Scholarship Name: University of Sydney International Scholarship (USydIS)
Host Institution: University of Sydney, Australia
Level of Study: Master’s by Research and Doctoral (PhD) programs
Scholarship Type: Fully funded
Funded by: University of Sydney
Open to: International students
Scholarship Value: Up to AUD 40,000 annually
Application Deadlines: Multiple rounds throughout 2026
Duration: 2 years for Master’s; 3–4 years for PhD
Location: Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
Overview
The University of Sydney International Scholarship (USydIS) is among the most prestigious and competitive postgraduate scholarships in Australia. It aims to attract high-caliber international students to pursue advanced research degrees—either Master’s by Research or Doctor of Philosophy (PhD)—at one of the world’s top universities.
In 2026, the scholarship continues to uphold its legacy of academic excellence, offering tuition fee waivers and a generous living stipend to global students who demonstrate outstanding academic potential and research capabilities.
About the University of Sydney
Founded in 1850, the University of Sydney is Australia’s oldest and one of its most renowned institutions. It consistently ranks among the top 40 universities globally, with a strong emphasis on research, innovation, and societal impact. Located in Sydney, New South Wales, the university offers state-of-the-art research facilities, a multicultural environment, and a supportive academic community.
Purpose of the Scholarship
The USydIS supports international postgraduate research students by:
- Encouraging global research collaborations
- Advancing innovation in key disciplines
- Reducing financial barriers for top-tier students
- Enhancing the university’s academic and cultural diversity
Each year, the university awards hundreds of research scholarships to students across all faculties, from humanities and health sciences to engineering and artificial intelligence.
Scholarship Value & Inclusions
As of 2026, successful applicants of the University of Sydney International Scholarship receive:
- Full Tuition Fee Offset: Covers the cost of your academic program for up to 2 years (Master’s) or up to 3–4 years (PhD).
- Living Allowance: AUD 40,109 per year (2026 rate), paid fortnightly.
- Relocation Allowance: AUD 1,250 for air travel from home country.
- Health Insurance: Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) for the entire visa duration.
This makes USydIS one of the most comprehensive scholarship packages available for international research students in Australia.
Eligible Fields of Study
All disciplines are eligible, provided they are research-based postgraduate programs. Some of the most common research areas include:
- Medicine and Health
- Science and Engineering
- Law and Criminology
- Business and Economics
- Arts and Social Sciences
- Education and Social Work
- Architecture, Design, and Planning
- Music and Creative Arts
- Environmental Science and Sustainability
- Artificial Intelligence and Data Science
Each faculty has a dedicated list of research themes, supervisors, and current projects, which applicants are encouraged to explore before applying.
Eligibility Criteria
To be considered for the University of Sydney International Scholarship in 2026, applicants must meet the following conditions:
General Requirements
- Be an international student (not an Australian or New Zealand citizen or permanent resident).
- Have an unconditional offer of admission or be currently enrolled in a research degree at the University of Sydney.
- Intend to pursue a full-time research degree (Master’s or PhD).
- Must not have already received a scholarship from the Australian Government or other similar scholarship source.
Academic Qualifications
- For PhD: Must have a Master’s by Research or a Bachelor’s with Honours (First Class or Second Upper) from a recognized institution.
- For Master’s by Research: Must hold a Bachelor’s degree in a relevant field with demonstrated research potential.
- Proven academic excellence (top 10–15% of graduating class is preferred).
Language Requirements
- IELTS: Minimum 6.5 overall (with no band less than 6.0)
- TOEFL iBT: Minimum score of 85
- PTE Academic: Minimum 61
- Language requirements may vary slightly based on the faculty or department.
Application Timeline for 2026
The scholarship has multiple intake rounds throughout the year. It is highly recommended to apply as early as possible to increase your chances.
| Round | Deadline for International Applicants | Scholarship Outcomes |
|---|---|---|
| Round 1 | 31 January 2026 | March–April 2026 |
| Round 2 | 30 April 2026 | June–July 2026 |
| Round 3 | 31 August 2026 | October–November 2026 |
| Round 4 | 31 October 2026 | December 2026 |
Important: Applicants are automatically considered for USydIS once they apply for a research degree and indicate their interest in scholarships.
Step-by-Step Application Process
Here’s how to apply for the USydIS 2026:
Step 1: Choose a Research Program
Visit sydney.edu.au and browse the available Master’s by Research or PhD programs. Make sure the program aligns with your research interests and future career goals.
Step 2: Find a Supervisor
Identify a potential supervisor using the Research Supervisor Connect tool. Contact them with your research proposal and resume to express interest and request supervision. Some departments require supervisor agreement before application.
Step 3: Prepare Documents
You will need the following documents:
- Research Proposal (2–4 pages)
- Academic transcripts and degree certificates
- English language test results
- Curriculum Vitae (CV)
- Supervisor email or acceptance (if required)
- Academic references (at least two)
- Personal statement (why this research matters)
Step 4: Apply Online
Submit your application for a research degree through the university’s online application portal. During the process, indicate that you wish to be considered for the University of Sydney International Scholarship.
Step 5: Interview (if required)
Some faculties may require a formal or informal interview via Zoom or phone, especially for PhD applicants with complex research topics.
Step 6: Wait for Results
You will be notified via email regarding the outcome of your scholarship. If selected, you will receive a combined offer letter including admission and scholarship.
Selection Criteria
The USydIS is highly competitive, and selection is based on:
- Academic merit (grades, ranking in graduating class)
- Research potential (publications, research proposal quality)
- Alignment with university research priorities
- Quality of referee reports
- Supervisor recommendation
- Contribution to international diversity and equity
Life as a USydIS Scholar
Studying at the University of Sydney on a fully funded scholarship is not just an academic achievement—it’s a holistic and enriching experience. As a USydIS scholar, you will:
- Join a global community of over 70,000 students, including 10,000+ international scholars.
- Access state-of-the-art laboratories, libraries, and collaborative research centers.
- Receive support from dedicated research development officers and the HDR Support Team.
- Engage in seminars, academic conferences, and interdisciplinary workshops.
- Enjoy Sydney’s rich cultural life, beaches, food scene, and international career prospects.
Testimonials
Ahmed Farouk – PhD in Engineering (Egypt)
“Winning the USydIS transformed my career path. I’ve published three papers during my PhD, attended global conferences, and now lead a research group back home. Sydney gave me world-class training and friendships for life.”
Lila Mendoza – Master’s in Public Health (Peru)
“The scholarship allowed me to focus entirely on research without worrying about bills. I worked on child health in Indigenous communities and gained real-world insight I never imagined.”
Post-Study Pathways
Graduates of the University of Sydney benefit from strong post-study options:
- Eligible for the Post-Study Work Visa (subclass 485) for up to 4 years.
- High employability rankings with 94% of PhD graduates employed within 6 months.
- Global alumni network in over 170 countries.
- Access to entrepreneurial and innovation incubators.
Tips to Increase Your Chances
- Start preparing at least 6–8 months in advance.
- Choose a unique, relevant, and well-articulated research proposal.
- Build a strong academic CV with some publication or research experience.
- Establish communication with your potential supervisor early.
- Submit application well before the deadline to avoid errors or delays.
- Ask for referee letters from academic mentors who know your research abilities.
Final Thoughts
The University of Sydney International Scholarship 2026 offers international students a rare opportunity to pursue postgraduate research in one of the most respected institutions in the world—without the burden of financial stress.
Whether you aim to develop new medical therapies, explore solutions to climate change, or understand societal inequalities, the USydIS enables you to focus purely on impactful research while enjoying the vibrant academic life in Australia.
If you’re an ambitious researcher with a vision to change the world, this scholarship might be your stepping stone to the next chapter.
