Australian Government Research Training Program (RTP)

Overview

A national scheme funding tuition and stipends for high-achieving domestic and international students undertaking a PhD or Master's by Research. The government issues an annual block grant to each of Australia's eligible universities, which independently select and award RTP places to their top-ranked research candidates.

Funding

Full tuition fees plus a living stipend, paid directly by the enrolling university (often with relocation/OSHC support)

Eligibility

• Applicants must be admitted (or applying) to a Research Doctorate or Research Master's degree
• Open to both domestic and international students, though universities can only spend a limited share of RTP funds on international students
• Selection is merit-based, judged on academic record and research potential
• No central application - each university sets its own criteria and process

Application Deadline

No single national date - each university sets its own deadline, commonly falling between April and October each year Always confirm exact dates on the official site before planning your application, since deadlines shift year to year.

How to Apply

1. Choose an eligible Australian university and identify a research degree/supervisor
2. Apply for admission to the PhD or Master's by Research program
3. Indicate interest in RTP funding as part of the university's postgraduate research application
4. Submit transcripts, a research proposal and references as requested by the university
5. Wait for the university's research office to rank candidates and allocate RTP places