For many students, the cost of study can be a significant barrier to pursuing further education. Fortunately, Queensland students have access to a wide range of bursaries, scholarships and grants designed to ease financial pressure and support academic success.
These programs are offered by government, universities, training organisations and community groups, and can help cover everything from tuition fees to living expenses, textbooks and travel.
This guide provides an overview of some of the key bursaries available to Queensland students, including what they offer and who they are for.
Queensland Government Support
Aspiring Teacher Grant
The Aspiring Teacher Grant is aimed at high-achieving Year 12 graduates who choose to study teaching at a Queensland university.
- Amount: One-off payment (varies)
- Purpose: Encourages more students into the teaching profession and supports study costs
- Eligibility: High academic performance and enrolment in a teaching degree
- Aspiring Teacher Grant
TJ Ryan Memorial Medal and Prize
This award recognises outstanding Year 12 students who demonstrate leadership and academic excellence.
- Amount: Monetary prize and recognition
- Purpose: Celebrates student achievement and leadership
- TJ Ryan Memorial Medal and Prize
Queensland Government scholarships and awards form part of a broader effort to support students and encourage participation in higher education.
TAFE Queensland Scholarships
TAFE Queensland Scholarship Program
TAFE Queensland offers a large-scale scholarship program supporting vocational education students across the state.
- Amount: Up to $5,000
- Purpose: Covers study-related costs such as course fees, tools, textbooks, travel and childcare
- Eligibility: Open to Certificate III and above students, including apprentices
- https://tafeqld.edu.au/courses/apply-and-enrol/scholarships
These scholarships are available under two main categories:
- Access and Equity Scholarships: For students experiencing financial hardship or disadvantage
- Merit Scholarships: For students demonstrating strong academic or career potential
Each year, around 100 scholarships are awarded, helping students gain the skills needed to enter the workforce.
QCWA Bursaries (Queensland Country Women’s Association)
The QCWA offers a diverse range of bursaries aimed at supporting students across regional and rural Queensland.
Ruth Fairfax Memorial Bursary
- Amount: Approximately $2,500
- Purpose: Supports students studying courses with a rural focus
- Eligibility: Students under 25 with a Queensland home address
- QCWA – Student Bursaries
Far Northern Division Education Support Bursary
- Amount: Up to $5,000
- Purpose: Supports training in areas such as health, agriculture and apprenticeships in Far North Queensland
- Eligibility: Open to a wide range of students, including those retraining
- CWA BURSARY 2026 (1)
Billie Maykin Memorial Bursary
- Amount: Approximately $500
- Purpose: Provides financial support to students who may otherwise struggle to complete their studies
- Billie Maykin Memorial Bursary Application Form.pdf
These bursaries are particularly important for regional students, offering targeted support where workforce needs are greatest
NCWQ Bursary Program
National Council of Women Queensland (NCWQ) Bursaries
The NCWQ runs an annual bursary program supporting women in education across Queensland.
- Amount: Typically $1,500 to $2,000
- Purpose: Assists with general education expenses
- Eligibility: Female Queensland students across a range of disciplines
Each year, dozens of bursaries are awarded, reflecting a strong commitment to improving access to education for women. [ncwq.org.au]
University-Based Scholarships and Bursaries
Queensland universities collectively provide significant financial support to students, offering scholarships across a range of categories including merit, equity and accommodation assistance.
UQ Vice-Chancellor’s Scholarship
- Amount: Around $12,000 per year
- Purpose: Supports high-achieving students
- Eligibility: Academic excellence
- UQ Vice-Chancellor’s Scholarship – Scholarships – The University of Queensland
UQ Refugee and Humanitarian Scholarship
- Amount: Covers tuition and provides living support
- Purpose: Assists students from refugee or humanitarian backgrounds
- UQ Refugee and Humanitarian Scholarship – Scholarships – The University of Queensland
Equity and Accommodation Scholarships
- Amount: Typically $2,000 to $5,000 or more
- Purpose: Helps students from regional or disadvantaged backgrounds meet living and relocation costs
- Equity Rural Placement Scholarships – NAFEA
Many universities also offer field-specific bursaries, donor-funded scholarships, and support for students experiencing financial hardship.
Australian Government Programs
Research Training Program (RTP)
- Amount: Approximately $30,000 per year plus tuition
- Purpose: Supports postgraduate research students
- Coverage: Tuition fees, living stipend and additional costs
- Research Training Program – Department of Education, Australian Government
New Colombo Plan Scholarship
- Amount: Can exceed $100,000 depending on placement
- Purpose: Supports undergraduate students studying and working in the Indo-Pacific region
- New Colombo Plan Scholarship Program | Australian Government Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade
These national programs complement state and institutional funding, ensuring support is available at all levels of study.
What Bursaries Can Help With
Most bursaries and scholarships in Queensland are designed to reduce financial pressure and improve access to education. Depending on the program, funding may be used for:
- Tuition fees
- Rent and accommodation
- Travel and relocation costs
- Study materials and equipment
- Everyday living expenses
Many programs specifically target students from regional areas, those experiencing financial hardship, Indigenous students, and those entering priority industries.
