If you're considering doing a higher degree by research (PhD or Master of Philosophy) at the University of Adelaide, the RTP Scholarship is one of the most important funding options to understand. Whether you’re domestic or international, this scholarship can cover tuition fees, provide a living stipend, and help with research-related costs. Here’s what to know for 2025/2026 and going into 2026.
What is the RTP Scholarship?
“RTP” stands for Research Training Program. It’s a scholarship scheme funded by the Australian Government to support research students at universities. Adelaide offers RTP Scholarships to both domestic and international students, enabling them to undertake research-based degrees (PhD / MPhil) with financial support including stipend, fee waivers/offsets, and additional allowances.
Key Benefits
Recipients of the RTP Scholarship at Adelaide enjoy:
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Living Stipend: Around AUD $35,300 – $36,500 per annum (tax-free, indexed annually).
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Tuition Fee Coverage:
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For domestic students: tuition fee offset provided by the Government.
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For international students: a full tuition fee waiver for the standard program duration.
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Additional Allowances: Relocation allowance, Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) for internationals, and support for research/travel costs.
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Duration: Up to 3.5 years for a PhD, and 2 years for a Master of Philosophy (MPhil).
Who is Eligible?
Applicants must:
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Hold a relevant Bachelor’s degree with Honours, or equivalent postgraduate qualifications with research experience.
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Apply to enrol full-time into a Higher Degree by Research (HDR) program (PhD or MPhil) at Adelaide.
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Meet the University’s English language requirements (for international students).
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Not be receiving equivalent funding from another source.
Deadlines & Application Rounds
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The 2026 RTP Merit Round opens 1 August 2025 and closes 30 October 2025 for both domestic and international students.
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Offers are announced after review, and successful applicants must commence in the designated intake period.
Required Documents
Applicants should prepare:
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Academic transcripts and degree certificates.
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Evidence of research experience (thesis, publications, projects).
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Research proposal or statement of research interests.
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Curriculum Vitae (CV).
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References or referee reports.
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Proof of English proficiency (for international applicants).
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Supporting documents for relocation or other allowances (if applicable).
How to Apply
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Identify your research area and potential supervisor at Adelaide.
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Ensure you meet eligibility criteria, including academic and English requirements.
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Gather all required documents.
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Submit your application via the official University of Adelaide RTP Application Portal.
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Select the appropriate scholarship round during submission.
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Wait for outcome notification and accept your scholarship offer if successful.
Tips for a Strong Application
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Maintain strong academic records (first-class honours or equivalent highly recommended).
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Highlight research outputs (publications, thesis, projects).
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Write a clear and aligned research proposal.
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Apply early and double-check documents.
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Secure a supportive supervisor in your field of study.
🏁 Conclusion
The University of Adelaide RTP Scholarship is one of the most competitive yet rewarding opportunities for HDR students in Australia. With a full fee waiver, generous living stipend, and allowances, it enables you to focus on impactful research in a world-class environment. Start preparing now for the 2026 merit round to maximize your chances of success.
👉 Apply here: University of Adelaide RTP Scholarship Application
