Overview
Australia Awards Scholarships are long-term awards administered by the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT). They aim to contribute to the development needs of Australia's partner countries by providing full scholarships for students to undertake Master's or PhD study at participating Australian universities.
🎓 What's Covered
- Full tuition fees
- Return airfare
- Establishment allowance — one-time payment for settling in
- Contribution to living expenses (CLE) — fortnightly stipend
- Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC)
- Introductory Academic Program (IAP) — pre-course orientation
- Supplementary academic support
- Fieldwork allowance (for research students)
Eligibility
- Citizen of a participating country (varies — check DFAT country list)
- Not an Australian citizen or permanent resident
- Minimum 2 years of work experience
- Meet minimum academic entry requirements for your chosen program
- Meet English language requirements (IELTS 6.5 overall, no band below 6.0)
- Government employees and those in development sectors often prioritized
- Must return home for 2 years after completion
Application Process
Check Country Eligibility
Confirm your country is on the eligible list and review priority development sectors for your country. Applications must align with these priorities.
Apply Online (OASIS)
Submit your application through the OASIS portal. Include academic transcripts, CV, referee reports, and a development impact statement. Deadline: usually April–May (varies by country).
Country-Level Shortlisting
Applications are assessed locally by the Australian Embassy/High Commission. Shortlisted candidates are invited for interviews and panel assessments.
Final Selection & University Placement
Selected candidates receive offers from Australian universities. Results announced: October–December. Mobilization begins January–February.
Common Priority Sectors
| Sector | Examples |
|---|---|
| Education | Education policy, teacher training, curriculum development |
| Health | Public health, epidemiology, health systems strengthening |
| Governance | Public administration, anti-corruption, rule of law |
| Economics | Economic policy, trade, finance, agriculture |
| Infrastructure | Water and sanitation, urban planning, engineering |
| Environment | Climate change adaptation, conservation, sustainability |
Country-Specific Tips
🇵🇰 Pakistan
Managed by the Australian High Commission in Islamabad. Pakistan has a reasonable allocation. Priority areas include governance, education, agriculture, and gender equality. Government and development sector employees competitive.
🇧🇩 Bangladesh
Strong program for Bangladesh. Priority areas include disaster management, climate resilience, and governance. Australian High Commission in Dhaka coordinates. IELTS must be valid at time of application.
🇮🇳 India
India's eligibility varies — check current DFAT guidelines. When available, focus areas include science, technology, innovation, and climate. Australian High Commission in New Delhi manages applications.
🇳🇵 Nepal
Good allocation for Nepal. Priority sectors include disaster risk management, infrastructure, education, and health. Australian Embassy in Kathmandu. Strong development narratives essential.
🇳🇬 Nigeria
Nigeria's eligibility may vary by year. When available, governance, agriculture, and extractive industries are priority areas. Australian High Commission in Abuja manages the program.