Going to university or TAFE can be an exciting step toward building your future, but it often comes with financial challenges. Tuition fees, textbooks, travel costs, and living expenses can quickly add up, making it important to explore all available options for financial assistance. One of the most effective ways to ease the financial burden is by applying for scholarships and bursaries, which are designed to support students from a variety of backgrounds.
Scholarships and bursaries are forms of financial aid that don’t need to be repaid, making them a valuable resource for students. They can be awarded based on academic achievement, financial need, community involvement, leadership potential, or even specific areas of study. Whether you’re just starting out or returning to study later in life, there are opportunities available to help you succeed.
By taking the time to research and apply for scholarships and bursaries, you can reduce the stress of managing your finances and focus more on your education. Many institutions, including universities and TAFE colleges, offer a wide range of support programs, so it’s worth checking their websites or speaking with a student advisor to find out what you might be eligible for.
Where to find scholarships and bursaries
Tasmania
Students in Tasmania can find scholarships and bursaries through local insutitutions such as the University of Tasmania or TasTAFE. Visit the websites and connect with student support services or admissions for the most accurate and up-to-date information.
Higher Education
The University of Tasmania offers a wide range of scholarships that provide financial assistance, academic recognition, and support for relocation or personal circumstances. Full details are available on the University of Tasmania website.
TasTAFE
Scholarships for TasTAFE students are supported by industry, local government, and community groups. These are updated regularly on the TasTAFE website, so be sure to check often to avoid missing out. TasTAFE scholarships.
Accommodation Scholarships and Bursaries
If you’re looking for help with student accommodation costs, there are scholarships and bursaries designed to ease housing expenses and support access to safe, inclusive living environments. To explore these options, visit the University of Tasmania website and search for accommodation-related scholarships.
Interstate
Students considering study at institutions outside Tasmania can access a broad range of scholarships and bursaries offered by universities across Australia. Each institution may offer unique opportunities based on study area, financial need, or personal background. It’s best to visit websites and connect with student support services or admissions for the most accurate and up-to-date information.
Higher Education
Finding scholarships and bursaries across Australian universities is easier than ever with tools like the Study Australia Scholarship Search, which lets you filter by study level, field, and institution. Most universities also list their own scholarships on their websites, including merit-based awards, equity bursaries, and faculty-specific funding. Government programs such as Australia Awards, the Research Training Program (RTP), and Commonwealth Scholarships offer additional support, especially for research students and those from underrepresented backgrounds.
Interstate Universities
Tertiary Admissions Centres
NSW / ACT
SA / NT / WA
TAFE
Thinking about studying at an interstate TAFE? Don’t miss out on valuable scholarship opportunities that can help support your education. Each state and territory has its own network of TAFE institutes, many of which offer scholarships for a wide range of courses. Visit the websites and discover what’s available and how to apply.
NSW / ACT
Aborigional and Torres Strait Islander students
Indigenous Pathways Portal
The Indigenous Pathways Portal is a free website created by the Aurora Foundation to help Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students find scholarships, internships, and study support. It’s easy to use. You can search and filter opportunities based on your interests, location, and study goals. The portal also gives helpful tips on how to apply and where to get support. For students in Tasmania, it opens up new chances to learn, grow, and plan for the future, while also supporting cultural identity and offering guidance through mentors and programs.
Rural and regional students
Tertiary Access Payment
You could be eligible for the Tertiary Access Payment of $5,000 to support your tertiary study. This is for people who live in a location classified as outer regional, remote or very remote. It’s offered for those studying a Certificate IV or higher after Year 12. Many locations in Tasmania are in the outer regional area or even more remote. Find out more about the Tertiary Access Payment.
Find out whether your area is classified as outer regional, remote or very remote. Visit the Workforce Locator to find out.