Access to mentorship programs and alumni networks
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Priority access to on-campus accommodation and job placements
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Support for academic conferences and international research visits (for research students)
These benefits are designed to allow scholars to focus fully on their studies and research while enjoying a well-rounded student life in one of the world’s most liveable cities.
Step-by-Step Application Process
Step 1: Choose Your Program
Before applying for a scholarship, you need to apply for an eligible program at the University of Melbourne. Choose your preferred course from their academic offerings and prepare the necessary application documents.
Step 2: Check Scholarship Eligibility
Review the list of available scholarships and their criteria. Some scholarships are automatically considered, while others require a separate application.
Step 3: Prepare Application Materials
You’ll typically need:
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Academic transcripts
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Personal statement or scholarship essay
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Letters of recommendation
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English proficiency test results
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Resume or portfolio (depending on the course)
Step 4: Submit Application
If the scholarship requires a separate application, submit it through the official University of Melbourne portal along with your course application.
Step 5: Wait for Selection
Selection is usually based on academic merit, your scholarship application, and how well your goals align with the scholarship objectives. Shortlisted candidates may be contacted for further assessment or interviews.
In-Demand Fields of Study
While scholarships are open to all eligible fields, the University of Melbourne places a strong emphasis on areas of national and global importance, such as:
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Health and Medicine
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Data and Computer Science
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Engineering and Renewable Energy
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Education and Social Work
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Public Policy and Law
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Business, Finance, and Economics
These fields also offer high employability outcomes for international graduates and increase your chances of post-study work visa extensions and future permanent residency.
What to Expect After Winning the Scholarship
Once awarded a University of Melbourne scholarship, you will:
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Receive a formal offer outlining your benefits
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Be assisted with your student visa application
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Get support to arrange travel and accommodation
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Be assigned an academic adviser and student support services
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Join an international student orientation program to ease your integration
Pathway to Work and Residency
After completing your studies, international students may be eligible for the Post-Study Work Visa (subclass 485), allowing them to live and work in Australia for 2 to 4 years. During this time, you can:
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Gain skilled work experience
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Apply for employer-sponsored visas
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Explore the Permanent Residency (PR) pathway through skilled migration programs
A University of Melbourne degree combined with Australian work experience significantly boosts your chances of permanent settlement.
FAQs
1. Do I need to apply separately for the scholarship?
Some scholarships are automatically considered when you apply to a course, while others require a separate application. Always read the scholarship guidelines carefully.
2. Can I work part-time as an international student?
Yes, on a student visa, international students in Australia can work up to 48 hours per fortnight during semesters and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks.
3. What are my chances of getting a scholarship?
Scholarships are competitive, but strong academic records, clear career goals, and good supporting documents significantly increase your chances.
4. Can I bring my family with me?
Yes, student visa holders may bring eligible dependents (spouse and children) to Australia. However, additional financial requirements apply.
5. When should I apply?
Applications for most scholarships open alongside academic course applications. It is advised to begin preparing at least 6–8 months before the intended start date.
Final Thoughts
The University of Melbourne Scholarship for international students in 2025 is a life-changing opportunity. It not only provides financial support but also opens doors to academic excellence, career development, and long-term settlement in Australia. Whether you’re aiming for an undergraduate degree or postgraduate research, this scholarship is your pathway to building a future in one of the world’s most respected universities.
Start preparing today and take your first step toward a world-class education in Australia.