Australia Awards Scholarship Information – Nepal
Australia Awards Scholarships
Australia Awards is a prestigious international scholarship program offered by the Government of Australia. It also includes short-term training opportunities. The scholarship provides international students with the chance to pursue postgraduate degrees at globally recognized Australian universities. Recipients receive all necessary financial and academic support required to complete their studies.
All recipients of the Australia Awards become part of the Australia Global Alumni Network, a community of former students from around the world who studied in Australia. This platform allows them to stay connected, collaborate with peers in leadership roles, and promote Australia's high-quality education system. It serves as a valuable network for building goodwill ambassadors across sectors and regions.
Eligibility Criteria
Applicants seeking admission to a postgraduate program at Australian universities under the Australia Awards must meet the following requirements:
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Must have completed at least a four-year bachelor’s degree, or a postgraduate degree following a three-year bachelor’s degree.*
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Must have at least three years of full-time work experience after completing the required degree.
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Must have secured a minimum overall IELTS score of 6.5, with no individual band less than 6.0, or equivalent scores in TOEFL or PTE.**
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The English test results must remain valid until 1 January of the following year (validity may vary depending on university requirements).
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Additional eligibility conditions may apply. All criteria must be fulfilled.
For more details, applicants are encouraged to contact the Australia Awards office in Nepal.
Study Programs
Australia Awards is available for postgraduate studies only. The program may be delivered either by coursework (classroom-based) or by research (thesis-based). Applicants must choose their field of study from the priority development sectors, which are reviewed annually.
For detailed information on eligible programs and priority sectors, contact the Australia Awards Nepal office.
Scholarship Benefits
Recipients of the Australia Awards Scholarship receive comprehensive financial support, including:
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Round-trip airfare to and from Australia
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One-time establishment allowance upon arrival
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Living allowance
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Full tuition fees
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Overseas student health insurance
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Additional support, if needed
Students with disabilities may receive further reasonable adjustment support to enable an inclusive learning environment.
Spouses and children under the age of 18 may travel to Australia as dependents.
Application Process
Applications are generally open from 1 February to 30 April each year. These applications are for programs beginning in January of the following year. For instance, applications opening on 1 February 2025 will be for programs commencing in January 2026.
Applications must be submitted online along with all required documents. For detailed guidance, contact the Australia Awards Nepal office.
Selection Process
All applications that meet the eligibility criteria are reviewed by a panel of experts based on:
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Academic qualifications
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Leadership qualities
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Potential to contribute to national development
Applicants who score highest are shortlisted and invited for an interview. Those selected will receive support in:
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Admission to their chosen course and university
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Visa application assistance
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Pre-departure orientation
The selection process is highly competitive, so early preparation is strongly recommended.
Inclusion and Disability Support
The Government of Australia values the contributions of individuals from all groups and communities. The selection process aims to be inclusive and equitable, with emphasis on participation from women, traditionally marginalized groups, and persons with disabilities.
Applicants from underrepresented groups may receive consideration for the additional challenges they face during such competitive processes. Preference is given to those who have not previously had the chance to study abroad.
For selected candidates with disabilities, needs assessments are conducted to provide appropriate academic and non-academic support, allowing them equal access to the scholarship experience.
The application process is transparent and competitive, and all applicants—regardless of gender, ethnicity, or disability—are provided with equal opportunity to participate.
Contact Information
Australia Awards – Nepal
Meghalaya Building, Second Floor
Kamaladi, Kathmandu
Phone: 01-4002614
Email: [email protected]
Website: http://australiaawardsnepal.org
Notes:
* Applicants with a three-year bachelor’s degree must have completed at least one year of postgraduate study. Those with a two-year bachelor’s degree must have completed a two-year postgraduate program.
** For women, persons with disabilities, marginalized groups, and government employees, an IELTS overall score of 6.0 and no band below 5.5 is acceptable. However, if selected, they must meet the university's English language requirements before the program begins.
