Opportunities
Make a difference with an Australia Award
Australia’s international development assistance to the Maldives helps promote prosperity, reduce poverty and enhance political stability in the country. As an important part of this development assistance, Australia Awards in the Maldives aims to:
- develop capacity and leadership skills so that individuals can contribute to development in the Maldives
- build people-to-people linkages between the Maldives and Australia.
Applicants for Australia Awards are assessed on their professional and personal qualities, academic competence and, most importantly, their potential to contribute to national development on their return to the Maldives. Applications are strongly encouraged from women, people with disability and other traditionally-marginalised groups.
Gender Equality & Social Inclusion
Promoting equity and broad participation by all groups in society
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Scholarships
Australia Awards Scholarships are long-term development awards administered by the Australian Government. The study and research opportunities provided by Australia Awards Scholarships develop recipients’ skills and knowledge and help them build networks to drive change and contribute to development.
Australia Awards Scholarships offer emerging Maldivian leaders the opportunity to undertake full-time postgraduate study in Australia in priority fields relating to the Maldives’ development. Scholars are well supported throughout the period of their studies in Australia.
Eligibility
Applications are accepted from Maldivians who meet the strict eligibility criteria. Women, people with disability and people from traditionally-marginalised groups are encouraged to apply.
Applications for Australia Awards Scholarships open on 1 February and close 30 April each year. Information on applying, including all supporting documentation required for applications, is available on this website during the application period.
Application
Applications for Australia Awards Scholarships are now open and close 30 April 2025.
The application process is transparent and competitive, providing equal opportunity to all eligible applicants, regardless of gender, ethnicity or disability.
Interview
Shortlisted applicants will be asked to attend an interview. The interview will focus on your prospective study in Australia, your personal and leadership attributes, and how you will apply your studies to the development of your country.
Outcome notification
By September, you will be notified of the outcome of your application. If you are offered an Australia Awards Scholarship, you will be asked to enter into a contract with the Australian Government.
Pre-Departure
You will attend a Pre-Departure Briefing in the Maldives before you leave. The briefing will help you prepare for your study and life in Australia.
Arrival and enrolment
Once you arrive in Australia, you will receive assistance to help you settle in and get started with your studies. Among this assistance will be an Introductory Academic Program delivered through your host institution.
Returning home
Once you graduate, you must return home for at least two years to contribute to the development of The Maldives. You will be encouraged to put your new skills, knowledge and networks to use.
Stay connected
You will become part of a global alumni network, keeping you connected to Australia and to other alumni, building an engaged and influential global network of leaders and advocates for development. You will have access to further professional development and networking opportunities, and the chance to mentor others interested in undertaking an Australia Awards Scholarship.
Short Courses
Australia Awards Short Course opportunities on specific topics are advertised from time to time on this website.
There are currently no Short Courses open for application in the Maldives.