Australian Government Research Training Program (RTP)

The RTP replaced the Australian Postgraduate Award (APA), International Postgraduate Research Scholarship (IPRS), and Research Training Scheme (RTS) in 2017. It is funded by the Australian Government through annual block grants to eligible Higher Education Providers (HEPs), who then award scholarships directly to students.

Key features of the programme:

• Full tuition offset — 100% of tuition fees covered

• Annual living stipend — $35,550 base rate for 2027 (indexed yearly)

• Ancillary allowances — Relocation, thesis, and research support

• All nationalities welcome — Open to both domestic and international students

• No central application — Apply through your chosen Australian university

• Industry internship pathway — Additional funding weighting for students who complete eligible industry internships

Related: Learn more about studying in Australia.

Successful RTP scholarship recipients receive:

• Tuition fee offset — Full coverage of tuition fees for the duration of the programme

• Living stipend — Base rate of $35,550 per year (2027 rate), with some universities offering up to $55,537 per year

• Research support allowances — For thesis production, fieldwork, and conference travel (varies by university)

• Relocation allowance — Many universities provide grants for students moving interstate or from overseas (e.g., $2,000–$3,000)

• Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) — For international students requiring a visa

• Paid leave — Limited paid sick, maternity, parenting, and family/domestic violence leave (varies by institution)

• Industry internship support — RTP industry internship weighting for eligible 3-month (60 FTE day) placements

University-Specific Enhanced Rates:

• University of Sydney: up to $44,293 per year (2027 rate)

• University of Melbourne: $39,500 per year (2026 rate) plus relocation grants

• Australian National University (ANU): competitive rates above base RTP

Documents are submitted through your chosen university's admission/scholarship portal. Typical requirements include:

• Academic transcripts — Certified transcripts from all previous degrees

• Degree certificates — Proof of completion (or expected completion) of your highest degree

• Curriculum Vitae (CV) — Highlighting academic achievements, publications, and research experience

• Research proposal — A detailed outline of your proposed research project (typically 1,000–3,000 words)

• Statement of Purpose — Explaining your motivation and fit for the programme

• Two or more academic reference letters — From professors or research supervisors who can attest to your research potential

• Proof of English proficiency — IELTS, TOEFL, or equivalent (if applicable)

• Passport copy — For international applicants

• Any additional documents — As requested by your specific university or faculty

Tip: Many universities require you to secure a potential supervisor before submitting your application. Start emailing faculty members with a concise research proposal and CV at least 6 months before the deadline.

Applicants must meet the following requirements:

• Degree status: Must be a commencing or currently enrolled domestic or international higher degree by research student

• Academic record: Must have an outstanding record of academic achievement and previous research experience

• Admission: Must have applied for (or be enrolled in) an eligible HDR programme at a participating Australian university

• Citizenship: Open to all nationalities — both Australian citizens/permanent residents and international students

• English proficiency: Must meet the university's English language requirements (typically IELTS 6.5–7.0 or equivalent)

• Research proposal: Must have a viable research proposal and, in most cases, a confirmed supervisor

Important: Eligibility criteria vary by university. Some institutions automatically consider all admitted HDR students for RTP scholarships, while others require a separate scholarship application.

The RTP has no central government application portal. You must apply directly through your chosen Australian university. Follow these steps:

Step 1: Identify your research area and shortlist 3–5 Australian universities with strong faculty in your field.

Step 2: Contact potential supervisors at each university. Send a brief, professional email with:

• A 1-page research proposal

• Your CV

• A clear subject line referencing their recent work

Step 3: Once a supervisor expresses interest, review the university's specific RTP application process. Some universities (like Melbourne) offer automatic consideration with your HDR admission application. Others (like Sydney or ANU) require a separate scholarship application form.

Step 4: Submit your HDR admission application through the university's online portal, including all required documents.

Step 5: If required, submit the separate RTP scholarship application form by the university's deadline.

Step 6: Wait for the university's assessment. Offers are typically made alongside admission offers or shortly after.

Step 7: If successful, accept your scholarship offer and arrange your visa, travel, and accommodation.

Important: You may apply for an RTP scholarship at more than one university simultaneously. There is no restriction on applying to multiple institutions.