From decades, studying in Australia is a life-changing decision for many international students, securing financial support can make that journey easier and more achievable. Now Federation University Australia, scholarships are opened.
For 2026, Federation University offers multiple scholarships designed to support students from different backgrounds, academic levels, and career goals. It will helpful for high achiever, a pathway student, a future leader, or someone ready to immerse yourself in campus life, there’s a scholarship to match your journey.
About Federation University Australia
Federation University Australia (FedUni), a dual-sector public research university in Victoria—formed from the historic School of Mines Ballarat dating back to 1870 and officially renamed in 2014. FedUni backs its students with over one hundred scholarships and grants, ranging from foundation awards for those facing financial hardship to targeted support such as laptop or book vouchers, living-cost assistance, and abundant externally-funded options.
Curently over 18,500 domestic and international students are studying,. In the 2025 Times Higher Education World University Rankings, the university improved its global standing to the 401–500 band, along with outstanding recognition in teaching, research environment, and international outlook.
It also ranks prominently among young universities worldwide—top 15 %, positioned around #175 in the Times Higher Education Young University Rankings 2024, On sustainability, Federation shines in the 2025 THE Impact Rankings, it fall in top 10 % globally for overall sustainable development.
However, challenges persist. The university has experienced a sharp reduction in international student numbers—from more than 2,300 down to a future cap of just 1,100 due to government policy changes—resulting in a substantial $79 million revenue loss and prompting a program to eliminate around 200 jobs
For international students, Federation offers both academic and lifestyle support — from English language bridging programs to career mentoring, student clubs, and on-campus housing.
This guide breaks them down into five main categories:
Merit-Based Awards — recognising students academic excellence.
Pathway Scholarships — best for students entering through preparatory or partner programs.
Accommodation Support — mostly cost of living on campus will be covered.
Placement & Industry Engagement — integrating paid work into your studies.
Bursaries & Early Incentives — rewarding proactive and early applicants.
Quick-Glance Scholarship Finder
| Scholarship Name | Award Value | Eligible Students | Key Requirement | Application Needed? | Start Year |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Federation Merit Scholarship | 20% tuition fee reduction | Commencing UG & PG coursework | ≥75% average in prior studies | No | 2026 |
| Vice-Chancellor’s Award | 50% tuition fee reduction | UG & PG from South Asia, SE Asia, China | ≥90% average + interview | Yes | 2026 |
| Pathways Scholarship | 10% tuition fee reduction | Pathway program entrants | Enrolled in eligible pathway | No | 2026 |
| Partner Scholarship | 20% tuition fee reduction | Offshore partner transfer students | Completed eligible FedUni program offshore | No | 2026 |
| Accommodation Support Scholarship | Up to $1,000/semester (max 2) | On-campus residents | Reside in FedLiving housing | No | 2026 |
| Paid Placement Support Guarantee | $10,000 UG / $5,000 PG | Courses with mandatory placements | Enrolled in placement units | No | 2025/26 |
| Early Bird Bursary | AUD $3,000 (third semester) | Commencing UG & PG | Accept offer & pay early | No | 2026 |
1. Merit-Based Awards
Turning Academic Excellence into Opportunity: Federation Merit Scholarship
Federation University values students who excel in their academic journey. The Federation Merit Scholarship offers a 20% tuition fee reduction to international students who have achieved at least a 75% average (or equivalent) in their qualifying studies.
Highlights:
Applies to undergraduate and postgraduate coursework degrees.
Initially awarded for two semesters, with continuation dependent on maintaining a GPA of 5 or higher.
No separate application — students are automatically assessed when receiving an offer.
Global Leadership Recognition: Vice-Chancellor’s Award
Reserved for the best of the best, the Vice-Chancellor’s Award recognises outstanding academic achievement and leadership potential. It’s available to students from South Asia, Southeast Asia, and China entering a bachelor’s or master’s program.
Key Features:
Covers 50% of tuition fees.
Requires a minimum 90% average in prior studies.
Includes an interview to assess leadership qualities and community contribution potential.
Awarded to only three students per region per academic year.
2. Pathway Scholarships
Starting Strong: Federation Pathways Scholarship
For students beginning their studies through a pathway program — such as Foundation Studies or a Higher Education Diploma — the Federation Pathways Scholarship offers a 10% tuition fee reduction on the pathway course.
Why It Matters:
Pathway programs help students transition into degree-level study in Australia.
Recipients may later qualify for the Merit Scholarship upon progression to a bachelor’s degree.
Bridging Borders: Partner Scholarship
If you’ve studied with a Federation University offshore partner or completed XCore units via Employability.Life, you could be eligible for the Partner Scholarship — a 20% tuition fee reduction when transferring to an Australian campus.
Perfect For:
Students completing a FedUni diploma or degree offshore.
Those starting a new eligible degree in Australia after partner study.
This scholarship rewards the commitment of international students already part of the Federation University learning community abroad.
3. Accommodation Support
Living and Learning: Accommodation Support Scholarship
The Accommodation Support Scholarship offers up to $1,000 per semester (for a maximum of two semesters) for students living in Federation University-managed housing (FedLiving) at Mt Helen, Berwick, or Gippsland campuses.
Benefits Beyond Money:
Immersive campus experience.
Built-in support network.
Safe, inclusive environment to adjust to Australian life.
Placement & Industry Engagement
Learning Beyond the Classroom: Paid Placement Support Guarantee
Federation University’s Co-operative Education Model integrates real-world industry placements into your degree. Depending on your course, you may benefit from:
Industry Paid Placement — Paid directly by the university industry partner, meeting or exceeding minimum wage requirements.
Placement Support Scholarship — University-funded payments for unpaid mandatory placements, up to $10,000 for undergraduates and $5,000 for postgraduates.
Eligible Courses:
IT, Engineering, Business, Nursing, Education, Social Work, Occupational Therapy, Physiotherapy, Speech Pathology, Psychology, and more.
This initiative ensures will support you to gain professional experience without sacrificing financial stability.
5. Bursaries & Early Incentives
Rewarding Proactive Planning: Early Bird Bursary
Planning ahead pays off — literally. The Early Bird Bursary offers AUD $3,000 to international students who accept their offer and pay their fees before set deadlines.
Award Timing: Applied as a tuition fee discount in the third semester of study.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1: Can I hold more than one scholarship?
Some scholarships can be combined, but generally, the highest value scholarship will apply. Always confirm with the International Scholarships Office.
Q2: How are scholarships paid?
Most scholarships are credited directly to your tuition or accommodation account; bursaries are applied as fee discounts.
Q3: What if I take a leave of absence?
Approved compassionate or compelling leave generally allows your scholarship to be reinstated upon return.
Q4: Is my scholarship taxable?
In Australia, scholarships for education costs are typically tax-free for full-time students, but check with the Australian Taxation Office for specifics.
Tips for Maximising Your Scholarship Success
Apply Early
Even for scholarships with no additional application, applying early enhances your enrolment experience and can qualify you for awards such as the Early Bird Bursary.Aim High in Academics
Even for scholarships with no additional application, applying early enhances your enrolment experience and can qualify you for awards such as the Early Bird Bursary.Know the Renewal Criteria
Scholarships like the Merit Scholarship or Vice-Chancellor’s Award need holding a particular GPA (5.0 or 6.5) in order to continue past the first two semesters.Stay Engaged Beyond the Classroom
Involvement in leadership positions, volunteering, and student communities can enhance applications for competitive scholarships.Plan Your Accommodation
If on-campus accommodation is your intention, apply early for FedLiving to enhance your chances for the Accommodation Support Scholarship.Keep Communication Open
Check your student email regularly for scholarship news, and remain in touch with the International Scholarships Office if your situation alters (e.g., leave of absence).Leverage Industry Links
If your course involves placements, find out how the Paid Placement Support Guarantee can help lighten your financial burden while providing you with work experience.
Final Thoughts
Federation University’s scholarships for international students in 2026 is the ideal opportunity. By grouping them into merit-based awards, pathway scholarships, accommodation support, industry placements, and bursaries, you can easily see which fits your academic goals and personal circumstances.
The earlier you explore and apply, the better your chances of maximising your support package.
🔗 Visit the official Federation University Scholarships Portal to begin your journey.
