Victoria University (VU), one of Australia’s leading institutions, offers the Graduate Research Training Program (RTP) Stipend Scholarships 2026 to support high-achieving domestic and international students pursuing a PhD or Masters by Research. These scholarships provide full tuition coverage, generous annual stipends, and additional research and living allowances, enabling recipients to focus entirely on their academic and research goals.
The RTP Stipend Scholarships are part of an Australian Government initiative designed to fund higher degree research (HDR) students across Australia. In 2026, VU will offer multiple RTP-based scholarships alongside university-funded and Indigenous-focused awards.
Scholarship Benefits
Victoria University RTP Scholarships provide a comprehensive funding package:
Living Stipend: AUD $35,006 – $47,736 per year (depending on scholarship type)
Tuition Fee Offset: Full tuition waiver for the duration of the program
Health Insurance (International Students): Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC – single)
Relocation Allowance:
Domestic students: Up to AUD $1,500
International students: Travel costs not covered
Program Duration:
PhD: Up to 3.5 years stipend, 4 years tuition
Masters by Research: 1.5–2 years
Additional Benefits:
Access to world-class research facilities
Professional development support
Fieldwork and research funding opportunities
Eligibility Criteria
Domestic Applicants
Australian citizen, permanent resident, New Zealand citizen, or permanent humanitarian visa holder
Minimum Distinction average (75%+) in Honours or equivalent
Full-time enrolment in PhD or Masters by Research program at VU
Submission of a Research Focus Outline (RFO)
International Applicants
Citizens of countries other than Australia or New Zealand
Minimum H1 grade (80%+) in Honours or equivalent
Full-time enrolment in PhD or Masters by Research program at VU
Submission of a Research Focus Outline (RFO)
Complete online application with all required documents
Types of Scholarships Available
RTP Stipend Scholarship (RTPSS) – AUD $35,006 annually + tuition fee offset
VU Doctoral Research Access Scholarship – AUD $42,900 annually for students with disability, neurodiversity, or chronic illness
VU Doctoral Research Diversity Scholarship – AUD $42,900 annually for students from underrepresented backgrounds
Nigel Stepto Doctoral Research Scholarship – AUD $40,006 annually for health research PhD candidates
Vice Chancellor’s Graduate Research Award – AUD $10,000 top-up for highest-ranked domestic PhD applicant
Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander Research Scholarship – AUD $47,736 annually
Lisa Bellear Indigenous Research Scholarship – AUD $47,736 annually for Indigenous citizens or permanent residents
Foley Collection Research Scholarship – AUD $47,736 annually for Indigenous history-focused research
Required Documents
Academic transcripts and certificates
Research proposal with RFO number and supervisor details
200-word personal statement
Updated CV with ORCID ID and top 5 publications
Two academic references
Prospective Supervisor Form
Application Process
Select Research Focus Outline (RFO): Choose from VU’s approved topics
Contact Supervisor: Discuss research proposal and suitability
Prepare Documents: Gather all required transcripts, statements, and references
Submit Application: Online through VU Graduate Research Application Portal
Deadlines:
International: 14 September 2025, 11:59 pm AEST
Domestic: 28 September 2025, 11:59 pm AEST
Selection Criteria
Candidates are assessed on:
Academic Merit: GPA, honours classification
Research Experience: Assistantships, projects, publications
Publications & Creative Works: Peer-reviewed articles, reports
Leadership & Community Engagement: Awards, impact, leadership roles
Relative Opportunity: Consideration of personal circumstances
Tips to Improve Selection Chances
Maintain high academic standing (GPA 80%+)
Align research proposal with VU priorities
Highlight publications and conference participation
Obtain strong references from experienced academic supervisors
Demonstrate impact through leadership or community engagement
Submit applications early to avoid technical issues
Important Dates
Applications Open: July 2025
International Deadline: 14 September 2025
Domestic Deadline: 28 September 2025
Notification of Results: Within 2 months of closing
Program Commencement: 16 February 2026
FAQs
Q1: Can I apply for both PhD and Masters scholarships?
A: No, you must select one program, but scholarships are available for both levels.
Q2: Are English proficiency tests required?
A: Yes, international applicants must provide IELTS/TOEFL scores unless exempt.
Q3: Can I defer the scholarship?
A: No, recipients must commence studies in February 2026.
Q4: How competitive is the selection process?
A: Highly competitive; international applicants typically need 80–85% average.
Q5: Am I allowed to work while on the scholarship?
A: Yes, up to 8 hours of paid work per week during working hours.
Q6: Are part-time enrollments considered?
A: Full-time is preferred; part-time may be considered only in exceptional cases.
Final Notes
The Victoria University RTP Stipend Scholarships 2026 are fully funded, prestigious opportunities for domestic and international researchers. They cover tuition, living expenses, and additional allowances, enabling students to focus entirely on high-impact research. Prepare your application carefully, align with VU’s research priorities, and submit before the deadlines to secure this opportunity.
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