Australia Awards Scholarship
Fully funded by the Australian Government — tuition, living, flights, and more
The Australia Awards Scholarships are prestigious international scholarships funded by the Australian Government through the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT). They provide full financial support for citizens of developing countries, including Nepal, to undertake full-time undergraduate or postgraduate study at participating Australian universities. The scholarship covers tuition, return airfare, living allowance, introductory academic program, OSHC, and supplementary allowances. For Nepali students, this is the most comprehensive fully funded scholarship available for studying in Australia.
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Top Universities Available
Through our direct partnerships, we help you gain admission to leading universities. Here are some of the top institutions available through our Australia Awards Scholarship program.
Any participating Australian university
All levelsNationwide
Australia Awards scholars can study at any participating Australian university. All Group of Eight and most other universities participate in the program.
University of Melbourne
QS #13Melbourne, VIC
Popular choice for Australia Awards scholars in public policy, development studies, and engineering.
Australian National University
QS #30Canberra, ACT
Strong in areas relevant to development: governance, environmental policy, economics, and Asian studies.
University of Queensland
QS #40Brisbane, QLD
Excellent for agriculture, environmental science, and public health — priority areas for Nepal's development.
University of Adelaide
QS #82Adelaide, SA
Strong programs in water resource management, agriculture, and public health — aligned with Australia Awards priority areas.
James Cook University
Top 500Townsville/Cairns, QLD
Specializes in tropical science, marine biology, and rural health — unique research areas relevant to Nepal's challenges.
Eligibility Requirements
Meeting these requirements strengthens your application. Our counselors can help you identify areas to improve and present the strongest possible profile.
- Nepali citizen residing in Nepal at the time of application
- Not a citizen or permanent resident of Australia
- Have at least 2 years of work experience (for most priority areas)
- Meet the academic requirements of the chosen university and program
- Meet the English language requirements (IELTS 6.5 or equivalent — pre-course English available if close)
- Commit to returning to Nepal for at least 2 years after completing the scholarship (return obligation)
- Demonstrate how your studies will contribute to Nepal's development priorities
- Not be currently serving military personnel
Application Process
We have streamlined the study abroad application process into clear, manageable steps. Our team guides you through each stage to maximize your chances of admission.
Check Eligibility & Priority Areas
Australia Awards for Nepal focuses on specific development priority areas including health, education, governance, infrastructure, agriculture, and economic growth. We help you determine if your background and study plans align with these priorities.
IELTS/English Test Preparation
You need IELTS 6.5 (or equivalent) to be competitive. If your score is close but not quite there, Australia Awards offers pre-course English language training. We guide you on test preparation and optimal timing.
University & Program Selection
You must identify your preferred university and program before applying. We help you select programs that align with both your career goals and Australia Awards priority areas. You typically nominate 3 programs in your application.
Application Preparation
The application requires academic transcripts, IELTS results, CV, referee reports, and crucially, written statements about your development impact, leadership, and study plans. These statements are the most important part — we help you craft compelling responses that demonstrate how your studies will benefit Nepal.
Interview & Selection
Shortlisted candidates are invited for an interview (usually in Kathmandu). The panel assesses your leadership potential, development impact, and motivation. We conduct mock interviews to prepare you for this critical stage.
Pre-Departure & Scholarship Commencement
Successful scholars attend a pre-departure briefing organized by DFAT. You may receive pre-course English training or an introductory academic program in Australia before your degree begins.
Costs & Scholarships
Understanding the financial commitment is crucial for planning your study abroad journey. Here is a breakdown of typical costs and available funding options.
Full tuition fees are paid directly to the university by the Australian Government. There is no limit on tuition amount — even the most expensive programs at Group of Eight universities are fully covered.
The contribution to living expenses (CLE) is approximately AUD 3,500/month (adjusted annually). This is generous and sufficient for comfortable living in any Australian city. Additionally, you receive an establishment allowance of AUD 5,000 on arrival for initial setup costs.
Total scholarship value over a 2-year Masters: approximately AUD 180,000-220,000 (NPR 2-2.7 crore). This includes tuition (AUD 50,000-100,000), living allowance (AUD 84,000 over 2 years), return flights (AUD 3,000-4,000), OSHC (AUD 2,000), and establishment allowance (AUD 5,000). It is one of the most valuable scholarships available globally.
Costs are estimates and vary by university and city. Call +977-9849998031 or fill out the form for personalized cost estimates based on your preferred universities.
Student Life
Studying abroad is about more than just academics. Here is what you can expect from life as an international student.
Australia Awards scholars are part of an elite international community. You join a global alumni network of over 100,000 Australia Awards graduates worldwide, including many influential leaders in Nepal. The scholarship program organizes networking events, leadership workshops, and professional development opportunities throughout your study period.
As a fully funded scholar, you can focus entirely on your studies without financial stress. The generous living allowance means you can participate fully in university life — joining clubs, attending conferences, and engaging in research projects. While you have work rights, most scholars do not need to work and can dedicate their time to academics and networking.
The return obligation (staying in Nepal for 2 years after completion) is an important commitment. It ensures that the knowledge and skills you gain benefit Nepal directly. Many Australia Awards alumni have gone on to hold senior positions in government, NGOs, and the private sector in Nepal, creating lasting impact on the country's development.
Australia Awards Scholarship — Frequently Asked Questions
When is the application deadline for Australia Awards?
How competitive is the Australia Awards scholarship?
What is the return obligation?
Can I apply for a PhD through Australia Awards?
Do I need work experience to apply?
Ready to Australia Awards Scholarship?
Get free, expert counseling from StudyAustralia Nepal. We will help you with university selection, applications, scholarships, and visa processing. Call +977-9849998031 or book online.