The Australia Awards scholarships continue to support Pakistan by offering fully-funded opportunities for master’s level studies in Australia, as part of education-focused development initiatives. These scholarships are designed to strengthen Pakistan’s human capital, promote leadership development, and foster strong people-to-people connections between Australia and Pakistan.
Australia’s development assistance in Pakistan aims to create a stable, prosperous, and peaceful future for the country and the broader region. By focusing on higher education, knowledge sharing, and professional networks, the scholarships prepare emerging leaders with the skills, international exposure, and experience necessary to tackle key development challenges in Pakistan.
Applicants are evaluated based on academic performance, professional experience, leadership potential, and their ability to contribute to Pakistan’s development. The program encourages applications from women, people with disabilities, and other underrepresented groups. Priority areas of study for Pakistan include climate change, women’s empowerment, agriculture and water security, infrastructure, and inclusive economic growth, with guidance available through Australia Awards Pakistan resources.
The scholarships are offered exclusively for master’s level programs starting in 2027 at recognised Australian universities. Candidates who already hold an equivalent qualification are not eligible. Benefits cover full tuition fees, return airfare, a one-time establishment allowance, living expenses, health insurance, academic support, and fieldwork allowances when applicable.
To qualify, applicants must be Pakistani citizens residing in Pakistan, have completed 16 years of education, possess at least five years of relevant work experience, and be under 45 years old. They must submit a Development Impact and Linkages Plan outlining how they will contribute to Pakistan’s development and commit to returning to the country for at least two years after completing their studies. People with disabilities may apply with a minimum IELTS score of 6.0, with no band below 5.0.
Applications must include degree certificates, transcripts, a CV, English test results, referee reports, the Development Impact Plan, and a no-objection certificate for public sector employees. Shortlisted candidates undergo interviews and assessments based on leadership potential, academic ability, and work experience. Successful applicants will be informed in late 2026, with pre-departure training and orientation required before commencing studies.
The scholarships cover a wide range of disciplines aligned with Sustainable Development Goals, including agriculture, public policy, health, gender studies, water management, and more. Applications for the 2027 intake opened on 1 February 2026 and close on 30 April 2026, submitted online via the OASIS portal using full legal names as on passports.
Also Read: China Announces Fully-Funded Scholarships for Pakistani Students
