SYDNEY – February 2, 2026: Australia has announced fully funded master’s scholarships for Pakistani students under the Australia Awards program, offering opportunities to study at recognized Australian universities.
The scholarships cover complete financial support and are aimed at students who want to pursue postgraduate education and contribute to Pakistan’s development.
According to Australian authorities, candidates will be selected on the basis of academic merit, professional experience, leadership ability, and their potential role in national progress. Applications from women, persons with disabilities, and underrepresented groups will be prioritized.
Priority study areas
Preference will be given to applicants pursuing subjects linked to:
- Climate change challenges
- Women and girls’ empowerment
- Agriculture and water management
- Infrastructure including roads and buildings
- Overall economic development
The awards are only for master’s degrees, and selected students will begin their studies in 2027. Applicants who already hold a master’s degree at the same level are not eligible.
What the scholarship covers
The program includes:
- Full tuition fees
- Living expenses
- Return air travel
- Academic support
- Health insurance
- Overseas student health coverage
- Introductory academic training
- Fieldwork allowance where required
Eligibility criteria
Applicants must:
- Be Pakistani citizens residing in Pakistan
- Apply from within Pakistan
- Have at least 16 years of education
- Possess 5 years of relevant work experience
- Be under 45 years of age
Candidates must not hold Australian citizenship, permanent residency, or have applied for permanent migration.
Persons with disabilities may apply with an IELTS score of 6.0, provided no band is below 5.0. Selected candidates must meet the required English language score before starting studies.
Documents required
Applicants must submit all documents listed in the policy handbook and Pakistan-specific conditions. Required materials include:
- Academic degrees and transcripts
- Detailed CV
- Valid English test results
- Academic and employment references
- Completed Development Impact and Linkages Plan
- No Objection Certificate for government employees
All documents must be colour scanned, clearly labelled, and merged into a single PDF per category.
Selection process and timeline
After eligibility screening, authorities will shortlist candidates. Only shortlisted applicants will be contacted and invited for interviews.
Final evaluation will consider academic ability, leadership qualities, professional background, and development impact.
Applications for the 2027 intake opened on February 1, 2026, and will close on April 30, 2026 at 2:00 pm Australian Eastern Standard Time. Late or incomplete submissions will not be considered.
Successful scholars must return to Pakistan and serve the country for at least 2 years after completing their studies.
Final results are expected to be announced by the end of 2026.
Application process
All applications must be submitted online through the OASIS portal. Applicants are required to enter their full legal name exactly as shown on their passport. Nicknames or abbreviations are not allowed.
Selected candidates will receive course counseling, per-departure briefings, and orientation at their universities. Additional preparatory training may also be required after arrival in Australia.