Four reasons to apply for RMIT's Future Leaders Scholarship

Scholarships can help ease financial pressure, be a source of pride, and make it easier for international students to support themselves while studying abroad.

While some of RMIT’s scholarships consider academic achievement, there are many scholarships awarded based on what you are studying, where you are from, or your personal circumstances. For students from India, Sri Lanka, Bangladesh, Bhutan, Nepal or Pakistan, RMIT offers the Future Leaders Scholarship, which supports students from these regions to pursue their bachelor’s or master’s by coursework program, with a 20% tuition fee reduction.

To find out just how much of a difference this financial support can make to an international student’s life in Australia, we spoke to four RMIT students about their experience.

1. You’ll build valuable industry connections

Purvang, a Master of Business Information Technology student from Gujarat, India, received the Future Leaders Scholarship in 2024.

“The process for applying [for the scholarship] was so easy. I just checked that my program was eligible, submitted an application to study at RMIT, and that was it! There’s no scholarship application required, and if you’re successful, you’ll receive an offer letter with the scholarship details included. Receiving my offer letter was a really proud moment.”

When it comes to his study highlights, Purvang says it’s been the opportunity to pitch ideas to real stakeholders, build networks and work closely with industry.

“In my capstone subject, we built a tech solution for an RMIT internal challenge, and had the surreal opportunity to pitch it to none other than the Chief Technical Officer of Microsoft Australia.

“In another subject, Data-Driven Decision Making, we built a machine learning model to predict NYC taxi demand and presented our solution to senior Microsoft data strategists.

“And in Business Research Design, I worked on a case study project focused on DiDi Australia, exploring how data shapes their local market strategy."

Each project gave me more than a grade; they gave me real-time feedback from people doing this work at scale, and made me a more thoughtful, adaptable professional.

– Purvang, Master of Business Information Technology student

2. You get to study in the #1 student city in Australia*

Simran, a Master of Analytics student from Bangalore, India, also received the Future Leaders Scholarship, and said it was a big help financially.

“Receiving the scholarship felt like I’d earned something! It was really easy to apply for, and I bragged about getting it to my mum! It really helps as an international student, because we have lots of costs. You can then invest that money in other things like accommodation and living expenses.”

Simran says one of her favourite things about studying at RMIT is the location in the heart of Melbourne City.

“I really like the culture in Melbourne. I’m surrounded by nice people with good values, and I love the amazing variety of food, people, and cultures here. I also find Melbourne so pretty. I’ll visit random places and just can’t stop admiring everything around me. I’ve even become a coffee “to-go” person! Sometimes I just take a walk along the Yarra River to clear my head, and I think it’s really beautiful.”

After graduation, Simran says her goal is to stay in Melbourne and find a full-time role.

“Who wouldn’t want to stay here? It’s so convenient, it’s beautiful, there’s public transport everywhere, it’s a walkable city, the people are so sweet, it’s actually really liveable."

I feel safe living here, especially as a female. If I’m alone at night somewhere, I’m not scared at all. It’s really welcoming.

– Simran, Master of Analytics student

3. You’ll feel supported throughout your studies

Tendulkkar, a Master of Business Administration student from Salem, India, says that receiving the Future Leaders Scholarship inspired him to work harder in his studies and career.

“It was one of the most memorable moments in my life. I still remember opening the email, which included the offer to study at RMIT, followed by the confirmation of the scholarship. It felt like recognition for all the work I’d put in throughout my career and studies. It also reassured me that I was making the right choice in investing in myself and my future.”

Tendulkkar says that from day one, he’s experienced a welcoming environment at RMIT, and he encourages other students to ask for support when needed.

“Don’t hesitate to ask for help. The academic staff and student services truly care about your success.

“RMIT does an exceptional job of making international students feel included. From orientation to ongoing student engagement activities, there’s always a sense of belonging. The mentorship programs, student success initiatives, and multicultural events help bridge cultural gaps and create a community where everyone’s voice is heard."

tendulkkar-master-of-business-administration-student-india-1220x732

As an international student, I have consistently felt supported in my academic pursuits, social life, and emotional well-being during my time here.

– Tendulkkar, a Master of Business Administration student

4. You’ll graduate job-ready

Niyati, a Master of Engineering (Mechanical Engineering) student from Pune, India, says that receiving the Future Leaders Scholarship gave her a huge confidence boost.

“It made me feel seen and valued even before I arrived on campus, and motivated me to give my best from day one at RMIT.”

When asked about how RMIT has prepared her for the workforce, Niyati highlighted how the projects mirrored real-world challenges and how this has helped grow her professional and technical skills.

“I’ve worked on several design and analysis projects using industry-standard software, which gave me a real feel for what it’s like to work as an engineer. Collaborating with classmates from different countries has also taught me how to communicate ideas clearly and work as part of a team — skills I know will be crucial in my future career."

niyati-mechanical-engineering-student-india-1220x732

The best part is how practical everything feels; every class connects directly to what happens in industry.

– Niyati, Master of Engineering (Mechanical Engineering) student

After graduation, Niyati says she hopes to build a career in the automotive industry.

“I want to contribute to technologies that shape the future of mobility and make engineering more impactful for everyday life. Over time, I’d love to take on leadership roles where I can mentor and collaborate with others — especially young women in engineering — to show that there’s space for creativity, diversity, and growth in this field.”

With 3750 students receiving the Future Leaders scholarship in 2025, RMIT is committed to making education more accessible, and helping our international students reach their study goals.

Story: Sophie MacGillivray

*QS Best Student Cities Rankings 2026

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