Mid-career professionals who want fully funded Master’s study in Australia should move quickly on the Australia Awards Scholarships in Africa 2027 call. This programme supports postgraduate study in priority development fields and is open to eligible South African applicants who combine a strong academic record with relevant work experience and leadership potential.
At a glance
Sponsor/host: Australian Government / Australia Awards Africa
Opportunity type: International Master’s scholarship
Who it’s for: South African citizens with relevant professional experience who want to pursue a Master’s degree in Australia
Location: Australia
Study level: Master’s degree
Closing date: 30 April 2026
Last verified: 23 April 2026
High-value notes (read this first)
This is a fully funded scholarship aimed at working professionals who can use postgraduate study to contribute to development outcomes in South Africa and the wider region. It is not aimed at fresh graduates. Applicants must already have an undergraduate degree, must be employed at the time of application, and must have at least 5 years of post-graduate work experience in a field related to their proposed study.
The programme strongly encourages applications from women, people with disabilities, and other marginalised groups. Applications are submitted online, and all essential supporting documents must be uploaded during the application process.
About the sponsor
Australia Awards is the Australian Government’s flagship international scholarship programme. In Africa, it supports postgraduate study and leadership development for professionals who can help drive change in priority sectors and build long-term links between African countries and Australia.
Source Link: DHET International Scholarships
What it covers
- Return air travel
- Once-off establishment allowance on arrival
- Full tuition fees
- Contribution to living expenses
- Introductory Academic Programme (IAP)
- Overseas Student Health Cover
- Supplementary academic support
- Fieldwork allowance for eligible research students and coursework Master’s programmes with compulsory fieldwork
- Reasonable accommodation and disability support, where required
Priority fields of study
- Agriculture and food security
- Climate change
- Mining and energy
- Foreign policy and international security
- Gender, disability, and social inclusion
Eligibility
- Must be a South African citizen, residing in and applying from South Africa (unless working for an African Regional Organisation or on a diplomatic mission for South Africa)
- Must be 25 years or older by 1 February 2027
- Must have at least 5 years of post-graduate work experience in a field related to the proposed study
- Must be employed at the time of application
- Must hold an undergraduate degree
- Must not already hold or be undertaking a Master’s degree or equivalent
- Must meet the minimum English language proficiency requirements
- Must not have previously received a long-term Australia Award
Documents to prepare
- Passport
- Undergraduate degree certificate
- Undergraduate academic transcript
- Curriculum Vitae (CV)
- Employer referee report
- Academic referee report
- Proof of English language proficiency
Closing date
30 April 2026. Apply well before the final day to avoid system delays and document issues.
Common mistakes to avoid
- Applying without the required 5 years of post-graduate work experience
- Submitting without both the employer and academic referee documents
- Applying while already holding or studying toward a Master’s degree
- Ignoring the English language requirement
- Leaving document uploads until the final day
How this opportunity was verified
Verified against the current DHET International Scholarships listing for Australia Awards Scholarships in Africa 2027 and the programme brochure, including the closing date, eligibility criteria, priority fields, scholarship benefits, and online application route.
How to apply
- Review the Australia Awards Africa guidance and confirm that your proposed field matches the priority areas.
- Prepare your supporting documents, including referee reports and proof of English proficiency.
- Complete the online application through the Australia Awards Africa application route.
- Upload all required documents and submit before the closing date.