The Australian government funds the Research Training Program (RTP), which helps outstanding Higher Degree by Research (HDR) students from Australia and other countries by covering all their costs so they can focus on their studies without worrying about money. Southern Cross University (SCU) is offering RTP Scholarships for 2026–2027 to students starting or already in a Master’s (Research) or PhD program.
Key Features & Funding Details
- Value (Stipend): Living allowance of AU$34,315 per annum (2026 rate, indexed annually), tax-free and paid fortnightly.
- Tuition Fees:
• For international students: Full tuition fee offset. - • For domestic students: Tuition is covered via the RTP fee-offset scheme.
- Duration: Up to 3 years + 3 months (i.e., 3.25 years) for PhD candidates. For a Master’s by Research, up to 2 years full-time.
Eligibility Criteria
Applicants must satisfy multiple eligibility conditions, including but not limited to:
- Be enrolled (or applying to be enrolled) full-time in a Higher Degree by Research (HDR) program (PhD or Master’s by Research) at SCU.
- For international students: be on campus and meet visa and departmental requirements.
- Demonstrate substantial academic merit (e.g., prior degree results, research experience, publications, if any).
- For the English language: meet SCU’s English language proficiency requirements (if not from an English-medium prior degree).
Application Process & Deadline
How to Apply:
1. Identify and contact a potential Principal Supervisor/co-Supervisor in the intended research field.
2. Prepare required documents, including a research proposal (1-2 pages), certified academic transcripts, evidence of English proficiency, and prior research outputs (if any).
3. Complete the RTP application form (electronic submission) and supervisor’s endorsement.
Deadline: Applications for SCU’s RTP Scholarships for 2026 close 31 October 2025 (Midnight)
Advantages & Additional Support
- Full financial coverage allows recipients to focus entirely on research without worrying about tuition or major living expenses.
- Access to research infrastructure, expert supervision, industry connections, and strong support through SCU’s Graduate School.
- Inclusive opportunity for international students; RSA provides both stipend and tuition coverage for them.
Requirements for Maintenance and Renewal
- Scholarship holders must maintain full-time enrolment during the scholarship period.
- Must make satisfactory academic progress (meeting SCU’s HDR progress reviews).
- The duration cannot usually be extended beyond the set period except under exceptional circumstances.
Challenges & Considerations
- The RTP scholarships are highly competitive due to the limited number of available slots.
- Applicants are required to identify a supervisor who is enthusiastic about collaborating with them prior to applying. This necessitates early communication and networking.
- Living in Australia may be costly, and although a stipend may be beneficial, it may be necessary to accumulate additional funds or make preparations in advance.
- The research proposal and the English language significantly influence the election process.
Conclusion
Southern Cross University’s RTP Scholarships for 2026-2027 present an excellent opportunity for international and domestic candidates wishing to pursue postgraduate research (Master’s or PhD). With fully funded tuition, ga generous stipend, expert supervision, and academic resources, the scholarship is designed to remove financial barriers and support meaningful research. Aspiring candidates should prepare strong applications, verify eligibility, and apply by 31 October 2025 to be considered for this program.
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