The Deakin University Research Training Program (RTP) Scholarship 2026 is a fully funded opportunity for high-achieving domestic and international students to pursue a Master’s by Research or PhD by Research programme in Australia. Funded under the Australian Government’s Research Training Program, the scholarship is administered by Deakin University — one of Australia’s leading research-intensive institutions.
Designed to attract exceptional research talent from around the world, the Deakin RTP Scholarship provides comprehensive financial support, allowing recipients to focus entirely on their research without financial concerns. Scholars benefit from access to world-class research facilities, expert supervision, and a dynamic academic environment built around innovation, applied research, and global impact.
What the Scholarship Covers
- Full tuition fee waiver for the entire duration of the scholarship
- Annual living allowance of approximately AUD 35,550 (subject to annual indexation)
- Relocation allowance of AUD 500 – AUD 1,500
- Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) for international recipients
- Access to professional supervision, mentoring, and research development support
Eligibility Requirements
To be considered for the Deakin University RTP Scholarship 2026, applicants must meet the following criteria:
- Be a domestic or international student
- Hold an offer of admission or be currently enrolled in a Higher Degree by Research (HDR) programme at Deakin University
- Not receive income from any other source exceeding 75% of the RTP living allowance rate
- Be enrolled as a full-time, on-campus student
- Have completed a minimum of four years of undergraduate study, or the equivalent
- Meet Deakin University’s HDR admission, selection, and enrolment requirements
- Meet Deakin University’s English language proficiency requirements
Required Documents
- CV or résumé
- Academic transcripts from all previous tertiary studies
- Prior study programme credentials where applicable
- Proof of English language proficiency
- Research proposal
- Proof of identity and nationality
- Publications list if applicable
- Two referee reports
- Expression of Interest (EOI) letter
- Any additional documents specified by the relevant faculty or research institute
How to Apply: Step-by-Step
Step 1: Verify Your Eligibility
Confirm that you meet all academic, research, and English language requirements before proceeding with your application.
Step 2: Prepare Your Documents
Compile your CV, academic transcripts, research proposal, referee statements, and English language proficiency evidence well in advance of the deadline.
Step 3: Identify a Supervisor
Contact a prospective supervisor at Deakin University whose research interests align with yours. Establishing supervisory support before applying significantly strengthens your application.
Step 4: Submit an Expression of Interest (EOI)
Forward your Expression of Interest — including your research proposal and academic curriculum — to the relevant faculty or research institute at Deakin University.
Step 5: Apply for HDR Admission
Submit a formal application for admission to a Higher Degree by Research programme at Deakin University through the official admissions process.
Step 6: Complete the Scholarship Application Form
Fill out the RTP Scholarship application form, which is available on the Deakin University scholarships portal.
Step 7: Submit Your Application
Submit your completed application and all supporting documents through Deakin University’s official online portal before the relevant deadline.
Application Deadlines
| Intake | Application Window |
|---|---|
| 2026 Domestic — July 2026 admission | 20th January – 13th March 2026 |
| 2027 International — February 2027 admission | 6th July – 23rd August 2026 |
| 2027 Domestic — February 2027 admission | 6th July – 25th October 2026 |
For full details and to access the official application portal, visit: deakin.edu.au — RTP and DUPRS Scholarships
Conclusion
The Deakin University RTP Scholarship 2026 is one of the most comprehensive fully funded research scholarships available to both domestic and international students in Australia. With full tuition coverage, a generous living allowance, relocation support, and health insurance, it removes the financial barriers that often limit access to high-level postgraduate research. If you are pursuing a research career and your interests align with Deakin’s academic strengths, this scholarship represents a significant opportunity to advance your academic and professional trajectory in one of Australia’s leading research environments.