The Australia Awards Scholarships for the 2025-26 academic year offer fully funded opportunities for individuals from participating countries to pursue full-time undergraduate or postgraduate studies in Australia. These scholarships, funded by the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade, support students from developing Indo-Pacific countries. Australia Awards Scholarships is a fully funded scholarships that enable recipients to pursue undergraduate or postgraduate studies at top Australian universities or TAFE institutions.
According to the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT) around 1,151 Australia Awards scholarships were provided to individuals for the academic year 2025. Students can remain in Australia for two years after completing the scholarship. Applications open on February 1, 2025, and close on April 30, 2025.
Only for Palau, applications open on 3 June 2025, and close on 2 August 2025.
Universities and Institutions:
A wide range of Australian institutions participate in the Australia Awards Scholarships program, including:
- Funded by: Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade
- Host Country: Australia
- Degree Level: Bachelors, Masters, PhD
- Duration:
- Bachelor’s Degree: 3 to 4 years
- Master’s Degree: 1.5 to 2 years
- PhD (Doctoral Degree): 3 to 4 years
Australia Awards – Participating Institutions
The following Australian institutions participate in Australia Awards.
- Australian Catholic University
- Aviation Australia
- Bond University
- Box Hill Institute of TAFE
- Bureau of Meteorology
- Canberra Institute of Technology
- Central Queensland University
- Chisholm University of TAFE
- Charles Darwin University
- Charles Sturt University
- Chisholm Institute of TAFE
- Curtin University of Technology
- Deakin University
- Edith Cowan University
- Federation University
- Gold Coast Institute of TAFE
- Flinders University
- Griffith University
- Holmesglen Institute of TAFE
- James Cook University
- Kangan Batman Institute of TAFE
- La Trobe University
- Macquarie University
- Monash University
- Murdoch University
- Northern Melbourne Institute of TAFE
- Queensland University of Technology
- RMIT University
- Southbank Institute of Technology
- Southern Cross University
- Sunshine Coast Institute of Technology
- Swinburne University of Technology
- TAFE NSW
- TAFE Queensland Brisbane
- TAFE SA
- Tasmanian Polytechnic
- The Australian National University
- The University of Adelaide
- The University of Melbourne
- The University of New England
- The University of New South Wales (UNSW)
- The University of Newcastle
- The University of Notre Dame
- The University of Queensland
- The University of Sydney
- The University of Western Australia
- Tropical North Queensland TAFE
- University of Ballarat
- University of Canberra
- University of South Australia
- University of Southern Queensland
- University of the Sunshine Coast
- University of Tasmania (including the Australian Maritime College)
- University of Technology Sydney
- University of Wollongong
- Victoria University
- Western Sydney University
- William Angliss Institute of TAFE
Study Areas for Australia Awards Scholarships 2025-26
The scholarship supports a variety of study areas aligned with the development needs of participating countries. Some key fields include:
- Engineering & Technology (Civil, Electrical, Mechanical, Environmental)
- Health Sciences (Public Health, Nursing, Medicine, Pharmacy)
- Agriculture & Environment (Agribusiness, Forestry, Climate Change, Water Management)
- Education (Teaching, Early Childhood Education, Educational Leadership)
- Public Policy & Governance (International Relations, Law, Development Studies)
- Business & Economics (Finance, Management, Accounting, Economics)
- Science & Innovation (Data Science, Artificial Intelligence, Renewable Energy)
Note: Priority study areas vary by country. Applicants should check their country’s specific eligibility guidelines.
Australia Awards Scholarships Benefits:
Recipients of the Australia Awards Scholarships receive comprehensive support, including:
- Full Tuition Fees – Covers entire cost of study.
- Return Airfare – One economy-class ticket to and from Australia.
- Establishment Allowance – One-time payment for accommodation, books, and study materials.
- Living Stipend (CLE) – Fortnightly allowance for basic expenses.
- Introductory Academic Program (IAP) – Orientation before academic studies begin.
- Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) – Medical insurance (excluding pre-existing conditions).
- Pre-course English (PCE) – Language training if required.
- Supplementary Academic Support – Extra assistance for academic success.
- Fieldwork Support – One return airfare for research-related fieldwork.
Benefits Not Included:
The scholarship does not cover expenses such as:
- Costs for bringing family members to Australia
- Additional travel during the course of study
- Personal expenses beyond the living stipend
Eligibility Criteria for Australia Awards Scholarships 2025-26
General Requirements:
- Must be 18 years or older by February 1 of the scholarship year.
- Must be a citizen of an eligible country and apply from their home country.
- Cannot be an Australian or New Zealand citizen/permanent resident.
- Cannot be married, engaged, or in a de facto relationship with an Australian or New Zealand citizen/permanent resident.
- Must not be currently serving in the military.
- Must not have received a long-term Australia Award in the past 4 years.
- Must have no criminal convictions, especially related to Child Protection and PSEAH.
- Must meet the admission requirements of the chosen Australian institution.
- Must meet the visa requirements for a Student Visa (Subclass 500).
- Cannot apply for a degree lower than their current qualification (e.g., applying for a Master’s when they already hold a PhD).
- Must disclose any relationship with Australia Awards staff for transparency.
Exceptions:
- Applicants working for their government or regional organizations in a third country.
- Applicants studying in Australian or New Zealand secondary schools.
- Applicants from neighboring eligible countries where regional agreements apply.
English Language Requirements
- Exemptions:
- Native English speakers or those with previous education in English (proof required).
- Accepted Tests & Minimum Scores:
- IELTS: Overall 6.5, with no band below 6.0.
- TOEFL iBT: Overall 84, with at least 21 in each section.
- PTE Academic: Overall 58, with no skill score below 50.
- Pre-Course English Training (Up to 6 months):
- Provided if the applicant is slightly below the required scores:
- IELTS: Within 0.5 points of 6.5
- TOEFL: Within 10 points of 84
- PTE: Within 7 points of 58
- Provided if the applicant is slightly below the required scores:
Pre-Course English Language Training (PCET) for Australia Awards Scholarships
- In-Home Country Training: Some applicants may receive pre-course English training in their home country before moving to Australia.
- Expected Improvement: Six months of training typically improves scores by:
- IELTS: +0.5 points
- TOEFL iBT: +10 points
- PTE Academic: +7 points
- Decision by Program Areas: Training is provided before a provisional offer is made.
- Deadline: Awardees must pass their English test in time to start their program.
- English Proof Submission: Applicants must provide evidence in OASIS before placement.
- In-Australia Training: Only available if an applicant is within:
- IELTS: 0.5 points
- TOEFL iBT: 10 points
- PTE Academic: 7 points of the required university score.
- Institutions Cannot Accept: Applicants unlikely to reach the required English level within six
Eligible Countries
Citizens of the following countries are eligible for the Australia Awards Scholarship:
- Asia
- Bangladesh
- Bhutan
- Cambodia
- Indonesia
- Laos
- Maldives
- Mongolia
- Myanmar
- Nepal
- Pakistan
- Philippines
- Sri Lanka
- Thailand
- Timor-Leste
- Vietnam
- Pacific
- Federated States of Micronesia
- Fiji
- French Polynesia
- Kiribati
- Marshall Islands
- Nauru
- New Caledonia
- Niue
- Palau
- Papua New Guinea
- Samoa
- Solomon Islands
- Tonga
- Tuvalu
- Vanuatu
- Wallis and Futuna
- Africa
- Algeria
- Benin
- Botswana
- Côte d’Ivoire
- Democratic Republic of Congo
- Egypt
- Ethiopia
- Ghana
- Kenya
- Madagascar
- Malawi
- Mauritius
- Morocco
- Mozambique
- Namibia
- Nigeria
- Rwanda
- Senegal
- Sierra Leone
- South Africa
- Tanzania
- Uganda
- Zambia
- Zimbabwe
Required Documents:
Applicants typically need to provide:
- Proof of citizenship
- Academic transcripts and certificates
- English language proficiency test results
- Curriculum Vitae (CV)
- References
- Development Impact Plan (if required)
Application Process:
To apply for the Australia Awards Scholarships:
- Check the opening and closing dates for your country.
- Select your country of citizenship from the list to access country-specific information.
- Read the Australia Awards Scholarships Policy Handbook for detailed information on eligibility, selection processes, entitlements, and responsibilities.
- Submit your application through the Online Australia Scholarships Information System (OASIS) before the closing date.
Tips for a Successful Application:
- Start your application early to gather all necessary documents.
- Ensure you meet the specific eligibility criteria for your country.
- Clearly articulate your proposed study program and its relevance to your country’s development.
- Seek feedback on your application from mentors or advisors.
- Proofread your application to avoid errors.
Living Expenses for International Students in Australia
The scholarship provides a fortnightly stipend to cover basic living expenses, but the actual cost of living depends on the city and lifestyle. Here’s an estimated monthly budget:
| Expense | Estimated Cost (AUD/month) |
|---|---|
| Accommodation (Rent) | $900 – $2,500 (varies by city) |
| Food & Groceries | $300 – $600 |
| Utilities (Electricity, Internet) | $150 – $250 |
| Transport (Public) | $100 – $200 |
| Health Insurance (OSHC) | Covered by scholarship |
| Miscellaneous (Entertainment, Phone) | $200 – $500 |
| Total Estimated Cost | $1,600 – $4,000 |
- Cheapest Cities: Adelaide, Hobart, Darwin
- Most Expensive Cities: Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane
Why Choose This Opportunity?
The Australia Awards Scholarships offer a unique chance to gain a world-class education while developing skills and knowledge that can contribute to your home country’s development. The comprehensive support provided ensures that scholars can focus on their studies and make the most of their time in Australia.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) – Australia Awards Scholarships
- Who is eligible for Australia Awards Scholarships?
- Citizens of eligible developing countries with strong academic and leadership potential.
- What does the scholarship cover?
- Full tuition fees, travel, establishment allowance, living stipend, health insurance, and research support.
- Is there an English language requirement?
- Yes. Applicants must meet the required IELTS, TOEFL, or PTE scores. Pre-course English training may be available.
- Can I apply for any course?
- No. The scholarship supports priority study areas relevant to your home country’s development.
- Do I have to return to my home country after graduation?
- Yes. Scholars must return within at least two years to contribute to their country’s development.
For more information and to apply, visit the official Australia Awards Scholarships website