Australian Scholarships Without IELTS 2026: Fully Funded for International Students
Australian Scholarships Without IELTS 2026 | Fully Funded Guide
Are you dreaming of studying in Australia but worried about the IELTS requirement? Great news: Australian Scholarships Without IELTS 2026 make it possible for talented international students to access world-class education without expensive English proficiency tests. Moreover, many top Australian universities and government programs accept alternative proof of English skills, opening doors to fully funded opportunities for students worldwide.
Australia, a global leader in research and innovation, offers some of the world’s most generous and comprehensive fully funded scholarships for international students. Furthermore, these Australian Scholarships Without IELTS 2026 cover tuition fees, monthly stipends, health insurance, and sometimes even airfare. Therefore, this guide covers everything you need to know to apply successfully.
For more no-IELTS opportunities, check our Scholarships That Don’t Require IELTS or TOEFL (And How to Apply).
How to Get Australian Scholarships Without IELTS 2026
Before exploring specific scholarships, it’s important to understand how the IELTS waiver works for Australian Scholarships Without IELTS 2026.
Three Ways to Skip IELTS:
1. Medium of Instruction (MOI) Letter If your previous degree (Bachelor’s or Master’s) was taught entirely in English, you can provide an official MOI letter from your former institution confirming this. This is the most common and effective way to gain the IELTS waiver for postgraduate research degrees. Consequently, simply request this letter from your previous university’s academic department.
2. Prior Study in English-Speaking Country Completing a minimum of one or two years of full-time tertiary study in a recognised English-speaking country (e.g., USA, UK, Canada, New Zealand, or Australia itself) within the last five years qualifies you for Australian Scholarships Without IELTS 2026.
3. Alternative English Tests Many Australian universities now accept alternative tests, particularly for admission, which can sometimes satisfy the scholarship requirement: PTE Academic, Duolingo English Test (check university policy), or TOEFL iBT.
Important Note: If the university officially accepts your MOI letter or alternative test as sufficient proof of English proficiency for admission, it satisfies the scholarship requirement. The scholarship decision then rests solely on your academic merit and research potential .
Top Australian Scholarships Without IELTS 2026
1. Research Training Program (RTP) Scholarship
The RTP Scholarship is one of the most generous Australian Scholarships Without IELTS 2026, funded directly by the Australian Government.
What It Covers:
- Tuition Fee Offset (100%) + Annual Stipend (Approx. AUD $37,000) + Health Cover.
- Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) for single students
- Thesis allowance for research expenses
- Relocation support in some cases
Program Level: Master’s by Research and PhD
How to Apply: For research degrees, the critical first step is contacting a potential supervisor at your chosen Australian university. You must secure their agreement to supervise your research project before applying for the scholarship. Moreover, by applying for admission to a research program, you are usually automatically considered for both RTP and university scholarships—no separate application required.
Key Tip: Contact potential supervisors 6-12 months in advance to increase your chances of securing Australian Scholarships Without IELTS 2026 through RTP.
For more information, click here
2. Australia Awards Scholarships (AAS)
The Australia Awards Scholarships represent the most comprehensive package among Australian Scholarships Without IELTS 2026.
Generous Coverage Includes:
- Full tuition fees for entire program
- Return international airfare
- Living stipend for accommodation and food
- Establishment allowance upon arrival
- Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC)
- Pre-course English language training if needed
Program Level: Bachelor’s, Master’s, and PhD
Eligibility: For the Australia Awards Scholarship, you must be a citizen of an eligible country (primarily in the Asia-Pacific, Africa, and Middle East regions).
Application Process: This is separate. You must apply online through the OASIS portal, usually between February and April 2026, click here for more information
Deadline: April 30, 2026 (varies by country)
For eligible country lists, check our Australia Awards Scholarships Eligibility Guide.
3. University of Melbourne Graduate Research Scholarships
One of Australia’s top-ranked universities offers over 600 research scholarships annually as part of Australian Scholarships Without IELTS 2026.
Benefits:
- Full tuition fee remission
- Annual living stipend (approximately AUD $37,000)
- Health insurance coverage
- Thesis and relocation allowances
Program Level: Master’s by Research and PhD
Deadline: October 31, 2026
Application: Visit scholarships.unimelb.edu.au for complete details.
4. Australian National University (ANU) Scholarships
The scholarships are Fully Funded for International and Domestic Students to undertake a Master’s Degree or a PhD Degree from ANU University. ANU is located in Canberra, the capital of Australia.
Application Rounds:
| Round | Closing Date | Start Date |
|---|---|---|
| Round 1 International | August 31 annually | Following March |
| Round 1 Domestic | October 31 annually | Following March |
| Round 2 (All) | April 15 annually | Same year August |
Application: Visit anu.edu.au/study/scholarships for full details.
5. Monash University Scholarships
There is a total of 800 Scholarships available for International Students as well as Domestic Students to Study Master’s, PhD Degree Programs at Monash University. Monash University is ranked #48 in Best Global Universities.
Application Deadlines:
| Round | Closing Date |
|---|---|
| International Round 1 | March 31 |
| Domestic Round 2 | May 31 |
| International Round 3 | August 31 |
| Domestic Round 4 | October 31 |
Application: Visit monash.edu/study/fees-scholarships/scholarships for details.
6. University of Sydney Scholarships
The University of Sydney offers fully funded Australian Scholarships Without IELTS 2026 for master’s and PhD research students.
International Application Rounds:
| Research Period | Submission Deadline |
|---|---|
| Periods 1 & 2, 2026 | September 13, 2026 |
| Periods 3 & 4, 2026 | December 17, 2026 |
Application: Visit sydney.edu.au/scholarships for complete information.
7. University of New South Wales (UNSW) Scholarships
The Scholarships is open to Study for a Master’s or a PhD Degree Program at the University funded by the Australian Government.
Application: Visit research.unsw.edu.au/international-research-scholarships
8. University of South Australia – 300 Scholarships
There is a total of 300 Scholarships provided each year to international Students for Full-Time Master Degree Programs & PhD Degree Programs. You can study Master’s by Research (MPhil) or a PhD at the University of South Australia.
Unique Feature: Scholarships are linked to specific research projects. Therefore, new projects are listed throughout the year with project-specific deadlines.
Application: Visit unisa.edu.au/research/degrees/scholarships/
9. University of Technology Sydney (UTS) Scholarships
UTS offers International Research Training Program Scholarships (IRTP) as part of Australian Scholarships Without IELTS 2026.
Enrollment Deadlines:
| Session | Last Day to Enroll |
|---|---|
| Autumn B 2026 | March 2, 2026 |
| Spring 2026 | August 10, 2026 |
| Summer 2026 | December 14, 2026 |
Application: Visit uts.edu.au for scholarship details.
10. Flinders University Scholarships
Higher Degree by Research Annual Scholarship Round for International students: Opening date TBC April 2026, Closing date TBC August 2026.
Application: Visit flinders.edu.au/international/apply/apply-research-degree/scholarships-fees
Eligibility Criteria for Australian Scholarships Without IELTS 2026
Academic Requirements:
For MS/PhD, applicants are typically expected to have achieved the equivalent of an Australian First Class Honours degree or a GPA ranking in the top 5% of their graduating cohort. Therefore, strong academic performance is absolutely essential.
Research Requirements:
A strong record of research competence, publications, or relevant work experience is mandatory for the RTP and university research scholarships. Consequently, building your research profile before applying significantly strengthens your application.
Required Documents:
Essential documents include official academic transcripts and certificates highlighting your academic excellence, proof of English proficiency (MOI letter or accepted test score), comprehensive CV detailing professional development and research experience, detailed research proposal, and letters of recommendation from previous academic supervisors.
Application Process for Australian Scholarships Without IELTS 2026
Strategic Step-by-Step Guide:
Step 1: Find a Research Supervisor (Most Critical) For research degrees, the critical first step is contacting a potential supervisor at your chosen Australian university. You must secure their agreement to supervise your research project before applying for the scholarship. Therefore, email professors whose research aligns with your interests early.
Step 2: Obtain Your IELTS Waiver Document Request your MOI letter from your previous university immediately. Without this document, you cannot access Australian Scholarships Without IELTS 2026.
Step 3: Lodge University Admission Application Apply directly to the university’s admissions office during the scholarship round, usually closing between August and December 2026 for the 2026 intake.
Step 4: Automatic Scholarship Consideration By applying for admission to a research program, you are usually automatically considered for both the RTP (Government funding) and the university’s own research scholarships. No separate application is required for these.
Step 5: Australia Awards (Separate Application) Apply online through the OASIS portal, usually between February and April 2026.
Complete Deadlines Timeline 2026
| Scholarship Program | Degree Level | Approximate Deadline |
|---|---|---|
| Australia Awards (AAS) | All levels | April 30, 2026 |
| ANU Round 1 International | MS/PhD | August 31, 2026 |
| Flinders University | MS/PhD | August 2026 (TBC) |
| University of Melbourne | MS/PhD | October 31, 2026 |
| Monash International Round 3 | MS/PhD | August 31, 2026 |
| University of Sydney International | MS/PhD | September 13, 2026 |
Important: Always verify current deadlines directly with each university, as dates change annually.
Why Choose Australia for Your Studies?
World-Class Education: Australian universities consistently rank among the world’s best, with several in the global top 100.
Research Excellence: Australia invests heavily in research, making Australian Scholarships Without IELTS 2026 particularly valuable for research-focused students.
Post-Study Work Rights: After graduating, international students can apply for post-study work visas, allowing them to work in Australia for 2-4 years.
Safe, Welcoming Environment: Australia is consistently ranked among the world’s safest and most livable countries.
Career Opportunities: Furthermore, Australian degrees are highly respected by employers worldwide, opening international career doors.
Beautiful Lifestyle: Additionally, stunning landscapes, warm climate, and multicultural society make studying in Australia a truly enjoyable experience.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Will getting an IELTS waiver affect my scholarship chances? A: No. If the university officially accepts your MOI letter or alternative test as sufficient proof of English proficiency for admission, it satisfies the scholarship requirement. The scholarship decision then rests solely on your academic merit and research potential.
Q: Does the RTP cover my family’s health insurance? A: The RTP typically covers the cost of a single Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) policy. If you bring dependents, you are usually responsible for the additional cost of adding them to the policy.
Q: Are fully funded undergraduate scholarships available? A: Full, fully funded BS scholarships for international students are very rare in Australia, except for those covered under the Australia Awards Scholarships for citizens of eligible countries. Most university undergraduate awards are partial tuition fee waivers.
Q: Can I apply to multiple universities simultaneously? A: Yes, you can apply to several universities at the same time. However, you can only accept one scholarship offer.
Q: How early should I contact potential supervisors? A: Ideally, contact supervisors 6-12 months before scholarship deadlines. Early contact significantly improves your chances.
Official Application Links
| University | Official Scholarship Link |
|---|---|
| Australian Government RTP | education.gov.au/research-training-program |
| Australia Awards | dfat.gov.au/people-to-people/australia-awards |
| University of Melbourne | scholarships.unimelb.edu.au |
| ANU | anu.edu.au/study/scholarships |
| Monash University | monash.edu/study/fees-scholarships/scholarships |
| University of Sydney | sydney.edu.au/scholarships |
| UNSW | research.unsw.edu.au/international-research-scholarships |
| UniSA | unisa.edu.au/research/degrees/scholarships |
Conclusion: Apply for Australian Scholarships Without IELTS 2026 Today
In conclusion, Australian Scholarships Without IELTS 2026 offer extraordinary opportunities for international students seeking world-class education without the expensive IELTS requirement. Moreover, with multiple fully funded options covering tuition, stipends, and health insurance, these scholarships make studying in Australia genuinely accessible.
Furthermore, the key to success lies in starting early, securing a research supervisor, obtaining your MOI letter, and submitting strong applications before deadlines. Therefore, don’t wait—begin your preparations today and make 2026 the year you start your Australian academic journey!
Start your application now and take the first step toward a fully funded education in Australia!
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Disclaimer: Scholarship details and deadlines are subject to change. Always verify current information on official university websites before applying.
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