Australian Awards Scholarship 2027
OpenAbout the Australian Awards Scholarship
The Australian Awards Scholarship is a fully funded scholarship offered by Australian Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT) for study in Australia. The scholarship supports students pursuing Bachelor's (completed); minimum 3 years work experience studies in All disciplines — development-aligned fields prioritised. Recipients receive Approx. AUD $25,000–$35,000/year for a duration of 2–4 years.
This opportunity is open to applicants from Eligible developing countries in Indo-Pacific, Africa, Middle East — includes Ethiopia, Kenya, Tanzania, Uganda, Mozambique, Pakistan, Vietnam, PNG, Timor-Leste. Applicants must hold Bachelor's (completed); minimum 3 years work experience and meet the academic standing: Good academic standing; professional experience weighted heavily. Approximately Approx. 700+ per year are awarded through a competitive selection process each cycle.
If you meet the eligibility requirements and align with the Australian Awards Scholarship selection criteria, this represents a life-changing opportunity to study with full financial support. Read the sections below carefully to understand the benefits, eligibility, application process, and deadline before applying.
Scholarship Benefits & What's Covered
Selected recipients of the Australian Awards Scholarship receive a comprehensive funding package. Here's what the scholarship covers:
- Living allowance: Approx. AUD $25,000–$35,000/year
- Tuition fees: Yes
- Accommodation: Yes (establishment allowance + rent contribution)
- Airfare / travel: Yes — economy class return
- Health insurance: Yes — Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC)
- Family / dependants: Yes (limited)
- Program duration: 2–4 years
- Number of awards per year: Approx. 700+ per year
The scholarship is classified as Fully Funded. This means recipients receive complete financial coverage throughout their study period, allowing them to focus entirely on their academic and research goals without financial burden.
Eligibility Requirements
To be considered for the Australian Awards Scholarship, applicants must meet the following requirements. Applications from ineligible candidates are automatically rejected, so review these carefully before applying.
Academic requirements
- Minimum degree level: Bachelor's (completed); minimum 3 years work experience
- Academic standing: Good academic standing; professional experience weighted heavily
- Academic background: Minimum 3 years post-qualification work experience required
- Fields of study: All disciplines — development-aligned fields prioritised
Nationality & residency
- Eligible countries: Eligible developing countries in Indo-Pacific, Africa, Middle East — includes Ethiopia, Kenya, Tanzania, Uganda, Mozambique, Pakistan, Vietnam, PNG, Timor-Leste
- Residency: Must be a citizen and resident of an eligible partner country
Language requirements
- Language of instruction: English
- Language test: Yes — IELTS required
- Minimum score: IELTS 6.5 overall (no band below 6.0)
Other requirements
- Age: 18 years minimum; varies by country
- Gender: Open to all genders; women and people with disabilities encouraged
How to Apply for the Australian Awards Scholarship
Applications for the Australian Awards Scholarship are submitted through the official channels of Australian Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT). Follow these steps to submit a strong application:
Step 1: Verify eligibility. Confirm you meet every requirement listed above, particularly nationality, academic level, and language proficiency. Applications from ineligible candidates are automatically rejected without review.
Step 2: Prepare required documents. You will need to submit: Application form; transcripts; CV; personal statement; 3 professional references; IELTS; passport; employer endorsement. Prepare each document carefully — reviewers typically shortlist based on document quality and completeness.
Step 3: Secure reference letters. Yes — 3 references required. Contact your referees early — quality references take time to prepare.
Step 4: Submit the application. Complete the application on the official portal before the deadline. The application deadline for this scholarship is 29/04/2026. Late or incomplete applications are not considered.
Step 5: Await response. Shortlisting typically takes 4–8 weeks after the deadline. Successful candidates are invited to interview or additional assessment. Final decisions are announced 3–6 months after the application deadline.
Application Deadline
The application deadline for the Australian Awards Scholarship is 29/04/2026. Applications opened on February 2026 (approx.).
We strongly recommend starting your application at least 6–8 weeks before the deadline to allow sufficient time for document preparation, reference letter requests, and revisions to your personal statement. Rushed applications are visibly weaker and reduce your chance of shortlisting.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Australian Awards Scholarship fully funded?
The scholarship is classified as Fully Funded. This means it covers all or most major costs — see the Benefits section above for a full breakdown.
Who can apply for the Australian Awards Scholarship?
Applicants must be from Eligible developing countries in Indo-Pacific, Africa, Middle East — includes Ethiopia, Kenya, Tanzania, Uganda, Mozambique, Pakistan, Vietnam, PNG, Timor-Leste. Additionally, applicants must hold Bachelor's (completed); minimum 3 years work experience. Full eligibility criteria including language, age, and academic requirements are detailed in the Eligibility section above.
What is the application deadline?
The application deadline for the Australian Awards Scholarship is 29/04/2026. Late applications are not accepted, so aim to submit at least 2 weeks in advance.
Is there a bond or return obligation?
Must return to home country for 2 years after completing studies.
Where do I apply?
Apply directly on the official portal: Official Application Link. We link directly to the awarding body — ScholarshipSpace does not process applications on their behalf.