Scholarships

Australia Awards Scholarships are long-term development awards funded by the Australian Government’s Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade.

The study and research opportunities provided through Australia Awards Scholarships develop the skills and knowledge of individuals to drive change and contribute to development.

Australia Awards Scholarships offer emerging leaders the opportunity to undertake full-time postgraduate study in Australia in specific fields. Under the Australia Awards – South Asia & Mongolia program, they are open to suitably qualified nationals of Bangladesh, Bhutan, India, the Maldives, Nepal, Pakistan, Sri Lanka and Mongolia.

Scholars are well supported throughout the period of their studies in Australia. Benefits include full tuition fees, return airfares, contribution to living expenses and medical insurance. On completion of their studies, recipients of Australia Awards become part of the Australia Global Alumni network, connecting them to Australia, the region and each other – building an engaged and influential global network of leaders and advocates for development.

An important area of focus for Australia Awards is the empowerment of women, and the inclusion of people with disability and individuals from disadvantaged social groups.

Read the Scholarship Policy Handbook for more details

Scholarship Policy Handbook

Applications are now open

Applications for Australia Awards Scholarships will close on 30 April 2024.

Apply now

Who can apply

Australia Awards Scholarship applications are accepted from individuals who are citizens of participating countries and meet eligibility criteria specific to their country. Under the Australia Awards – South Asia & Mongolia program, they are open to suitably qualified nationals of Bangladesh, Bhutan, India, the Maldives, Nepal, Pakistan, Sri Lanka and Mongolia. Women, people with disability and individuals from traditionally marginalised groups are encouraged to apply.

How it works

Applications for Australia Awards Scholarships open on 1 February and close on 30 April each year. Before applications open, each of the country pages on this website provide detailed information on the application process. Applications are submitted via the Online Australia Awards Scholarships Information System. Eligible applicants are assessed and shortlisted for interview.

Next steps

Successful applicants who accept an offer of an Australia Awards Scholarship sign a contract with the Commonwealth of Australia declaring that they will comply with the conditions of the Scholarship. Scholars are required to return home and to contribute to development in their home countries for a minimum of two years. Scholars are well supported throughout the period of their studies in Australia and, upon completion, become part of the Australia Global Alumni network.