2025 University of Sydney Research Training Program (RTP) & Higher Degree by Research Scholarships (Domestic & International)

The University of Sydney invites outstanding commencing and enrolled higher-degree by research (HDR) students—both domestic and international—to apply for the 2025 Research Training Program (RTP) scholarships and equivalent university awards. These prestigious scholarships provide a tax-free living stipend, tuition coverage, relocation and thesis allowances, and health insurance, enabling you to pursue your research full-time without financial burden.

About the RTP & Equivalent Scholarships

Australia’s RTP scheme is the federal government’s flagship support for HDR students, administered through universities. At Sydney, successful applicants may receive one or more of the following:

• RTP Stipend Scholarship: A living stipend of AU$41,753 per annum (2025 rate), paid tax-free, plus relocation and thesis allowances.

• RTP Fee Offset: A 100% tuition waiver for international HDR candidates, together with Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC).

• USYD International Stipend Scholarship (USYDIS): For international students, matching the RTP stipend of AU$41,753 p.a. plus relocation and thesis allowances.

• University of Sydney Tuition Fee Scholarship: Covers full tuition fees for USYDIS recipients for up to 14 research periods.

• University of Sydney Postgraduate Awards (UPA): For domestic HDR students, providing the same AU$41,753 p.a. stipend and allowances.

Collectively, these awards ensure you can focus on groundbreaking research—whether in science, humanities, social sciences, engineering, or interdisciplinary fields—without worrying about living costs or fees.

Why Choose the University of Sydney for Your HDR?

• World-Class Research Environment: Ranked among the top 50 universities globally, Sydney offers state-of-the-art facilities, from advanced laboratories to digital humanities suites.

• Interdisciplinary Collaboration: Work alongside leading scholars in centers such as the Charles Perkins Centre (health), Sydney Environment Institute, or the Brain and Mind Centre, fostering innovative cross-field projects.

• Global Network: Join a community of 10,000 HDR students from over 100 countries, participate in international conferences, and build collaborations that last throughout your career.

• Professional Development: Access workshops on research methods, grant writing, public engagement, and teaching to prepare you for academic and non-academic careers.

Eligibility Criteria

To be eligible, you must:

• Be a commencing or currently enrolled HDR student (PhD or research Master’s) at the University of Sydney.

• Demonstrate an outstanding academic record and prior research experience or potential.

• For RTP Fee Offset: be an international student awarded an RTP Stipend scholarship.

There are no restrictions on discipline or research topic—proposals spanning from quantum computing to indigenous studies, from climate adaptation to economic policy, are all encouraged.

How to Apply

1. Admission: Commencing students must apply for HDR admission via Sydney Courses by the relevant deadline.

2. Scholarship Application: Complete and submit the RTP & University scholarship application form by the same deadline.

3. Enrolled Students: Current HDR candidates must also submit the scholarship form by the deadlines below to be considered.

Full application guidelines and the online form are available on the University of Sydney’s RTP webpage.

Application & Award Timeline

Domestic applicants:

• The deadline to submit your scholarship application is 5 May 2025 for Research Period 3 & 4, 2025; outcomes will be notified by 24 June 2025.

• The next round for Research Period 1 & 2, 2026 opens 10 October 2025 with applications due 17 December 2025 and outcomes by 9 January 2026.

International applicants:

• For Research Periods 3 & 4, 2025 must submit by 17 December 2024; outcomes by 19 March 2025.

• For Research Periods 1 & 2, 2026, submit by 12 September 2025; outcomes by 2 December 2025.

• The final round for Period 3 & 4, 2026 closes 19 December 2025 (decisions in March 2026).

Tips for a Strong Application

• Highlight Research Impact: Clearly articulate how your project addresses a significant gap or challenge in your field.

• Demonstrate Feasibility: Provide a realistic timeline and show preliminary data or pilot work if available.

• Showcase Collaboration: Mention any partnerships with industry, government, or community stakeholders.

• Professional Referees: Choose referees who can speak directly to your research skills and potential.

Contact Information

For questions, contact the University of Sydney Future Students Centre:

• Phone (Australia): 1800 SYD UNI (1800 793 864)

• Phone (Intl): +61 2 8627 1444 (9 am–5 pm AEST, Mon–Fri)

For more information visit the official website

For more opportunities, visit the Opportunities for Youth website

The University of Sydney’s RTP and equivalent scholarships remove financial barriers and connect you with a dynamic global research community. Whether you aim to advance fundamental science, inform public policy, or drive technological innovation, these awards provide the support you need to excel. Don’t miss this opportunity to undertake transformative research at one of the world’s leading universities—apply by the deadlines above and take the next step in your academic journey.