Research Training Program Scholarship

The Research Training Program (RTP) Scholarship is the main source of financial support for graduate research students at the University of Melbourne. Funded by the Australian Government, this scholarship aims to help capable students with the costs associated with undertaking a Master's by Research or a doctoral degree (PhD) at one of Australia’s highest-profile universities.

Who Provides and What It Supports

Administered by universities on behalf of the government, the RTP Scholarship pays all or part of the tuition fees for graduate research programs and supplements living expenses. It applies to both domestic students (Australian and New Zealand citizens, and permanent residents) and international students who meet requirements for a research degree.

The RTP fits into most research study plans as it both removes the requirement to pay tuition fees and, for most recipients, provides a daily living allowance. This is especially significant for those pursuing full-time research, as grants from other sources often do not cover living costs or visa requirements.

Suitability and Pathway to Study

Students who plan a future in academia or research-heavy industries benefit most from the RTP, especially as completion of a research degree is the main pathway to teaching and research roles at university level. International recipients use the scholarship offer to secure their Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE), a required document for the Australian Subclass 500 student visa. Along with the CoE, international students need to prove adequate funding (where the RTP allowance is significant evidence) in their visa application.

The RTP is recognized across Australia and holds a standard that is understood by universities and employers, so students completing their research on this scholarship are well-placed for research careers in university, government, or industry.

• Applicants must be accepted (or currently enrolled) in an eligible research degree at the University of Melbourne (Doctoral or Master’s by Research).
• Both domestic (Australian citizens, permanent visa holders, and New Zealand citizens) and international students may apply.
• Candidates must meet the University's minimum academic entry requirements for graduate research.
• An excellent academic record, relevant research experience, and strong referee reports are usually required.
• Applicants must not be receiving support equivalent to the RTP from another source (for the same benefits, e.g., a separate major stipend or fee remission).
• Most scholarships are awarded based on merit and research potential; backgrounds in research, publications, or relevant work strengthen applications.
• English language proficiency must meet University requirements for the chosen research program.

• Full or partial coverage of tuition fees for the standard duration of the graduate research degree.
• Living allowance (stipend) paid at regular intervals to help with basic living costs while studying full-time.
• Relocation grants for students moving from interstate or overseas to take up their place.
• Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) for international students (single or family, as required by student visa regulations).
• Allowance for paid sick, parental, and maternity leave, in line with University policy and scholarship terms.

• Review eligibility and research degree options on the University of Melbourne site and identify the research program of interest.
• Prepare academic transcripts, CV, proof of English proficiency, research proposal, and details of prior research activity or publications.
• Contact potential supervisors in your field to discuss research interests and supervision availability.
• Submit an application for the graduate research program using the University’s online portal; during this process, indicate you wish to be considered for scholarships.
• Ensure all required documents and referee reports are submitted by the required scholarship deadline. Late submissions may not be considered.
• After submission, monitor your email for further requests, such as interviews or additional information, and respond promptly.
• If awarded, follow instructions to accept the offer, apply for the Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE), and, for international students, proceed with your student visa application.