The Australian Government Research Training Program (RTP) Scholarship at the University of Sydney is a prestigious, fully funded opportunity for outstanding international students pursuing a Master’s by Research or PhD (higher degree by research). Funded by the Australian Government, it supports exceptional candidates in building advanced research skills for careers in academia, industry, and beyond.
This scholarship promotes collaboration between universities, industry, and research users while delivering high-quality graduates equipped for the global job market.
Key Benefits
The RTP Scholarship provides comprehensive support, including:
- Full tuition fee offset — Covers the full cost of tuition for the duration of your degree.
- Living stipend — $42,754 per annum (based on the 2026 rate; indexed annually on 1 January).
- Relocation allowance — Assistance with travel costs to Sydney (up to specified amounts for eligible expenses, such as up to $1,485 for international travel to commence studies and return travel upon completion).
- Thesis allowance — Support for thesis production costs.
- Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) — Included for international students.
The scholarship is tenable for up to 14 research periods (approximately 3.5 years) for a PhD or up to 7 research periods (approximately 2 years) for a Master’s by Research, subject to satisfactory progress.
Eligibility Criteria
To be considered for the RTP Scholarship (international students), you must:
- Be an international student (non-Australian/New Zealand citizen or permanent resident).
- Be a commencing or currently enrolled student in a higher degree by research (Master’s by Research or PhD) at the University of Sydney.
- Demonstrate an outstanding academic record and strong research potential (including previous research experience).
- Hold an unconditional offer of admission or be enrolled in an eligible programme.
Priority consideration is given to applicants undertaking their first PhD.
Note: Scholarships are competitively awarded based on academic merit and research potential.
How to Apply: Step-by-Step Guide
No separate application is required for the RTP Scholarship. It is automatically considered when you apply for admission to a research degree.
- Research your programme — Find a suitable Master’s by Research or PhD programme at the University of Sydney via the official courses portal (sydney.edu.au/study).
- Secure a supervisor — Contact potential academic supervisors in your field to discuss your research proposal and gain their support (highly recommended).
- Prepare your application documents — Include academic transcripts, CV, research proposal, proof of research experience, references, and any other required materials (e.g., evidence of prior research for eligibility).
- Apply for admission — Submit your application for the higher degree by research through the University of Sydney’s online portal (Sydney Courses).
- Indicate interest in scholarships — During the application process, ensure you select the option (checkbox) to be considered for scholarships, including the RTP. Submit all required documents by the relevant deadline.
- Meet submission deadlines — Applications are assessed in rounds tied to research periods. Submit early to align with award timelines (see below). Late or incomplete applications may miss rounds.
Applications are awarded in rounds (typically November, February, and June/July periods), so timing your submission to admission deadlines is crucial for consideration in the desired intake.