The University of South Australia offers numerous scholarships to International students. Both undergraduate and postgraduate applicants can benefit from it. The International scholarships mainly provide a tuition fee discount. However, some scholarships also provide the beneficiary with mentoring opportunities, work experience, and even overseas travel. The scholarships are available to high achievers to students in need. Depending on the course you are applying for, you can select the scholarship you are interested in and apply for the same. This blog covers some of the top University of South Australia Scholarships that you can apply for.
This Blog Includes:
- Does the University of South Australia Offer Scholarships for International Students?
- Top University of South Australia Scholarships
- International Postgraduate Research Scholarship of the University of South Australia
- Discipline-Based University of South Australia Scholarships
- Australian Government Scholarships (Australia Awards)
- How to Apply for the University of South Australia Scholarships?
- FAQs
Does the University of South Australia Offer Scholarships for International Students?
The University of South Australia (UniSA) offers a wide range of scholarships specifically for international students. These scholarships are aimed at supporting high-achieving candidates, particularly from developing countries, and cover various academic levels and disciplines.
International students can access research-focused scholarships for postgraduate degrees, discipline-based scholarships across multiple faculties, and fully funded programs such as the Australia Awards Scholarships. International students can access research-focused scholarships for postgraduate degrees, discipline-based scholarships across multiple faculties, and fully funded programs such as the Australia Awards Scholarships.
The benefits and eligibility requirements differ depending on the scholarship type, so applicants should carefully review the specific criteria for each award before applying. Let us explore the top University of South Australia scholarships further to understand the opportunities available and how to apply for them.
Explore: Australian National University Scholarships
Top University of South Australia Scholarships
Below is a list of the top University of South Australia Scholarships. You can apply for the scholarships as long as you meet the eligibility criteria. The benefits and other details are provided below:
Below is a list of the top University of South Australia Scholarships. You can apply for the scholarships as long as you meet the eligibility criteria. The benefits and other details are provided below:
1. Vice Chancellor’s International Excellence Scholarship
The Vice Chancellor’s International Excellence Scholarship by the University of South Australia (UniSA) recognises academic excellence among international students. Designed to support high achievers, it offers a unique opportunity to study at one of Australia’s leading institutions.
The scholarship encourages global talent to contribute to UniSA’s innovative learning environment while experiencing the university’s diverse, industry-focused education. It also reflects UniSA’s commitment to promoting leadership, creativity, and real-world impact through quality higher education.
| Type of Scholarship | Merit-based tuition fee reduction |
| Financial Coverage | 50% reduction in tuition fees for up to four years of full-time study |
| Eligible Degrees | Undergraduate and postgraduate coursework programs |
| Academic Requirement | Equivalent of a High Distinction average in prior academic qualifications |
| English Proficiency | Must meet UniSA’s minimum English language entry criteria |
| Application Mode | Automatic assessment upon program application; separate form recommended |
| Eligibility Status | Open only to new international students enrolled at South Australian campuses |
| Additional Conditions | The recipient must not hold any other UniSA scholarship or bursary |
| Renewal Requirement | Maintain a GPA of at least 5.0 for continued support |
| Academic Divisions Covered | Allied Health, Business, Education Futures, Justice and Society, Clinical and Health Sciences, Creative, Science, Engineering, and Technology |
| Scholarship Objective | To attract talented global students and strengthen UniSA’s international academic community |
2. International Merit Scholarship
The International Merit Scholarship offered by the University of South Australia (UniSA) aims to recognise and support academically outstanding international students. This scholarship rewards high-performing individuals who demonstrate consistent academic excellence and ambition to contribute meaningfully to their chosen field.
The scholarship reflects UniSA’s commitment to building an inclusive global learning environment and helping learners achieve their educational goals in a competitive academic setting.
| Scholarship Type | Merit-based tuition fee reduction |
| Financial Value | 15% reduction in tuition fees for the full duration of the degree |
| Eligible Programs | Undergraduate (Bachelor’s) and Postgraduate (Master’s by coursework) |
| Eligibility Status | Open to prospective international students enrolling full-time at South Australian campuses |
| Minimum Academic Requirement | Equivalent of a Credit average (GPA 5.0 or above) in previous studies |
| English Proficiency | Must meet UniSA’s minimum English language entry requirements |
| Application Mode | Automatic consideration during degree application — no separate form required |
| Exclusivity Condition | Applicants must not hold any other UniSA scholarship or bursary |
| Scholarship Duration | Valid for the entire study period of the enrolled program |
| Renewal Requirement | Maintain a GPA of at least 4.5 to retain the scholarship benefits |
| Deferral Policy | Scholarship cannot be deferred beyond the initial commencement date |
| Study Load Requirement | Full-time enrolment is mandatory throughout the program |
Explore: Top University of Western Australia Scholarships
International Postgraduate Research Scholarship of the University of South Australia
Financial assistance is given to research applicants so that they can focus on research projects. First, you need to apply for a research project, and depending on your project, you can apply for the relevant scholarship.
1. University of South Australia: International Postgraduate Research Scholarships (RTPi & ERS)
The University of South Australia (UniSA) offers outstanding scholarship opportunities for high-achieving international students who wish to pursue advanced research degrees. These scholarships, primarily offered through the Australian Government’s Research Training Program International (RTPi) and the Enterprise Research Scholarship (ERS), provide full financial support for students undertaking a Research Master’s or Doctoral (PhD) program.
Both scholarships are highly competitive and awarded based on academic excellence, research potential, and the applicant’s alignment with UniSA’s research priorities. They aim to attract exceptional scholars capable of contributing to global innovation through research that addresses critical social, scientific, and technological challenges.
The scholarships provide a comprehensive funding package, including full tuition coverage, living allowances, health insurance, and research-related allowances — enabling recipients to focus entirely on their research journey at UniSA.
| Scholarship Name | Research Training Program International (RTPi) & Enterprise Research Scholarship (ERS) |
| Scholarship Type | Fully funded research scholarships |
| Eligible Degrees | Research Master’s and Doctoral (PhD) programs |
| Tuition Coverage | Full fee waiver for up to 4 years (PhD) or 2 years (Master’s) |
| Living Allowance (Stipend) | Tax-free stipend to support living expenses (minimum rate approx. AUD $32,500 per annum, as of 2023) |
| Health Insurance | Apply online via UniSA’s research application portal; scholarship is assessed automatically with the degree application |
| Additional Allowances | Thesis allowance for costs related to research and dissertation submission |
| Eligibility | Open to international students with high academic achievement equivalent to an Australian First-Class Honours degree |
| Visa Requirement | Must be eligible for an Australian student visa |
| Academic Condition | Applicants must not hold an equivalent or higher research qualification |
| Other Funding | Applicants must not receive substantial funding from another source for the same degree |
| Application Process | Apply online via UniSA’s research application portal; the scholarship is assessed automatically with the degree application |
| Selection Process | Merit-based, competitive rounds (example Merit and Project Rounds) are conducted annually |
| Supervision Requirement | Applicants should identify a potential supervisor and research project before applying |
| Scholarship Duration | Overseas Student Health Cover (Single Policy) is provided for the scholarship duration |
2. Area-Specific Projects Undertaken By New Students
The University of South Australia (UniSA) structures its research degrees around defined, area-specific projects developed by expert academic teams. This approach allows candidates to contribute to projects that are already aligned with the university’s research priorities and industry partnerships.
Applicants for Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) or Master of Research programs apply directly to listed projects that feature a confirmed supervisor and may include funding through scholarships. Many of these projects are supported by schemes such as the Enterprise Research Scholarship (ERS), offering both tuition coverage and a living stipend.
| Area-Specific Project Scholarship Name | Research Focus | Scholarship Value and Support |
| The William T. Southcott Scholarship | Engineering | Provides an annual stipend and additional funds for research-related expenses. |
| Joyner Scholarship | Fine Arts, Science, Medicine, and Law | Includes a stipend exceeding the standard Research Training Program rate by 10%. |
| Dr Terry Farquharson Pharmacy PhD Top-Up | Pharmaceutical Science and related disciplines | Offers a supplementary amount to enhance an existing research scholarship in the designated field. |
Explore: Fully Funded Undergraduate Scholarships in Australia for International Students
Discipline-Based University of South Australia Scholarships
Apart from the scholarships provided above, the UniSA Discipline-based Scholarships are also available to international students. You can apply for the relevant scholarship depending on your discipline. Awards are available to undergraduate and postgraduate applicants.
| Scholarship Name | Level of Education | Discipline | Benefit |
| Finance Career Development Grant | Undergraduate | Accounting, Finance | $1,000 voucher for an approved elective |
| Asian Experience Travel Grant | Undergraduate | Business(Property) | up to $12‚500 towards accommodation, travel, and living expenses |
| Ehrenberg-Bass Institute Vacation Scholarship | Undergraduate | Marketing | AUD$10,000 for 12 months as a fortnightly instalment. |
| Future Leaders Human Resource Management Scholarship | Undergraduate | Human Resource Management | $5,000 paid in 2 installements |
| The Gould Experimental Science Grant | Undergraduate Honours | All | $6,000 |
| Peter McInnes Memorial Travel Grant | Postgraduate | Executive Partners Program | $2,500 |
| RAMIRA International Student Nursing Scholarship | Undergraduate | Nursing | Up to $15,000 per person |
| Richard Oertel Memorial Mathematics Grant | Undergraduate | Mathematics, and Mathematical Sciences | $1,000 |
| Sarah Constructions Grant | Undergraduate | Engineering (Honours), Economics, and Construction Management | $3,000, and a 12-week paid placement with Sarah Constructions |
| Accounting Career Development Grant | Undergraduate | Accounting, Finance, and Commerce | $1,000 voucher for an approved elective |
| The Ruth Rentschler Arts and Cultural Management Grant | Undergraduate | Management (Arts and Cultural) | $4,000 |
| UniSA Scholarship for Student Leadership | Undergraduate | All | Up to $2,000. |
| Wallbridge Gilbert Aztec Civil Engineering Grant | Undergraduate | Engineering | $5,000. |
Note: The reopening of some of the scholarships listed above has yet to be confirmed. Therefore, you must check the official website frequently for the latest updates.
Learn about Griffith University Scholarships for Indian Students
Australian Government Scholarships (Australia Awards)
The Australian Government Scholarships, known as Australia Awards, are offered in partnership with the University of South Australia (UniSA). These scholarships aim to promote academic excellence and strengthen international relations by supporting outstanding students from partner countries, including India. The program provides comprehensive financial and academic support to enable scholars to pursue their chosen degree programs at UniSA.
| Eligibility Criteria | • Minimum CGPA of 7.5 in previous studies. • Must be a recent graduate or final-year student of a tertiary-level qualification equivalent to an Australian Bachelor’s degree from a recognised target institution. • Minimum English proficiency: IELTS 6.5, TOEFL 84, or PTE 58. • Not eligible for courses where the applicant already holds a similar qualification. |
| Scholarship Benefits | • Full tuition fee coverage for the entire course duration. • Accommodation allowance provided. • Medical insurance included. • Airfare expenses (to and from Australia) covered. • Additional miscellaneous allowances to support living and study costs. |
Get to know the application process for the Australia Scholarship Awards in the video below:
How to Apply for the University of South Australia Scholarships?
The application process for the University of South Australia Scholarships is as follows:
- First, apply to the selected degree program.
- Ensure that you meet the admission requirements of the University
- Ensure that the degree program is eligible for the selected scholarship
- Read the scholarship eligibility criteria and documentation requirements, and ensure that you meet the same
- Gather the required documentation and apply for the relevant scholarship by visiting the official website.
- The University will inform you regarding your application outcome.
If the scholarship does not require a separate application, ensure that you receive the offer letter. In this case, your application will be automatically considered and you will be made aware of the outcome.
FAQs
Ans. The 15% scholarship for UniSa is the International Merit Scholarship. This scholarship offers a tuition fee reduction for the course duration for the selected programs. You are automatically assessed for this scholarship. Hence, there is no need to apply.
Ans. The University of South Australia’s 50% scholarship is the Vice Chancellor’s International Excellence Scholarship. The benefit is a tuition fee reduction of 50% for the course duration for a maximum period of 4 years.
Ans. The University of South Australia is an excellent university to study in due to the quality education, and research facilities. Apart from that, the university ranks 1st in terms of employability in Australia.
Ans. Not all scholarships require a separate application. Some, like the International Merit Scholarship, are automatically assessed when you apply for an eligible degree program. However, others may need a dedicated scholarship application form. Always check the specific scholarship guidelines before applying.
Ans. Applicants are generally informed about their scholarship outcome at the same time as their degree admission decision. If you applied for a scholarship with a separate form, notifications are sent once the assessment process is completed by the university.
Related Articles
These were the University of South Australia scholarships for International Students. Want to know more about scholarships? Consult the study abroad experts at Leverage Edu.
One app for all your study abroad needs




60,000+ students trusted us with their dreams. Take the first step today!