The JAF covers the essential costs for the duration of the scholar’s academic program in Australia, including preparatory training if required, including:

• Full tuition fees
• Return airfare (economy class) via the most direct route
• Establishment allowance (one-time payment for accommodation, textbooks, and study materials)
• Living expenses (fortnightly stipend)
• Introductory Academic Program (IAP) (mandatory pre-study orientation)
• Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) (for the duration of the award)
• Pre-course English (PCE) fees (if required)
• Supplementary academic support (if necessary)
• Fieldwork funding (one return airfare for eligible research students)

Additional Support:

• JAF Support Facility (JSF): Tailored support, pastoral care, and networking events in partnership with the University of New England (UNE).
• Alumni Network: Automatic membership in the ACIAR Alumni, offering ongoing networking and learning opportunities.
• Australia Awards Entitlements: JAF scholars receive the same benefits as Australia Awards recipients, including participation in alumni events.

Applicants must meet the following requirements:

• Be a citizen of the country where they work.
• Be a scientist or economist from an eligible developing country (excluding India and Myanmar) engaged in an ACIAR-supported research project within the last 24 months. In some cases, researchers from “advanced pipeline” projects may be considered.
• Hold at least an Australian bachelor’s degree (or equivalent) in a relevant field.
• They have recently taken an English language test (IELTS, TOEFL, PET) or are willing to take one upon selection.
• Provide written endorsements from their employer, ACIAR Project Leaders, and Primary Supervisor.
• Secure approval from their employer, agreeing to their study leave if awarded the scholarship.
• Be permanently or long-term employed.
• Submit a strong research proposal addressing gender equity, social inclusion, climate change, and its contribution to national development priorities.

Required Supporting Documents

Applicants must upload the following mandatory documents. Missing documents may affect eligibility.

Mandatory Documents:

• Proof of citizenship (Birth certificate)
• Valid passport (must be valid for at least six months from the application date)
• Certified copies of degree certificates and academic transcripts
• Research proposal (must address gender equity, social inclusion, climate change, and national development priorities)
• Employer endorsement letter (Template available)
• Australian Project Leader referee report (Template available)
• Collaborating Country Project Leader referee report
• Primary Supervisor endorsement letter (formal letter or email copy)

Note: Non-English documents must include original and translated copies.

Recommended Additional Documents:

• Updated CV
• English proficiency proof (IELTS/TOEFL/PET official report)
• University statement confirming English as the language of instruction
• List of publications (if applicable)
• Any other relevant supporting documents

Note: Download employer and Project Leader templates for endorsements and referee reports.