Studying in Australia can open doors to amazing opportunities, but the costs of tuition, materials, and living expenses can be overwhelming.
Whether you’re a local or international student, the good news is there’s a wide range of scholarships and support services designed to help you focus on learning without the stress of financial hardship.
Student assistance in Australia goes beyond just academic merit. Many programs also consider financial need, background, field of study, and even where you live. So even if you’re not at the top of your class, you may still be eligible for support.
What Types of Student Support Are Available?
Student assistance in Australia falls into three main categories:
- Scholarships and grants: Often don’t need to be repaid, and are based on merit, need, or specific goals.
- Student income support payments: Fortnightly payments through Centrelink for eligible Australian residents.
- Education-related discounts and services: Includes transport concessions, free tutoring, mental health services, and textbook subsidies.
Each of these options helps reduce the overall cost of studying and living as a student.
Who Can Get Student Assistance?
You may qualify for one or more types of support if you:
- Are enrolled in a registered education provider (TAFE, university, or vocational training)
- Are an Australian citizen, permanent resident, or eligible visa holder (for Centrelink support)
- Have financial need or a disadvantaged background
- Are studying full-time or part-time
- Have strong academic, sporting, or community achievements
International students can also apply for many scholarships, especially those offered directly by universities or government programs like the Australia Awards.
Step-by-Step: How to Apply for Scholarships and Student Support
Step 1: Identify What Type of Support You Need
Before applying, figure out which type of support matches your situation. Are you:
- Struggling with everyday expenses? Look into Centrelink payments.
- Paying high tuition fees? Apply for a university scholarship.
- Needing help with books or transport? See if there are smaller campus-based grants.
Knowing your goal will help you apply efficiently and avoid missing deadlines.
Step 2: Set Up a myGov and Centrelink Account (for Financial Aid)
If you’re an Australian citizen or permanent resident and need income support, start by creating a myGov account and linking it to Centrelink.
To do this:
- Visit my.gov.au
- Link to Centrelink using your CRN
- Verify your identity and set up your student profile
This setup will let you apply for Centrelink study-related payments like Youth Allowance, Austudy, or ABSTUDY.
Step 3: Apply for Centrelink Student Payments
Here’s a quick overview of the three main student payments available through Centrelink:
Youth Allowance
For students aged 16–24 who are studying full-time or completing an apprenticeship.
Eligibility:
- Must be an Australian resident
- Meet age and income/asset tests
- Studying full-time in an approved course
How to apply:
- Log in to myGov
- Go to Centrelink > “Make a Claim” > “Students and Trainees”
Austudy
For students aged 25 and over who are studying full-time or in an approved course.
Eligibility:
- Must meet income/asset tests
- Studying at an approved institution
How to apply:
- Same as Youth Allowance, just select Austudy in the claim section
ABSTUDY
For Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students and apprentices.
Eligibility:
- Must be of Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander descent
- Enrolled in a qualifying course or apprenticeship
How to apply:
- Online via myGov or over the phone at 1800 132 317
All of these payments are fortnightly and can include extra benefits like Rent Assistance, Fares Allowance, and Scholarships.
Step 4: Apply for University or TAFE Scholarships
Almost every university and TAFE in Australia offers its own scholarships. These are often based on:
- Academic performance
- Financial hardship
- Regional or rural background
- Being first in your family to attend university
- Field of study (e.g., STEM, teaching, nursing)
Where to find them:
- Visit the website of your university or TAFE
- Look for a section called “Scholarships” or “Financial Support”
- Use scholarship search tools available on most education sites
How to apply:
- Most applications are online
- You’ll need supporting documents (grades, reference letters, financial statements)
- Follow the application calendar closely—deadlines vary!
Step 5: Look Into Government-Funded Scholarships
Australia offers national scholarships for domestic and international students. Some of the most popular include:
- Australia Awards: For international students from partner countries
- Rural and Regional Enterprise Scholarships: For students from remote areas
- Destination Australia Program: For domestic and international students studying in regional areas
- Equity Scholarships through state-based organizations like UAC, VTAC, or QTAC
Check the application details on each program’s official site.
Step 6: Don’t Forget About Small Grants and Discounts
Many schools and campuses offer:
- Textbook vouchers
- Emergency relief funds
- Grocery gift cards
- Laptop and internet subsidies
- Public transport concessions
These programs often don’t require long applications and are given out based on need or short essays. Check with your student services centre.
Recommended Apps and Tools
myGov
Main portal for Centrelink, Medicare, and ATO.
Pros:
- Apply for student income support
- Check payment status
- Secure government access
Cons:
- Requires setup and ID verification
Services Australia
Official site to explore Youth Allowance, Austudy, ABSTUDY, and related payments.
Pros:
- In-depth guides and eligibility calculators
- Includes extra allowances
Cons:
- Information-heavy and requires time to read
Ask Izzy
Helps students find local support services like food, mental health, and accommodation.
Pros:
- Works on mobile
- Anonymous search
Cons:
- Not exclusive to student services
Good Universities Guide
Helps search for scholarships by university, course, and background.
Pros:
- Great for browsing many scholarships at once
- Filters based on criteria
Cons:
- Not all scholarships are always up to date
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can international students apply for scholarships in Australia?
Yes. Many universities offer scholarships specifically for international students. Australia Awards and Destination Australia are also open to overseas applicants.
Do I need to repay scholarships?
No. Scholarships and grants don’t need to be repaid unless you break the agreement terms (like dropping out).
Can I receive more than one type of support?
Yes. You can combine a Centrelink payment with university scholarships and even smaller grants.
What if I study part-time?
Some programs require full-time study, but others offer partial support for part-time students. Check each program’s terms.
Do I need a high GPA?
Not always. Many scholarships prioritize financial need or other criteria over academic performance.
Tips to Make the Most of Student Support
- Start Early: Some scholarships have deadlines months before the academic year begins.
- Be Honest: Provide clear and truthful information in all applications.
- Follow Up: If you don’t hear back, contact student support or scholarship offices.
- Keep a Folder: Save copies of every application, supporting document, and reference.
- Apply Widely: Don’t apply for just one—cast a wide net to increase your chances.
Studying in Australia can be life-changing, and with the right support, it doesn’t have to come with overwhelming debt. Whether you need help with fees, books, or living costs, there are options available. All you have to do is take the first step and apply.
If this article helped you, share it with fellow students who might benefit. And don’t forget to follow our blog for more useful guides, scholarship tips, and financial support advice tailored for real student life.