Australia is one of the top study abroad destinations for international students looking for high-quality education and research opportunities. The Australian government offers prestigious and generous scholarships called the Australia Awards to support students from developing countries pursue their academic goals in Australia.
Overview of Australia Awards Scholarships
The Australia Awards Scholarships are prestigious international scholarships offered by the Australian Government to citizens of eligible developing countries in Asia, Africa, the Middle East and the Pacific. These scholarships aim to contribute to the long-term development needs of Australia’s partner countries by supporting study programs aligned to the development priorities of recipient countries.
The Australia Awards provide full financial support to scholars to study in Australia at participating universities and Technical and Further Education (TAFE) institutions. The scholarships are offered at undergraduate, master’s and doctoral degree levels across various fields of study such as engineering, health, governance, education, agriculture, law, and more.
Over 1200 scholarships were offered in 2023 with a budget of over $250 million. The application deadline for the 2024 intake is 30th April 2023.
Benefits of Australia Awards Scholarships
The Australia Awards Scholarships are fully funded scholarships that provide the following benefits:
- Full tuition fees paid directly to the university
- Return air travel – payment of a single return, economy class airfare
- Establishment allowance – a once only payment on arrival
- Contribution to living expenses (CLE) – a fortnightly allowance for basic living costs
- Introductory Academic Program (IAP) – compulsory arrival program
- Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC)
- Supplementary academic support if required
- Fieldwork allowance for research students where relevant
The financial support offered allows scholars to focus on their studies and research without worrying about expenses.
Eligibility Criteria
To be eligible for the Australia Awards Scholarships 2024, applicants must meet all of the following criteria:
- Citizenship or permanent residency of a participating country
- At least 18 years of age on 1st February 2024
- Not married or engaged to an Australian permanent resident or citizen
- Satisfy all visa requirements set by the Australian Government
- Meet English language proficiency requirements
- Meet admission requirements set by the institution
- Not be serving military personnel
- Not have previously received an Australia Award, unless resided overseas for twice as long
- Have not achieved the academic level you are applying for
How To Apply
Applications for the Australia Awards Scholarships 2024 open on 1st February 2023 and close on 30th April 2023.
Click here to access the online application system OASIS.
Follow these steps to submit your scholarship application:
- Determine eligibility – Ensure you meet all the criteria stated above
- Find a course – Search and apply for courses aligned to your country’s priorities
- Gather documents – Certified copies of academic transcripts, passport, CV, references etc.
- Complete online application – Create OASIS account and submit before deadline
- Attach supporting documents – Upload all required documents to complete application
Ensure your application is submitted before the closing date. Late or incomplete applications will not be accepted.
Selection Process and Criteria
The selection process is highly competitive with applicants assessed based on their professional and personal qualities, academic competence and, most importantly, their potential contribution to development relevant to their country’s needs.
The key selection criteria include:
- Academic competence and potential
- Potential outcome, specifically the contribution to development relevant to country needs
- Professional and personal leadership attributes including relevant work experience
- Ability to complete the proposed course of study
Only applicants who have the highest potential to drive change and impact will be awarded the scholarship.
Success Stories
Many Australia Awards alumni have become leaders and influencers in their countries and fields after completing their studies in Australia.
For example, Fred Matiang’i, the Cabinet Secretary for Interior and Coordination of the Kenyan Government completed his doctoral studies with an Australia Award Scholarship. His research focused on conflict resolution and he later implemented significant reforms in the public sector in Kenya.
Another remarkable success story is that of Shahida Pervin, the Additional Secretary to the Government of Bangladesh. After completing her Master’s in Australia, Shahida introduced significant innovations that brought transparency, efficiency and women’s empowerment in Bangladesh’s local government system.
There are many such inspiring stories of Australia Awards recipients driving impactful change in their communities and countries.
Conclusion
The Australia Awards Scholarships offer a life-changing opportunity for talented individuals from developing countries to gain quality education and skills in Australia. The fully funded scholarships enable scholars to focus on their academic goals and research that can translate to impact in their home countries.
The application process for the scholarships in 2024 is now open till 30th April 2023. Prospective applicants that meet all eligibility criteria and selection parameters should apply for this competitive program and join the Australia Awards alumni network of change-makers worldwide.
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