The Australian Government has officially opened applications for the Australia Awards Scholarships 2026 (for studies commencing in 2027), offering fully funded master’s degree opportunities for Pakistani professionals. This initiative aims to strengthen leadership capacity and build long-term people-to-people ties between Australia and Pakistan.
Key Details and Benefits
The scholarships are exclusively for master’s level studies at recognized Australian tertiary institutions. Successful candidates receive a comprehensive support package that covers:
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Full tuition fees.
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Return airfare and a one-time establishment allowance.
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Contribution toward living expenses and student health cover (OSHC).
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Introductory Academic Program and supplementary academic support.
Eligibility Criteria for Pakistan
Applicants must meet both general and Pakistan-specific requirements:
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Citizenship: Must be a Pakistani citizen currently residing in Pakistan.
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Education: Minimum of 16 years of education.
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Work Experience: At least five years of relevant professional experience in Pakistan.
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Age Limit: Maximum of 45 years at the time of application.
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Commitment: Scholars must return to Pakistan for at least two years after completing their studies to contribute to national development.
Priority Fields of Study
The program focuses on areas critical to Pakistan’s development, including:
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Climate Change and Environmental Policy.
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Empowerment of Women and Girls.
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Agriculture, Food Security, and Water Resources Management.
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Infrastructure and Inclusive Economic Development.
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Public Health, Education, and International Law.
Application Timeline & Process
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Opening Date: February 1, 2026.
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Closing Date: April 30, 2026 (14:00 AEST).
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Application Mode: Online via the OASIS portal.
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Outcome Notification: Successful candidates will be notified in late 2026.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What are Australia Awards Scholarships 2026?
They are fully funded master’s degree scholarships by the Australian Government for studies starting in 2027.
2. Who can apply from Pakistan?
Pakistani citizens living in Pakistan with 16 years of education and at least five years of relevant work experience.
3. What level of study is supported?
Only master’s degree programs at recognized Australian universities are eligible.
4. What expenses does the scholarship cover?
Tuition fees, return airfare, living allowance, establishment grant, OSHC, and academic support.
5. Is there an age limit for applicants?
Yes, applicants must be 45 years old or younger at the time of application.
6. Are applicants required to return to Pakistan?
Yes, scholars must return to Pakistan for at least two years after completing their studies.
7. Which fields of study are prioritized?
Climate change, women empowerment, agriculture, water management, infrastructure, public health, education, and international law.
8. When does the application period open and close?
Applications open on February 1, 2026, and close on April 30, 2026, at 14:00 AEST.
9. How can candidates apply?
Applications must be submitted online through the OASIS application portal.
10. Are women and marginalized groups encouraged to apply?
Yes, applications from women, persons with disabilities, and marginalized groups are strongly encouraged.
