Regional University Scholarships in Australia for International Students 2025/2026. One of the greatest places in the world to study is Australia.
Thousands of international students come to Australia every year to study, experience different cultures and live life at a slower pace. But tuition fees, living expenses and travel expenses can be costly. To help with these expenses, many international students look for scholarships.
Applying for scholarships at regional universities is one of the best options for international students. Universities in smaller cities and towns in Australia are offering these scholarships. The Australian government supports these universities because it wants more students to study in regional areas. Lower living expenses, less competition for scholarships, more visa points and stronger ties with local communities are the perks students get.
In this article we will cover everything you need to know about Australia’s Regional University Scholarships for International Students 2025-2026.
Disclaimer Notice: This is a general educational blog, giving out information concerning scholarship, school fees, Cut off marks, student results, admission form, and other school news guides. We are not affiliated with the Government or any educational institution.
What are Regional University Scholarships?
Financial aid provided by universities outside of major Australian cities like Sydney, Melbourne and Brisbane is called regional university scholarship. These universities are located in regional areas which are rural or smaller towns.
To encourage more international students to study in regional areas, the Australian government funds these scholarships. Besides providing students with excellent education and peaceful lifestyle, it boosts the local economy.
Why Choose a Regional University?
You may ask, why should I choose a regional university instead of a city university? Here are some good reasons:
- Lower Cost of Living: Life in regional areas is cheaper than big cities.
- Smaller Class Sizes: You get more attention from teachers.
- Close Community: People in regional areas are often more welcoming and friendly.
- Extra Visa Points: Studying in a regional area gives you extra points when applying for a permanent visa in Australia.
- More Scholarship Opportunities: Regional universities often offer more generous scholarships to attract students.
Benefits of Regional University Scholarships
These scholarships offer many benefits to international students. Here are some of the main benefits:
- Tuition Fee Reduction: Most scholarships reduce your school fees by a big percentage.
- Living Allowance: Some scholarships also offer money to help you pay for rent, food and transport.
- Health Insurance Cover: Scholarships may also cover your Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC).
- Help with Moving: A few scholarships even give support to help you move to Australia.
- Recognition: Being awarded a scholarship means you are a bright and serious student.
List of Top Regional University Scholarships in Australia (2025/2026)
Let’s look at some of the best regional university scholarships for international students in 2025/2026:
1. Destination Australia Scholarship
This is a scholarship funded by the Australian government.
- International students who intend to study in regional Australia are eligible to apply.
- Level: Postgraduate and undergraduate courses.
- Value: Up to $15,000 AUD per year.
- Depending on performance, the entire course may take this long.
- How to Apply: Apply via the scholarship page of the participating university.
2. Charles Sturt University International Student Scholarship
Charles Sturt University is in regional areas of New South Wales.
- Who Can Apply: New international students in any full-time course.
- Value: 25% off tuition fees.
- Other Benefits: Support services and smaller class sizes.
- How to Apply: Automatically considered when you apply for admission.
3. University of New England (UNE) International Scholarships
UNE is in Armidale, a regional area in New South Wales.
- Scholarship Type: UNE International Bursary.
- Value: Up to 20% off tuition fees.
- Eligibility: Good academic performance.
- How to Apply: Apply for a course; scholarship is automatically considered.
4. Federation University Global Innovator Scholarship
Located in Ballarat and Gippsland, this university supports regional education.
- Eligibility: International students with leadership and academic strength.
- Value: 20% tuition fee discount.
- Additional Benefit: Support services for international students.
- Application: Apply for admission and include your interest in the scholarship.
5. Southern Cross University Regional Scholarships
This university has campuses in regional areas of Queensland and New South Wales.
- The Vice Chancellor’s Academic Excellence Scholarship is the name of the scholarship.
- Value: 25% to 50% of tuition fees.
- International undergraduate and graduate students can apply.
- Application: When you apply for a course, you apply.
How to Apply for Regional University Scholarships
Each university and scholarship has its own application process but they are all similar. Here’s how to do it:
Step 1: Choose Your University and Course
Select the course and regional university you want to apply to. Check if they offer international students scholarships.
Step 2: Check Eligibility
Look at the scholarship requirements on the university’s website. Check if you meet the English language and academic requirements.
Step 3: Get Your Documents Ready
Typical documents you’ll need:
- Academic transcripts
- Passport
- English test results (like IELTS or TOEFL)
- Personal statement
- Reference letters (if required)
Step 4: Apply for a Course
Apply for a course first. Some scholarships are automatically considered when you apply for admission.
Step 5: Submit your scholarship application if required.
If there’s a separate application for the scholarship, fill it out and submit by the deadline.
Step 6: Wait to hear back
The university will let you know if you’ve been awarded a scholarship after you apply. If so, you’ll receive a certificate or letter.
Are Regional Scholarships Better Than City Scholarships?
Regional scholarships have many advantages even though city universities are more famous. You might have a better chance of getting a scholarship and living expenses are lower. Plus if you want to stay in Australia after graduation, studying in a regional area might give you visa benefits.
Also regional universities offer top-notch education and first class facilities. Yes many students might benefit more from regional scholarships especially those who want a quiet and affordable learning environment.
FAQs about Regional University Scholarships in Australia
1. Can I work in a regional area while I’m on a scholarship to study?
In Australia, international students are allowed to work part time jobs along with their studies. Just make sure to check the terms of your visa.
2. Can I bring my family?
You can bring your family with you on some student visas but make sure to check the requirements of your scholarship and the visa itself.
3. Do I need to submit a separate scholarship application?
While some scholarships require a separate form, others are awarded automatically when you apply for a course.
4. Are new students only eligible for these scholarships?
While some universities offer awards for continuing students, most scholarships are for new students.
Conclusion
Students who want to study in a quiet and affordable setting have a great opportunity with Australia’s Regional University Scholarships for International Students 2025/2026. These scholarships can reduce your tuition, cover living expenses and even help you get a future visa.
International students are welcome in Australia and those who want a top-notch education with extra perks should consider regional areas. Don’t miss out. Do your research now, get your documents ready and apply as soon as possible.
One scholarship can change your future.
Recommended:Â
- Top 10 Fully Funded Scholarships in Spain for International Students 2025/2026 | Application Details
- Top 10 Fully funded scholarships in France for International Student 2025/2026
- Top 10 Fully Funded Scholarships in Sweden for International Students 2025/2026
- Top 10 Fully Funded Scholarships in Ireland for International Students 2025/2026