Australian Government Research Training Program (RTP)

How to participate

1. Choose an Australian university that offers a research doctorate (PhD) or research-based Master’s degree aligned with your academic interests.
2. Contact the postgraduate research office of that university to learn about their RTP scholarship application process.
3. Prepare and submit the required documents before the university’s deadline.
4. Universities review applications and select candidates for the RTP scholarship.

Program details

The Research Training Program (RTP) is a scholarship framework funded by the Australian Government through the Research Block Grants system. It supports both domestic and international students pursuing Higher Degrees by Research (HDR) such as PhDs and research-based Master’s degrees at eligible Australian universities.
The program aims to train researchers and help them contribute to academic research, industry innovation, and public policy.

Eligibility

• Be enrolled or planning to enroll in an accredited research Master’s or research doctorate (HDR) at an eligible Australian university.
• Meet the academic and admission requirements of the chosen university.
• Be accepted by a university that participates in the RTP scholarship scheme.
• Both domestic and international students can apply.

Requirements

• Academic transcripts
• Research proposal
• Support from a research supervisor
• Meeting the university’s entry requirements for research degrees

Program dates

• Research Doctorate (PhD): Usually supported for 3–4 years full-time (or 6–8 years part-time).
• Research Master’s Degree: Supported for up to 2 years full-time (or up to 4 years part-time).

Program benefits

• Full tuition fee offset for research study
• Stipend (living allowance) to support daily expenses
• Allowances for research-related costs, such as relocation, printing, or health insurance
• These benefits allow students to focus on research without major financial pressure.

Required documents

• Academic transcripts
• Research proposal
• Proof of supervisor support
• Other documents required by the university

Selection criteria

• Academic performance
• Quality of the research proposal
• Research experience and achievements
• Publications or previous research work (if available)