The Research Training Program Scholarship is a fully funded scholarship in Australia. It supports both local and overseas students. Specifically, it funds research based Masters and PhD study. Therefore, many applicants also compare it with other fully funded routes. For example, some look at the Australia Awards Scholarship, another major option in Australia.
Overview
- Host country, Australia
- Level of study, Research Masters and PhD
- Field of study, Open to all research fields
- Number of awards, Set each year by each university
- Nationality, Open to domestic and international students
- Funded by, Australian Government, through each host university
Benefits of the Research Training Program Scholarship
First, students get a living cost stipend. Also, they get their tuition paid in full. Plus, some get extra help with moving costs. In short, the program covers this.
- A yearly stipend, up to about $52,352, depending on the host school
- Full tuition fee offset for the length of the degree
- Up to two years of support for a research Masters, or up to four years for a PhD
- A relocation grant, for students who move from far away
- Health cover for international students who need a student visa
Who Should Apply
This program suits students who want to do real, hands on research. Meanwhile, students who want a set taught course, not research, may prefer the Gates Cambridge Scholarship. That program also funds postgraduate study, but with a broader course mix.
Eligibility Requirements
Overall, applicants must meet these points.
- Be enrolled, or plan to enroll, in a research Masters or PhD at an eligible Australian school
- Show strong past grades in a related field
- Not already hold an equal award for the same level of study
- Meet the English language rules set by the host school
- Apply within the timeline set by the chosen university
How Universities Differ
Notably, each Australian university runs its own process and sets its own dates. This school by school system is close to how the Trudeau Foundation Doctoral Scholarship, matches fellows to a mentor and a research theme.
Required Documents
- Proof of admission, or an active application, for the research degree
- Academic transcripts
- A short research proposal or outline
- Letters of reference
- Proof of English skill, where asked
How to Apply
First, applicants pick a university and check its research scholarship page. Next, they apply for the research degree itself, then submit the scholarship form. Also, some schools ask for a short research summary early on. This early document step is close to the one used for the Commonwealth Scholarship.
Application Deadline
Deadlines vary by school. Most fall between April and October each year. So, check your chosen university’s page early, since some schools close rounds sooner than others.
Final Thoughts
Overall, the Research Training Program Scholarship gives strong, flexible funding for research students in Australia. However, if you want a taught degree instead, check other options too. For instance, the Heinrich Boll Foundation Scholarship supports taught Masters and PhD study in Germany.
