The Macquarie University Vice-Chancellor’s International Scholarship (VCIS) is a prestigious award designed to recognise academic excellence and attract high-achieving international students to study at Macquarie University in Australia.
This highly competitive, merit-based scholarship provides a one-off partial tuition fee reduction of up to AUD $10,000. It is awarded to outstanding future students commencing an undergraduate or postgraduate coursework degree. As the scholarship is very limited in number, early acceptance of your course offer and scholarship is strongly recommended to avoid disappointment.
Key Benefits
- Value: Up to AUD $10,000, applied directly as a reduction towards your tuition fees.
- Duration: One-off award (non-renewable).
- Level of study: Undergraduate (Bachelor’s) or postgraduate coursework degrees (excluding Graduate Certificates, Global MBA, and certain other programmes).
Eligibility Criteria for 2026
To qualify for the Vice-Chancellor’s International Scholarship, you must:
- Be a full-time international student (citizens of Australia or New Zealand, or Australian permanent residents, are not eligible).
- Commence an eligible undergraduate or postgraduate coursework degree at Macquarie University in the session and year specified in your scholarship offer letter.
- Meet the University’s academic and English language entry requirements for your chosen course.
- Achieve a minimum academic standard:
- For postgraduate applications: a Weighted Average Mark (WAM) equivalent of at least 65 (or equivalent qualification).
- For undergraduate applications: an ATAR equivalent of at least 85 (or equivalent qualification).
- Hold a full offer of admission to Macquarie University (some pathway programmes or other study levels may be considered on a case-by-case).
Exclusions may apply to certain courses or student types—check the official page for full details.
How to Apply: Step-by-Step Guide
Applications are open year-round with no fixed deadlines, but apply early (ideally 2–3 months before your intended session start) to allow time for visa processing and to secure one of the limited spots.
- Apply for admission to Macquarie University: Submit an online course application via the Macquarie University admissions portal. Once processed, you will receive a Macquarie University Student Number (this is required for the scholarship application).
- Receive a full offer: You must hold a valid full offer letter for an eligible programme before applying for the scholarship.
- Complete the scholarship application:
- Access the short online scholarship application form here: Here.
- Enter “VCIS” in the Scholarship Name field.
- Provide your Macquarie University Student Number (as shown on your offer letter).
- Submit the form.
- Accept your offer early: If awarded, accept your course offer and the scholarship promptly, as places are limited.
- Prepare for your studies: Organise your student visa and other requirements. Commencement must align with the session/year in your offer/scholarship letter (deferral may not be permitted).