International Postgraduate Research Scholarships (IPR)

Australian Government has organized a prestigious scholarship program for higher degrees by research HED students. It is known as the Research Training Program RTP, formally the International Postgraduate Research Scholarship (IPRS). It was established in 2017 to streamline the research process in the country. It is hosted by reputed universities of Australia. The program is open to all international students.  it is a fully funded scholarship that can cut down the educational expenses and tuition fees. The graduate students including masters and PhD aspirants can apply to desired eligible higher education providers HEPs.

The core objectives of this research training program RTP scholarship are to:

  • Support collaboration and mutual coordination between HEPs and research users.
  • Build and prepare top-notch graduates and researchers for academia and industry sectors.
  • Deliver flexible funding to support the financial condition of the individual.

Benefits of Research Training Program RTP

It is a vast program with vast advantages for the students.

  • Tuition fees offset
  • A stipend that can cover general living expenses and costs.

§  Full-time base RTP stipend rate for 2025 is $33,511 and for 2024 is $32,192.

§  Full-time maximum RTP stipend rate $52,352 for 2025 and $50,291 for 2024.

  • A defined amount that is related to the ancillary cost of HDRs.
  • Accommodation facilities, and research expenditure are also covered.
  • Medical facilities are also provided in RTP

Visit Romanian Government Scholarship 2025.

Eligible Higher Education Providers HEPs:

There is a huge list of the institute that host the research training programs for graduates and post graduate students.  these Australian universities are called as eligible higher education providers HEPs.  Check the full list of the eligible Australian universities

  • University of Melbourne
  • University of Sydney
  • University of La Trobe
  • Griffith university
  • University of Queensland
  • Australian National University
  • Macquarie University, and lots more.

Duration of RTP Scholarship Support

Research doctorate degree:

  • The duration of the RTP scholarship for full-time doctorate degree is 3 years to 4 years.
  • The duration for part- time doctorate degree is 6 years to 8 years.

Research master’s degree:

  • For full-time students, the duration is 2 years.
  • For part-time students, the duration is up to 4 years.

Apply for MIT scholarship. It is fully funded.  

Eligibility Criteria

The specific eligibility requirement may differ by university to university. But the general requirements states that the candidate must:

  • Be an international student belonging to any nationality.
  • Not be a citizen of Australia and New Zealand.
  • Have a strong academic record with overall good grades.
  • Be fluent in the English language.
  • Be enrolled in the Higher Education Degree in any of the eligible university.

How to Apply for the Research Training Program RTP?

  • There is no method of application through Australian Government Department of Education.
  • To apply for the scholarship, one has to contact the desired higher education provider institute HEP.
  • Check their official website for the eligible course and deadlines.
  • Take admission in the interested university where you want to study the post graduate program.
  • Apply for the Research Training Program RTP from their website.
  • Meet all the requirements and eligibility criteria for the scholarships.
  • Gather all the documents like academic transcripts, English test scores, CV, and other documents.

Deadlines:

The deadline for each university varies for each university. You have to check the individual university for deadlines.

You must also read: How to Write a Motivation Letter for Securing a Scholarship.

FAQs:

  • Is IELTS required?

Yes, it is important to have proficiency in the English language.

2.  How to apply for the RTP program?

You have to apply for the program from the application portal of your interested university, where you want to study.

3.  How can I get my query solved about the research training program?

You can simply ask your query via this email. rbgrants@education.gov.au  

4.  I am a recent undergraduate with a GPA of 2.00. will I be eligible?

No, you aren’t.  A strong academic record and high GPA are required to be eligible.

5.  What is the RTP?
The Research Training Program supports domestic and international students enrolled in higher degree research programs at Australian universities.

6. What does the RTP provide?
It may cover tuition fees, a living allowance (stipend), and other research-related costs like thesis printing and health insurance (for international students).

7. Who can apply?
Master’s by research and PhD candidates studying full-time or part-time at eligible Australian universities.

8. How do I apply for an RTP scholarship?
Apply directly through the university where you plan to study. Each university sets its own application process and deadlines.

9. How long is the support available?

·         PhD: up to 4 years (full-time)

·         Master’s: up to 2 years (full-time)
Part-time options are also available in some cases.

10. What’s the current stipend amount?
As of 2025, the base annual stipend is around AUD 33,500. This may vary slightly between universities.

11. Can international students apply?
Yes, many universities offer RTP places to international applicants based on merit and research potential.

12. Where can I learn more?
Visit the official website: education.gov.au/research-training-program.

Official website:

You can get more updates on the Australian Government Research Training Program by visiting the official website.

Learn these points before submitting your research paper.

Updated by Z on July 12, 2025.