Deakin International 20 Percent Merit Scholarship 2027 | Study in Australia — Deakin University
Deakin University’s scholarship system runs on a ladder, and the International 20 Percent Merit Scholarship sits at a more accessible rung than the university’s headline Vice-Chancellor’s award, opening the door to a wider pool of academically solid applicants.
About the Scholarship
The Deakin International 20 Percent Merit Scholarship provides a 20 percent reduction in tuition fees for international students commencing an eligible undergraduate or postgraduate degree at Deakin University. It requires a minimum academic average of 65 percent in previous studies for most applicants, with a lower threshold of 60 percent available specifically for citizens of India.
Scholarship Benefits
- 20 percent reduction in tuition fees for the duration of the eligible degree
- A more accessible academic threshold than Deakin’s higher-value Vice-Chancellor’s International Scholarship
- Available for both undergraduate and postgraduate coursework degrees
- A lower qualifying average specifically available for Indian citizens
Eligibility Criteria
- Must be an international student, not an Australian or New Zealand citizen or permanent resident
- Must achieve a minimum average of 65 percent in previous relevant studies, or 60 percent if a citizen of India
- Must apply for admission to an eligible undergraduate or master’s degree at Deakin University before applying for the scholarship
- A separate scholarship application is generally required in addition to the standard course application
- Must meet Deakin’s standard English-language proficiency requirements for admission
Fields of Study Covered
The scholarship applies across most of Deakin’s undergraduate and postgraduate coursework programs, including business, health, engineering, information technology, and the creative arts, subject to the specific program being eligible under the current scholarship guide.
Required Documents
- Completed Deakin University course application
- Separate scholarship application form
- Certified academic transcripts showing the required average
- English-language proficiency test results, if required
- Personal statement addressing academic achievement and future goals
How to Apply (Step-by-Step)
- Confirm your academic average meets the required 65 percent threshold, or 60 percent if applying as an Indian citizen
- Apply for admission to an eligible undergraduate or master’s degree at Deakin University as an international student
- Complete the separate International 20 Percent Merit Scholarship application form
- Submit certified transcripts, English test results, and a personal statement alongside the scholarship form
- Submit before the relevant intake’s scholarship deadline, since this varies by trimester
- Review your offer letter once issued to confirm the 20 percent reduction has been applied
Selection Process
Deakin verifies the applicant’s academic average against the 65 percent threshold, or the lower 60 percent threshold for Indian citizens, awarding the 20 percent reduction to those who qualify. Applicants who also meet the higher 85 percent benchmark may instead be assessed for the Vice-Chancellor’s International Scholarship.
Tips to Improve Your Chances
- Use Deakin’s official international grade conversion guidance to check your exact calculated average before applying
- Submit a complete personal statement that connects your academic background to your chosen program
- Apply as early as possible in your chosen trimester’s admissions cycle, since scholarship funding is limited and allocated progressively
- Students with a stronger academic record should also check whether they qualify for the Deakin Vice-Chancellor’s International Scholarship, which offers a larger reduction
Frequently Asked Questions
What average do I need to qualify for this scholarship?
Most applicants need a minimum average of 65 percent in previous relevant studies, while Indian citizens can qualify with a minimum of 60 percent.
How does this differ from the Deakin Vice-Chancellor’s International Scholarship?
This scholarship offers a smaller 20 percent reduction for a broader pool of applicants with a lower academic threshold, compared to the Vice-Chancellor’s award’s 50 or 100 percent reduction for top performers.
Do I need to apply for the course and scholarship separately?
Yes, admission to an eligible Deakin course must be applied for first, and this scholarship requires its own separate application form.
Is the scholarship available for postgraduate research students?
No, it is aimed at undergraduate and master’s coursework students rather than postgraduate research degrees such as a PhD.
Does the scholarship cover living costs?
No, it is a tuition fee reduction only and does not include a living allowance or stipend.
Is there a specific application deadline?
Deadlines vary by trimester intake, so applicants should check Deakin’s current scholarships page for the exact date relevant to their intended start date.
Does the scholarship continue for the full length of my degree?
Yes, the awarded reduction generally applies for the standard duration of the degree, provided the student maintains satisfactory academic progress.
Is the lower threshold only available to Indian citizens?
Yes, the 60 percent threshold is specifically published for citizens of India; applicants from other countries generally need the standard 65 percent average.