How to find a scholarship to fund your study

Find out how to search for and secure a scholarship, bursary, or financial support for your study

Scholarships support you financially while you learn

Scholarships can make a big difference when it comes to the cost of education. Whether you’re finishing school or thinking about further study, there’s a chance you could be eligible for one or more scholarships – and you don’t have to be the top student to apply.

Let’s unpack what scholarships are, how they work, and how to give yourself the best shot at getting one.

What is a scholarship?
A scholarship is money that helps you pay for your education. It doesn’t need to be paid back, and it’s usually given to you in one of two ways:

as a lump sum (e.g. $5,000 once)
or in smaller instalments (e.g. $1,000 each semester)

Scholarships can cover your course fees, books and equipment, travel, living costs – or just help take the pressure off. They’re funded by universities, businesses, community organisations, individuals, and sometimes government departments. Each one will have its own goal – some are set up to support students with financial hardship, others aim to attract talented students into specific fields.

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Anyone can get a scholarship (yes, really)

There’s a common myth that you need to be top of the class to get a scholarship. That’s not true. Scholarships are available for all kinds of students, including:

Students who are the first in their family to go to university
People from rural and regional areas
Those who’ve been through tough circumstances
Students with disabilities or neurodivergence
People from culturally diverse or underrepresented backgrounds.

And yes, there are scholarships for academic excellence, sporting talent, creative flair, leadership, community service, and innovation too. There’s no single “type” of student who gets awarded a scholarship – the key is finding one that matches your strengths or situation.

What kinds of scholarships are available?

Scholarships are usually grouped into categories. Here are the main types:

For those in need

Equity Scholarships support students who’ve faced barriers and for those who will struggle with the costs of study

Industry-focused

Industry Scholarships encourage people to join their industry, and often include networking and internships

For high achievers

Merit Scholarships recognise academic success, leadership, sporting or creative achievements, and community service

With more than money

Co-op Scholarships offer money alongside mentoring, leadership training, networking, and internships

How to find scholarships and apply for them

It’s easier than you think to get started with scholarships. The key is knowing where to look and being ready with the right information when you find one that suits you. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you through the process.

Start with a good database

There are hundreds of scholarships available, so a central database can save you hours of searching. You’ll find a mix of equity, merit, co-op and industry scholarships listed in one place.

Find Scholarships

Check the websites of universities and colleges

Most institutions have a dedicated scholarships page. You can usually filter by course area, entry year, location, or type of support. It’s worth checking each one individually if you already have a shortlist of where you want to apply.

Look for independent scholarships

Lots of organisations offer scholarships separately from education providers; think foundations, charities, professional associations, and local businesses. Search engines, newsletters, and community networks can be helpful places to find them.

Understand the eligibility

Each scholarship has different requirements. Some are based on academic or extracurricular achievements, while others focus on financial need or personal background. Read the criteria carefully and only apply if you genuinely meet the conditions.

Prepare your application documents

Most scholarship applications ask for a combination of the following:

a written response or personal statement
evidence of your eligibility (e.g. school results, income statements, identification documents)
one or more references
a resume or list of extracurricular involvement

Make it specific

Instead of sending the same response to every provider, try to match your application to what they’re looking for. Mention any goals, interests, or experiences that align with the purpose of the scholarship.

Keep an eye on the deadlines

Some scholarships open well before courses do, and some don't open until after applications have closed! They often close earlier than expected, so keep a list or set reminders so you have time to prepare a strong application without rushing.

Frequently asked questions

Get quick answers to common questions about subject selection, career pathways, and planning for your final years of school.

How can I give myself the best chance of getting a scholarship?

You’d probably be surprised at how easy it can be; we often see scholarships go unawarded simply because not enough people apply! If you’re thinking of applying here are some tips:

Read the criteria carefully. Don’t waste time applying for scholarships you’re not eligible for.
Personalise your answers. Avoid generic responses. Be honest and tell your story – especially if it’s relevant to the purpose of the scholarship.
Ask for help. Get someone to proofread your application, or talk to your careers advisor or a teacher if you’re unsure what to include.
Do your research. If a business or donor is funding the scholarship, mention how your goals or values align with theirs.

Is it worth applying for scholarships? Aren't they really competitive?

Even if you’re not sure you’ll get it, applying is still worth it. Some scholarships are competitive, but many don’t get enough applicants – which means your chances might be better than you think.

You’ll also get better at filling out applications, which is a skill that will help when it’s time to apply for jobs, uni, or other opportunities. And if you do get a scholarship? It can change everything. Less stress, more focus, and often, doors that open well beyond the classroom.

Can I apply for more than one scholarship?

Yes – and you should. Some scholarships do have rules about not accepting other awards, but many don’t. Just be upfront in your applications.

Where can I get scholarships in my country?

Most countries have scholarships, but the systems are different. We’ve included a few examples below – always check with your school or a local advisor for accurate advice.

Australia
Look at both university scholarships and independent providers. Use official uni websites and try state-based scholarship programs too.

New Zealand
Universities and polytechnics (ITPs) offer scholarships, and you can also apply for awards through organisations like Māori or Pacific-focused education funds.

United Kingdom
Check UCAS and individual university websites. There are scholarships based on postcode, family income, and course choice.

United States
Look for scholarships via colleges, but also use big scholarship databases. Be cautious of scams – you should never have to pay to apply.

India, Singapore, and Southeast Asia
Some scholarships are based on merit, others on entrance exam results. Universities, companies, and government programs are the most common providers.

Do I have to pay tax on scholarship money?

In many countries, scholarships that cover education-related costs (like course fees or textbooks) aren’t taxed — but anything used for general living expenses might be. Always check the rules in your country and talk to a financial advisor if you’re unsure.