Australia Awards Scholarships

Overview

Australia Awards Scholarships are prestigious, long-term development awards funded by the Australian Government through the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT). They are designed to contribute to the development needs of Australia’s partner countries by providing outstanding individuals from developing nations particularly in the Indo-Pacific region with the opportunity to undertake full-time undergraduate or postgraduate study at participating Australian universities and TAFE (Technical and Further Education) institutions. Recipients develop the skills and knowledge needed to drive meaningful change and contribute to development in their home countries upon their return.

What’s Included?

Australia Awards Scholarships provide a comprehensive benefits package for the minimum period necessary to complete the approved academic programme, including any preparatory training. Benefits typically include:

• Full tuition fees at the Australian higher education institution
• Return economy class airfare (single return, most direct route to and from Australia)
• Establishment allowance, a one-time payment towards accommodation, textbooks, and study materials
• Contribution to Living Expenses (CLE), a fortnightly payment towards basic living costs, at a rate determined by DFAT
• Introductory Academic Program (IAP), a compulsory pre-study programme on living and studying in Australia
• Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) for the duration of the award
• Pre-course English (PCE) training, if deemed necessary
• Supplementary academic support where required
• Fieldwork support (for eligible research students)

Eligibility

Australia Awards Scholarships are open to citizens of eligible partner countries, with priority given to applicants from developing nations in the Indo-Pacific region. Specific eligibility requirements vary by country and are outlined in each country’s award conditions. Generally, applicants must:

• Be a citizen of a participating country (check the official website for the current list)
• Not hold Australian or New Zealand citizenship or permanent residency
• Meet the academic entry requirements of their chosen Australian institution
• Demonstrate a commitment to contributing to the development of their home country after completing the award

Award Conditions

Scholars are required to sign a contract with the Commonwealth of Australia agreeing to comply with all award conditions. A key requirement is that scholars must return to their home country for a minimum of two years after completing their scholarship. Failure to comply will result in the scholar incurring a debt for the full accrued cost of the scholarship. This return requirement underscores the programme’s development focus.

How to Apply

Applications are submitted online via OASIS (Online Australia Awards Scholarships Information System). Applicants must follow the specific instructions for their country of citizenship and submit all required supporting documents by the stated closing date. It is strongly recommended to apply early to avoid technical issues near the deadline.

For country-specific instructions, eligibility requirements, and supporting document checklists, visit the official Australia Awards website and select your country of citizenship.

Key Dates

Key dates vary by country and are updated annually. The example intake below is for study commencing in 2027. Always verify the exact dates for your country on the official website.

Applications open	1 February
Applications close	30 April (closing time varies by region)
Selection and interviews	After closing date (varies by country)
Study commencement	Following year’s academic intake
2026 Application Deadline	April 30, 2026

Contact Information

For country-specific application information, eligibility details, and opening/closing dates, visit the official Australia Awards website.

Applications must be submitted through the OASIS online system. For further inquiries, contact the Australian Embassy or High Commission in your home country.