The Australia Awards Scholarship is a prestigious fully funded international scholarship funded by the Australian Government. The scholarship aims to promote long-term development outcomes, strengthen people-to-people links, and build future leaders by providing opportunities for students from eligible developing countries to study in Australia.

For the 2026 intake, the Australia Awards Scholarship supports international students to pursue undergraduate and postgraduate (mainly Master’s) degrees at leading Australian universities and institutions. The program focuses on building skills and knowledge that scholars can apply to contribute to the economic and social development of their home countries.

Details About Australia Awards Scholarship 2026

• Host Country: Australia
• Scholarship Name: Australia Awards Scholarship
• Degree Level: Bachelor’s (limited), Master’s
• Funding Type: Fully Funded
• Study Mode: Full-time
• Study Location: Australian universities and institutions
• Intake Year: 2026

What the Scholarship Covers (Fully Funded Benefits)

The Australia Awards Scholarship provides comprehensive financial support for the entire duration of study. The scholarship covers full tuition fees paid directly to the institution. Scholars receive a return economy-class airfare between their home country and Australia.

A one-time establishment allowance is provided upon arrival to help with accommodation and initial living expenses. Scholars receive a fortnightly living allowance to cover day-to-day costs such as housing, food, and transport. The scholarship also includes Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) for the full period of study.

In addition, the program provides introductory academic programs, ongoing academic support, and fieldwork allowance for approved research-related travel.

Fields of Study

Fields of study vary by country and are aligned with Australia’s development priorities and the needs of participating countries. Common priority areas include education, public health, agriculture, environmental management, climate change, governance, economics, infrastructure, gender equality, and development studies.

Applicants must select programs that are relevant to their home country’s development needs, as this is a key selection criterion.

Eligible Countries

The Australia Awards Scholarship is open to applicants from selected countries in Asia, the Pacific, Africa, the Middle East, and South Asia. Eligibility depends on the applicant’s nationality and country of residence.

The official and updated list of eligible countries is published by the Australian Government and can be found here:
https://www.dfat.gov.au/people-to-people/australia-awards/participating-countries

Eligibility Criteria for Australia Awards Scholarship 2026

Applicants must meet all general and country-specific requirements. In general, applicants must be at least 18 years old by 1 February 2026 and be a citizen of an eligible country. Applicants must not hold Australian citizenship or permanent residency, nor be applying for a visa to live permanently in Australia.

Applicants must have the academic qualifications required for admission to their chosen Australian institution and program. For most Master’s programs, relevant professional work experience is required. Applicants must meet English language proficiency requirements set by the Australian university.

Applicants must agree to return to their home country for at least two years after completing their studies in Australia to contribute to national development. Applicants must also satisfy Australia’s health and character requirements for a student visa.

Application Timeline for 2026 Intake

The Australia Awards Scholarship application period for the 2026 intake typically opens in February 2025 and closes around April 2025, although deadlines vary by country. Shortlisting, interviews, and final selections are conducted throughout mid to late 2025. Successful applicants commence their studies in Australia in 2026.

Applicants must always follow the country-specific opening and closing dates published by the Australian Government or the local Australian embassy.

How to Apply for Australia Awards Scholarship 2026

Applications are submitted online or by mail, depending on the applicant’s country. Applicants must first check their country-specific eligibility and instructions.

Applicants create an account on the official Australia Awards application system, select eligible courses and institutions, and upload all required documents, including academic transcripts, certificates, work experience evidence, English language test results (if required), and a personal statement.

Shortlisted candidates may be invited for an interview and additional assessment conducted by the Australian Government or its representatives. Final selection decisions are based on academic merit, leadership potential, and relevance to development priorities.

Official application portal:
https://oasis.dfat.gov.au/

Australia Awards official website:
https://www.australiaawards.gov.au/

Selection Criteria

Selection is competitive and based on academic ability, professional experience, leadership qualities, and the applicant’s potential to contribute to development outcomes in their home country. Strong emphasis is placed on gender equality, disability inclusion, and equitable access.

Applicants who clearly demonstrate how their chosen field of study will help address challenges in their home country are more likely to be selected.

Important Advice for 2026 Applicants

Applicants should begin preparation early by reviewing country-specific guidelines, choosing development-relevant courses, and preparing strong personal statements. Ensuring all documents are complete and accurate before submission is essential, as incomplete applications are not considered.