The Australia Awards scholarships, administered by Australia’s Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT), are prestigious and transformative experiences aimed at cultivating future leaders from developing countries.
These fully financed prizes, available to nationals of over 55 partner nations, promote undergraduate and postgraduate study as well as short-term professional development in Australia.
About the Australia Awards
The Australian Government grants Scholarships are long-term grants administered by the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade.
They want to contribute to the development needs of Australia’s partner countries in accordance with bilateral and regional agreements.
They enable individuals from developing nations, particularly those in the Indo-Pacific region, to pursue full-time undergraduate or postgraduate studies at participating Australian universities and Technical and Further Education (TAFE) institutions.
Australia Awards Scholarships provide study and research opportunities that help individuals develop the skills and knowledge they need to influence change and contribute to development in their home countries.
DFAT’s Fully Funded Scholarships Eligibility Requirements
Eligibility varies by country, but often includes:
- Citizenship and residency in a partner nation.
- A bachelor’s degree or equivalent (for scholarship purposes).
- Professional experience (particularly for mid- to senior-level fellowships or awards).
- A clear vision for using your Australian training to drive change locally.
- English competence and the capacity to obtain an Australian student visa (subclass 500).
Australia Awards – DFAT’s Fully Funded Scholarships Benefits
Australia Awards Scholarships are available for the minimum duration required to finish the academic program indicated by the Australian higher education institution, including any preparatory training. The following benefits are often applicable:
- Full tuition fees
- Pay for a single return economy class trip to and from Australia via the most direct route. Establishment allowance is a one-time payment for accommodation, textbooks, and study supplies.
- payment to Living expenditures (CLE) is a fortnightly payment to basic living expenditures paid at a department-determined rate.
- Introductory Academic curriculum (IAP)-a mandatory curriculum before the start of official academic courses that covers information on living and studying in Australia.
- Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) for the duration of the award (for award holders only) is provided to cover the scholar’s basic medical costs (except pre-existing conditions).
- Pre-course English (PCE) fees may be available for in-country and/or in-Australia training. Supplementary academic support may be available to ensure a scholar’s academic success or enhance their academic experience. Fieldwork (for research awards and Master’s by coursework with a compulsory research component) may be available for eligible research students for one return economy class airfare via the most direct route.
How to Apply Australia Awards
- Applications must be submitted online (via OASIS) or by mail, as required.
- Check your country’s DFAT profile for relevant deadlines and qualifying requirements.
- Complete the application, provide any relevant documentation, and acquire referee reports as needed.
- Applications are first screened for eligibility, then evaluated competitively, and qualified individuals may be interviewed.
Key Dates and Deadlines
- Countries open application windows at different times; check your country’s DFAT page.
- Africa’s Australia Awards typically accept Master’s applications from January to April each year.
- Late or incomplete applications are frequently disqualified.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Who can apply?
Citizens from partner developing countries with relevant educational and professional backgrounds.
What is covered?
Tuition, travel, allowances, health insurance, and more.
Can I apply in any country?
No, each country’s eligibility and time are unique.
Is this program competitive?
Yes, selection is merit-based and rigorous.
Do I need an unconditional offer from an Australian university?
Some nations may require it; please verify your profile.
Must the academics come home?
Yes, return is a contractual obligation with rare exceptions.
Can I apply for an award if I plan to migrate or hold permanent residency?
No, Australia Awards are not offered to intending migrants or Australian permanent residents. Awardees must leave Australia for at least two years after completing their scholarship.
When will I know the outcome of my application?
The outcomes are administered by Australia Awards Scholarships offices in each participating country.
Only selected applicants will be contacted immediately. Shortlisted candidates will be notified in mid-August 2026.
