University of Melbourne Graduate Research Scholarships

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University of Melbourne Graduate Research Scholarships For International Students

The University of Melbourne Graduate Research Scholarships (including the Melbourne Research Scholarship (MRS) and Research Training Program (RTP) Scholarship) are prestigious, fully funded opportunities for high-achieving domestic and international students pursuing Master’s by Research or Doctoral (PhD) degrees in Australia. Offered by the University of Melbourne—one of the world’s top-ranked universities (consistently in the global top 15–20)—these scholarships support outstanding researchers across virtually all disciplines, from sciences, engineering, health, arts, humanities, business, and more.

These University of Melbourne Graduate Research Scholarships recognize academic excellence and research potential, providing comprehensive financial support so recipients can focus fully on groundbreaking research without financial concerns.

What Do the Scholarships Cover?

The University of Melbourne Graduate Research Scholarships are fully funded and typically include:

Full tuition fee offset/remission — 100% coverage of tuition fees for the duration of the degree:
- Up to 2 years for a Master’s by Research.
- Up to 3.5–4 years for Doctoral (PhD) degrees.
Living allowance (stipend) — A generous annual stipend (2026 rate: approximately AUD $39,500 per year full-time, pro rata; previous rates around $37,000–$38,500, with annual increases expected).
Relocation grant — For international students moving to Melbourne (typically AUD $2,000–$3,000, depending on origin).
Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) — Single membership for international students (mandatory health insurance).
Additional benefits — Access to University research facilities, professional development, conferences, and potential leave entitlements (e.g., paid sick/maternity leave).

Total value can exceed AUD $100,000–$150,000+ over the duration of the degree, depending on program length and stipend adjustments. Note: Domestic students often receive RTP fee offsets automatically upon admission, with competitive stipends via MRS or similar.

The Eligible Applicants

Eligibility is merit-based and open to both domestic and international applicants. This is an opportunity for young African scholars to come to an international university. Key requirements (consistent across recent cycles and expected for 2027 entry):

Enrollment status:
- Have applied for and meet entry requirements for a graduate research degree (Master’s by Research or PhD) at the University of Melbourne, or
- Be currently enrolled in a graduate research degree at the University.
Academic excellence: Strong prior qualifications (e.g., equivalent to an Australian Bachelor’s with high grades or a Master’s for PhD entry), relevant research experience, publications, professional background, or demonstrated research potential.
English proficiency: Meet University standards (e.g., IELTS 6.5–7.0 overall, TOEFL equivalent, or waivers for certain qualifications).
No restrictions: Open to students from all countries (international applicants welcome); no age limit specified.
Other: Must align with University research priorities; some faculties may have additional criteria.

Selection ranks applicants based on academic results, research potential, publications, experience, and alignment with the field. All applicants are expected to meet the required qualifications to be eligible for the scholarship to Australia.

Application Process for 2027 Entry

Applications are automatic for most new students—no separate scholarship form needed initially.

For new applicants:
- Apply directly for a graduate research course via the University portalhttps://study.unimelb.edu.au/how-to-apply/graduate-research.
- Submit by the course’s closing date (deadlines vary by faculty and intake: often rolling, but key rounds for scholarships include October–November for following-year starts, e.g., 31 October for major consideration in the next year).
- If eligible, you’ll be automatically considered for Graduate Research Scholarships (notification within ~10 business days of course application).
For deferred/current students:
- Submit a separate online scholarship application form (available via the scholarships portal) by deadlines like 31 October to be reconsidered for the following year.
Timelines for 2027 (based on patterns; expect similar):
- Course applications: Ongoing/rolling, but submit early (e.g., by late 2026 for Semester 1/March 2027 intake).
- Scholarship consideration: Tied to course application deadlines; major rounds often close October–November 2026 for 2027 commencement.
- Offers: Gradual release after applications; scholarships awarded competitively.

Required materials for course application (which triggers scholarship consideration): Academic transcripts, research proposal, CV, references, proof of English proficiency, and supervisor endorsement (often required). Applications are accepted year-round, but early submission maximizes your chances of receiving a scholarship.

The Reasons to Apply for the Scholarship

These scholarships offer:

World-class research environment at Australia’s #1 university.
Full financial freedom to pursue innovative projects.
Access to top supervisors, facilities, collaborations, and global networks.
Strong career boost for academia, industry, or leadership roles.
Vibrant Melbourne lifestyle with excellent support for international students.

Conclusion on University of Melbourne Graduate Research Scholarships

If you’re a high-achieving researcher passionate about advancing knowledge, this is one of Australia’s most competitive and rewarding fully funded graduate opportunities. For the latest details, exact 2027 deadlines, stipend rates, course finder, and to start your application, visit the official University of Melbourne scholarships page: https://scholarships.unimelb.edu.au/awards/graduate-research-scholarships or https://scholarships.unimelb.edu.au/awards/melbourne-research-scholarship. Check faculty-specific pages for tailored advice, and contact Stop 1 (ask.unimelb.edu.au) for support. Prepare your course application early—scholarship offers often follow admission!

The University of Melbourne Graduate Research Scholarships 2027 For International Students