ELIGIBILITY:

To be eligible for one of these scholarships, you must:

be a citizen of any country other than Australia or New Zealand

meet the University’s academic entrance requirements for enrolment into a research degree

meet the University’s English-language proficiency requirements for enrolment in a research degree

Applicants for a RTP Stipend Scholarship – International must also:

have a weighted average mark (WAM) or Honours year grade of H1 (VU Standard 85% or above) or equivalent in the most recent eligible qualification

be commencing a research doctoral degree (Doctor of Philosophy)

nominate a research-focus outline as part of your application

enrol as a full-time student

You are not eligible for an RTP Stipend Scholarship – International if you are currently studying, or have recently studied, on an AIDAB or AUSAID scholarship and are applying immediately following the AIDAB/AUSAID funded studies.

Priority will be given to applicants who:

have not already obtained a PhD degree or equivalent if they are proposing to undertake another one

have not previously held an IPRS, VUIPRS or OPRS (unless it was for a Masters of Research degree, and you are applying to undertake PhD studies).

To apply:

Applications for Research Period 1 2027 are now open.

Select your Research Focus Outline

Contact the Principal Supervisor to discuss your interest in and suitability for the research topic

Read the Application Guide for Graduate Research Stipend Scholarships (below)

Refer to the Apply for Graduate Research and follow the steps to submit your application

Use the RFO number, supervisory panel, Institute, Course code and Field of Research (FoR) code from your selected Research Focus Outline to assist you with your application

Application Guide for Graduate Research Stipend Scholarships – 2027 (PDF, 430.7 KB)

Please ensure you include all required documentation for admission and scholarships with your application. 

BENEFIT:

RTP Stipend Scholarships – International are awarded to graduate researchers based on academic merit and research potential.

The RTP Stipend Scholarship – International includes the following:

An RTP Fee Offset Scholarship exempting the recipient from paying tuition fees

A living allowance of $35,707 per year (2026 rate)

Overseas student health cover (single cover).