Discover the Australian Government Research Training Program 2025
The Australian Government Research Training Program (RTP) 2025–2026 offers fully funded scholarships to international students pursuing p
ostgraduate research degrees (Master’s by Research or PhD) in Australia. Managed by participating universities on behalf of the Department of Education and Training, RTP provides financial support to help cover tuition fees, living expenses, and other research-related costs.
This program replaced the International Postgraduate Research Scholarship (IPRS) in 2017 and remains one of the most prestigious research scholarships in Australia for global students.
Scholarship Benefits
The RTP scholarship provides a generous support package to help students focus on their academic and research goals:
- Annual Living Allowance: Up to AUD $50,291 (tax-free) to support daily living expenses while studying.
- Tuition Fee Offset: Covers the full cost of tuition, which would otherwise be paid by the student.
- Additional Allowances: Financial support for ancillary expenses such as:
- Relocation costs
- Thesis printing and academic publication fees
- Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) for recipients and dependents
This scholarship is ideal for those looking to conduct in-depth research in a supportive academic environment.
Eligibility Criteria
To apply for the RTP 2025, candidates must meet the following eligibility requirements:
- Language Requirement: English
- Nationality: Open to students from all countries worldwide
- Enrollment: Must be enrolled in an accredited Higher Degree by Research (HDR) program (Master’s by Research or PhD)
- General Criteria: Must meet the basic eligibility outlined in Section 1.5 of the Commonwealth Scholarships Guidelines (Research)
Make sure to check with your chosen institution for any specific academic or English language requirements.
How to Apply for the RTP Scholarship
The application process is managed by each participating university. Here’s how you can apply:
- Choose Your Institution: Select a university from the list of eligible Higher Education Providers (HEPs) listed in Table A and B of the Higher Education Support Act (HESA).
- Contact the Postgraduate Office: Reach out to the postgraduate research office of your chosen university to get specific guidance on their RTP application process.
- Submit Your Application: Follow the university’s application process. Deadlines vary by institution but typically fall between April and October each year.
- Prepare Your Documents: Common requirements include:
- Research proposal
- Academic transcripts
- Proof of English proficiency (IELTS/TOEFL)
- Letters of recommendation
- CV or resume
Why Study in Australia?
Australia is home to some of the world’s leading research universities and offers a rich multicultural environment. RTP recipients enjoy:
- Access to cutting-edge facilities and mentorship
- Collaboration with global research communities
- A high quality of life and strong post-study work opportunities
Resources and Official Links
- RTP Official Guidelines – Department of Education, Australia
- List of Australian Universities Offering RTP
Whether you’re aiming for groundbreaking research or building a strong academic career, the Australian Government Research Training Program 2025 is a pathway to success.