University of Melbourne Scholarships 2025–2026: Stipend, Tuition Coverage, and Application Deadlines
The University of Melbourne offers several scholarship opportunities for 2025. These include the Melbourne Research Scholarship, Research Training Program scholarships, and various undergraduate awards; prospective students should review the specific course application process for their intended program.
These fully-funded scholarships provide stipends up to $38,500 annually, full tuition coverage, and extra benefits like relocation grants for both domestic and international students. The university consistently ranks among Australia’s top institutions and supports thousands of students each year through these funding programs.
Students can access different types of financial support based on their study level and background. Graduate research students benefit from Melbourne Research Scholarships and RTP scholarships, which cover living expenses and fees.
International undergraduate students have access to dedicated scholarships. The Chancellor’s Scholarship stands out as one of the most prestigious awards available.
Understanding eligibility requirements and application deadlines is crucial for a successful scholarship application. Most graduate research scholarships require enrollment in or application to a research degree program, with selections based on academic merit and research potential.
For most major graduate research scholarships, submitting a course application for a graduate research course automatically enters prospective students into consideration, and a separate scholarship application is usually not required if the course application is submitted by the relevant deadline.
Key Takeaways
- The University of Melbourne offers fully-funded scholarships worth up to $38,500 annually, plus full tuition coverage for 2025.
- There are multiple scholarship types, including research scholarships, undergraduate awards, and the prestigious Chancellor’s Scholarship.
- Applications require a strong academic background and enrollment in eligible programs. Deadlines vary by scholarship type. Scholarship notifications are typically sent with or shortly after the course offer.
Verification and Sources
Stipend amounts and application deadlines may change each year. Students should check the official University of Melbourne scholarships portal for the latest information before applying.
Overview of University of Melbourne Scholarships 2025–2026
The University of Melbourne provides comprehensive scholarship programs for the 2025–2026 academic year. These scholarships support both domestic and international students pursuing research degrees.
Melbourne Graduate Research Scholarships offer full funding for Master’s by Research and PhD programs. Applying to a graduate research course automatically qualifies eligible applicants for consideration for these scholarships. The scholarships cover tuition fees, living allowances, and academic expenses.
Students receive a living stipend of $38,500 per year. Additional benefits include travel allowances and support for research-related costs.
Key Program Details
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Number of Awards | Approximately 600 scholarships |
| Total Value | Up to $135,000 AUD |
| Eligibility | All nationalities |
| Study Levels | Master’s by Research, PhD |
| Application Deadline | October 31, 2025 |
The Research Training Program (RTP) Scholarship targets high-achieving students. This program works alongside the Melbourne Research Scholarship system.
Students can apply for scholarships across all academic fields taught at the university. The application process requires enrollment in graduate research degree programs.
Both the Melbourne Research Scholarship and the Chancellor’s Scholarship are available. These programs aim to attract top academic talent from around the world.
Verification and Sources
Stipend amounts and application deadlines may change each year. Students should check the official University of Melbourne scholarships portal for the latest information before applying.

Melbourne Research Scholarship (MRS)
The MRS offers a substantial living allowance of AUD $38,500 annually and covers full tuition fees for graduate research students. The scholarship provides a full fee offset for the standard duration of the graduate research course. International recipients also receive relocation support and health coverage. The MRS is one of the university’s main fee offset scholarships, providing both a stipend and a fee offset to recipients.
The stipend continues throughout the standard program duration and is indexed annually to reflect changes in the cost of living.
The scholarship package also includes limited paid sick, maternity, and parenting leave to support students during significant life events.
Stipend AUD $38,500 per year
Recipients receive a tax-free living stipend of AUD $38,500 per year. This amount helps with daily living expenses so students can focus on their research.
The stipend continues throughout the standard program duration. Students do not pay taxes on this scholarship income.
Payments are made in regular installments during the academic year. The stipend helps cover accommodation, food, and personal expenses in Melbourne.
Full Tuition for 2 Years Master’s or 4 Years PhD
The scholarship covers complete tuition fees for the program duration. Master’s by research students receive coverage for up to two years.
PhD students get tuition support for up to four years. This fee offset removes the financial burden of graduate research program costs.
The Melbourne Research Scholarship covers both domestic and international student fee rates. Students avoid paying thousands of dollars in annual tuition expenses.
Relocation and OSHC Benefits
International students receive extra support beyond tuition and stipend payments. The scholarship includes Overseas Student Health Cover for a single membership.
Recipients get a relocation grant to help with moving expenses to Melbourne. This support helps with initial setup costs when arriving in Australia.
OSHC provides medical coverage throughout the program. The single membership covers essential healthcare services for international scholarship holders.
Eligibility
Students must enroll in a graduate research degree at the University of Melbourne. Students undertaking a graduate research course are eligible for these awards. Both Master’s by Research and PhD programs qualify.
Applicants need strong academic records and research potential. Eligible applicants are assessed based on their last completed degree, including academic achievement and research potential demonstrated in their completed degree. The program accepts both domestic and international students who show high achievement.
Students must meet general admission requirements for their chosen research program. Prior research experience and publications strengthen applications, with relevant professional experience, refereed publications, and specialist medical qualifications also considered during the selection process.
Selection focuses on academic merit and research capability. Around 350 scholarships are available each application cycle.
Applicants who have previously undertaken tertiary studies, excluding extension studies completed as part of secondary education, are eligible. Extension studies are not considered prior tertiary studies for eligibility.
31 October Deadline
Applications close on 31 October each year for the following academic year. Students must submit complete applications by this deadline.
The university processes applications and makes offers around the same time as course admission decisions. Applicants are typically notified of their scholarship consideration within ten business days of their course application decision. Late applications do not receive consideration.
Students should prepare application materials well before the deadline. Required documents include academic transcripts, research proposals, and reference letters.
Early submission allows time to address any missing documentation. The selection process takes several months for evaluation and decision-making.
Verification and Sources
Stipend amounts and application deadlines may change each year. Students should check the official University of Melbourne scholarships portal for the latest information before applying.
Research Training Program (RTP) Scholarship
The RTP Scholarship provides AUD $38,500 annually with full fee coverage for domestic and international research students. Domestic students with an offer of admission are automatically awarded the Research Training Program Scholarship. Applications follow the same timeline and requirements as the Melbourne Research Scholarship. The RTP Scholarship is available for both doctoral and masters by research degree students. This scholarship provides a comprehensive package including both a stipend and a fee offset.
Stipend AUD $38,500 per year
The Research Training Program Scholarship gives students AUD $38,500 per year as a living allowance. This stipend supports students during their research degree program.
Payments are made in regular installments during the academic year. Students receive this funding for up to three years for doctoral programs and two years for research master’s degrees.
The stipend is tax-free for recipients. Students can focus on their research without financial stress.
Same Benefits as MRS
RTP Scholarship recipients get the same benefits as Melbourne Research Scholarship holders. Both scholarships offer 100% tuition fee remission for the entire degree duration.
Students have access to the same research facilities and resources. They receive equal support from academic supervisors and research centers across the university.
The scholarship covers both domestic and international student fees. Recipients also access the same professional development opportunities and research training programs.
Library privileges and laboratory access are the same for both scholarship types. Students participate in identical research seminars and academic conferences.
Eligibility
Both domestic and international students can apply for the Research Training Program Scholarship. Applicants must enroll in or apply for a graduate research degree at the university.
Academic Requirements:
- A bachelor’s degree with first-class honors or equivalent is required for entry to most graduate research courses
- Master’s degree for doctoral applicants
- Strong academic record with a high GPA
Students must show research potential through previous academic work. Publications, research experience, or relevant project work strengthen applications.
English language requirements apply to international students. IELTS scores of 7.0 overall with no band below 6.5 meet the standard requirement.
Applicants need confirmed supervision from eligible faculty members. Research proposals must align with university research priorities and supervisor expertise.
Deadline
RTP Scholarship applications usually close in October each year for the following academic year. The university announces specific dates several months before the deadline.
Students should submit applications at least two months before the deadline. This timing allows enough time to review and process all required documents.
International students need extra time for visa processing. They should complete applications well before the deadline to ensure smooth enrollment.
The university rarely accepts submissions after the published closing date. Late applications are considered only in exceptional cases.
Verification and Sources
Stipend amounts and application deadlines may change each year. Students should check the official University of Melbourne scholarships portal for the latest information before applying.
Melbourne International Undergraduate Scholarship
This scholarship provides financial support through tuition remissions ranging from 25% to 100% for eligible international students. To qualify, applicants must have applied for and met the requirements for an overseas fee place. Applications are accepted throughout the year with rolling deadlines.
25%, 50%, or 100% Tuition Remission
The Melbourne International Undergraduate Scholarship offers three levels of financial support. Students can receive a $10,000 tuition fee remission for their first year, a 50% fee reduction for three years, or full tuition coverage.
Award Levels:
- $10,000 first-year tuition reduction
- 50% tuition remission for three years
- 100% full tuition coverage (limited availability)
The university awards 50 scholarships each year. Recipients are chosen based on academic excellence and financial need from their home countries.
Students from countries with limited educational opportunities due to financial constraints receive priority. All undergraduate programs at the University of Melbourne are eligible for this scholarship.
Rolling Deadlines
Applications are processed on a rolling basis throughout the academic year. Students should apply as early as possible since scholarships are awarded until all positions are filled.
The university reviews applications continuously rather than setting fixed deadline dates. This lets international students apply when they receive their admission offers.
Early applications get priority due to the limited number of scholarships. Students must submit their scholarship application after receiving an undergraduate admission offer.
Verification and Sources
Stipend amounts and application deadlines may change each academic year. Students should check the official University of Melbourne scholarships portal for the latest information before applying.
Chancellor’s Scholarship
The Melbourne Chancellor’s Scholarship provides full tuition coverage for up to four years of undergraduate study. It is a merit-based award for high-achieving students from Australia and overseas. Applicants must have completed their secondary school studies with outstanding results to be eligible.
Full Tuition for Up to 4 Years Undergraduate
The Chancellor’s Scholarship covers all tuition fees for undergraduate programs lasting up to four years. This coverage applies to every undergraduate degree offered at the University of Melbourne.
Students receive this financial support throughout their entire undergraduate journey. The scholarship removes the financial barrier of tuition costs for recipients.
The four-year coverage fits most undergraduate programs at the university. Students can focus on their studies without worrying about tuition expenses during this period.
This full tuition waiver is a significant benefit for both domestic and international students. The scholarship does not require repayment after graduation.
Merit-Based
The Chancellor’s Scholarship selection process focuses on academic excellence and achievement. Students need to show outstanding performance in their Australian Year 12 or International Baccalaureate studies completed in Australia.
Academic requirements include:
- Exceptional results in Year 12 or IB programs
- Strong academic track record
- High-achieving student status
The scholarship recognizes students for academic excellence in their final year of secondary education. Selection committees review academic transcripts and performance records to find top candidates.
Both Australian and international students can apply for this merit-based award. The scholarship aims to attract the highest-performing students to the University of Melbourne.
The selection process does not consider financial need. Awards go to students with the strongest academic credentials.
Verification and Sources
Stipend amounts and application deadlines may change each academic year. Students should check the official University of Melbourne scholarships portal for the latest information before applying.
Coursework Access Scholarships
These scholarships support students in undergraduate or graduate coursework programs who face financial hardship or disadvantaged circumstances. Awards provide living allowances and equity-based support, with deadlines that vary throughout the year. For certain access scholarships, students who have not previously undertaken tertiary studies may be prioritized.
Living Allowance
Students receive financial support to help cover basic living expenses during their studies. The allowance helps pay for accommodation, food, and other essential costs.
The amount varies based on individual circumstances and scholarship type. Students can use these funds for rent, groceries, textbooks, and transportation.
Most living allowances are paid in regular installments during the academic year. This steady income allows students to focus on their studies without extra financial stress.
Recipients need to maintain satisfactory academic progress to keep receiving payments. The university reviews performance each semester to ensure eligibility.
Equity or Financial-Need Awards
The coursework provides scholarship support to students from disadvantaged backgrounds. Eligible groups include first-generation university students, those from low-income families, and students with disabilities.
Eligible circumstances include:
- Financial hardship or low family income
- Refugee or asylum seeker status
- Indigenous Australian background
- Rural or remote location residence
- Caring responsibilities for family members
Students must provide documents proving their circumstances. This may include tax returns, Centrelink statements, or medical certificates.
The selection process considers both financial need and academic merit. Priority goes to students who need the most support.
Deadlines Vary
Application deadlines differ for each scholarship in this program. Some scholarships accept applications year-round, while others have specific closing dates.
Common deadline periods:
- Mid-year intake: Applications usually close in April
- End-of-year intake: Deadlines often fall in September or October
- Rolling admissions: Some awards accept applications all year
Students should apply early since funds are limited. Late applications might miss out, even if they meet all requirements.
Most scholarships require applications 2-3 months before the study period begins. International students should allow extra time for visa processing.
Verification and Sources
Stipend amounts and application deadlines may change each year. Students should check the official University of Melbourne scholarships portal for the latest updates before applying.
Application Tips
Most Melbourne research scholarships use automatic consideration for domestic and international students. Submit your application early, as processing takes time and deadlines can vary. Always check official university sources for the latest information.
International students should apply several months before their intended start date to allow time for visa processing. A valid student visa is required to access certain scholarship benefits, including health coverage and relocation assistance.
How Automatic Consideration Works
When you apply for graduate research degrees at the University of Melbourne, you are automatically considered for most scholarships. This includes the Melbourne Research Scholarship and RTP scholarships.
You do not need to submit a separate application for these scholarships. The university reviews all research degree applications for scholarship eligibility during the admissions process.
Submit your research degree application to be considered. The scholarship assessment happens as part of the regular admissions review.
Merit-based selection means the university offers scholarships to students with strong academic records. They evaluate undergraduate grades, research experience, and educational achievements.
Scholarship offers arrive separately from course offers, but usually around the same time. The university notifies you if you are selected for funding.
When to Apply
Applications for 2025 scholarships are now open at the University of Melbourne. Apply as early as possible, since scholarships are competitive.
The university processes applications throughout the year. However, specific deadlines apply for different scholarship rounds and degree programs.
Early applications get priority for funding. Late applications may miss out on scholarship opportunities, even if course admission is still possible.
Check your degree program requirements, as some research areas or supervisors may have earlier internal deadlines.
International students should apply several months before their intended start date to allow time for visa processing.
Where to Confirm Updates
The official University of Melbourne Graduate Research scholarship webpage has the most accurate information. Bookmark this page for regular updates.
Scholarship details change yearly, including stipend amounts and eligibility requirements. Always verify current information before applying.
The university posts deadline updates and new scholarship opportunities on their official portal. Registered users may also receive email notifications.
Contact the Graduate Research Office directly for questions about your application status or requirements.
Verification and Sources: Stipend amounts and application deadlines may change each academic year. Confirm current information through the official University of Melbourne scholarships portal before submitting applications.
Final Note
University of Melbourne scholarships offer strong support for research students in 2025. The Melbourne Research Scholarship and RTP Scholarship provide full funding for both domestic and international students.
These scholarships cover all tuition fees. Students receive a living stipend of $38,500 per year plus a $3,000 relocation grant.
The Chancellor’s Scholarship targets exceptional undergraduate students. International undergraduate scholarships help reduce financial barriers for overseas students.
Key points to remember:
- You must be admitted to a graduate research degree to apply
- All academic fields at the university are eligible
- Health insurance and living expenses are covered
- Both Master’s by Research and PhD programs qualify
Apply early, as competition is high. Merit-based selection focuses on academic achievement and research potential.
The scholarships remove most financial concerns. Students can focus on their research and academic goals.
Verification and Sources
Stipend amounts and application deadlines may change each year. Always check the official University of Melbourne scholarships portal before applying.
Frequently Asked Questions
Students often have questions about eligibility requirements, application deadlines, financial benefits, and selection processes for University of Melbourne scholarships. International students frequently ask about undergraduate opportunities and fully funded PhD options.
What are the eligibility criteria for applying to the University of Melbourne Scholarship for the academic year 2025?
Melbourne Research Scholarships are available to domestic and international students enrolling in graduate research degrees. Students must show high academic achievement and strong research potential. Eligible applicants are evaluated based on their last completed degree and relevant professional experience.
Applicants need to meet the university’s admission requirements for their chosen research program, and entry requirements include holding a completed degree at the appropriate level. The scholarship selection focuses on academic merit and research capabilities.
International students must also meet English language requirements. Students applying for graduate research degrees are automatically considered for these scholarships.
What are the application deadlines for the University of Melbourne’s various scholarships in 2025?
Scholarship offers for graduate research programs usually come around the same time as course admission offers. Students receive scholarship decisions shortly after program acceptance.
Different scholarship programs may have different deadline schedules. The Melbourne Research Scholarship follows the graduate research program application timeline.
Check specific program deadlines, as they can differ between schools and departments. Early applications often get priority for funding.
How can international undergraduate students apply for scholarships at the University of Melbourne?
International undergraduate students can find various scholarship opportunities through the university’s scholarship portal. First, apply for admission to an undergraduate program. Applicants must have completed secondary school outside Australia or a foundation program in Australia, and must apply for an overseas fee place. Eligibility is limited to those who completed their final secondary school studies outside Australia.
The application process usually requires academic transcripts and English proficiency test scores. Students submit scholarship applications along with their course applications.
Merit-based scholarships consider academic performance and achievements. Some scholarships require separate application forms and extra documentation.
What financial benefits does the Melbourne Research Scholarship stipend offer?
The Melbourne Research Scholarship gives recipients up to 135,000 AUD as a stipend during their studies. The scholarship provides a stipend and fee offset, with the full fee offset covering tuition for the standard duration of the program. The living allowance is indexed annually to keep pace with inflation. Students also receive 100% tuition fee coverage.
International students get extra benefits, such as relocation grants and health coverage. The scholarship covers living expenses for the duration of the research degree program.
About 350 new and continuing students receive these scholarships each year. The funding supports students for the standard duration of their research programs.
Are there fully funded scholarship options available for PhD students at the University of Melbourne for 2025?
The Melbourne Research Scholarship offers fully funded opportunities for PhD students. These scholarships are available to students pursuing a doctoral degree at the university. This includes complete fee remission and living allowances.
International PhD students receive comprehensive support, including health coverage and relocation assistance. The scholarship covers the entire duration of standard PhD programs.
Students in research degrees can access both stipend payments and fee offsets. These scholarships provide some of the most comprehensive funding for research students.
What is the selection process for the Melbourne Chancellor’s Scholarship in 2025?
The Chancellor’s Scholarship selection process looks at academic excellence and leadership potential.
A selection committee carefully reviews each application.
Students need to show outstanding academic performance and active community involvement.
The scholarship rewards exceptional students who demonstrate strong leadership promise.
Selection criteria include academic merit, extracurricular achievements, and personal statements.
This award is highly competitive because of its prestige.
Verification and Sources
Stipend amounts and application deadlines can change each year.
For the most accurate information, students should check the official University of Melbourne scholarships portal.
