RMIT Research Training Program Scholarship 2027 in Australia | Fully Funded — RMIT University
⚠️ This scholarship's deadline has passed and it's no longer accepting applications.
RMIT University’s research funding runs separately from its better-known coursework tuition discounts, and the Research Training Program Scholarship is the main route doctoral and research master’s candidates use to study there without covering tuition and living costs themselves.
About the Scholarship
The RMIT Research Training Program Scholarship provides a full scholarship including a stipend of approximately AUD 36,245 per year and a relocation allowance of about AUD 1,540 for domestic and international students undertaking a PhD or Master’s by Research at RMIT University. Doctoral scholarships are available for up to three and a half years of full-time study, while Master’s by Research scholarships run for up to two years.
Scholarship Benefits
- Full tuition fee coverage for the standard duration of the research degree
- An annual stipend of approximately AUD 36,245, indexed yearly
- A relocation allowance of approximately AUD 1,540 for students moving to Melbourne from overseas
- Funding available for up to three and a half years for a PhD or up to two years for a Master’s by Research
Eligibility Criteria
- Open to both domestic and international applicants undertaking a PhD or Master’s by Research at RMIT University
- Must have an identified or proposed academic supervisor and an approved research proposal
- Must meet RMIT’s standard academic entry requirements for doctoral or research master’s study in the relevant discipline
- Must meet English-language proficiency requirements for international applicants
- Must apply before the published deadline of 30 September 2026 for the relevant round
Fields of Study Covered
The scholarship supports research across RMIT’s disciplines, including design, engineering, business, information technology, and health sciences, since eligibility is tied to the research degree itself rather than a single faculty.
Required Documents
- Completed Higher Degree by Research application
- Certified academic transcripts from prior tertiary study
- A research proposal aligned with a confirmed or proposed supervisor
- English-language proficiency test results, if required
- Academic CV, including any publications or research experience
- Two academic reference reports
How to Apply (Step-by-Step)
- Identify a potential supervisor at RMIT University whose research matches your intended project
- Contact the potential supervisor to discuss your proposed research before formally applying
- Submit a complete Higher Degree by Research application along with your research proposal
- Indicate your interest in the Research Training Program Scholarship within the same application
- Submit before the deadline of 30 September 2026 and respond promptly to any requests for additional information
- Accept your offer of candidature and funding together once issued
Selection Process
RMIT’s research committees assess applications on academic record, research potential, and the strength and feasibility of the proposed project, along with the level of supervisor support. Scholarship recommendations are made alongside the admission decision for successful candidates.
Tips to Improve Your Chances
- Secure supervisor agreement before applying, since supervisor support is a key factor in the assessment of research scholarship applications
- Write a research proposal with a clear and realistic scope that can be completed within the funded period
- Apply well ahead of the 30 September 2026 deadline to allow time for any requested revisions to your proposal
- Students comparing other fully funded Melbourne research options often also look at the Melbourne Research Scholarship for a side-by-side comparison of stipend and conditions
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the RMIT Research Training Program Scholarship open to international students?
Yes, it is open to both domestic and international applicants undertaking a PhD or Master’s by Research at RMIT University.
What is the current stipend rate?
The stipend is approximately AUD 36,245 per year, with annual indexation applied.
What is the application deadline?
The published deadline for this scholarship round is 30 September 2026.
Do I need a supervisor before applying?
Yes, having an identified or proposed supervisor and an approved research proposal is a key part of the application process.
How long does the funding last?
Funding is available for up to three and a half years for a PhD or up to two years for a Master’s by Research.
Does the scholarship include a relocation allowance?
Yes, students moving to Melbourne from overseas receive a relocation allowance of approximately AUD 1,540.
Is there more than one application round per year?
RMIT typically runs more than one research scholarship round annually, so applicants who miss one round can often apply in a later one.
Does holding another scholarship affect my eligibility?
Applicants holding an equivalent scholarship of similar value from another source should disclose this, as it may affect eligibility for simultaneous funding.