Apply for the 2026 RMIT University Research Stipend Scholarships

Are you considering pursuing a research degree in Australia? RMIT University is offering two prestigious stipend scholarships for 2026: the RTP Stipend Scholarship (RSS) funded by the Australian Government and the RMIT Research Stipend Scholarship (RRSS) funded by RMIT University itself. These scholarships are designed to support outstanding domestic and international candidates undertaking graduate research degrees at RMIT’s Australian campuses.

Overview

The RSS and RRSS provide comprehensive financial support to high-achieving research students. When you apply for a research scholarship through the University’s scholarship rounds, you are automatically considered for both types of stipend scholarships, depending on your eligibility.

2026 scholarship applications open on 1 June 2025. Expressions of Interest (EOIs) must be submitted by:

• Domestic Applicants: 30 September 2025

• International Applicants: 30 August 2025

Final application deadlines are:

• Domestic Applicants: 30 October 2025

• International Applicants: 30 September 2025

Scholarship Value and Benefits

Recipients of either the RSS or RRSS will receive:

• A stipend of $35,886 per annum (pro rata for part-time study), indexed annually.

• Tuition fee offsets:

  • For international students: RTP International Tuition Fee Offset Scholarship (RIFOS) or RMIT Research International Tuition Fee Scholarship (RRITFS).

  • For domestic students: RTP Fee Offset scholarship, covering tuition fees for the standard duration.

• A relocation allowance of up to $1,540 to assist with moving to Melbourne.

• Access to paid sick leave, parental leave, and maternity leave, as outlined in the scholarship terms.

The standard duration is:

• 3.5 years full-time for PhD candidates.

• 2 years full-time for Master by Research candidates.

Eligibility Criteria

Scholarships are awarded on a competitive basis, evaluated on academic performance, research output, and relevant professional experience.

Applicants must:

• Be enrolled or intending to enroll at RMIT’s Australian campuses.

• Not already hold a research qualification at the same or higher level.

• Provide evidence of support from a potential RMIT supervisor.

• Not be receiving another award providing more than 75% of this scholarship’s value.

• Meet English language requirements by the application deadline (for international applicants).

Priority is given to applicants who have:

• Achieved a high distinction (80% or above) in the final two years of study.

• Strong research publications and/or work experience in the field.

• Not previously held a Commonwealth-funded postgraduate scholarship (unless terminated early).

Application Process

To apply for the 2026 RMIT Research Stipend Scholarships:

1. Choose your research program and ensure it aligns with your qualifications and research interests.

2. Secure a supervisor – your application must include confirmation from an RMIT academic willing to supervise your research.

3. Submit your Expression of Interest through RMIT’s admissions system.

4. Complete and submit your full application before the relevant deadlines.

Application link

For more information, visit the university website.

Important Dates

Successful applicants are expected to begin their research programs in March 2026, although alternate start dates may be negotiated with the respective School or College.