The Australian National University (ANU) Research Training Program (RTP) Scholarship 2026 is a fully funded scholarship that supports both domestic and international students pursuing Higher Degree Research (HDR) programs such as a Master’s by Research or a PhD.
This prestigious award is funded by the Australian Government and administered by ANU to attract top-performing research candidates across various academic fields.
Australian National University RTP Scholarship 2026 Summary
| Details | Information |
| Host Country | Australia |
| Institution | Australian National University (ANU) |
| Study Level | Master’s by Research, PhD |
| Eligible Applicants | Domestic and International Students |
| Type of Scholarship | Fully Funded (Tuition + Living Allowance + Allowances) |
| Annual Stipend | Approximately AUD 38,154 per annum |
| Duration | Up to 3 years for PhD, 2 years for Master’s (extensions available) |
| Application Rounds / Deadlines | Round 1: April 15, 2026 |
Overview of the ANU RTP Scholarship 2026
Each year, the Australian Government Department of Education and Training provides funding to Australian universities through the Research Training Program (RTP). The goal is to support highly qualified students undertaking research degrees that contribute to the advancement of knowledge and innovation.
At ANU, the RTP Scholarship is awarded through two competitive rounds each year. Candidates are ranked and selected based on academic excellence, research potential, supervisor availability, and alignment with the university’s research priorities.
The RTP at ANU covers tuition fees, living expenses, and a range of additional allowances to support students during their research journey.
Eligibility Criteria
To be considered for the Australian National University RTP Scholarship 2026, applicants must meet the following criteria:
- Be a domestic or international student applying for or enrolled in a Higher Degree Research (HDR) program (Master’s or PhD).
- Meet the academic entry requirements for the chosen research program.
- Have a strong academic and research background with excellent academic records.
- Meet the English language proficiency requirements of ANU (varies by program).
- Submit a complete application, including academic transcripts, referee reports, and a research proposa,l before the application deadline.
- For current ANU students, complete and submit the Request for Consideration for HDR Scholarship form to their Academic College.
Benefits of the ANU RTP Scholarship 2026
The ANU Research Training Program (RTP) Scholarship offers one of the most comprehensive funding packages in Australia. Benefits include:
- Full tuition fee coverage for the duration of the HDR program.
- Annual living stipend of approximately AUD 38,154, paid fortnightly to support living expenses.
- Relocation and travel allowance for students moving to Canberra to commence their research.
- Thesis and publication allowance for printing, binding, and publication costs.
- Dependent child allowance (available to international students).
- Paid medical, maternity, and parental leave, subject to university policy.
- Scholarship duration:
- Up to 3 years for PhD (with a possible 6-month extension).
- Up to 2 years for Master’s by Research (with a possible 6-month extension).
Selection Process
Scholarship recipients are chosen through a competitive ranking process. Selection is based on:
- Academic achievements and prior research performance.
- Quality of the proposed research project.
- Availability of appropriate supervision and resources.
- Alignment of the applicant’s research with ANU’s strategic research goals.
- Endorsement and support from the nominated supervisor and college.
Only the highest-ranked applicants are awarded the RTP Scholarship each round.
How to Apply for the ANU RTP Scholarship 2026 (Step-by-Step)
- Choose a Research Program: Review ANU’s available Master’s or PhD research programs and confirm you meet the admission requirements.
- Find a Supervisor: Identify and contact a potential supervisor whose research area aligns with your proposed topic. Secure their agreement to supervise your project.
- Prepare Your Application Documents: Gather all required materials, including academic transcripts, curriculum vitae (CV), research proposal, referee reports, and proof of English proficiency (if required).
- Submit Your Application: Complete the online application for admission to a Higher Degree Research program at ANU.
During the application process, indicate that you wish to be considered for available scholarships, including the RTP. - For Current ANU Students: If you are already enrolled in an HDR program and not currently holding a scholarship, submit the Request for a Current ANU Student to be Considered for an HDR Scholarship form to your college.
- Await Notification: Applicants will be notified of the outcome after the scholarship selection committee has completed its assessment.
For more details, visit the official website here.
Important Notes
- There is no separate application form specifically for the RTP Scholarship. Simply indicate interest when applying for HDR admission.
- The scholarship is highly competitive; meeting the eligibility criteria does not guarantee selection.
- Ensure your application is complete and submitted before the deadline (April 15, 2026).
- Candidates are encouraged to contact potential supervisors well in advance of the deadline to strengthen their application.
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