The Australian Government has opened applications for its prestigious Australia Awards scholarships, giving citizens of eligible African countries, including Kenya, the chance to pursue a master’s degree at an Australian university.
Aimed at empowering emerging leaders, the scholarships equip recipients with skills and knowledge to drive development, promote inclusive policies, and strengthen people-to-people links with Australia.
“Australia Awards scholarships are prestigious international awards offered by the Australian Government to the next generation of global leaders in developing countries. Through study and research, recipients develop the skills and knowledge to drive change and help build enduring people-to-people links with Australia,” read part of the announcement.
The program particularly encourages applications from women, people with disabilities, and other marginalised groups.
Applications close on April 30, 2026.
Eligibility and Criteria
Interested candidates must be at least 25 years old on or before February 1, 2027, and have at least 5 years of relevant work experience.
Applicants must hold an undergraduate degree equivalent to an Australian degree and must not already hold or be undertaking a master’s degree.
Additionally, they must meet the minimum English language proficiency requirements.
Applicants must be currently employed in a field relevant to their intended study.
They must hold citizenship of an eligible African country and reside in their country of citizenship, unless working for an African regional organisation or on a diplomatic mission.
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Australia Awards Scholarship Benefits
Australia Awards scholarships cover the minimum period required to complete the academic program specified by the Australian education institution, including any preparatory training.
Recipients receive a comprehensive package of benefits, which includes:
- Return air travel
- One-off establishment allowance on arrival
- Full tuition fees
- Contribution to living expenses
- Introductory academic program
- Overseas Student Health Cover for the duration of the scholarship
- Supplementary academic support
- Fieldwork allowance for research students and Master’s by coursework with a compulsory fieldwork component
- Reasonable accommodation for scholars with disabilities who require support
Also Read: Israel Embassy Announces Fully-Funded and Partial Scholarships for Kenyan Master’s Students
How to Apply
Applications for study commencing in 2027 must be submitted online via OASIS on the Australia Awards Africa website.
Supporting documents required include a passport, an undergraduate degree certificate and transcript, a CV, employer and academic referee reports, and proof of English proficiency.
Candidates will be assessed on academic competence, leadership potential, professional experience, and their potential contribution to inclusive development in Africa.
Only shortlisted applicants will be contacted, and successful candidates will be notified in late 2026.
