Australia Research Training Program Scholarship

Funded by the Australian Government, the Research Training Program Scholarship supports both domestic and international students undertaking Higher Degree by Research courses in Australian Universities. The RTP has replaced the Australian Postgraduate Award (APA), International Postgraduate Research Scholarship (IPRS) as well as the Research Training Scheme (RTS). Through this scholarship, the RTP also supports the collaboration between universities, industries and other research end- users. Here are some of the key aspects of this scholarship:

Aspects	Details
Offered by	Govt. of Australia
Type of Award	Merit Based
Level of Study	Postgraduate, Doctoral, Postdoctoral
Subjects/ Fields	All fields
Deadline	Varying as per universities
Website	https://www.education.gov.au/research-block-grants/research-training-program

eligible countries for rtp scholarship

Interested and eligible students from all countries in the world including Australian students are eligible to apply for the Australia Research Training Program (RTP) scholarship.

Check More: Trudeau Foundation Scholarship

RTP Australia scholarship benefits

The Australia Research Training Program offers multiple benefits including:

• Full tuition fee offset
• **Stipend for living costs
• Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC)

**The base and maximum stipend rates are indexed each year by RTP. The stipend rate for 2025 is between $33,000- $52,352.

The RTP scholarship is offered for a period of 3- 4 years for full- time doctorate students and up to 2 years for full- time masters research students. This scholarship can also be offered between 6- 8 years for part- time doctorate students and up to 4 years for part- time masters research students

eligilibity criteria for australia RTP Scholarship

To be eligible for the Australia Research Training Program Scholarships:

• You must be enrolled or intend to enroll as a full-time student in an accredited HDR course (Master by Research or Doctor of Philosophy) at an eligible Australian university.
• You must have completed a relevant undergraduate degree with first-class honors or an equivalent qualification that demonstrates research capability.
• For PhD applicants, a master’s degree with a substantial research component or equivalent research experience is usually required.
• Applicants whose first language is not English may need to provide proof of English language proficiency, typically through standardized tests such as IELTS or TOEFL.

Documents Required

• Copy of Passport or Birth Certificate
• Citizenship Certificate
• Academic Transcripts
• Evidence of English Language Proficiency
• Thesis or Dissertation
• Evidence of name change (if any)
• Other Documents

Australia Research Training Program Application Process

To apply for the RTP Australia Scholarship:

• Research the universities and align your eligibility as per the course and scholarship requirement. You can find the list of eligible Australian Universities offering RTP Scholarships here.
• Apply to the chosen university’s research program on the university’s website. Follow the specific application process and indicate your interest in applying for the RTP scholarship within your application.
• Some universities might have a separate form or section for RTP scholarship applications. Other may not even require an application. Do check with your specific university.
• Complete the RTP scholarship application form, which may be part of the university’s application process or a separate form, if required.
• Make sure to submit your application and upload or send all required documents well before the deadline. Keep in mind that each university has its own deadlines.
• The university will review your application and if successful, will be notified by the university with further information.

Important Dates

The Australia RTP (Research Training Program) Scholarship application dates generally open in the second half of the year. While specific dates can vary between universities, the application period typically begins around August and closes by October or December. It’s essential for prospective applicants to check the exact dates on the official websites of the universities they are interested in, as deadlines can differ. Also, some universities do not require separate application which means their application deadline is the deadline for scholarship application as well. Make sure you fulfil the requirements as per the universities.

Selection Process and Criteria

The entire evaluation and selection process is at the discretion of the university. After you submit the form, the scholarship selection panel at the university determines your selection or rejection based on various factors. In determining the selection, the university may consider the following aspects:

• Academic Performance
• Relevant Work Experience
• Your Referees’ reports
• Other relevant research experience

While making decisions, preference may be given to applicants who have not received an Australian Govt. or University scholarship for HDR courses. Besides, candidates who have not completed an HDR course previously as well as Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander people are also given preference.

tips for applicants

• Prepare a Strong Research Proposal: Develop a detailed and compelling research proposal that highlights the originality and significance of your project. Ensure it aligns with the research priorities of the university you are applying to.
• Secure Strong Recommendations: Obtain strong reference letters from academic mentors or supervisors who can attest to your research potential and academic capabilities.
• Detail Your Research Experience: Clearly outline any previous research projects, highlighting your role, methodologies used, and any significant findings or publications resulting from your work.
• Financial Justification: Clearly explain why you need the RTP scholarship and how it will support your research. Outline any other funding sources and their inadequacies to meet your financial needs.
• Manage the Deadline: Make a note of all the deadline and make sure you don’t miss any. The scholarship round will open and close at the time advertised in Australian Western Standard Time.

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