Australia has announced fully funded Australia Awards Scholarships for Pakistani students who want to study Master’s degrees in Australia. These scholarships are designed to support Pakistan’s development by investing in education, leadership, and professional skills.
The program is funded by the Australian Government and focuses on building long-term links between Australia and Pakistan. It especially supports students who want to return to Pakistan and contribute to national development after completing their studies.
What Are Australia Awards Scholarships?
Australia Awards is an international scholarship program that helps students from partner countries gain higher education in Australia. For Pakistan, the program focuses on developing future leaders who can work on major challenges like climate change, economic growth, education, and social inclusion.
The scholarships are 100% funded, meaning selected students do not need to worry about tuition fees or major living costs.
Main Objectives of the Program
The Australia Awards program aims to:
- Build strong leadership and professional skills
- Support Pakistan’s long-term development goals
- Create people-to-people connections between Australia and Pakistan
- Promote inclusion of women, people with disabilities, and marginalized groups
Selection panels look at academic performance, work experience, leadership potential, and the applicant’s ability to bring positive change in Pakistan.
Priority Fields of Study for Pakistan
The governments of Australia and Pakistan decide the priority areas together. These areas are reviewed regularly to match Pakistan’s development needs.
🔹 Priority Study Areas (Highlighted)
| Field | Focus Area |
|---|---|
| 🌱 Climate Change | Environmental protection, sustainability |
| 👩 Women & Girls | Empowerment, gender equality |
| 🚜 Agriculture | Food security, rural development |
| 💧 Water Security | Water management, sanitation |
| 🏗️ Infrastructure | Urban planning, development |
| 📈 Economic Growth | Inclusive and sustainable economy |
Level of Study and Intake Year
- Degree Level: Master’s only
- Study Location: Australia
- Intake Year: 2027
- Institutions: Recognized Australian universities
Applicants who already have an equivalent Master’s degree are not eligible.
Scholarship Benefits (Fully Funded)
Australia Awards scholarships cover all major expenses during the study period.
✅ Key Benefits (Highlighted)
| Benefit | Details |
|---|---|
| ✈️ Airfare | Return economy-class ticket |
| 🎓 Tuition Fees | Full university fees |
| 💰 Living Allowance | Contribution to daily expenses |
| 🧳 Establishment Allowance | One-time payment on arrival |
| 🏥 Health Insurance | Overseas Student Health Cover |
| 📚 Academic Support | Introductory program and extra help |
| 🧪 Fieldwork Allowance | For required research or fieldwork |
Eligibility Criteria for Pakistani Applicants
Applicants must meet both general and Pakistan-specific conditions.
📌 Basic Eligibility (Highlighted)
| Requirement | Condition |
|---|---|
| Nationality | Pakistani citizen, living in Pakistan |
| Education | 16 years of education |
| Work Experience | Minimum 5 years (relevant) |
| Age Limit | Maximum 45 years |
| Citizenship Status | No Australian citizenship or PR |
| Commitment | Must return to Pakistan for 2 years |
Each applicant must submit a Development Impact and Linkages Plan, explaining how their studies will benefit Pakistan.
Applicants with disabilities can apply with IELTS 6.0, as long as no band is below 5.0.
Required Documents
Applicants must upload scanned color copies of documents, combined into single PDFs.
📂 Mandatory Documents
- Academic degrees and transcripts
- Updated CV
- Valid IELTS or English test result
- Academic and employment referee reports
- Development Impact and Linkages Plan
- No Objection Certificate (for public sector employees)
Incomplete or late submissions are not accepted.
Selection Process
The selection process is competitive and transparent.
- Eligibility screening
- Shortlisting
- Interviews
- Final selection
Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted. Final results will be announced in late 2026. Travel approval depends on Australian government rules at that time.
Training and Orientation
Selected candidates must attend:
- Pre-departure briefings
- Course counseling
- Introductory Academic Program at their university
Some students may also need extra training after arriving in Australia.
Eligible Fields of Study
The program supports many subjects linked to Sustainable Development Goals, including:
Agriculture, public health, education, economics, gender studies, climate policy, renewable energy, water management, international law, public policy, peace and conflict studies, disaster management, finance, and women’s studies.
Application Timeline for 2027 Intake
🗓️ Important Dates (Highlighted)
| Event | Date |
|---|---|
| Applications Open | 1 February 2026 |
| Applications Close | 30 April 2026 |
| Deadline Time | 14:00 AEST |
Late or incomplete applications will not be considered.
How to Apply
All applications must be submitted online through the OASIS portal.
Applicants must use their exact legal name as shown on their passport. Nicknames or short forms are not allowed.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1: Are these scholarships fully funded?
Yes, they cover tuition, airfare, living expenses, health insurance, and other costs.
Q2: Can fresh graduates apply?
No, at least five years of relevant work experience is required.
Q3: Is IELTS mandatory?
Yes, a valid English test is required. Some flexibility is available for applicants with disabilities.
Q4: Can I stay in Australia after studies?
No, scholars must return to Pakistan for at least two years.
Q5: Which degree levels are offered?
Only Master’s degree programs are supported.
Conclusion
Australia Awards Scholarships offer a golden opportunity for Pakistani professionals to study in Australia without financial burden. With full funding, strong academic support, and a clear focus on Pakistan’s development, this program is ideal for those who want to grow professionally and give back to their country.
If you meet the eligibility criteria and have a clear vision for Pakistan’s future, this scholarship can be a life-changing step forward.
Rana Shahriyar is a dedicated content writer and contributor at 8171 Rashan Program. With a strong interest in social welfare programs and government initiatives, his work focuses on delivering clear, reliable, and easy to understand information for the public.