What Is RTP?
The Research Training Program (RTP) is the Australian Government's primary mechanism for funding domestic and international PhD candidates. Unlike Australia Awards, RTP is administered by individual universities and is extremely competitive for international students.
What It Covers
- Full tuition fee waiver (PhD tuition is AUD 30,000–45,000/year — this is the main benefit)
- Living allowance: AUD 32,500/year (2025 rate, indexed annually)
- Relocation allowance: up to AUD 2,000
- Thesis allowance
Eligibility
Open to both domestic and international students. You must be enrolled (or seeking enrolment) in an accredited Australian HDR (Higher Degree by Research) program. First-class honours equivalent is the baseline requirement.
How to Apply
You apply for RTP as part of your PhD application at the university. Your supervisor's support letter is crucial. Some universities automatically consider all eligible PhD applicants; others require a separate scholarship application form.
Timing
Most universities have two RTP rounds — October (for February start) and March (for July start). Apply at least 3–4 months before your intended commencement date.
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