Scholarships to support outstanding students

Each year, Deakin University welcomes some of the best students in the world, thanks to the Australia Awards program. This Australian Government program provides scholarships and other support to exceptional students who want to contribute to the long-term needs of their home country.

Scholarship holder Radhika, from Bhutan, is enrolled in Deakin’s Master of Data Science. She says she is developing ‘actionable skills to solve the current cybersecurity challenges in my country.’  As an Australia Awards scholarship recipient, Radhika feels that ‘the insights gained while on this scholarship are vital for Bhutan’s cybersecurity journey, paving the way for a safer, more resilient Bhutan.’

What you get

Along with full tuition, an Australia Award comes with other important financial support. Return air fare to Australia, health insurance, a one-time payment to help you establish yourself in Australia, and a fortnightly contribution to your living expenses are all included.

But of equal value are the programs and events that are designed specifically for Australia Award recipients. Scholarship holders at Deakin participate in a program to help them adjust to studying in Australia.

‘Not only does Deakin provide a top-quality education, but it also offers a wide array of extracurricular activities that support personal growth and peer connections,’ said Peni, who is from Fiji and studying a Master of Public Health.  ‘The Introductory Academic Program (IAP) was more beneficial than I had ever imagined. The course focuses on academic skills needed for studying at Deakin University, including adjusting to an Australian academic environment and Australian culture.’  Students who require English language upgrading to meet course requirements may be eligible for study at Deakin University English Language Institute prior to commencement.

Studying at Deakin with an Australia Awards scholarship has enabled Sorya, from Cambodia, ‘to form strong bonds with fellow scholars from around the world. Through various events and school settings, we have connected and shared experiences.’

Not only does Deakin provide a top-quality education, but it also offers a wide array of extracurricular activities that support personal growth and peer connections. Deakin provided a friendly and welcoming environment from the beginning and has provided me with the opportunity to interact with students from diverse backgrounds, broadening my perspective and improving my interpersonal skills. (Peni)

‘Deakin University has opened a plethora of opportunities from and initiatives across Victoria through mentorship and professional development activity,’ said Radhika. ‘It has connected me with a diverse international community of change leaders through engagement opportunities at university and professional networks, fostering a holistic growth personally and professionally.’

Eligibility criteria

Australia Awards are available for all levels of study. Nungky received an Australia Award scholarship to undertake a PhD. She is looking at ‘the intricacies of extremism and conflict in Indonesia, specifically focusing on trauma as a catalyst for involvement in radical groups, terrorism, and conflicts.’  Nungky points out that ‘very few Indonesian women have attained doctoral degrees in these fields. The Australia Award serves as a stepping stone for me to make a lasting impact on these challenges, shaping a more stable and harmonious future for Indonesia.’

Depending on the country’s strategic, development, and economic priorities, students can study topics such as education, economic development, sustainability, security, health and human rights.

The details for each country are available here.

Deakin Scholarships

At Deakin, scholarships are a mark of recognition, supporting your ambitions and opening doors to networks and opportunities that extend far beyond the classroom. Deakin’s most prestigious scholarship for international students is the Deakin Vice-Chancellor’s International Scholarship.

The Deakin Vice-Chancellor’s International Scholarship can pay up to 100% of your tuition. Other scholarships for international students include the Deakin Excellence Scholarship (International), which recognises academic excellence and provides a 25% tuition discount. The Deakin Merit Scholarship (International) supports strong academic performers, offering a 20% tuition discount.

Quick links

Learn more about Australia Awards scholarships at Deakin University

Find out more about scholarships for international students at Deakin.