Are you an ambitious student dreaming of pursuing a Master’s or PhD at one of Australia’s top universities? The University of Melbourne Graduate Research Scholarships 2025 offer an incredible opportunity to turn that dream into reality! With over 600 fully funded scholarships available, this prestigious program, supported by the Australian Government and the University of Melbourne, is designed to attract high-achieving domestic and international students to undertake graduate research degrees. Whether you’re passionate about advancing knowledge in your field or seeking a transformative academic experience in Australia, this scholarship is your gateway to success.
What Are the University of Melbourne Graduate Research Scholarships?
The Graduate Research Scholarships encompass the Melbourne Research Scholarship and the Australian Government Research Training Program (RTP) Scholarship. These fully funded scholarships are awarded to exceptional students pursuing a Master’s by Research or Doctoral (PhD) degree at the University of Melbourne. With a focus on academic excellence and research potential, the program supports students across a wide range of disciplines, from science and engineering to humanities, arts, and more.
The scholarships aim to alleviate financial burdens, allowing you to focus on groundbreaking research while immersing yourself in Melbourne’s vibrant academic and cultural scene.
Scholarship Benefits
The University of Melbourne Graduate Research Scholarships provide comprehensive support to ensure you can thrive during your studies. Here’s what you can expect:
- Full Tuition Fee Offset: Up to 2 years for Master’s by Research students and up to 4 years for Doctoral (PhD) students.
- Generous Living Allowance: A stipend of $38,500 per year (2025 full-time study rate, pro-rata), indexed annually, for up to 2 years for Master’s students or 3.5 years for PhD students. This includes limited paid sick, maternity, and parenting leave.
- Relocation Grant:
- $2,000 for students moving from other Australian states or territories (outside Victoria).
- $3,000 for international students relocating from outside Australia.
- Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC): Single membership for international students requiring a student visa to study in Australia.
- World-Class Research Opportunities: Access to cutting-edge facilities, expert supervision, and global networking opportunities at Australia’s #1 ranked university.
- Cultural and Professional Growth: Live and study in Melbourne, a city renowned for its cultural diversity, vibrant arts scene, and excellent quality of life.
These benefits ensure you can focus on your research without financial stress, while also enjoying the rich experiences Melbourne has to offer.
Eligibility Criteria
To be eligible for the University of Melbourne Graduate Research Scholarships, applicants must:
- Have applied for and meet the entry requirements for a Master’s by Research or Doctoral (PhD) degree at the University of Melbourne, OR be currently enrolled in a graduate research degree at the University.
- Demonstrate academic excellence based on their last completed degree and research potential in their chosen field.
- Meet the University’s English language requirements and any specific criteria for the research program or department.
The selection process is competitive, with candidates ranked based on academic achievements, professional experience, refereed publications, or other relevant qualifications. International and domestic students are equally encouraged to apply, making this a truly global opportunity.
How to Apply
One of the best features of this scholarship is its streamlined application process. There’s no separate application required for the Graduate Research Scholarships. Here’s how to apply:
Apply for a Graduate Research Program:
- Submit an online application for a Master’s by Research or PhD program at the University of Melbourne by the course application deadline. Visit the University of Melbourne Study website to explore available programs and start your application.
- Ensure you meet the academic and English language requirements for your school.
- You’ll receive a notification within 10 business days confirming that a scholarship application has been added to your record.
For Current or Deferred Students:
- If you’re already enrolled in a graduate research degree or have deferred your course offer, submit an online scholarship application form by 31 October 2025 to be considered for the following year.
Prepare Supporting Documents:
- Academic transcripts
- Evidence of degree completion
- Research proposal (if required for your course)
- GMAT/GRE scores (if applicable)
- Two referee reports
- Valid passport
Submit and Track Your Application:
- Use the University’s online portal to submit your application and monitor its progress. Be sure to check for any additional departmental requirements.
- Application Deadline: 31 October 2025 for the 2025 intake.
- Applications for graduate research programs must be submitted by this date to be automatically considered for the scholarship.
- Offers for scholarships (stipend and fee offset) are typically made around the same time as course offers.
Don’t miss this chance to secure funding for your research journey.
Why Choose the University of Melbourne?
Ranked as Australia’s number one university and 31st globally (Times Higher Education World University Rankings 2021), the University of Melbourne is a global leader in research and innovation. Here’s why it’s the perfect place for your graduate studies:
- World-Class Research Environment: Collaborate with leading researchers and access state-of-the-art facilities across diverse fields like engineering, medicine, humanities, and more.
- Vibrant Academic Community: Join a diverse cohort of scholars from around the world, fostering multidisciplinary networks and lifelong connections.
- Melbourne’s Cultural Capital: Study in Melbourne, a city celebrated for its cultural diversity, world-class dining, arts, sports, and excellent public transport. From vibrant festivals to serene parks, Melbourne offers an unparalleled student experience.
- Career Opportunities: Benefit from strong industry connections, internships, and career development programs to prepare for a successful future.
Tips for a Successful Application
- Start Early: Research your desired program and ensure you meet all entry requirements well before the deadline.
- Craft a Strong Research Proposal: Clearly articulate your research goals and their potential impact to stand out in the competitive selection process.
- Secure Strong References: Choose referees who can speak to your academic achievements and research potential.
- Tailor Your Application: Highlight relevant experience, publications, or qualifications that align with your chosen field of study.
- Contact a Supervisor: Reach out to potential supervisors to discuss your research interests. Check out the University of Melbourne’s guide to finding a supervisor.
Ready to Apply?
The University of Melbourne Graduate Research Scholarships 2025 are a golden opportunity to pursue your research ambitions at a world-class institution. With full tuition coverage, a generous stipend, and relocation support, this scholarship removes financial barriers and lets you focus on making a global impact through your research.
Don’t wait—start your application today and take the first step toward an extraordinary academic journey in Australia! Visit the University of Melbourne Scholarships page for more details and to apply.