Master (Research), PhDFull funding covering tuition fees offset, a stipend for general living costs, and potential allowances for ancillary costs related to HDRs. Stipend rates are indexed annually (e.g., 2026 full-time base RTP stipend rate: $34,315; full-time max: $53,608).

Research Training Program (RTP) Stipend Scholarships

Last verified 8 May 2026 by the Scholarships for Africans editorial team

The Research Training Program (RTP) Stipend Scholarships, funded by the Australian Government, support domestic and international students pursuing research doctorates and research master degrees at eligible Australian Higher Education Providers (HEPs). These scholarships help cover tuition fees, provide a stipend for living costs, and may include allowances. Applications are made directly through individual universities, which also set their own eligibility criteria, selection processes, and deadlines. The program aims to develop highly skilled graduates and foster collaboration between academia and industry. Specific details, including stipend rates and application procedures, must be obtained from the prospective HEPs. The RTP replaced previous award schemes on January 1, 2017.

Provider: Australian Government / Australian universities
Host country: Australia
Deadline: Varies by institution
Region: Oceania

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Eligibility & requirements at a glance

Review the recorded eligibility, funding and deadline information below. Confirm the current award conditions on the provider's official source.

Who can apply: Prospective higher degree by research (HDR) students (domestic and overseas) undertaking research doctorate and research masters degrees at eligible Australian higher education providers (HEPs).
Funding: Full funding covering tuition fees offset, a stipend for general living costs, and potential allowances for ancillary costs related to HDRs. Stipend rates are indexed annually (e.g., 2026 full-time base RTP stipend rate: $34,315; full-time max: $53,608).
Study level: Master (Research), PhD
Deadline: Varies by institution

Key eligibility criteria

Prospective higher degree by research (HDR) students (domestic and overseas) undertaking research doctorate and research masters degrees at eligible Australian higher education providers (HEPs).

Recorded funding information

Full funding covering tuition fees offset, a stipend for general living costs, and potential allowances for ancillary costs related to HDRs. Stipend rates are indexed annually (e.g., 2026 full-time base RTP stipend rate: $34,315; full-time max: $53,608).

About the Research Training Program (RTP) Stipend Scholarships (2026)

## Research Training Program (RTP) Stipend Scholarships: Comprehensive Brief for Prospective Applicants ### Overview The Research Training Program (RTP) Stipend Scholarships are a key initiative of the Australian Government, designed to support domestic and international students undertaking Higher Degree by Research (HDR) programs, specifically research doctorates and research masters degrees, at eligible Australian Higher Education Providers (HEPs). The program aims to foster a new generation of skilled graduates equipped for careers in both academia and various other sectors, while simultaneously promoting collaboration between HEPs, industry, and other research end-users. Introduced on January 1, 2017, the RTP replaced previous postgraduate award schemes including the Australian Postgraduate Award (APA), International Postgraduate Research Scholarship (IPRS), and the Research Training Scheme (RTS). Fundamentally, the RTP provides flexible funding directly to HEPs, allowing them to administer and award scholarships based on their own specific application and selection processes. ### Benefits Successful applicants for an RTP scholarship can receive one or more of the following forms of support: * **Tuition Fees Offset:** This covers the cost of tuition fees for the duration of the research degree. * **Stipend for General Living Costs:** A regular payment designed to assist with day-to-day living expenses while undertaking the research program. The base and maximum stipend rates are indexed annually, with new rates announced by October 1st each year. For 2026, the full-time base RTP stipend rate is $34,315, and the full-time maximum is $53,608. * **Allowances for Ancillary Costs:** This may include funding to cover other expenses related to the higher degree by research, such as thesis production, travel, or research materials, at the discretion of the HEP. ### Eligibility Eligibility for an RTP scholarship is determined by the individual Higher Education Provider (HEP) to which a prospective HDR student applies. While the Australian Government provides the overarching funding framework, each eligible HEP administers its own scholarships and sets its own specific criteria. In general, the RTP supports both domestic and overseas students undertaking research doctorate and research master degrees. It is crucial for interested individuals to directly contact their chosen eligible HEPs to understand their particular eligibility requirements and application procedures. The RTP aims to support students engaged in research-focused degrees, contributing to outcomes that align with national research priorities and skill development. ### Required Documents The specific documents required for an RTP scholarship application are determined by each individual Higher Education Provider (HEP). Since RTP scholarships are administered directly by the universities, applicants must consult the official admissions and scholarship pages of their chosen HEP(s). Typically, applications for higher degree by research programs and associated scholarships often require: * Academic Transcripts: Proof of previous academic qualifications and performance. * Curriculum Vitae (CV) or Resume: A summary of academic and professional experience. * Research Proposal: A detailed outline of the proposed research project. * Letters of Recommendation: Endorsements from academic referees. * Proof of English Language Proficiency: For international students or those whose previous education was not in English. * Statement of Purpose: An essay explaining academic background, research interests, and career goals. It is imperative to directly contact the prospective HEP for a precise list of required documents. ### How to Apply Prospective higher degree by research (HDR) students interested in obtaining an RTP scholarship *must apply directly to their chosen eligible Australian Higher Education Provider (HEP)*. RTP scholarship applications cannot be made through the Department of Education. Each HEP has its own distinct application and selection processes. Therefore, applicants should: * **Identify Eligible HEPs:** Research and select the Australian universities that offer the research degree of interest and are eligible to administer RTP scholarships. * **Contact the HEP Directly:** Reach out to the admissions or graduate research office of the chosen HEP(s) to inquire about their specific RTP scholarship application procedures, deadlines, and required documentation. * **Prepare Application Materials:** Gather all necessary documents as specified by the HEP. * **Submit Application:** Complete and submit the application for the HDR program and the RTP scholarship through the HEP's designated portal or process. Applicants may apply for an RTP scholarship at multiple HEPs. ### Key Dates The deadline for RTP scholarship applications varies significantly by university. As the Australian Government provides the funding in block grants to eligible Higher Education Providers (HEPs), each HEP is responsible for setting its own application timelines. Prospective applicants must directly contact their chosen HEP(s) to ascertain specific application deadlines for both the higher degree by research program and the associated RTP scholarship. It is important to note that the RTP base and maximum stipend rates are indexed annually, with the new rates for the following year typically announced by October 1st. For example, the 2026 stipend rates were announced, effective from January 1, 2026. From December 3, 2025, supported students are also required to acknowledge the Commonwealth's contribution using a specific DOI in any material produced through their HDR study. ### Selection Criteria Because RTP scholarships are administered by individual Higher Education Providers (HEPs), the specific selection criteria are established by each university. While there are general objectives for the RTP, such as supporting high-quality research and producing skilled graduates, the precise factors considered during the selection process will vary. Generally, HEPs will assess applicants based on: * **Academic Merit:** Previous academic performance, including grades, awards, and publications. * **Research Potential:** The quality and feasibility of the proposed research project, its alignment with the university's research strengths, and the applicant's capacity to undertake independent research. * **Supervisor Support:** The availability and commitment of a suitable supervisor. * **Relevant Experience:** Any prior research experience, professional work, or other activities that demonstrate aptitude for a higher degree by research. Applicants should thoroughly review the selection criteria published by their target HEPs to tailor their applications accordingly. ### Tips * **Start Early:** Research your chosen universities and their specific RTP application processes well in advance of deadlines, as these vary widely. * **Contact Universities Directly:** The Department of Education does not process RTP applications; all applications are made through individual Higher Education Providers (HEPs). Direct communication with the admissions or graduate research offices of your prospective HEPs is crucial. * **Craft a Strong Research Proposal:** This is often a critical component of the application. Ensure your proposal is well-defined, demonstrates originality, and aligns with the research strengths of your target HEP and potential supervisors. * **Secure Strong References:** Choose referees who know your academic and research capabilities well and can provide compelling letters of recommendation. * **Explore Industry Internships:** The RTP includes an industry internship weighting designed to incentivize engagement between students, HEPs, and industry. Undertaking an eligible industry internship (at least 3 months long, 60 full-time equivalent days) within specific timeframes could be beneficial. Further information is available on the RTP industry internship weighting FAQs page. * **Familiarize Yourself with Guidelines:** Review the RTP Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) for students and the Higher Education Support (Commonwealth Scholarships) Guidelines 2025 for comprehensive information. ### Official Source For the most accurate and up-to-date information regarding the Research Training Program (RTP) Stipend Scholarships, prospective applicants should refer to the official Australian Government Department of Education website: [https://www.education.gov.au/research-block-grants/research-training-program](https://www.education.gov.au/research-block-grants/research-training-program) Additionally, consult the following resources for detailed guidance: * RTP – Frequently asked questions for students: [https://www.education.gov.au/research-block-grants/research-training-program/research-training-program-frequently-asked-questions-students](https://www.education.gov.au/research-block-grants/research-training-program/research-training-program-frequently-asked-questions-students) * Higher Education Support (Commonwealth Scholarships) Guidelines 2025: [https://www.legislation.gov.au/F2025L01474/asmade/text](https://www.legislation.gov.au/F2025L01474/asmade/text) * RTP industry internship weighting FAQs: [https://www.education.gov.au/research-block-grants/research-training-program/faqs-research-training-program-industry-internship-weighting](https://www.education.gov.au/research-block-grants/research-training-program/faqs-research-training-program-industry-internship-weighting)

Funding information

The funding information below is recorded in this listing; it does not establish additional covered components. Check amounts, caps, exclusions and conditions on the official source.

Full funding covering tuition fees offset, a stipend for general living costs, and potential allowances for ancillary costs related to HDRs. Stipend rates are indexed annually (e.g., 2026 full-time base RTP stipend rate: $34,315; full-time max: $53,608).

Research Training Program (RTP) Stipend Scholarships eligibility

Always cross-check eligibility against the sponsor's official site before applying — sponsor rules can change between intakes.

Prospective higher degree by research (HDR) students (domestic and overseas) undertaking research doctorate and research masters degrees at eligible Australian higher education providers (HEPs).

Research Training Program (RTP) Stipend Scholarships document information

No explicit document checklist is recorded here. If an application is required, prepare only the materials the provider requests.

How to apply for the Research Training Program (RTP) Stipend Scholarships 2026

Follow the provider's stated process. The checks below are guidance, not additional application requirements. Any original editorial instructions remain in the description above.

1
Check the provider's process
Consult https://www.education.gov.au/research-block-grants/research-training-program to confirm whether consideration is automatic or requires an application, and follow only the process stated there.
2
Check eligibility and any requested materials
Listed eligibility: Prospective higher degree by research (HDR) students (domestic and overseas) undertaking research doctorate and research masters degrees at eligible Australian higher education providers (HEPs).. Confirm the current criteria and, if submission is required, use the provider's own checklist.
3
Check dates and next steps
Listed deadline information: Varies by institution. Confirm any cutoff, time zone and follow-up process with the provider.

Research Training Program (RTP) Stipend Scholarships deadline & application timeline

Provider deadline information: Varies by institution. This text cannot be safely converted to a countdown; check the official source for its meaning. The earlier milestones are optional planning suggestions only.

Planning suggestion: 12 months out
Check the current call and decide whether this opportunity fits your plans.
Planning suggestion: 6 months out
If the provider requires tests or documents that take time, plan for them using its published instructions.
Planning suggestion: 3 months out
If an application is required, review the provider's process and prepare only the materials it requests.
Planning suggestion: 1 month out
If submission is required, allow time to check your materials and any stated cutoff.
Provider deadline
Varies by institution
Provider deadline information: Varies by institution. Confirm the current instructions and any cutoff or time zone on the official source; no additional time is assumed here.

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Frequently asked questions

Who can apply for the Research Training Program (RTP) Stipend Scholarships?+

Prospective higher degree by research (HDR) students (domestic and overseas) undertaking research doctorate and research masters degrees at eligible Australian higher education providers (HEPs).

What funding does the Research Training Program (RTP) Stipend Scholarships offer?+

Listed funding: Full funding covering tuition fees offset, a stipend for general living costs, and potential allowances for ancillary costs related to HDRs. Stipend rates are indexed annually (e.g., 2026 full-time base RTP stipend rate: $34,315; full-time max: $53,608).. Confirm amounts, exclusions and conditions on the official source. This label does not establish any additional benefit components.

When is the application deadline?+

Provider deadline information: Varies by institution. Confirm the current cutoff and any time zone on the official source; no additional cutoff or late-submission policy is assumed here.

What documents do I need to apply?+

No explicit document checklist is recorded here. If an application is required, prepare only the documents requested by the provider; requirements may differ from admission requirements.

How do I check the application process?+

Consult https://www.education.gov.au/research-block-grants/research-training-program to confirm whether consideration is automatic or requires an application, and follow only the process stated there. Listed eligibility: Prospective higher degree by research (HDR) students (domestic and overseas) undertaking research doctorate and research masters degrees at eligible Australian higher education providers (HEPs).. Confirm the current criteria and, if submission is required, use the provider's own checklist. Listed deadline information: Varies by institution. Confirm any cutoff, time zone and follow-up process with the provider.

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