Australia Awards Scholarships – 2028 Intake (2027 Round Closed; Next Opens ~Feb 2027)

The Australia Awards Scholarships are among the most prestigious fully funded international scholarships offered by the Australian Government via the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT). Specifically designed to support students from developing countries, including many across Africa (Kenya, Uganda, Tanzania, Nigeria, Ghana and others), these awards enable scholars to pursue full-time undergraduate or postgraduate degree programs at participating Australian universities. Through advanced education and leadership training, scholars gain critical skills and global networks that help address development challenges in their home countries.

The 2027 intake round has now closed (applications ran 1 February – 30 April 2026). Based on the program’s consistent annual pattern, the 2028 intake is expected to open around February 2027 and close around late April 2027 — exact dates are confirmed by DFAT a few weeks before the round opens. The award typically funds full tuition fees, a return economy-class airfare, a one-off establishment allowance, a living expenses contribution, Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), and preparatory academic English support where necessary. Scholars must attend an Introductory Academic Program before formal study and commit to returning home for a minimum of two years after completion.

Eligibility generally requires citizenship of an eligible developing country, and postgraduate applicants usually need relevant work experience alongside academic credentials. The process is highly competitive and emphasizes leadership potential, academic excellence, and a clear development impact plan. Applicants should monitor the official OASIS application portal for the exact opening date of the 2028 round.

Detailed Eligibility Checklist

• Citizen of an eligible participating country (most East, West, and Southern African nations are included)
• Not hold Australian or New Zealand citizenship or permanent residency
• Not be married to, engaged to, or a de facto partner of an Australian or New Zealand citizen/permanent resident at the time of application
• Meet the minimum academic requirements for your chosen course and institution
• For postgraduate applicants: typically at least two years of relevant work experience
• Not currently serving, or have served, in a foreign military or security organisation, depending on country-specific guidelines

Step-by-Step Application Process (When the Round Reopens)

1. Create an OASIS account on the official Australia Awards application portal once the round opens.
2. Select your country profile — available fields of study and priority sectors vary by country, so review your country-specific document carefully.
3. Draft your Development Impact Statement, explaining how your proposed study connects to your country’s development priorities — this is one of the most heavily weighted parts of the application.
4. Gather certified academic transcripts, references, and an English test result (IELTS, TOEFL, or PTE Academic) if required for your level of study.
5. Submit before the deadline — late applications are never accepted under any circumstances.
6. If shortlisted, attend an interview, usually conducted in-country by an Australia Awards selection panel.

Why This Scholarship Is Competitive

Australia Awards is one of the best-funded scholarship programmes available to African students — covering not just tuition but establishment costs, health cover, and a living allowance — which makes it highly sought after. Because the program explicitly ties selection to a candidate’s potential contribution to their home country’s development, applicants who can clearly articulate a return-and-contribute plan, backed by relevant work experience, tend to perform best.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I apply while the round is closed? No — OASIS only accepts applications during the official window. Bookmark the portal and prepare your documents in advance so you’re ready when it reopens.

Do I need an admission offer before applying? No — Australia Awards handles placement as part of the scholarship process; you select a field of study, not a specific pre-arranged offer.

Is work experience mandatory? It’s generally required for postgraduate study and strongly weighted in selection, though exact requirements vary by country profile.