Curtin University offers the prestigious Research Training Program (RTP) Scholarships 2025, providing both domestic and international students the opportunity to pursue a Master’s by Research or PhD with full financial support. Funded by the Australian Government Department of Education, these scholarships cover tuition fees, provide generous stipends, and offer comprehensive academic support to outstanding research candidates.
Scholarship Overview
Host University: Curtin University, Australia
Program Type: Master’s by Research & Doctor of Philosophy (PhD)
Scholarship Type: Fully Funded (tuition, stipend, and allowances included)
Funding Agency: Australian Government – Department of Education
Duration: 2 years for Master’s / 3.5 years for PhD
Application Deadline: Varies by round (typically June–September annually)
Why Choose Curtin University for Your Research Degree?
Curtin University is home to over 61,000 students, including 15,600 international students (~32% of the student body). Ranked #174 in QS World University Rankings 2025 and within the top 251–300 in THE 2025, the university is globally recognized for excellence in:
Mineral & Mining Engineering (top 5 globally)
Earth Sciences, Health, and Architecture
With campuses across Perth, Malaysia, Dubai, and Singapore, Curtin University emphasizes innovation across disciplines such as engineering, health sciences, mining, and technology.
RTP Scholarship Benefits Include:
Expert supervisors and research mentors
A collaborative international research community
Advanced training in publishing and academic writing
Opportunities to present research at global conferences
RTP Scholarship Coverage
The fully funded RTP Scholarship includes:
100% Tuition Fee Waiver
Annual Stipend: Approx. AUD $33,000 (2025 estimate, tax-free)
Relocation Allowance: Up to AUD $2,000
Health Insurance: OSHC for international students
Thesis Allowance & Travel Funding: Available in some cases
Note: Benefits may vary slightly for domestic and international students.
Eligibility Criteria
Applicants must:
Hold a Bachelor’s degree with Honours, a Master’s degree, or equivalent
Demonstrate academic excellence and research potential
Apply to a full-time Higher Degree by Research (HDR) program
Meet Curtin’s English language proficiency requirements
Submit a strong research proposal aligned with Curtin’s research priority areas
2025 Application Timeline
| Stage | Date |
|---|---|
| RTP Round Opens | July 1, 2025 |
| Expression of Interest (EOI) | July 1 – August 18, 2025 |
| Full Admission & Application | By October 31, 2025 |
| Scholarship Results | November 2025 |
| Study Commencement | By March 31, 2026 |
Who Can Apply?
Ideal candidates are:
Domestic or international students applying for a full-time HDR program
Holders of a Bachelor’s (Honours) or equivalent qualification
Capable of developing or joining a research project aligned with Curtin’s priorities
Current Curtin HDR students may apply if they:
Have not already received the core RTP stipend
Are in good standing
Have used fewer than 18 months full-time by July 1
How to Apply
Explore or Propose a Project – Select an existing research project or propose your own on Curtin’s RTP webpage.
Connect with a Supervisor – Submit your EOI, including CV, transcripts, project proposal, and referee details.
Submit Your EOI – July 1 – August 18, 2025.
Receive Invitation to Apply – Shortlisted candidates will be invited for full HDR and scholarship applications.
Submit Full Application – By October 31, 2025, via Curtin’s portal.
Await Results & Enrol – Scholarships awarded in November; enrolment by March 31, 2026.
Real Scholar Experiences
Ashley Rogers, a planetary science researcher: “The RTP enabled me to live comfortably during the first year and a half of my PhD.”
Jordan Fyfe, disability arts researcher: “The internship was incredibly varied and opened my eyes to possibilities.”
Final Thoughts
Curtin University RTP Scholarships 2025 offer a unique opportunity to advance your research career in Australia. With full funding, expert guidance, and access to a global research network, these scholarships prepare scholars for impact in health sciences, engineering, sustainability, social innovation, and more.
Apply by August 18, 2025, for the 2025–2026 intake.
FAQs
Q1: Can international students apply for the RTP Scholarship?
Yes, the scholarship is open to both domestic and international students.
Q2: What does the RTP Scholarship cover?
It covers full tuition, an annual stipend, relocation allowance, health insurance, and in some cases, thesis and travel support.
Q3: What programs are eligible?
Master’s by Research and PhD programs at Curtin University are eligible.
Q4: Can current HDR students apply?
Yes, if they meet the eligibility criteria and have not previously received the RTP stipend.
Q5: When does the application process start?
The Expression of Interest opens on July 1, 2025, and full applications are due by October 31, 2025.