PhD funding- AHHH.

Happy Boxing Day! Most of you are probably enjoying festivities but I'm online because I'm debating whether to do a PhD (fun times).
I have my topic and advisor sorted BUT of course there's the issue of funding. I am eligible for 2 out of 5 university scholarships available (as I am classified as an international student). Have any of you considered doing a PhD and what did you do for funding? I can't imagine paying for the full three years if I don't get those scholarships.

For reference, I have a spousal visa but I'm not sure if getting scholarships counts as "public funds?" I know this is super specific but just wondered if anyone else was ever in the same boat!

Answered this identical post in the other area of the UKY,  but am curious. What is your status and how long have you been here?

As far as I know, scholarships are not "public funds".