Australian Award Scholarships
Australian Government
Key Statistics
Grant Amount
Varies by award and level of study
Location
Deadline
Varies by year and applicant country
About this Scholarship
The Australian Award Scholarships (AAS) are prestigious international scholarships funded by the Australian Government to support students from developing countries in pursuing full-time undergraduate or postgraduate studies in Australia. These scholarships aim to contribute to the development needs of partner countries by building the capacity of individuals who can contribute to their home countries’ social and economic development. The AAS program is aligned with Australia's foreign policy objectives and development assistance priorities. It offers recipients the opportunity to undertake study at Australian universities, TAFE institutions, or other accredited education providers. The scholarships cover a wide range of disciplines, reflecting the diverse development priorities of participating countries. Recipients are selected based on academic merit, leadership potential, and commitment to contributing to their home country after completion of their studies. The Australian Award Scholarships are part of a broader Australian Government initiative to strengthen international relations and promote educational exchange. The program includes tailored support services to assist scholars during their study period in Australia, including pre-departure briefings, orientation sessions, and ongoing academic and welfare support. These scholarships are highly competitive and are awarded through a rigorous selection process managed by Australian diplomatic missions in applicant countries. The program’s duration varies depending on the level of study, ranging from short courses to multi-year degree programs. Overall, the Australian Award Scholarships represent a significant investment in human capital development and international cooperation.
Eligibility & Overview
Financial Grant
Full tuition fees, living allowance, travel costs, health cover
Scholarship Type
Mixed (merit and need based)
What's Covered
Description
The Australian Award Scholarships are a key component of Australia’s international development assistance program. They are designed to provide opportunities for individuals from developing countries to undertake study and research in Australia that will contribute to the long-term development of their home countries. The scholarships are offered across a broad spectrum of academic disciplines, reflecting the diverse development challenges and priorities of partner countries. Applicants are typically nominated or supported by their home governments or relevant agencies, and selection criteria emphasize academic excellence, leadership qualities, and a clear commitment to applying acquired knowledge and skills in their home country. The program supports both postgraduate and undergraduate study, as well as short-term professional development courses, depending on the country and specific scholarship round. The scholarship covers full tuition fees, a living allowance to cover accommodation and daily expenses, travel costs to and from Australia, health insurance, and other allowances to support the scholar’s academic journey. The Australian Award Scholarships also include pre-departure briefings and ongoing support throughout the study period to help scholars adapt to life in Australia and succeed academically. Upon completion of their studies, scholars are expected to return to their home countries to contribute to national development priorities, often taking up roles in government, academia, or civil society. The program is administered by the Australian Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT) in partnership with Australian universities and other educational institutions. The number of scholarships awarded each year varies depending on bilateral agreements and development priorities. Applicants should be aware that application processes, eligibility criteria, and deadlines vary by country and year, and they should consult the official Australian Government or local Australian diplomatic mission websites for the most current information.
Key Benefits
Full coverage of tuition fees at an Australian educational institution
Provision of a living allowance to support accommodation and daily expenses
Return airfare between the scholar’s home country and Australia
Comprehensive Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) for the duration of the scholarship
Access to pre-departure and ongoing academic support services
Opportunity to study in a wide range of disciplines aligned with development priorities
Networking opportunities with other international scholars and Australian professionals
Enhancement of leadership skills and capacity building for contributing to home country development
Financing Information
Comprehensive Funding Structure of Australian Award Scholarships
The Australian Award Scholarships provide a comprehensive funding package designed to cover the essential costs associated with studying and living in Australia. The funding includes full payment of tuition fees at the selected Australian university or educational institution, which ensures that scholars can focus on their studies without financial burden related to academic fees. In addition to tuition, the scholarship provides a living allowance intended to cover accommodation, food, transport, and other daily expenses, recognizing the higher cost of living in Australia compared to many developing countries. Return airfare is included to facilitate travel between the scholar’s home country and Australia at the beginning and end of the scholarship period. The scholarship also covers Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), which is a mandatory health insurance for international students in Australia, providing access to medical and hospital services. Furthermore, scholars receive an establishment allowance upon arrival to assist with initial expenses such as setting up accommodation and purchasing study materials. The Australian Award Scholarships also incorporate supplementary support such as academic mentoring and access to university support services to enhance the overall study experience. Funding amounts and specific inclusions can vary depending on the country of origin, level of study, and duration of the scholarship. The program is funded by the Australian Government through the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT), reflecting Australia’s commitment to international development through education. It is important for applicants to consult official sources to understand the exact financial provisions applicable to their scholarship offer.
Apply for Australian Award Scholarships
Don't miss the deadline! Our experts can help you with the application process and documentation.
* Disclaimer: Information provided here is based on publicly available data as of the knowledge cutoff date. Scholarship details, including eligibility, deadlines, and funding amounts, may change over time. Prospective applicants should verify all information directly with the Australian Government Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT) or the relevant Australian diplomatic mission in their country before applying.