Deadline: 30-Apr-2026
The Maldives Australia Awards offer master’s scholarships for Maldivian citizens to study in Australia in 2027, supporting health security, social stability, and economic recovery from COVID-19. Scholarships cover tuition, travel, living expenses, and academic support, with a focus on leadership, inclusion, and contributing to Maldives’ development priorities.
Overview
The Australia Awards program is implemented by the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade to strengthen international cooperation and equip emerging leaders with the knowledge and skills to address development challenges. It promotes education, sustainable development, health, technology, and social development, while fostering resilient communities, accountable governance, and long-term partnerships with Australia. The program enables Maldivian citizens to pursue master’s level qualifications by coursework or research at Australian tertiary institutions, commencing in 2027, with support covering the minimum duration required for program completion, including any preparatory training.
Objectives of the Awards
The Maldives Australia Awards contribute to three key objectives: improving health security, enhancing social stability, and supporting economic recovery post-COVID-19. The program prioritises inclusion and addresses vulnerability, with emphasis on equipping recipients to make meaningful contributions to national development and societal resilience.
Scholarship Benefits
Recipients receive comprehensive support, including:
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Full tuition fees for the approved program
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Return air travel between Maldives and Australia
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Establishment allowance for settling in Australia
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Contribution towards living expenses
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Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC)
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Academic support and access to an introductory academic program
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Fieldwork allowance for eligible programs with compulsory field components
Who is Eligible?
Applicants must meet both general and Maldives-specific eligibility criteria:
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Be a Maldivian citizen
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Hold a tertiary qualification equivalent to an Australian bachelor’s degree
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Apply for a qualification higher than their current level
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Meet English language requirements within the specified validity period
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Fulfil relevant work experience requirements in Maldives after completing their bachelor’s degree
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Comply with restrictions on recent foreign scholarships or overseas academic qualifications
Application Process
Applications for programs commencing in 2027 close on 30 April 2026 and must be submitted online via OASIS, using the applicant’s full legal name as stated on their passport. Required documentation includes academic records, proof of citizenship, referee reports, and additional coursework or research-specific documents as outlined in the program guidelines.
How Applications Are Assessed
The selection process involves:
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Eligibility Screening: Verifying all general and country-specific requirements
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Shortlisting: Reviewing academic merit, leadership attributes, and professional experience
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Interviews: Assessing leadership potential and capacity to contribute to Maldives’ development priorities
Applicants are evaluated on academic competence, professional and personal qualities, leadership potential, and their ability to achieve development outcomes. Applications from women, people with disability, and other marginalised groups are encouraged.
Preparatory Activities for Successful Candidates
Selected candidates participate in:
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Course counselling
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Pre-departure briefings
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Institutional academic programs prior to and upon arrival in Australia
Why the Maldives Australia Awards Matter
The scholarships provide emerging Maldivian leaders with opportunities to gain advanced education, international experience, and professional networks. Recipients are expected to apply their skills and knowledge to promote sustainable development, resilient governance, and inclusive growth in Maldives.
FAQs
1. What programs are eligible for study? Master’s level qualifications by coursework or research at Australian tertiary institutions.
2. What support is included in the scholarship? Tuition, travel, living allowance, health cover, academic support, and fieldwork allowance for eligible programs.
3. Who can apply? Maldivian citizens with a bachelor’s-equivalent degree seeking higher-level qualifications.
4. What is the application deadline? 30 April 2026.
5. How are applicants assessed? On academic competence, professional and personal qualities, leadership potential, and potential development impact.
6. Are women and marginalised groups encouraged to apply? Yes, applications from women, people with disability, and other marginalised groups are encouraged.
7. What preparatory activities are required? Course counselling, pre-departure briefings, and institutional programs before and upon arrival in Australia.
Conclusion
The Maldives Australia Awards provide a transformative opportunity for Maldivian citizens to gain advanced skills, global exposure, and leadership experience. By equipping emerging leaders to contribute to health, social, and economic priorities, the program fosters inclusive growth, resilient communities, and long-term national development. Applying for the 2027 scholarships is a strategic step for anyone seeking to make a meaningful impact in Maldives and beyond.
For more information, visit Australian Government.
