Scholarships to study in Australia at high school and preparatory levels: opportunities for students in grades 10–12

🔄 Last updated: October 8, 2026

Scholarship to study in Australia high school level and University Preparation (Foundation) opens up opportunities for students in grades 10–12 to go to Australia early and get acquainted with the education system before entering university. Unlike the postgraduate level with government scholarships, scholarships at this level are mainly granted by high schools and preparatory training units. This article helps parents and students understand scholarship sources, conditions and important legal notes.

Two routes: High school in Australia or university preparation?

Parents who are considering when to let their children go can read more Letting your child study abroad early from high school: advantages and disadvantages.

Source of scholarships to study in Australia at high school and preparatory levels

According to the Australian Government's Study Australia page, major government scholarships such as Australia Awards or Australia for ASEAN are for undergraduate and postgraduate levels. At the high school and preparatory level, scholarships mainly come from:

• Private high school: academic, music, sports, leadership scholarships; often reduce a portion of tuition fees, some schools have great value rates but very few.
• State public school program: some states offer incentives or scholarships for international students on a rolling basis.
• Preparatory schools and affiliated universities: Foundation entrance scholarships based on transcript scores, IELTS; Many universities also offer continuing scholarships when students move to first year.
• Regional scholarships: schools in small cities and regions (such as Adelaide, Canberra, Tasmania, Perth) often have incentives to attract international students.

Most scholarships at this level are partial. Families still need to prepare financially for remaining tuition, housing, OSHC insurance and guardianship services. To understand these clauses, see Are full scholarships truly free? and OSHC study abroad health insurance.

Conditions and application documents for scholarships

• Transcripts from the most recent 2–3 years with high average scores, especially Math and English.
• English certificate (IELTS, or school test); Students who do not have enough time can take an English course first.
• Letters of recommendation from teachers, excellent student exam achievements, awards.
• Extracurricular activities and talents (music, sports) with specialized scholarships.
• Online interview with school representative (some schools require).

Reference scholarships for high school students to make your profile stand out.

Regulations for students under 18 years old

Students under 18 years of age applying for an Australian student visa (subclass 500) must have welfare acceptable arrangements throughout their time under 18 years of age, normally in one of two ways: living with a parent or legal guardian, or a nominated eligible relative (aged 21 years or over); or the school confirms responsibility for accommodation and welfare (CAAW). The second case usually comes with a homestay or dormitory and guardian service fee.

In addition, students need to have OSHC insurance, prove finances and meet study and attendance requirements. Profile details in the article Study abroad documents for students under 18 years old and Australian student visa subclass 500.

Preparation plan for each class

1. Grades 9–10: improve English, maintain stable academic performance, learn about schools and states.
2. Grades 10–11: submit school and scholarship applications, prepare visas, arrange guardianship.
3. Grades 11–12: with the Foundation route, submit a preparatory application after obtaining a grade 11 or 12 transcript.
4. Before flying: prepare for airport pick-up, homestay, and season-appropriate luggage (season in Australia is opposite to Vietnam).

Students under 18 years old flying alone need to pay attention to the airline's regulations regarding young passengers and support services. VeDuHoc advises on suitable flights, accompanying services when needed, optimizes checked baggage, sends flight notifications via Zalo for parents to track, supports 24/7 and issues VAT invoices. With more than 30 Bookers hunting for multi-carrier tickets, if you find a better price after you have paid, HVSC will refund the difference. See Book tickets for international students under 18 years old and Parents track flights via Zalo.

Frequently asked questions

Is there a full scholarship to study in Australia at high school level?

Very rare. Most high school scholarships are partial, partially reducing tuition fees. Families should prepare financially for the remainder and living expenses.

Should I study grades 11–12 in Australia or study Foundation?

If you want to integrate early and have many university options, studying high school in Australia is suitable. If you want a short route, lower costs and have determined a university, Foundation is a reasonable choice.

Can students under 18 years old stay with relatives?

Yes, if the relative meets the conditions (usually 21 years of age or older, has appropriate relatives) and is nominated in the visa application. It is necessary to check the specific regulations of the Australian Department of Home Affairs.

Can the scholarship be maintained for many years?

Depends on the school. Many scholarships require maintaining academic performance, attendance, and good behavior each semester.

Scholarships to study in Australia at high school and preparatory levels are a good stepping stone if the family prepares early and clearly understands guardianship regulations. Once you have an invitation letter and visa, contact VeDuHoc via hotline/Zalo 090.1800.918 for support on your child's first flight.

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