The Australia Awards Scholarship is the Australian Government’s most prestigious international development scholarship. Funded by the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT), it offers Nepali students a fully funded master’s degree at an Australian university — covering tuition, living costs, airfare, and health insurance. Nepal is a priority country for Australia Awards, and the programme has produced hundreds of Nepali alumni now leading development work across government, NGOs, and research institutions.
The 2027 intake applications are expected to open in February 2027 (with the 2026 round having closed in April 2026). Use 2026 to prepare a competitive application for the next cycle.
Quick Facts
| Detail | Value |
|---|---|
| Scholarship Name | Australia Awards Scholarships — Nepal |
| Host Country | Australia (major Australian universities) |
| Study Level | Postgraduate (Master’s Degree) |
| Funding Type | Fully Funded |
| 2027 Applications Open | ~February 2027 |
| 2027 Deadline | ~April 2027 |
| Apply Through | australiaawardsnepal.org |
What Does Australia Awards Cover?
- Full tuition: All university fees paid for the entire programme
- Return airfare: Economy class ticket from Kathmandu to Australia and back
- Establishment allowance: One-time payment to cover initial settling-in costs
- Contribution to Living Expenses (CLE): Fortnightly stipend to cover accommodation, food, and daily costs
- Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC): Full medical insurance for scholars and accompanying dependants
- Pre-course English (ELICOS): English language training in Australia before the degree begins (if required)
- Academic Support: Supplementary academic English and skills courses during study
Priority Areas for Nepal
Australia Awards aligns with Nepal’s development priorities. Priority sectors for Nepali applicants include:
- Public health, nutrition, and WASH (water, sanitation, hygiene)
- Education policy and teacher training
- Agriculture, food security, and rural development
- Economic growth, trade, and public financial management
- Governance and civil service reform
- Climate change and disaster risk reduction
Eligibility Requirements
- Nepali citizen residing in Nepal at the time of application
- Minimum age 18 (no upper age limit)
- Bachelor’s degree completed; minimum second division (50%+)
- At least 2 years of relevant professional or community experience
- English proficiency: IELTS 6.5 overall (no band below 6.0) or equivalent
- Not hold Australian permanent residency or citizenship
- Priority given to: women applicants, applicants from outside Kathmandu Valley, applicants with experience in government or development organisations
How to Apply
- Visit australiaawardsnepal.org when applications open (typically February each year)
- Complete the online application — including personal statement, career essay, and development impact plan
- Identify and list 3 preferred Australian universities and programmes
- Submit documents: transcripts, degree certificates, employment references, and English test results
- Shortlisted candidates are invited for interview in Kathmandu
- Successful candidates are announced approximately 4 months after the deadline
Tips for the 2027 Cycle
- The development impact essay is the most important section. Describe specifically how your Australian degree will contribute to Nepal’s development — be precise, use real examples from your work experience, and articulate a clear post-study return plan.
- Gender equity is a priority. Female applicants and applicants from outside Kathmandu valley receive additional consideration under Australia Awards’ equity objectives.
- Get your English score ready. IELTS preparation takes 2–3 months for most candidates. Aim for 6.5 with no band below 6.0.
- Development sector experience is essential. Candidates currently working in NGOs, government development programmes, or UN agencies have stronger profiles.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I bring my family to Australia?
- Yes. Accompanying family members receive health coverage through OSHC. Australia Awards does not provide additional financial support for dependants, but family visas are facilitated.
- Is there a bond after the scholarship?
- Yes. Australia Awards recipients must return to Nepal for a minimum of 2 years after completing their studies before they can apply for an Australian visa. This is a contractual obligation.
- Can I work part-time in Australia during my study?
- Yes. Student visa holders in Australia can work up to 48 hours per fortnight during academic sessions.
Australia Awards is among the most comprehensive and well-supported scholarships available to Nepali students. The 2027 application cycle is expected to open in February 2027 — register your interest at australiaawardsnepal.org and start preparing your development impact essay now.