Applications open for $40,000 Commonwealth teaching scholarships in 2026

Applications are now open for the third round of the Australian Government’s Commonwealth teaching scholarships program, which offers eligible students up to $40,000 to undertake an accredited initial teacher education (ITE) degree.

The program is part of a $160 million commitment to deliver 5,000 scholarships over five years. It is designed to encourage high-achieving school leavers and mid-career professionals to enter the teaching profession, with a strong focus on supporting people from underrepresented backgrounds.

Scholarships are available to individuals from a wide range of backgrounds.

The initiative forms part of the National Teacher Workforce Action Plan, which aims to address the national teacher shortage through improved recruitment and retention.

Successful applicants will receive:

• Up to $40,000 for undergraduate ITE degrees
• Up to $20,000 for postgraduate ITE degrees

Recipients must commit to working in government-run schools or early learning settings for:

• Four years (undergraduate recipients)
• Two years (postgraduate recipients)

This ‘commitment to teach’ ensures that scholarship recipients contribute directly to education, particularly in areas of high need.

Across the first two rounds of the program, nearly 2,000 students have received scholarships. Approximately 30 per cent of recipients were from regional, rural or remote areas, reinforcing the program’s focus on equitable access to teacher training.

Students commencing an accredited ITE degree in 2026 are eligible to apply. More information on eligibility criteria and the application process is available at the Commonwealth Teaching Scholarships website

The Commonwealth teaching scholarships program supports the Government’s broader reforms to the teaching workforce. It complements initiatives such as the Commonwealth Prac Payment and improvements to teacher education, contributing to the development of a strong, sustainable and diverse teaching profession.