Types of Scholarships

Understanding the Different Types of Scholarships

One of the most important steps in your scholarship search is understanding which category of funding you are eligible for and which types are most competitive in your situation. Scholarships are not one-size-fits-all. Different types of scholarships have different criteria, application processes, coverage amounts, and renewal conditions.

This guide explains the main types of scholarships available to international students across all major study destinations.

1. Merit-Based Scholarships

Merit-based scholarships are awarded based on academic achievement. These are among the most common types of scholarships offered by universities worldwide and are typically renewable, provided you maintain a minimum academic standard each semester.

• Based on your Grade Point Average (GPA), percentage score, or CGPA

• Some also consider co-curricular activities or leadership roles

• Most commonly offered at the undergraduate and postgraduate coursework level

• Usually paid as a tuition fee reduction or partial waiver

2. Need-Based Scholarships

Need-based scholarships are designed to support students who demonstrate genuine financial hardship. These can be harder for international students to access than for domestic applicants, but they do exist, particularly through government programs and some university foundations.

• Require documentation of household income or financial circumstances

• Often combined with merit requirements (i.e. merit-plus-need models)

• Available in Australia, the UK, Canada, the USA, and New Zealand

• Some are offered as grants that do not need to be repaid

3. Government Scholarships

Government scholarships are funded by national governments and are typically the most prestigious and comprehensive scholarships available. They are often fully funded, covering tuition, living expenses, airfare, and health insurance.

Government scholarships are highly competitive and often require a separate application process from university admission. Gemini Education guides clients through both processes simultaneously to ensure no deadlines are missed.

4. University Scholarships

University scholarships are offered directly by institutions to attract high-quality international students. They range from small tuition reductions of 10 to 15 percent all the way to full-ride scholarships covering all costs for exceptional candidates.

• Application is often automatic for students who meet GPA thresholds on enrolment

• Some require a separate scholarship application alongside your course application

• Renewal conditions apply, typically requiring you to maintain a minimum GPA each semester

• Available at both undergraduate and postgraduate levels across most major institutions

5. Research Scholarships

Research scholarships support students undertaking higher degrees by research (HDR), including research master's degrees and doctoral programs (PhD). These often cover full tuition and include a living allowance stipend.

• Australia's Research Training Program (RTP) is the primary federal research scholarship

• UNSW Scientia Scholarship, Melbourne Research Scholarship, and similar university HDR awards are highly sought after

• Require a detailed research proposal and strong academic supervisor support

• Applicants should contact potential supervisors before applying

6. Sector-Specific and Industry Scholarships

Many industries, professional bodies, and private organisations fund scholarships for students entering specific fields. These are less visible than government or university awards but can be highly valuable and less competitive.

Healthcare and Nursing

• Scholarships for international nursing students, particularly for those committed to regional Australia

• Funded by state governments, hospital networks, and the Australian College of Nursing

Engineering and Technology

• Engineers Australia, STEM Australia, and various university engineering faculties offer targeted scholarships

• Technology companies, including major multinationals, fund computing and cybersecurity scholarships

Business and MBA

• Business school foundations, alumni groups, and corporate partners fund partial MBA scholarships

• Women in leadership scholarships are available at several major business schools

7. Sports and Arts Scholarships

Students with exceptional talent in sports, music, visual arts, or performing arts may be eligible for talent-based scholarships at universities with active programs in these areas.

• Typically require an audition, portfolio, or sporting credentials as part of the application

• Often provide tuition support combined with access to specialist facilities

• Less common for international students but available at some Australian, UK, and US institutions

8. Destination-Specific Scholarships

Some scholarships are specifically designed to encourage students to study in particular locations, such as regional Australia or smaller study destinations that are trying to attract international talent.

• Destination Australia Program: Up to AUD 15,000 per year for studying in regional Australia

• Some Canadian provinces offer scholarships for students who commit to studying outside major cities

• New Zealand has several regional study incentives for international students

Which Type of Scholarship Should You Apply For?

The answer depends on your profile, your target country, and your field of study. As a general rule:

• If you have a strong academic record, prioritise merit-based scholarships and government awards

• If you are in financial need, look at need-based and combined merit-plus-need programs

• If you are going into research, focus on HDR-specific scholarships at your target institution

• If you are in healthcare, engineering, or technology, look for industry-specific funding

Gemini Education helps you map your profile to the right scholarship types and builds a realistic application strategy around the opportunities most likely to result in an award.