Graduate Research Scholarships at the University of Melbourne: Up to $135,000 in Funding

Overview

The University of Melbourne offers prestigious Graduate Research Scholarships designed to support high-achieving domestic and international students enrolling in a graduate research degree. These scholarships can provide up to $135,000 in funding, aimed at helping students achieve academic excellence and contribute to groundbreaking research.

The scholarships include the Melbourne Research Scholarship and the Research Training Program (RTP) Scholarship, covering a broad range of benefits, including full tuition fee remission and a generous living allowance.

These scholarships are among the most sought-after in Australia and globally, given their comprehensive support package. They are available for both future and current students, ensuring that a wide range of applicants can benefit. The funding provided by these scholarships allows students to focus on their research without the financial burdens that often accompany higher education.

The goal of these scholarships is not only to support individual students but also to foster a vibrant and innovative research community at the University of Melbourne. 

Scholarship Benefits: Comprehensive Support for Graduate Research

The benefits of the Graduate Research Scholarships at the University of Melbourne are divided into two main categories: Stipend and Fee Offset Scholarships and Fee Offset Scholarships. Each category offers substantial support to ensure that students can pursue their research with minimal financial stress.

Stipend and Fee Offset Scholarships

The Stipend and Fee Offset Scholarships cover full tuition fees for up to two years for Masters by Research students and up to four years for doctoral students. This is a significant benefit, as it eliminates one of the major financial barriers to higher education. 

In addition to covering tuition fees, these scholarships provide a living allowance of $37,000 per year (pro-rata for the 2024 full-time study rate). This living allowance can extend up to two years for Masters by Research students and up to 3.5 years for doctoral students. The allowance is indexed annually and includes limited paid sick, maternity, and parenting leave.

Moreover, these scholarships offer a relocation grant: $2,000 for students moving from other Australian states or territories, and $3,000 for those relocating from outside Australia. This grant helps alleviate the financial burden associated with moving for study purposes. Additionally, international students requiring a visa to study in Australia are provided with Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), ensuring they have access to necessary health services during their studies.

Fee Offset Scholarships

The Fee Offset Scholarships cover full tuition fees for up to two years for Masters by Research students and up to four years for doctoral students. This ensures that students can pursue their research without the added pressure of tuition costs. These scholarships are particularly beneficial for those who may not qualify for the living allowance but still need financial support for their tuition fees.

These scholarships are highly competitive and are awarded based on academic merit. Eligible applicants are scored and ranked according to their academic achievements and research potential in their field of study. Other factors such as professional experience, refereed publications, specialist qualifications, or original music compositions may also be considered. This holistic approach to selection ensures that a diverse range of talents and achievements are recognized and rewarded.

Eligibility and Selection Criteria for Graduate Research Scholarships at the University of Melbourne

To be considered for the Graduate Research Scholarships at the University of Melbourne, applicants must meet specific eligibility criteria. These criteria ensure that the scholarships are awarded to students who have demonstrated their potential to excel in their respective fields of study.

Eligibility Requirements

Applicants must:

• Have applied for and meet the requirements for a graduate research degree at the University of Melbourne, or
• Be currently enrolled in a graduate research degree at the University of Melbourne.

This includes both future and current students who are enrolling in a Masters by Research or doctoral degree (PhD). The eligibility criteria ensure that the scholarships are awarded to students who have demonstrated their potential to excel in their respective fields of study.

Selection Criteria

The selection criteria for these scholarships are based primarily on academic merit. Eligible applicants are scored and ranked according to their academic achievements and research potential in their field of study. This rigorous selection process ensures that the scholarships are awarded to students who have the highest potential to contribute to their field.

All domestic students offered admission to a Masters by Research or doctoral degree at the University of Melbourne will receive a Research Training Program Scholarship (Fee Offset). This guarantees that domestic students have the financial support they need to pursue their studies. Graduate Research Scholarships providing a stipend and fee offset are awarded based on a combination of factors, ensuring that the most deserving students receive the financial support they need to achieve academic excellence and contribute to groundbreaking research.

Application Process for Graduate Research Scholarships at the University of Melbourne

The application process for the Graduate Research Scholarships at the University of Melbourne is designed to be straightforward and accessible. This ensures that all eligible students have the opportunity to apply for and receive financial support for their studies.

How to Apply

The application process varies slightly depending on the student’s status:

• New Students: Automatically considered if you apply for a graduate research course by the application closing date. You will be notified within ten business days if a scholarship application has been added to your record.
• Deferred Students: If you have deferred commencement to be reconsidered for a scholarship, submit an online application form by 31 October to be considered for the following year. Notification will be within ten business days of submission.
• Current Students: Submit an online application form by 31 October to be considered for the following year. Notification will be within ten business days of submission.

Outcome notifications are prompt and clear. Domestic students will receive an offer for the Research Training Program Scholarship (Fee Offset) as part of their course offer. Stipend and Fee Offset offers are made separately but around the same time as course offers. This coordinated approach ensures that students have all the information they need about their financial support as they plan their studies.

Important Dates and Deadlines

For students planning to apply for the Graduate Research Scholarships, it is crucial to keep track of the important dates and deadlines:

• Application Closing Date: Ensure you apply for your graduate research course by this date to be automatically considered for a scholarship.
• Deferred Students: Submit the online application form by 31 October to be considered for the following year.
• Current Students: Submit the online application form by 31 October to be considered for the following year.

By adhering to these deadlines, students can ensure that their applications are considered for the available scholarships. Keeping track of these dates is essential for planning and preparation, ensuring a smooth application process.

For more detailed information and to apply, prospective students are encouraged to visit the University of Melbourne Scholarships website. This site provides comprehensive information on the application process, eligibility criteria, and benefits of the scholarships, helping students make informed decisions about their academic futures.

In conclusion, the Graduate Research Scholarships at the University of Melbourne, along with other related programs, play a crucial role in shaping the future of education, research, and leadership. These opportunities not only support individual students but also contribute to the advancement of knowledge and the betterment of society as a whole.