Australia Awards Bachelor Scholarship 2026

Scholarship Description

The Australia Awards Bachelor Scholarship 2026 is a prestigious, fully funded scholarship offered by the Australian Government's Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT). It aims to contribute to the development needs of Australia's partner countries, particularly in the Indo-Pacific region, by providing outstanding individuals with the opportunity to undertake full-time undergraduate study at participating Australian universities and Technical and Further Education institutions.

This scholarship not only covers all educational and living expenses but also invests in future leaders who will drive change and contribute to development in their home countries. Recipients become part of a global network of over 100,000 alumni who are making a difference across various sectors.

Scholarship Location

The scholarship is tenable at participating Australian universities and TAFE institutions across Australia. Awardees study on-campus in Australia for the full duration of their undergraduate program.

Scholarship Deadline

Application deadlines for Australia Awards Scholarships vary by country of citizenship. Applications typically open on February 1, 2026 and close on April 30, 2026 for most participating countries. However, deadlines can differ, and some countries have earlier or later closing dates.

Host Institution

Participating Australian universities and TAFE institutions. The specific host university is determined through the application and placement process, which considers the applicant's chosen field of study and the availability of programs at partner institutions.

Level and Fields of study

Level: Undergraduate (Bachelor) degree programs. The scholarship may also include preparatory training and English language courses where necessary.

Fields: All fields of study that contribute to the development priorities of the applicant's home country. Priority areas often include agriculture, education, engineering, health, economic development, gender equality, climate change, and governance. Applicants should consult their country's specific priority areas.

Target group

Citizens of developing countries in the Indo-Pacific region that are eligible for Australia Awards Scholarships. Eligible countries include nations in Southeast Asia, South Asia, East Asia, the Pacific, and Africa. Applicants must be at least 18 years of age at the time of commencement of the scholarship.

Duration & Amount

Duration: For the minimum period necessary to complete the undergraduate program, including any preparatory or English language training.

Amount (Fully Funded): The Australia Awards Scholarship provides comprehensive benefits including:

• Full tuition fees – paid directly to the Australian institution
• Return air travel – economy class airfare to and from Australia
• Establishment allowance – one-time payment for accommodation, textbooks, and study materials
• Contribution to Living Expenses – fortnightly stipend for basic living costs
• Overseas Student Health Cover – health insurance for the scholarship duration
• Introductory Academic Program – pre-study program on living and studying in Australia
• Pre-course English – English language training if required

Scholarship Eligibility

Citizenship: Must be a citizen of a participating country (developing countries in Indo-Pacific, Africa, etc.) and residing in that country at the time of application.

Academic requirements: Satisfy all admission requirements for the proposed undergraduate program, including English language proficiency (IELTS/TOEFL).

Work experience: Not mandatory for undergraduate level, but applicants must demonstrate leadership potential and commitment to contributing to their home country's development.

Return obligation: Scholars must leave Australia for a minimum of two years after completing their scholarship. Failure to comply results in a debt for the total cost of the scholarship.

Application procedure

1. Check your country's eligibility: Visit the official Australia Awards website and navigate to your country's page to confirm eligibility and country-specific priority areas.


2. Prepare documents: Gather certified copies of academic transcripts (high school certificates), English language test results (IELTS, TOEFL, etc.), passport, and letters of recommendation.


3. Research institutions and courses: Identify participating Australian universities and undergraduate programs aligned with your career goals and your country's development priorities.


4. Submit online application: Complete the online application form through the Online Australia Awards Scholarships Information System (OASIS) during the open application period (typically Feb–April 2026).


5. Shortlisting and interview: If shortlisted, you will be invited for an interview by the Australian Embassy/High Commission in your country.


6. Final selection and placement: Successful candidates receive a scholarship offer and are placed at an Australian institution. Accept the offer by the specified deadline.


7. Pre-departure and arrival: Complete pre-departure briefings, visa application, and attend the Introductory Academic Program (IAP) upon arrival in Australia.

Official Website

Australia Awards Scholarships – Official Website (for country-specific information and application portal).