Two Sri Lankan students are among the first ever recipients of a major new international education scholarship launched by Victoria University (VU) in Melbourne, Australia.

Dhanujaya Weerasinghe, from Kandy, and Sanida Guruge, from Galle, are about to enjoy free accommodation in Australia’s number one student city through the STEM Accommodation Scholarship.

VU’s new merit-based scholarship aims to reduce financial pressure for high-achieving international students starting degrees in science, engineering and information technology. Successful undergraduate applicants receivean entire year’s free rent at the UniLodge Victoria University accommodation complex, valued at over A$15,000. Successful postgraduate applicants receive six month’s free accommodation, valued at over A$8,000.

The scholarship has already generated significant interest in Sri Lanka and across South Asia, with further rounds of awards now open for upcoming intakes in 2025 and 2026.Dhanuja and Sanida were nominated for the scholarship by two of VU’s high-performing agent partners in Sri Lanka, Jeewa Education and Emergence Education.

Both students are also set to benefit from the VU Block Model International Scholarship, which offers eligible international students up to 30% off tuition fees for their entire course at VU – a further saving of up to A$20,000.

“We are delighted to support Dhanujaya, Sanida and many other international students as they begin their study journey in Melbourne,” said Monty Singh, Chief International Officer at Victoria University. “Our exciting international scholarships highlight VU’s ongoing commitment to student welfare, global engagement and the creation of a welcoming learning environment where all of our students can thrive.”

With a history dating back over a century, Victoria University provides an exceptional experience to over 45,000 students currently enrolled on campuses in Melbourne and beyond. VU is ranked in the top two percent of all universities worldwide (THE World University Rankings 2025) and as the number one university in Victoria for teaching quality, skills development and quality of entire educational experience (QILT Student Survey 2023). For further information on VU’s international scholarships and programs, visit www.vu.edu.au/international.