The University of Melbourne is offering its prestigious Graduate Research Scholarships for 2026, providing high-achieving domestic and international students with the opportunity to pursue fully funded master’s by research and doctoral degrees in Australia. The scholarship program combines the Melbourne Research Scholarship (MRS) and the Australian Government Research Training Program (RTP) Scholarship, both designed to support outstanding researchers across multiple academic disciplines. With benefits valued at up to AUD 135,000, the program remains one of Australia’s most competitive and comprehensive graduate research funding opportunities. A major advantage of the scholarship is that eligible applicants are automatically considered when applying for an eligible graduate research program at the university, eliminating the need for a separate scholarship application in most cases. Overview of the Graduate Research Scholarships The Graduate Research Scholarships are awarded to students undertaking graduate research degrees at the University of Melbourne. The initiative supports future researchers, academics, innovators, and professionals committed to advancing knowledge and addressing global challenges through research. The scholarships are open to: Domestic students International students Future graduate research candidates Current graduate research students The program supports studies in a wide range of disciplines, including: Engineering Health sciences Law Information technology Environmental studies Business and economics Education Agriculture and veterinary sciences Arts and humanities Architecture and design Science Music and performing arts Scholarship Benefits The Graduate Research Scholarships provide extensive financial support to help students focus fully on their academic and research goals. Full Tuition Fee Coverage Successful candidates may receive: Full tuition fee remission for up to two years for a Master’s by Research degree Full tuition fee remission for up to four years for a doctoral degree This fee offset substantially reduces the financial burden associated with graduate research studies. Generous Living Allowance Recipients of stipend scholarships will also receive: AUD 39,500 per year living allowance (2026 full-time study rate) Funding for up to two years for master’s by research students Funding for up to 3.5 years for doctoral students The stipend includes: Limited paid sick leave Maternity leave Parenting leave The allowance may also be indexed annually. Relocation Support Students relocating for their studies are eligible for relocation grants, including: AUD 2,000 for students moving from other Australian states or territories outside Victoria AUD 3,000 for students relocating from outside Australia Overseas Student Health Cover International students requiring a student visa will receive: Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) Single Membership This support helps international candidates meet Australia’s visa and healthcare requirements during their studies. Who Is Eligible? To qualify for consideration, applicants must: Apply for a graduate research degree at the University of Melbourne OR Be currently enrolled in a graduate research program at the university The scholarship selection process is highly competitive and based primarily on academic merit and research potential. Selection Criteria Graduate Research Scholarships are awarded based on several factors, including: Academic performance in the applicant’s most recently completed degree Research capability and potential Relevant professional experience Academic publications Specialist qualifications Creative outputs such as original music compositions Students with strong research backgrounds and demonstrated academic excellence are typically ranked more competitively. Automatic Scholarship Consideration One of the most attractive aspects of the program is its streamlined application process. Eligible students who apply for a graduate research course before the relevant closing date are automatically considered for the scholarship. There is generally no need to submit a separate scholarship application. Applicants will receive confirmation within ten business days that a scholarship application has been added to their admission record. Application Process for Current and Deferred Students Students who: Have deferred their course commencement Are already enrolled in graduate research studies must submit an online scholarship application form by 31 October to be considered for scholarship funding in the following academic year. Number of Scholarships Available The University of Melbourne offers approximately: 600 Graduate Research Scholarships annually This significant number demonstrates the institution’s strong commitment to supporting global research talent and fostering innovation across disciplines. Why Study at the University of Melbourne? The University of Melbourne is consistently ranked among the world’s leading universities and is recognized for excellence in teaching, research, and innovation. Graduate researchers benefit from: Access to world-class research facilities Internationally recognized supervisors Global academic networks Strong industry partnerships A diverse and inclusive academic environment The university is also regarded as Australia’s top-ranked university for research excellence and graduate employability. A Major Opportunity for Global Researchers The Graduate Research Scholarships represent a significant opportunity for students seeking fully funded postgraduate education in Australia. With comprehensive financial support, automatic consideration, and access to one of the world’s leading research institutions, the scholarship continues to attract exceptional candidates from across the globe. For aspiring researchers aiming to contribute to scientific innovation, policy development, social transformation, or creative advancement, the University of Melbourne Graduate Research Scholarships offer a pathway toward academic excellence and international impact. VISIT OFFICIAL WEBSITE TO APPLY For more opportunities such as these please follow us on Facebook, Instagram, WhatsApp, Twitter, LinkedIn and WPChannel Disclaimer: Global South Opportunities (GSO) is not the organization offering this opportunity. For any inquiries, please contact the official organization directly. Please do not send your applications & CVs to GSO, as we are unable to process them. Due to the high volume of emails, we receive daily, we may not be able to respond to all inquiries. Thank you for your understanding.