The University of Melbourne in Australia invites applications for the Human Rights Scholarship 2026, a fully funded program designed for graduate research students passionate about advancing human rights. This scholarship supports both domestic and international students committed to academic excellence and practical engagement in human rights research.
Scholarship Overview
Host Institution: University of Melbourne, Australia
Study Levels: Master by Research, Doctorate (PhD)
Field of Study: Human Rights
Application Period: May 1, 2025 – October 31, 2025
Notification Date: February 2026
Eligibility: Open to all nationalities
Scholarship Benefits
Recipients of the Human Rights Scholarship receive comprehensive support to focus solely on research:
Living Allowance: AUD $43,500 per year (pro rata for part-time), indexed annually
Tuition Fee Offset: Up to 2 years for Master’s and 4 years for Doctorate
Relocation Grant: AUD $2,000 for interstate students; AUD $3,000 for international students
Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC): Single membership for international students requiring a visa
These benefits are structured to reduce financial barriers and enable scholars to dedicate their time entirely to research.
Eligibility Criteria
Applicants must meet the following requirements:
Fulfill admission criteria for Master or Doctorate by research at the University of Melbourne
Demonstrate a commitment to human rights through academic, professional, or voluntary work
Not hold an existing research qualification equivalent or higher than the proposed course
Not have previously received a graduate research scholarship from the University
Application Process
Applications must be submitted online by October 31, 2025 and include:
Scholarship Application Form: Downloadable from the University of Melbourne scholarships portal
Personal Statement: Detailing commitment to human rights and the proposed research contribution
Academic Transcripts & Supporting Documents: Curriculum vitae, references, and other relevant materials
All successful applicants will be notified via email by February 2026. Individual feedback is not provided.
Why Study at the University of Melbourne?
Founded in 1853, the University of Melbourne is Australia’s second-oldest university and consistently ranks among the top global institutions. Highlights include:
Global Ranking: 33rd worldwide, 1st in Australia for graduate employability (QS 2025)
Research Excellence: Member of the Group of Eight (Go8), investing over AUD $1.5 billion annually
Diverse Community: Over 56,000 students, including 21,000 international scholars from 160+ countries
Extensive Scholarships: More than 1,200 opportunities for postgraduate support
Campus & Facilities: Historic Parkville campus near Melbourne CBD with modern research and learning facilities
Alumni Network: 400,000+ graduates including Nobel Laureates and global leaders
Located in one of the world’s most livable cities, Melbourne provides a safe, inclusive, and dynamic environment for international researchers.
Important Dates
Applications Open: May 1, 2025
Application Deadline: October 31, 2025
Notification of Outcome: February 2026
Official Application Portal: https://scholarships.unimelb.edu.au/
Embark on a transformative journey to advance human rights through research at the University of Melbourne. Apply now to make a meaningful impact in the field of human rights.
FAQs
Q1: Who can apply for this scholarship?
A: Both domestic and international students pursuing a Master by Research or PhD in Human Rights.
Q2: What does the scholarship cover?
A: Living allowance, tuition fee offset, relocation grant, and OSHC for international students.
Q3: How do I apply?
A: Submit the online scholarship application form, personal statement, academic transcripts, CV, and references via the University portal before October 31, 2025.
Q4: When will the results be announced?
A: Successful applicants will be notified by February 2026.
Q5: Can previous research degree holders apply?
A: No, applicants must not already hold a research qualification of the same or higher level.