Future Leaders Scholarship

Future Leaders Scholarship at RMIT University is an initiative set up to attract international students who display strong leadership potential and academic motivation. Offered by RMIT, a public university located in Melbourne, this award applies to various undergraduate and postgraduate coursework programs, except for some research and specific excluded courses. The funding comes directly from the university and is applied as a discount towards your tuition fees.

This scholarship is designed for students looking to begin a new degree at RMIT and who want to stand out for their leadership qualities. Suitable candidates might have led a school club, organised community events, or shown initiative in volunteering or professional settings. It is not aimed at those already studying at RMIT, but rather at new applicants coming from overseas.

Supporting International Study Plans

Winning this scholarship can be a significant help when budgeting for a university degree in Australia. It lessens your upfront financial burden, which may make it easier to meet student visa requirements regarding proof of funds. After receiving a scholarship offer, international students will need to formally accept the place and get a Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) from RMIT – an essential document for your student visa (subclass 500) application. Be sure to check the relevant course lists and specific terms on the official website, as not all degrees at RMIT are covered.

The scholarship aims to reward those who have shown they can lead, motivate others, or contribute to the community, rather than focusing only on grades. This can make it a good match if you've balanced studies with work, sports, community service, or similar activities.

• International student status: You must be a citizen of a country other than Australia or New Zealand and pay full international student fees.
• New commencing student: The award is only available to students starting a new undergraduate or postgraduate coursework program; it does not apply to current RMIT students transferring courses.
• Academic requirements: Applicants need to meet the academic entry criteria of the chosen program and demonstrate a good academic track record.
• Leadership qualities: Evidence of leadership experience – such as project management, club leadership or community engagement – is required in your application.
• Eligible courses: The scholarship is valid only for certain RMIT undergraduate and postgraduate coursework programs; excluded courses are listed on the official scholarship website.
• Full-time study: You must enrol in a full-time load for each semester throughout your studies.
• No other scholarships: You should not be receiving another tuition fee scholarship from RMIT or other Australian institutions for the same study period.

• Partial tuition fee reduction: The scholarship provides a percentage discount on tuition fees for the duration of your eligible course, applied each semester.
• Applicable to the entire degree: The discount continues throughout your program if you maintain satisfactory academic progress and full-time enrolment.
• Recognition of leadership: Awardees gain formal recognition of their leadership achievements, which may enhance resumes and future applications.
• Improved access to RMIT networks: Recipients may be invited to join leadership or peer support activities at RMIT.
• Support for visa application: The reduced fee helps demonstrate funds for the student visa (subclass 500) application process.

• Shortlist eligible courses: Check RMIT's list of eligible programs for international students and choose one that matches your interests and goals.
• Review scholarship and program criteria: Make sure you meet the academic and leadership criteria for both the course and the scholarship. Prepare documents showing your leadership activities.
• Apply for your chosen program: Complete the RMIT online course application form. In many cases, scholarship consideration is automatic; you may be asked to submit a leadership statement or supporting evidence as part of your general course application.
• Include scholarship documentation if needed: If a separate application is required, prepare and submit your leadership evidence and personal statement as instructed on the official scholarship webpage.
• Submit your application: Follow the detailed instructions provided for both the course and scholarship components, keeping an eye on any eligibility confirmation or communication from RMIT.
• Wait for outcome: After submission, monitor your email for any requests for further information and for the scholarship decision. Successful applicants will receive details on how to accept the award and their course offer.
• Accept offer and organise next steps: Once awarded, accept the offer, arrange payment of the required tuition deposit, obtain your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE), and use this for your student visa (subclass 500) application.
• Follow up with RMIT: If you have questions or need further support, contact the RMIT international admissions team or your local representative.