The University of Melbourne Graduate Research Scholarships support international and domestic students undertaking a Master by Research or a doctoral degree. Each year, the university awards around 600 scholarships to high-achieving students. These scholarships aim to reduce the financial burden of graduate research study and make it more accessible for students from around the world.
The University of Melbourne Graduate Research Scholarships cover full tuition fees for up to two years for a Master’s by Research and up to four years for a doctoral degree. It also provides a living allowance of approximately AUD $38,500 per year and it’s paid twice monthly to assist with everyday expenses. Additional benefits include health insurance through the Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) for international students and a one-time relocation grant to help cover travel costs. The relocation allowance is AUD $3,000 for those moving from outside Australia.
Eligibility Criteria
To be eligible, applicants must have applied for or be currently enrolled in a graduate research program at the University of Melbourne. All nationalities can apply, and there are no restrictions based on field of study. Strong academic performance and research potential are key selection criteria. A research proposal or prior research experience can strengthen your application.
Let’s break down everything you need to know about applying for The University of Melbourne Graduate Research Scholarships.
How to Apply
New Applicants
New applicants do not need to submit a separate scholarship application. By applying for a graduate research degree, you will be automatically considered.
Current or Deferred Students
If you are already enrolled or have deferred your admission, you must submit an online scholarship application form by 31 October to be considered for the next round.
Selection Process
Selection is based on academic merit and research potential. Applicants are ranked according to previous academic performance and demonstrated capacity for research. Additional achievements such as research publications or professional experience may also be considered.
Key Deadlines
The main scholarship application deadline is 31 October each year for those seeking to start the following year, also there are additional rounds in January and May, but most scholarships are awarded in the first round. It’s recommended to apply as early as possible.
Participating Faculties
The scholarship is available across all faculties and departments at the University of Melbourne. Students from any discipline can be considered as long as they meet the program and scholarship requirements.
The University of Melbourne Graduate Research Scholarships provide financial support for qualified students pursuing research degrees. Make sure to apply for your course on time and prepare a strong application to improve your chances.
- Visit the University of Melbourne Graduate Research Scholarships page for full details.
Frequently Asked Questions
How will I know if I have received the scholarship?
Successful applicants will be notified via email, usually around the same time they receive their offer of admission. If awarded, the scholarship details will be included in the offer letter.
Can I defer the scholarship?
Scholarship deferral is not guaranteed. You must request approval from the university, and it will be assessed based on your circumstances and the university’s policies at the time.
What if I hold another scholarship?
If you already hold another major scholarship, you may not be eligible to receive the Graduate Research Scholarship concurrently. The university will review your situation and confirm eligibility during the selection process.
Do I need to apply separately for OSHC?
No. If you are awarded the scholarship, the university will arrange Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) as part of the package for international students.
Can I work while holding this scholarship?
Yes, international students can work part-time in accordance with their visa conditions. However, the scholarship is intended to support full-time study, so any work should not interfere with your academic progress. If you begin your research without a scholarship, you can reapply in the next round, as long as you’re still within the early phase of your program.
What types of graduate research degrees are covered?
The scholarship covers Master’s by Research and doctoral (PhD) programs offered at the University of Melbourne.
How competitive is the scholarship?
The scholarship is highly competitive, as it is awarded based on academic merit and research potential. Each year, around 600 scholarships are awarded.
Can I reapply if I’m unsuccessful?
Yes. If you are not successful in receiving a scholarship in one round, you may reapply in the next available round, as long as you remain eligible.
Does the scholarship cover dependants?
No. The Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) provided covers the student only. Students with dependants will need to arrange additional cover.
Can I transfer this scholarship to another university?
No. The Graduate Research Scholarships are specific to the University of Melbourne and cannot be transferred to another institution.
What happens if I change my research topic or supervisor?
Any changes to your research topic or supervision arrangement must be approved by your faculty and may need to be communicated to the scholarships office.
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