Australia Awards Scholarships (AAS)
Varies by recipient's choice of Australian university or institution
Key Statistics
Grant Amount
Varies by course and level of study
Location
Deadline
Varies by year and country of application
About this Scholarship
The Australia Awards Scholarships (AAS) are prestigious international scholarships funded by the Australian Government aimed at students from developing countries, particularly in the Indo-Pacific region. These scholarships support citizens from eligible countries to undertake full-time undergraduate or postgraduate study at participating Australian universities and institutions. The primary goal of the AAS program is to contribute to the development needs of partner countries by providing access to quality education and training in Australia. The scholarships emphasize leadership development and the strengthening of ties between Australia and the recipient's home country. Recipients are expected to return to their home countries upon completion of their studies to apply their newly acquired skills and knowledge to support national development. The Australia Awards Scholarships cover a range of disciplines aligned with the development priorities of the recipient’s country, including but not limited to agriculture, health, education, and governance. The program is competitive and selects candidates based on academic merit, leadership potential, and commitment to contributing to their home country’s development. The scholarship is administered by the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT) of the Australian Government and is implemented in partnership with Australian universities and other education providers.
Eligibility & Overview
Financial Grant
Full tuition fees and additional allowances
Scholarship Type
Merit based international scholarship
What's Covered
Description
The Australia Awards Scholarships (AAS) program is a long-standing initiative of the Australian Government designed to provide opportunities for citizens of developing countries to pursue higher education in Australia. The program supports full-time study at the postgraduate and undergraduate levels, with a focus on courses that align with the development priorities of the recipient’s home country. The scholarships are awarded through a competitive selection process that assesses academic achievement, leadership qualities, and the applicant’s potential to contribute to their country’s development upon completion of their studies. Recipients have the flexibility to choose from a wide range of disciplines, including agriculture, health, education, engineering, environmental science, law, public policy, and social sciences. The scholarship covers the full cost of tuition fees, return air travel to and from Australia, health insurance, and living allowances to support the student during their study period. Additionally, recipients may receive allowances for establishment costs and fieldwork if their course requires it. The program also provides supplementary academic support to help scholars adjust to the Australian education system and succeed in their studies. The Australia Awards Scholarships aim not only to enhance individual capacity but also to foster long-term partnerships and networks between Australia and participating countries. Scholars are expected to return to their home countries after completing their studies to apply their skills and knowledge in ways that contribute to sustainable development and positive social change. The program is administered by the Australian Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT) in collaboration with Australian universities and education providers. Application processes and deadlines vary by country and year, and interested candidates should consult the official Australia Awards website or their local Australian embassy or high commission for the most current information.
Key Benefits
Full tuition fees covered for the duration of the study program.
Return economy air travel between the scholar’s home country and Australia.
A contribution to living expenses to assist with accommodation, food, and other daily costs.
Health insurance (Overseas Student Health Cover) provided for the entire study period.
Establishment allowance to help with initial costs upon arrival in Australia.
Supplementary academic support including orientation and study skills workshops.
Fieldwork allowance available for courses requiring practical field experience.
Opportunity to build networks with other scholars and professionals across the Indo-Pacific region.
Access to world-class education and research facilities at Australian universities.
Financing Information
Comprehensive Funding Support for International Scholars
Australia Awards Scholarships provide extensive financial support to ensure recipients can focus on their academic and professional development without undue financial burden. The scholarship covers full tuition fees for the chosen course, which can range from undergraduate degrees to postgraduate diplomas and master's or doctoral programs. This tuition coverage includes all compulsory fees required by the university. In addition to tuition, scholars receive return economy air travel between their home country and Australia, which is arranged and funded by the program. To assist with daily living costs, recipients are granted a living allowance, which helps cover accommodation, food, transport, and other essential expenses. This allowance is paid regularly throughout the scholarship period. Health insurance is also included, providing coverage under the Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) scheme, which is mandatory for international students in Australia. Upon arrival, scholars receive an establishment allowance to assist with initial costs such as purchasing study materials, household items, and other essentials. For courses involving fieldwork or practical placements, additional allowances may be provided to cover associated expenses. The program also offers supplementary academic support including orientation sessions, language support, and study skills workshops to help scholars adapt to the Australian education environment. Funding amounts and specific benefits may vary depending on the scholar’s country of origin, level of study, and course requirements. The Australia Awards Scholarships are funded by the Australian Government through the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT) and administered in partnership with Australian universities and education providers.
Apply for Australia Awards Scholarships (AAS)
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* Disclaimer: Information provided here is subject to change. Prospective applicants should verify all details, including eligibility criteria, deadlines, and scholarship benefits, directly with the official Australia Awards Scholarships website or the relevant Australian government office before applying.