Host Country: Australia 🇦🇺
Eligible Countries: All countries
Funding Type: Fully Funded (Research Training Program – RTP)
Institution: Australian National University (ANU)
Deadline: April 15, 2026
Official website https://study.anu.edu.au/scholarships/find-scholarship/research-training-program-rtp-international-fee-offset-scholarship
For ambitious researchers who dream of pursuing advanced studies in one of the world’s leading universities, the Australian National University (ANU) RTP Scholarship 2026 offers a golden opportunity.
This fully funded scholarship supports both domestic and international students undertaking a Higher Degree by Research (HDR) — either a Master’s by Research or a PhD — at the Australian National University.
ANU is widely recognized as Australia’s top-ranked university for research excellence. Its scholars and alumni have made groundbreaking contributions to global science, technology, humanities, and social sciences. Through the Research Training Program (RTP), the Australian Government partners with ANU to fund talented individuals who demonstrate high academic merit, research potential, and dedication to innovation.
This comprehensive guide will explain:
What the ANU RTP Scholarship is
The benefits and coverage it offers
Who can apply and the eligibility criteria
Step-by-step application procedures
Deadlines, key documents, and selection tips
Frequently asked questions about the scholarship
By the end, you’ll have a full roadmap for applying — and succeeding — in your pursuit of this prestigious award.
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🎓 About the Research Training Program (RTP)
The Research Training Program (RTP) is an initiative by the Australian Government’s Department of Education designed to support postgraduate research degrees across Australian universities.
The RTP replaced the older International Postgraduate Research Scholarships (IPRS) and the Australian Postgraduate Awards (APA) in 2017.
Through RTP, funding is provided directly to universities, which then award RTP Scholarships to eligible students based on academic excellence and research capability.
Each participating institution — including the Australian National University — manages the RTP internally, tailoring support to their specific research strengths and facilities.
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🏛️ Why Study at Australian National University (ANU)?
ANU, located in Canberra, consistently ranks among the top 50 universities worldwide and is renowned for its cutting-edge research environment.
Highlights of studying at ANU include:
Global prestige – Ranked #1 in Australia by QS and Times Higher Education.
World-class research facilities – Laboratories, centers, and libraries at the forefront of global research.
Expert supervision – Access to renowned professors and research mentors.
Vibrant research community – Collaborative projects and interdisciplinary teams.
Strong career pathways – ANU alumni hold top positions in academia, government, and industry.
The ANU RTP Scholarship allows students to engage in this thriving ecosystem with financial security and full institutional support.
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💰 Benefits of the ANU RTP Scholarship 2026
The ANU RTP Scholarship 2026 provides a comprehensive funding package designed to remove the financial barriers to postgraduate research.
1. Full Tuition Fee Coverage
All tuition fees for your chosen Higher Degree by Research (HDR) are completely covered for the duration of the program. This is known as the RTP Fee Offset.
2. Generous Living Stipend
Recipients receive an annual stipend of $39,069 (2025 rate, tax-free) to cover living expenses. The stipend amount is indexed annually to match inflation.
3. Additional Allowances
Relocation Allowance: To help with moving costs to Canberra, Australia.
Thesis Allowance: For thesis preparation, printing, and submission costs.
Dependent Child Allowance: Available to international students with dependents.
Paid Leave Entitlements: Including sick leave, maternity leave, and parental leave during the scholarship period.
4. Health Insurance Coverage
International recipients are eligible for Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) for the duration of their student visa.
5. Research Environment Support
Recipients gain access to world-class research infrastructure, academic resources, and a professional development network at ANU.
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📅 Duration of Scholarship
Doctor of Philosophy (PhD): Up to 3.5 years full-time, with a possible 6-month extension.
Master’s by Research: Up to 2 years full-time, with potential extensions under exceptional circumstances.
Part-time study may be approved in certain cases (e.g., health or family reasons), but is generally not available to international students.
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🌐 Eligible Countries
The ANU RTP Scholarship 2026 is open to both domestic and international applicants from any country.
Whether you’re from Asia, Africa, Europe, the Americas, or the Pacific region — as long as you meet the academic and research standards of ANU, you’re eligible to apply.
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✅ Eligibility Criteria
Applicants must meet both the RTP requirements and ANU admission standards for HDR programs.
1. Academic Requirements
Applicants must have a Bachelor’s degree with first-class honors or equivalent.
Those who have completed a Master’s by Research or have extensive research experience will be highly competitive.
2. English Language Proficiency
If English is not your first language, you must provide proof of proficiency through one of the following:
IELTS (Academic): Overall score of 6.5, with no band less than 6.0
TOEFL iBT: Overall 80, with minimum scores in writing and speaking
PTE Academic: Overall 64, with a minimum of 55 in each component
3. Research Proposal and Supervisor Availability
Applicants must have a clear research proposal and a willing ANU supervisor in their field. Contacting potential supervisors before applying is strongly recommended.
4. No Overlapping Funding
Candidates must not already be receiving another full scholarship or financial support equivalent to the RTP benefits.
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📝 Required Documents
A strong, complete application includes the following materials:
1. Academic transcripts and degree certificates
2. Curriculum Vitae (CV) highlighting research experience
3. Research proposal outlining objectives, methods, and expected outcomes
4. Referee reports (two or more) from academic or professional mentors
5. Proof of English proficiency (if applicable)
6. Publications or research output (if any)
7. Passport copy (for international students)
Ensure all documents are uploaded in PDF format through the ANU application portal.
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🕒 Application Deadlines
The ANU RTP Scholarship runs on two main annual rounds:
Round Application Deadline Intended Start Date
Round 1 31 August 2025 (for international applicants) January–March 2026
Round 2 15 April 2026 (for all applicants) Mid to late 2026
Late applications are not accepted, so ensure your admission and referee reports are submitted before the deadline.
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🧭 Step-by-Step Application Guide
Follow these clear steps to apply for the ANU RTP Scholarship 2026:
Step 1: Choose Your Research Program
Decide whether you want to pursue a PhD or a Master’s by Research. Explore ANU’s available research programs and find one that aligns with your interests.
Step 2: Contact a Potential Supervisor
Identify a potential supervisor from your department or research school. Reach out with a short research proposal or concept note to discuss supervision possibilities.
Step 3: Prepare Your Research Proposal
Your research proposal should include:
Research objectives and significance
Literature review summary
Research methodology
Expected outcomes and contributions
Timeline of research activities
Step 4: Gather Supporting Documents
Collect all required academic and professional documents listed earlier.
Step 5: Apply for Admission
Apply for admission to your HDR program through the ANU online application portal. When prompted, select that you wish to be considered for available scholarships (including RTP).
Step 6: Submit Referee Reports
Your referees will receive an automatic link via email to submit their recommendations. Encourage them to complete it early.
Step 7: Wait for Evaluation and Results
Applications are assessed based on:
Academic record and qualifications
Research potential and publications
Supervisor’s endorsement
Research alignment with ANU priorities
Successful candidates are notified through official correspondence from ANU.
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🧩 Selection Criteria
Selection for the ANU RTP Scholarship is competitive and based on:
Academic excellence (grades, honors, GPA)
Research experience and output
Quality and feasibility of research proposal
Supervisor support and program fit
Leadership potential and contributions to the field
Each academic college at ANU ranks applicants within their field, after which central panels finalize selections.
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🧠 Tips for a Successful Application
1. Start early. Contact potential supervisors at least three months before the deadline.
2. Focus your proposal. A clear, well-defined research question increases your chances.
3. Show evidence of research skills. Publications, theses, or prior projects help build credibility.
4. Strong references matter. Choose referees who know your academic ability well.
5. Tailor your proposal to ANU’s research strengths. This shows genuine interest and compatibility.
6. Proofread carefully. Grammar or formatting errors can weaken your application.
7. Submit before the deadline. Incomplete or late submissions are not considered.
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🔍 Fields of Study
The RTP Scholarship at ANU covers all research disciplines, including but not limited to:
Engineering and Computer Science
Natural and Physical Sciences
Health and Medical Research
Humanities and Social Sciences
Law and Policy
Business and Economics
Environment and Sustainability
Arts, Design, and Culture
Each field has its own research centers and specialized supervisors ready to guide students.
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📚 Example: How a Successful Application Looks
Case Study:
Amira, a student from Kenya, applied for a PhD in Environmental Science at ANU. She reached out to a supervisor six months before the deadline and developed a proposal on renewable energy adoption in Sub-Saharan Africa. With a distinction-level master’s degree, one publication, and strong referee letters, she was awarded the RTP Scholarship. Today, her research informs sustainable energy policies in developing nations.
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❓ Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1: Do I need a separate scholarship application?
No. You automatically apply for the RTP when you apply for an ANU HDR program and indicate interest in scholarships.
Q2: Can I apply if I already have a master’s degree?
Yes. In fact, having a master’s degree by research strengthens your profile for a PhD RTP award.
Q3: Is there an age limit for the RTP Scholarship?
No. There are no age restrictions. Selection is based on academic merit and research potential.
Q4: Can I work part-time while holding the RTP?
Yes, part-time work is allowed, provided it does not interfere with your research and complies with your visa conditions.
Q5: What if I already hold another scholarship?
You cannot hold two full scholarships that cover tuition and stipend simultaneously. However, partial awards may be combined under certain conditions.
Q6: How will I know the outcome of my application?
You’ll receive official notification via email once results are finalized, usually within two months after the deadline.
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🏁 Conclusion
The Australian National University RTP Scholarship 2026 is one of the most prestigious opportunities available for postgraduate researchers worldwide. Offering full funding, a generous stipend, and access to leading research environments, this scholarship opens doors to a world of academic excellence.
Whether your passion lies in science, technology, the humanities, or social policy, ANU provides the foundation and support needed to achieve research success.
If you’re ready to advance your academic career at one of the world’s top universities, don’t wait — begin preparing your documents and contact potential supervisors today.
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🔗 Official Link to Apply:
👉https://study.anu.edu.au/scholarships/find-scholarship/research-training-program-rtp-international-fee-offset-scholarship
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