Known for its unwavering commitment to sustainability, inclusivity, and innovation, Charles Darwin University (CDU) stands as one of Australia’s most progressive and forward-thinking institutions of higher learning. Located in the Northern Territory, CDU offers a unique educational experience shaped by its rich cultural heritage and close ties to Indigenous communities. The university is dedicated to creating a supportive and empowering environment where students from diverse backgrounds feel welcomed and encouraged to reach their full potential.
The scholarship program at CDU is a reflection of the university’s mission to promote academic excellence, develop future global leaders, and foster meaningful international collaboration. For the 2026–2027 academic year, CDU is offering a wide range of scholarships for international students pursuing undergraduate, postgraduate, PhD, and vocational education programs. These scholarships are available as both fully funded and partially funded opportunities, designed to ease financial pressures and allow students to focus fully on their studies and personal development.
Summary
Host Institution: Charles Darwin University
Location: Australia
Category: Undergraduate, Master’s, PhD, and Vocational Training Scholarships
Eligible Applicants: International Students
Award Coverage: Fully funded and partially funded options (up to 50% tuition waiver, and more)
Details of the Charles Darwin University Scholarships 2026–2027
Charles Darwin University Scholarships aim to attract talented international students committed to academic success, leadership, and community service. Scholarships are available across a wide variety of programs, including:
- Business and Accounting
- Engineering and IT
- Law and Social Sciences
- Creative Arts and Design
- Nursing, Public Health, and Allied Health
- Education and Indigenous Knowledges
- Tourism, Trades, and Culinary Arts
- Psychology, Environmental Science, and many more
The scholarships are awarded based on academic merit, leadership potential, and commitment to community development. While some scholarships cover the full cost of tuition and living expenses, others offer partial support ranging from 15% to 50% tuition fee coverage.
Types of Charles Darwin University Scholarships
CDU offers multiple scholarship options to suit different study levels and qualifications:
- Vice-Chancellor’s International High Achievers Scholarship (VCIHAS): Covers 50% or 25% of tuition fees for undergraduate or postgraduate coursework degrees.
- CDU Global Excellence Award: Covers 50% tuition fee in the first year and 10% in subsequent years.
- CDU Global Leader Award: Offers 25% tuition fee in the first year and 10% thereafter.
- CDU Global Achiever Award: Provides 15% tuition support for the first year of study.
- VET Distinction Scholarship: One-off payment of $3,000 AUD toward Vocational Education and Training (VET) tuition.
- Northern Territory Scholarships: Valued at $12,000 AUD, these scholarships support higher education students based on academic merit, leadership, and community involvement.
- Higher Degree by Research Scholarships: Fully funded opportunities for PhD and research students, including tuition, living stipend, and research support.
Eligibility Criteria of the Charles Darwin University Scholarships 2026–2027
To qualify for a CDU scholarship, applicants must:
- Be international students (not citizens or permanent residents of Australia or New Zealand)
- Have a strong academic record with relevant qualifications for the chosen program
- Meet the English language requirements (IELTS, TOEFL, etc.)
- Hold a valid offer of admission into an eligible CDU program
- Not currently hold another Australian or foreign scholarship
- Demonstrate community involvement or leadership potential (for some awards)
Scholarship Conditions
Recipients of Charles Darwin University Scholarships are expected to:
- Maintain full-time enrollment (minimum 40 credit points per semester)
- Maintain a minimum GPA of 5.3, with no failing grades
- Pay the remaining balance of tuition fees by the start of each semester
- Adhere to CDU’s student regulations and policies
- Notify the International Office of any visa or enrollment status changes
- Remain enrolled in the original program of study (scholarships are non-transferable)
- Not defer, withdraw, or take a leave of absence without prior written approval
Required Documents
Applicants must submit the following documents when applying:
- Academic transcripts and certificates
- Passport (valid and clear copy)
- Evidence of English proficiency (e.g. IELTS, TOEFL)
- Letter of offer from CDU
- Personal statement or statement of purpose (if required)
- Additional documents, depending on scholarship type
All documents must be in English or accompanied by a certified English translation.
How to Apply
To apply for the Charles Darwin University Scholarships 2026–2027, follow these steps:
- Choose a scholarship that matches your qualifications and study program.
- Apply for admission to your chosen course at CDU.
- Download and complete the scholarship application form corresponding to your selected award.
- Submit the completed form and supporting documents before the deadline via CDU’s online portal.
- Await confirmation or further communication from the International Office.
Deadline
Application Period: Varies by scholarship
Intake: Depends on the selected program (typically February and July intakes)
Applicants are strongly encouraged to apply early to allow time for document verification, admission, and visa processing.
