Australian Government Research Training Program (RTP) Scholarship 2026/27 at ANU
Fully Funded Research Scholarship in Australia for International Students
International students looking to pursue a research degree in Australia can apply for the Australian Government Research Training Program (RTP) Stipend Scholarship at The Australian National University (ANU).
The scholarship supports outstanding domestic and international candidates undertaking Higher Degree Research (HDR) programs at ANU. The current international scholarship round closes on 31 August 2026 and is for students commencing their research program in the following year.
Scholarship Overview
- Scholarship: Australian Government Research Training Program (RTP) Stipend Scholarship
- University: Australian National University (ANU)
- Country: Australia
- Study Level: Postgraduate Research
- Eligible Students: International and domestic students
- Degree Type: Higher Degree Research (HDR), including research master’s and PhD pathways
- Study Mode: Full-time research
- Scholarship Duration: Up to 3.5 years
- Annual Stipend: AUD $39,069 per year for 2026
- International Deadline: 31 August 2026
- Expected Commencement: Following year, by 31 March
ANU states that the 2026 full-time base RTP stipend rate is AUD $39,069 per year, paid fortnightly, with stipend support available for 3.5 years.
What Does the ANU RTP Scholarship Cover?
Successful candidates may receive:
- AUD $39,069 annual living stipend
- Stipend payments for up to 3.5 years
- RTP Fee Offset covering tuition fees for eligible international research candidates
- Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) for eligible international recipients
- Travel and relocation allowances
- Thesis allowance
- Dependent-child allowance for eligible international students
- Paid medical, maternity and parental leave under applicable conditions
The RTP International Fee Offset Scholarship covers tuition fees for three years, with possible extensions under the applicable RTP rules.
Who Can Apply?
The scholarship is aimed at outstanding candidates applying for eligible Higher Degree Research programs at ANU.
Applicants are assessed competitively, with selection based on factors including academic merit, research potential, availability of an appropriate supervisor, research alignment and available resources.
International applicants should ensure that their admission application is complete, including required supporting documents and referee reports, by the scholarship deadline.
ANU strongly recommends submitting the application 2–3 weeks before the deadline to allow time for referees to complete their reports.
How to Apply
There is no separate application form specifically for the RTP Stipend Scholarship for commencing students.
Applicants should apply for admission to an eligible ANU Higher Degree Research program and indicate that they wish to be considered for available scholarships during the admission process. Eligible candidates are then considered for the scholarship through the competitive scholarship round.
Important Deadline
31 August 2026 — International Applicants
Applications must be complete by the scholarship deadline, including supporting documentation and referee reports.
Official Application Information
Applicants should check the official ANU scholarship page for the latest eligibility requirements, eligible research programs and application instructions before applying:
ANU Australian Government Research Training Program (RTP) Stipend Scholarship
Final Thoughts
The ANU RTP Scholarship is a highly competitive opportunity for international students seeking to undertake advanced research in Australia. Because the international deadline is 31 August 2026, prospective applicants should begin preparing their research proposal, academic documents, referees and supervisor discussions as soon as possible.
Disclaimer: Scholarship conditions, eligibility, funding and deadlines can change. Applicants should always verify the latest information on the official ANU website before submitting an application.
