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Nominations open for Cambodia Australia Awards

Deadline: 30-Apr-2026

The Cambodia Australia Awards Scholarships 2027, funded by the Australian Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT), provide fully funded Master’s and PhD study opportunities in Australia for Cambodian citizens. The scholarship covers tuition, travel, living expenses, health insurance, and academic support. Applications close on 30 April 2026 for study commencing in 2027.

The Cambodia Australia Awards Scholarships are long-term, fully funded postgraduate scholarships for Cambodian citizens to study at Australian universities.

The program is part of the broader Australia Awards initiative, designed to:

  • Strengthen development outcomes in partner countries

  • Build enduring relationships between Australia and Cambodia

  • Equip emerging leaders with skills and global networks

  • Promote prosperity, stability, and resilience in the Indo-Pacific region

The scholarships are funded by the Australian Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT).

Level of Study

Scholarships are available for:

  • Master’s degree (by coursework or research)

  • Doctor of Philosophy (PhD)

Awards are granted for the minimum duration required to complete the approved academic program, including preparatory training where necessary.

MBA and general management degrees are not eligible.

Scholarship Benefits

The Cambodia Australia Awards provide comprehensive financial support, including:

  • Return air travel to Australia

  • Full tuition fees

  • One-off establishment allowance upon arrival

  • Living expense contribution (stipend)

  • Introductory academic program

  • Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) for the full award duration

  • Supplementary academic support

  • Fieldwork allowance (for eligible research components)

These benefits ensure scholars can focus fully on their studies.

Priority Areas of Study

Applicants from all academic disciplines are encouraged to apply.

Strong encouragement is given to:

  • Climate-related studies

  • Environmental sustainability

  • Development-focused disciplines

Courses must align with:

  • Applicant’s prior qualifications and experience

  • Or a clearly justified career transition plan

Who Is Eligible?

Applicants must meet both general Australia Awards requirements and Cambodia-specific conditions.

General Requirements

Applicants must comply with the Australia Awards Scholarships Policy Handbook.

Cambodia-Specific Eligibility

Applicants must:

  • Be a Cambodian citizen

  • Not hold dual nationality

  • Have resided in Cambodia for at least 24 months before the application closing date

  • Have a minimum of 24 months of relevant work experience

  • Fully disclose all previous study

  • Submit all required supporting documents

Additional requirements may include:

  • Academic qualifications

  • English language proficiency

  • Supporting documentation depending on degree level

Inclusivity and Equal Opportunity

Applications are strongly encouraged from:

  • Women

  • People with disability

  • Individuals living and working outside Phnom Penh

  • Indigenous and ethnic minorities

  • LGBTIQA+ individuals

  • Other marginalized groups

A dedicated support scheme is available to promote equitable participation.

Selection Criteria

Applicants are assessed based on:

  • Academic competence

  • Professional achievements

  • Personal qualities

  • Leadership potential

  • Commitment to contributing to Cambodia’s development

The most important criterion is the applicant’s potential to create meaningful development impact.

Mekong-Australia Partnership Opportunity

From 2026 onward, selected scholars may also benefit from additional awards under the Mekong-Australia Partnership.

This includes access to:

  • Regional leadership development

  • Networking opportunities

  • The Mekong Leaders Network

How to Apply

Step 1: Review Eligibility

Confirm that you meet both general and Cambodia-specific eligibility requirements.

Step 2: Choose an Eligible Course

Select an Australian postgraduate program aligned with your qualifications and career goals.

Ensure the program is not an MBA or general management degree.

Step 3: Prepare Required Documents

Prepare:

  • Academic transcripts

  • English language test results (if required)

  • Work experience documentation

  • Identification documents

  • Any other required forms

Ensure full and accurate disclosure of previous studies.

Step 4: Submit Application

Applications must be submitted by:

  • Online through the OASIS system
    OR

  • Hardcopy submission to the Australian Embassy in Phnom Penh

Deadline: 30 April 2026

Late or incomplete applications will not be considered.

Important Compliance Notice

The Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade has zero tolerance for fraud.

All applications undergo strict verification.

Providing false or misleading information may result in:

  • Disqualification

  • Scholarship cancellation

  • Legal consequences

Applicants must ensure accuracy and transparency.

Why This Scholarship Matters

The Cambodia Australia Awards:

  • Build Cambodia’s human capital

  • Strengthen institutional capacity

  • Promote climate resilience and sustainable development

  • Foster long-term diplomatic and professional ties

  • Develop leaders equipped to address complex national challenges

By investing in postgraduate education, the program supports Cambodia’s long-term development goals.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

  • Applying without 24 months of work experience

  • Failing to justify a change in academic field

  • Selecting ineligible degrees (e.g., MBA)

  • Missing the application deadline

  • Submitting incomplete documentation

  • Providing inaccurate information

Careful preparation significantly improves competitiveness.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Is the Cambodia Australia Award fully funded?

Yes. It covers tuition, travel, living expenses, health insurance, and additional academic support.

2. Can dual citizens apply?

No. Applicants must not hold dual nationality.

3. What is the work experience requirement?

At least 24 months of relevant work experience is required.

4. Are MBA programs eligible?

No. General management degrees such as MBA are not eligible.

5. When is the application deadline?

Applications close on 30 April 2026 for study commencing in 2027.

6. Where can I submit my application?

Applications can be submitted online via OASIS or as hardcopy submissions to the Australian Embassy in Phnom Penh.

7. Are climate-related fields prioritized?

Yes. Climate and sustainability-related fields are strongly encouraged.

Conclusion

The Cambodia Australia Awards Scholarships 2027 offer fully funded postgraduate study in Australia for Cambodian professionals with leadership potential and a commitment to national development.

With comprehensive financial support, strong inclusivity measures, and a focus on long-term impact, the program provides a transformative opportunity for emerging Cambodian leaders to strengthen their expertise and contribute meaningfully to Cambodia’s future.

For more information, visit Australian Government.