A Guide to Research Training Program Scholarships for PhD Students in Australia

Pursuing a PhD is not only a significant intellectual endeavor but also a financial investment. For many aspiring scholars, funding is one of the most important concerns when considering doctoral study abroad. Australia, known for its world-class universities and research infrastructure, offers one of the most comprehensive funding schemes through the Research Training Program (RTP) scholarships. If you’re considering Australia for your doctoral research journey, understanding the RTP scholarship landscape is essential.

This blog will serve as a detailed guide to everything you need to know about Research Training Program scholarships in Australia—from eligibility and benefits to the application process and success tips.

What is the Research Training Program (RTP)?

The Research Training Program is an initiative of the Australian Government aimed at supporting both domestic and international students undertaking Research Doctorate and Research Master’s degrees, primarily at Australian universities. The RTP replaced the International Postgraduate Research Scholarships (IPRS) in 2017 and provides more flexibility for universities to manage and award scholarships.

Under the RTP, funding is awarded to universities, which then allocate it to individual students based on merit. So, although it’s a government-funded program, the scholarships are administered at the university level. This allows institutions to tailor the allocation of funding to meet their research priorities and student needs.

Why the RTP Scholarship Is So Valuable for PhD Students

Here are a few reasons why the RTP scholarship is considered a golden opportunity for aspiring researchers:

• Covers Full Tuition Fees: PhD tuition fees for international students in Australia can range from AUD 25,000 to AUD 45,000 annually. RTP scholarships typically cover these costs in full.

• Stipend for Living Costs: Many RTP recipients receive a generous stipend that supports day-to-day living expenses. In 2025, this is usually around AUD 32,000 per year, tax-free.

• Health Insurance for International Students: Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) is often included.

• Research Support: Additional allowances for relocation, thesis production, and fieldwork expenses may be available.

• Prestige and Recognition: Being awarded an RTP scholarship reflects academic excellence and research potential—qualities that resonate with future employers and research collaborators.

Types of RTP Support

The Research Training Program offers several types of support that students may be eligible to receive:

1. RTP Fees Offset: This offsets the cost of tuition for higher degree research students. It effectively means the student pays no tuition fees.

2. RTP Stipend: A living allowance paid fortnightly to help cover living costs during the study period. This is the most sought-after component by international students.

3. RTP Allowances: These include relocation allowances, thesis production costs, and sick/maternity leave support during the study period.

Students may receive one or all three components depending on their offer from the university.

Eligibility Requirements

To be eligible for an RTP scholarship in Australia, applicants typically must:

• Be enrolled in or admitted to a higher degree by research (HDR) program (PhD or research-based Master’s).

• Show outstanding academic achievement and research potential.

• Meet the specific eligibility criteria set by the individual university.

• For international students, meet English language proficiency requirements.

Some universities prioritize students in strategic research areas or those aligned with specific supervisors or faculties. Domestic and international students may compete for separate RTP allocations.

Participating Universities

Nearly all major Australian universities participate in the RTP program. These include:

• University of Melbourne

• Australian National University (ANU)

• University of Sydney

• University of Queensland (UQ)

• University of New South Wales (UNSW)

• University of Western Australia

• Monash University

• University of Adelaide

• University of Technology Sydney

• Queensland University of Technology

Each institution has its own policies, application processes, and deadlines for the RTP.

How to Apply for the RTP Scholarship

Since RTP scholarships are managed by individual universities, the application process varies slightly across institutions. However, there is a general roadmap that applies to most.

Step 1: Choose Your University and Program

Start by researching universities and programs that align with your academic interests and research goals. Focus on institutions that offer strong expertise and supervision in your area of study.

Step 2: Identify Potential Supervisors

Before applying, many universities require or strongly recommend you contact potential supervisors. This step is crucial because:

• Some universities will not consider your application unless a supervisor agrees to support it.

• A well-matched supervisor can greatly improve your chances of securing funding.

• Supervisor backing often signals research alignment, which is a key selection criterion.

Step 3: Prepare Your Research Proposal

An RTP application will usually require a detailed research proposal that outlines:

• The research problem

• Aims and objectives

• Methodology

• Significance and impact

• Timeline and milestones

A strong, well-defined research proposal is essential for success. Universities often assess your ability to articulate a viable and impactful research plan.

Step 4: Submit the Application

You will typically apply for the PhD program and the RTP scholarship in a single online application through the university’s HDR portal. Required documents usually include:

• Academic transcripts and certificates

• Curriculum vitae (CV)

• Research proposal

• Proof of English proficiency (e.g., IELTS, TOEFL)

• Letters of recommendation

• Personal statement or motivation letter

• Publications (if any)

Make sure you tick the option indicating that you’d like to be considered for scholarships like RTP during your application.

Step 5: Await Shortlisting and Results

Shortlisted candidates may be asked for additional information, interviews, or revisions to the proposal. Successful candidates are typically notified within a few months, depending on the university’s scholarship round timelines.

Selection Criteria

RTP scholarships are highly competitive. Selection committees generally evaluate candidates based on:

• Academic Merit: High GPA, class ranking, and honors/distinctions.

• Research Potential: Strong research proposal, demonstrated ability to conduct independent research.

• Publication Record: Any published papers, especially peer-reviewed journal articles.

• Professional Experience: Relevant work or research assistant experience.

• Letters of Recommendation: Insight into your intellectual capacity and work ethic.

Institutions may also consider alignment with strategic research priorities or available supervision capacity.

When to Apply

Most universities have two major application rounds per year, typically:

• Round 1: Opens in early to mid-year (April–August) for admissions starting the following academic year.

• Round 2: Closes later in the year (September–October) for admission in the next semester.

Some universities accept rolling applications throughout the year, but RTP scholarships are usually awarded during these main rounds.

Important: Always check the individual deadlines and policies of your target university.

Tips to Increase Your Chances of Success

1. Start Early

Preparing for a PhD application is not a last-minute endeavor. Begin researching programs and supervisors at least 6–12 months before the application deadline.

2. Build a Research Track Record

Even at the pre-PhD level, showing some research output—such as a thesis, publication, or conference paper—can enhance your profile.

3. Seek Strong Referees

Select referees who know your academic and research capabilities well. Provide them with enough context and time to write impactful recommendations.

4. Personalize Every Application

Tailor your research proposal and personal statement to align with the strengths and focus areas of each university or department.

5. Contact Admissions and Supervisors

Don’t hesitate to ask questions. This shows initiative and can help you navigate the internal expectations of each institution.

What Happens If You Win the RTP?

Congratulations! If you’re awarded the RTP scholarship, here’s what to expect:

• You’ll receive a formal offer outlining the terms of your scholarship.

• You’ll be assigned a principal supervisor and possibly a supervisory panel.

• Your tuition fees will be waived or covered through the fee offset component.

• You’ll begin receiving your stipend on a fortnightly basis.

• You may receive relocation assistance and additional allowances.

• You’ll be enrolled full-time, although part-time enrollment is sometimes permitted under specific circumstances.

Duration and Continuation

The RTP scholarship is generally awarded for:

• PhD: Up to 3.5 to 4 years

• Master’s by Research: Up to 2 years

To maintain your scholarship, you must:

• Make satisfactory academic progress.

• Meet milestone requirements (e.g., confirmation of candidature, progress reviews).

• Remain enrolled full-time (unless part-time is approved due to exceptional circumstances).

After the PhD: Pathways Beyond RTP

Australia’s PhD graduates often enjoy strong post-study outcomes. Some options after completing your RTP-funded PhD include:

• Postdoctoral Research: Many institutions offer early-career fellowships.

• Industry Roles: Increasing numbers of PhD grads work in research-intensive roles in technology, healthcare, and finance.

• Permanent Residency (PR): A PhD from an Australian institution significantly strengthens your eligibility for skilled migration pathways.

• Teaching and Academia: With RTP’s prestige, transitioning to lecturing or academic administration becomes a possibility.

Conclusion

The Research Training Program (RTP) is more than just a scholarship—it’s an opportunity to immerse yourself in a global research ecosystem, access world-class facilities, and connect with a diverse academic community in one of the most livable countries in the world.

Securing an RTP scholarship is competitive, but with careful planning, a compelling research proposal, and strong academic foundations, it’s a goal well within reach.

Whether your passion lies in environmental science, quantum computing, indigenous studies, public health, or any of the hundreds of research domains supported in Australia, the RTP can help turn your research ambitions into a reality.

So take that step. Start exploring programs, reaching out to supervisors, and crafting a research proposal that tells the world what you’re here to discover.