Federation University Australia Scholarships 2026
For decades, studying in Australia has been a life-changing decision for many international students. Securing financial support makes that journey even more achievable. For 2026, Federation University Australia has opened multiple scholarships designed to support students from diverse backgrounds, academic levels, and career goals.
Whether you are a high-achieving student, a pathway program entrant, a future leader, or simply eager to experience campus life in Australia, there’s a scholarship at Federation University to match your journey.
About Federation University Australia
Federation University Australia (FedUni) is a dual-sector public research university located in Victoria. It traces its origins back to the historic School of Mines Ballarat (established in 1870) and officially became Federation University in 2014.
Key Highlights:
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Over 18,500 domestic and international students enrolled
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Ranked in the 401–500 band in the 2025 Times Higher Education (THE) World University Rankings
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Top 15% of young universities worldwide, ranked around #175 in THE Young University Rankings 2024
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Top 10% globally in the 2025 THE Impact Rankings for sustainable development performance
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More than 100 scholarships and grants offered annually, including tuition discounts, living allowances, book and laptop vouchers, and externally funded awards
Despite recent policy changes reducing international student numbers, Federation University continues to offer strong academic and lifestyle support — including English language bridging programs, career mentoring, student clubs, and on-campus accommodation.
Federation University Scholarship Categories
For 2026, Federation University scholarships are divided into five main categories:
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Merit-Based Awards – Recognising academic excellence
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Pathway Scholarships – Supporting students entering via preparatory or partner programs
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Accommodation Support – Reducing the cost of on-campus living
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Placement & Industry Engagement – Funding for mandatory industry placements
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Bursaries & Early Incentives – Rewards for early and proactive applicants
Quick Scholarship Reference Table
| Scholarship Name | Award Value | Eligible Students | Key Requirement | Application Needed? | Start Year |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Federation Merit Scholarship | 20% tuition reduction | UG & PG coursework | ≥75% average in prior studies | No | 2026 |
| Vice-Chancellor’s Award | 50% tuition reduction | UG & PG from South Asia, SE Asia, China | ≥90% average + interview | Yes | 2026 |
| Pathways Scholarship | 10% tuition reduction | Pathway entrants | Enrolled in eligible pathway | No | 2026 |
| Partner Scholarship | 20% tuition reduction | Offshore partner transfers | Completed eligible program offshore | No | 2026 |
| Accommodation Support Scholarship | Up to $1,000/semester (max 2) | On-campus residents | FedLiving housing | No | 2026 |
| Paid Placement Support Guarantee | $10,000 UG / $5,000 PG | Mandatory placement courses | Enrolled in placement units | No | 2025/26 |
| Early Bird Bursary | AUD $3,000 | UG & PG | Accept offer & pay early | No | 2026 |
1. Merit-Based Awards
Federation Merit Scholarship – Rewarding Academic Excellence
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Value: 20% tuition fee reduction
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Eligibility: Undergraduate and postgraduate coursework students with ≥75% average (or equivalent) in prior studies
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Duration: Initially for two semesters; renewable with a GPA of 5 or higher
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Application: No separate application; automatic assessment upon offer
Vice-Chancellor’s Award – Leadership and Achievement
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Value: 50% tuition fee reduction
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Eligibility: Students from South Asia, Southeast Asia, and China with ≥90% average
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Selection: Includes an interview to assess leadership potential and community engagement
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Award Limit: Three students per region annually
2. Pathway Scholarships
Federation Pathways Scholarship – Supporting Early Transitions
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Value: 10% tuition reduction on pathway program tuition
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Eligibility: Students enrolled in eligible pathway courses (e.g., Foundation Studies, Higher Education Diploma)
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Note: Recipients may qualify for the Merit Scholarship when progressing to a bachelor’s degree
Partner Scholarship – Rewarding Commitment to FedUni Learning
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Value: 20% tuition reduction
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Eligibility: Students transferring from offshore Federation University partners or completing XCore units
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Purpose: Supports transition to Australian campuses for students already engaged in the FedUni learning network
3. Accommodation Support
Accommodation Support Scholarship – Easing the Cost of Living
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Value: Up to $1,000 per semester (maximum of two semesters)
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Eligibility: Students living in FedLiving accommodation at Mt Helen, Berwick, or Gippsland
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Benefits: Safe, inclusive, and supportive on-campus environment for international students adjusting to life in Australia
4. Placement & Industry Engagement
Paid Placement Support Guarantee – Learning While Earning
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Value:
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Eligibility: Students in courses with mandatory industry placements
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Applicable Fields: IT, Engineering, Business, Nursing, Education, Social Work, Allied Health, and more
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Funding Source: Either through paid industry placements or university-funded support for unpaid placements
5. Bursaries & Early Incentives
Early Bird Bursary – Reward for Early Action
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Value: AUD $3,000 applied in the third semester
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Eligibility: Undergraduate and postgraduate students who accept their offer and pay fees before the deadline
Tips for Maximising Your Scholarship Opportunities
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Apply Early: Even for automatic scholarships, early enrolment can increase benefits.
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Maintain High Academic Performance: Many awards require a minimum GPA for renewal.
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Engage in Campus Life: Leadership roles and volunteering can strengthen competitive applications.
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Plan Accommodation in Advance: Early FedLiving applications improve your chances for housing scholarships.
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Stay in Contact: Keep the International Scholarships Office updated on any changes to your study plans.
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Leverage Placement Opportunities: Understand how the Paid Placement Support Guarantee applies to your course.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1: Can I hold more than one scholarship?
Some scholarships can be combined, but generally, the highest-value award applies. Always confirm with the International Scholarships Office.
Q2: How are scholarships paid?
Most are credited directly to tuition or accommodation fees; bursaries are applied as tuition discounts.
Q3: What happens if I take a leave of absence?
In most cases, approved compassionate or compelling leave allows your scholarship to be reinstated upon return.
Q4: Are scholarships taxable in Australia?
Education-related scholarships are typically tax-free for full-time students. Check the Australian Taxation Office for details.
Q5: Do I need to apply separately for every scholarship?
Not always. Many are automatic, but some — like the Vice-Chancellor’s Award — require a separate application.
Q6: Can pathway students qualify for further scholarships later?
Yes. Pathway Scholarship recipients may qualify for the Merit Scholarship upon entering degree-level study.
Final Thoughts
The Federation University Australia Scholarships 2026 offer a wide range of financial support options for international students. From tuition fee reductions to accommodation assistance and industry placement funding, there are opportunities for students at every stage of their academic journey.
Applying early, maintaining academic excellence, and engaging with the university community can significantly improve your chances of receiving these awards.
Visit the official Federation University Scholarships Portal to explore eligibility details and start your application.
