Monash University in Australia is inviting applications for the prestigious Maxwell King PhD Scholarship (MKS) 2026. This highly competitive scholarship supports outstanding students pursuing a Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) at one of Australia’s leading universities.
Named after Professor Maxwell King, a former Pro Vice-Chancellor (Research and Research Training) at Monash University, the scholarship honours his significant contributions to graduate research.
Scholarship Benefits
The Maxwell King PhD Scholarship provides comprehensive financial support to help recipients focus fully on their research. Benefits include:
- Living allowance (stipend): $53,608 per annum (2026 rate)
- Tuition fee coverage for the duration of the PhD
- Research allowance to support research-related activities
- Relocation allowance for eligible students who need to move to Australia for their studies
This generous package helps cover living costs while you undertake full-time PhD research at Monash University.
Eligibility Requirements
To be eligible for the Monash University Maxwell King PhD Scholarship 2026, applicants must meet the following criteria:
- Be an international or domestic (Australian) student
- Have submitted a graduate research scholarship application in the current round
- Meet Monash University’s competitive scholarship selection criteria (based on academic record, research outputs, and research experience)
- Satisfy Monash University’s English language proficiency requirements
- Be applying for or enrolled in a PhD programme at Monash University
The scholarship is open across various disciplines, with one award typically allocated in Humanities and Social Sciences (HASS) and another in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM).
How to Apply for the Maxwell King PhD Scholarship – Step by Step
Applying for the Maxwell King Scholarship is straightforward because you do not need a separate application. Follow these steps:
- Check your eligibility – Review Monash University’s entry requirements for PhD programmes and the competitive scholarship criteria on the official website.
- Prepare your documents – Gather academic transcripts, proof of English language proficiency, CV, research proposal (if required), and details of any research outputs or publications.
- Obtain an invitation to apply (for new applicants) – Contact the relevant faculty at Monash University to request an invitation before submitting your application.
- Submit a single application – Apply for admission to a PhD programme and the scholarship at the same time. Use Monash University’s graduate research application portal. You will automatically be considered for all eligible graduate research scholarships, including the Maxwell King PhD Scholarship.
- Submit before the deadline – Ensure your complete application is submitted by the closing date for the relevant scholarship round.
Important note: Applications for graduate research scholarships are usually due by 31 October 2025 for the 2026 intake (confirm exact dates on the official page as rounds may vary).
Why Choose Monash University?
Monash University is a world-class institution known for its research excellence, innovative facilities, and supportive environment for international and domestic PhD students. The Maxwell King Scholarship allows talented researchers to focus on impactful projects without financial pressure.