Australian Government Research Training Program (RTP) Scholarships Apply Online 2026
How to Apply Online (Step-by-Step)
- 1
**Identify Eligible Universities:** Research Australian Higher Education Providers (HEPs) that offer your desired Higher Degree by Research (HDR) program (Research Masters or PhD) and participate in the RTP scheme. A list of participating universities can often be found on the Department of Education's RTP page or by searching individual university scholarship pages.
- 2
**Find a Supervisor:** For most HDR programs, it is highly recommended, and often a requirement, to identify and contact a potential supervisor in your research area before applying. Obtain their agreement to supervise your project. Some universities require an 'Invitation to Apply' from a supervisor.
- 3
**Prepare Required Documents:** Gather all necessary supporting documents, including academic transcripts, degree certificates, a research proposal, CV, English proficiency proof, and contact details for referees. Ensure any non-English documents are officially translated.
- 4
**Submit Expression of Interest (EOI) / Admission Application:** Many universities require you to submit an Expression of Interest (EOI) first, or directly apply for admission to your chosen HDR program. Indicate your interest in being considered for an RTP scholarship within your admission application.
- 5
**Complete Scholarship Application (if separate):** While some universities automatically consider eligible admission applicants for RTP scholarships, others may have a separate scholarship application form. Complete all sections and submit by the university's specific scholarship deadlines, which typically vary between April-October annually for international students and slightly later for domestic students. Ensure referee reports are submitted by the deadline.
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**Await Outcome:** Scholarship outcomes are usually announced several weeks or months after the application deadline, depending on the university's timeline.
FAQs for Australian Government Research Training Program (RTP) Scholarships
Q.Can I apply for the RTP scholarship if I want to pursue a Bachelor's or Master's coursework degree?
No, the Australian Government Research Training Program (RTP) Scholarships are specifically designed to support students undertaking Higher Degrees by Research (HDRs), which include Research Doctorate (PhD) and Research Masters degrees. Coursework degrees are not eligible for RTP funding.
Q.How do I apply for the RTP Scholarship, and what are the deadlines for 2026/2027?
You must apply directly to your chosen Australian university. The Department of Education does not process direct applications. Each university has its own application procedures, eligibility criteria, and deadlines for RTP scholarships. Deadlines vary significantly by institution and intake period, typically falling between April and October annually for international students, and slightly later for domestic students. It is crucial to check the specific university's website for their 2026/2027 application dates.
Q.Is it possible to receive an RTP Scholarship if I have already completed a Higher Degree by Research (HDR)?
The Australian Government guidelines do not explicitly restrict students who have previously completed an HDR from applying for an RTP scholarship. However, universities award these scholarships competitively, and their selection processes may consider previous study, research publications, and whether an applicant has previously completed an HDR at the same level, often giving preference to those undertaking an HDR for the first time.
Q.What does the RTP Scholarship typically cover for international students?
For international students, the RTP Scholarship typically provides a full tuition fee offset, a living stipend to assist with general living costs (e.g., AUD $36,500 - $42,754 per annum for 2026), and various allowances. These allowances can include relocation costs, thesis printing expenses, academic publication costs, and Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) for the scholarship recipient and their dependents.