The Australia Awards Scholarships are prestigious, fully funded scholarships offered by the Government of Australia. They provide international students from developing countries—especially in the Indo-Pacific region and Africa—with the chance to pursue undergraduate or postgraduate degree programs at top Australian universities and TAFE institutions.
These long-term awards, administered by the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT), aim to build skills and knowledge that drive positive change and contribute to sustainable development in scholars’ home countries.
What Are Australia Awards Scholarships?
Australia Awards Scholarships support full-time study in Australia, aligning with bilateral and regional development priorities. They target citizens of partner countries to foster leadership and development impact upon return home.
Scholars must commit to returning to their home country for at least two years after completing their studies. Failure to do so may result in repaying the full scholarship cost.
Benefits of Australia Awards Scholarships
The scholarship is fully funded and covers all major expenses, including:
- Full tuition fees
- Return economy class airfare (single return trip via the most direct route)
- One-time establishment allowance (for accommodation, textbooks, and study materials)
- Contribution to Living Expenses (CLE) – fortnightly stipend for basic living costs
- Introductory Academic Program (IAP) – compulsory pre-study orientation on living and studying in Australia
- Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) for the award holder (excluding pre-existing conditions)
- Pre-course English (PCE) training – if required, in-country or in-Australia
- Supplementary academic support – to ensure academic success
- Fieldwork support – for research awards or Masters with compulsory fieldwork (one return economy airfare)
These benefits remove financial barriers, allowing scholars to focus on their studies and future contributions.
Eligibility Criteria for Australia Awards Scholarships 2026-2027
To qualify, applicants must:
- Be a citizen of a participating country (and typically reside in and apply from that country)
- Meet country-specific eligibility, priority areas, and requirements
- Not hold Australian or New Zealand citizenship or permanent residency
- Meet English language proficiency standards (varies by country and institution)
- Demonstrate commitment to return home for at least two years post-scholarship
- Sign a contract agreeing to scholarship conditions
Additional requirements (e.g., work experience, academic qualifications) apply based on your country. Always check your country’s profile for details.
Participating Countries Focus is on Indo-Pacific and Africa regions, including (but not limited to):
- Africa: Algeria, Angola, Botswana, Côte d’Ivoire, Democratic Republic of Congo, Egypt, Ethiopia, Gambia, Ghana, Guinea, Kenya, Madagascar, Malawi, Mauritius, Morocco, Mozambique, Namibia, Nigeria, Rwanda, Sierra Leone, South Africa, Tanzania, Uganda, Zambia, Zimbabwe
- Indo-Pacific and others: Bangladesh, Bhutan, Cambodia, Indonesia, Laos, Mongolia, Myanmar, Nepal, Pakistan, Philippines, Timor-Leste, Vietnam, and Pacific Island nations (e.g., Fiji, Papua New Guinea, Solomon Islands, Vanuatu), among others.
See the full official list of participating countries.
How to Apply for Australia Awards Scholarships 2026-2027
Applications for study commencing in 2027 are open now.
- Opening date: 1 February 2026 (for most countries)
- Closing date: 30 April 2026 (14:00 AEST) – varies slightly by country; check your profile
Step-by-Step Application Process:
- Visit the official Australia Awards website and review the Australia Awards Scholarships Policy Handbook for full details.
- Check opening and closing dates and select your country of citizenship/residency.
- Review your country’s specific profile for eligibility, priority fields, and application instructions.
- Apply online via the Online Australia Scholarships Information System (OASIS) at https://oasis.dfat.gov.au/ (most countries). Some use country-specific portals or hard-copy forms.
- Create a draft application, upload supporting documents (e.g., academic transcripts, passport, English test results, referee reports), and submit before the deadline.
- Applications can be saved and edited until the closing date.
Important: Read all guidelines carefully. Incomplete or late applications are not considered.
For country-specific support, contact the in-country Australia Awards office (details on your country profile).
Apply Now – Don’t miss this life-changing opportunity! Head to the official site to start your application for the Australia Awards Scholarships 2026-2027.