Deadline: 30-Apr-2026

The Brunei Australia Awards, funded by the Australian Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT), provide fully funded postgraduate scholarships for Bruneian citizens and eligible residents to study in Australia starting in 2027. The program supports priority sectors such as climate change, health, security, economics, and science, while developing leadership capacity and strengthening Australia–Brunei ties. Applications close on 30 April 2026 and must be submitted online through the OASIS system.

The Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT) offers the Brunei Australia Awards under the broader Australia Awards Scholarships program.

These scholarships support postgraduate study in Australia for individuals who demonstrate academic merit, leadership potential, and commitment to contributing to Brunei Darussalam’s development.

Study programs will commence in Australia in 2027.

Program Purpose

The Brunei Australia Awards reflect a shared commitment between Brunei Darussalam and Australia to:

• Education and academic excellence

• Leadership development

• Regional cooperation

• Long-term bilateral engagement

Recipients gain access to world-class Australian universities while developing professional networks and global perspectives.

Priority Fields of Study

Applicants must apply in one of the following priority areas:

• Climate Change and Energy

• Defence and Security

• Economics and Sustainable Development

• Food Security and Agriculture

• Health

• Humanities and Arts

• Maritime

• Science

These sectors align with development priorities and regional cooperation objectives.

Scholarship Benefits (What the Award Covers)

Recipients receive a comprehensive scholarship package that includes:

• Return international air travel

• Establishment allowance

• Full tuition fees

• Contribution to living expenses

• Introductory academic program

• Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC)

• Supplementary academic support

• Fieldwork allowances (if compulsory fieldwork is required)

Upon graduation, scholars join the global Australia Awards alumni network, which includes over 100,000 leaders worldwide.

Alumni continue to access networking opportunities in Brunei and internationally.

Who Is Eligible?

To apply, candidates must:

• Be a Bruneian citizen or eligible resident of Brunei Darussalam

• Hold an undergraduate degree

• Meet English language proficiency requirements (where applicable)

• Satisfy all conditions in the Australia Awards Scholarships Policy Handbook

• Meet country-specific eligibility requirements for Brunei

Applications are strongly encouraged from:

• Women

• People with disability

Eligible Degree Programs

Scholarships are available for:

• PhD programs

• Master’s degrees by coursework

• Master’s degrees by research

Scholarships are provided for the minimum period necessary to complete the approved academic program, including any preparatory training.

Selection Criteria

Applicants are assessed based on:

• Academic competence

• Professional qualities

• Personal attributes

• Leadership potential

• Relevant work experience

• Potential to contribute to Brunei’s development

• Capacity to strengthen Australia–Brunei relations

The process includes:

1. Eligibility screening

2. Shortlisting

3. Interview assessment

How to Apply (Step-by-Step Guide)

Step 1: Review Eligibility Requirements

Carefully review the Australia Awards Scholarships Policy Handbook and country-specific conditions for Brunei Darussalam.

Step 2: Prepare Required Documents

Applicants must submit:

• Certified proof of citizenship

• Academic transcripts and qualifications

• English language test results (if required)

• Any other required supporting documentation

Step 3: Submit Online Application

Applications must be submitted via the Online Australia Scholarships Information System (OASIS).

Important:

• Use your full legal name exactly as shown on official travel documents.

• Ensure all documents are uploaded according to specified guidelines.

Step 4: Participate in Selection Process

Shortlisted candidates will attend interviews.

Step 5: Complete Pre-Departure Requirements

Successful applicants must participate in:

• Course counselling

• Pre-departure briefings

• Introductory academic programs

Key Deadline

Applications for study commencing in 2027 close on:

30 April 2026

Late applications are not accepted.

Why This Scholarship Matters

The Brunei Australia Awards:

• Develop future leaders in priority sectors

• Strengthen institutional and professional links between Brunei and Australia

• Enhance regional cooperation in Southeast Asia

• Provide access to globally recognized Australian education

• Build long-term career and networking opportunities through a global alumni community

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Submitting incomplete documentation

• Using a name that does not match official travel documents

• Missing English language requirements

• Applying outside priority fields of study

• Submitting after the deadline

Applicants should carefully follow all guidelines in the Policy Handbook and country-specific instructions.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. Who funds the Brunei Australia Awards?

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

2. When does the scholarship program begin?

Successful applicants will commence study in Australia in 2027.

3. What degrees are covered?

PhD programs and Master’s degrees (coursework or research).

4. What expenses are covered?

The scholarship covers tuition, travel, living expenses, health insurance, establishment allowance, and approved fieldwork costs.

5. Can women and people with disabilities apply?

Yes. Applications from women and people with disability are strongly encouraged.

6. How are candidates selected?

Selection involves eligibility checks, shortlisting, and interviews based on academic ability, leadership potential, and contribution to Brunei’s development.

7. What happens after graduation?

Graduates join the global Australia Awards alumni network and continue accessing professional networking opportunities.

Conclusion

The Brunei Australia Awards 2027 provide fully funded postgraduate study opportunities in Australia for qualified Bruneian citizens and eligible residents. By focusing on priority development sectors and leadership growth, the program strengthens bilateral ties between Brunei and Australia while building a new generation of skilled professionals.

With comprehensive financial support, structured preparation, and long-term alumni engagement, the scholarship represents a significant opportunity for individuals committed to contributing to Brunei’s future development and regional cooperation.

For more information, visit Australian Government.