University of Sydney’s full RTP scholarship 2025: $41,700 stipend & How to apply

The University of Sydney has officially launched the highly competitive 2025 Research Training Program (RTP) Scholarship, offering full tuition coverage and a substantial annual stipend of approximately AUD $41,753. Prospective postgraduate researchers, including both domestic and international students, can now apply for this fully funded opportunity designed to support high-calibre Higher Degree by Research (HDR) studies.

Scholarship Highlights and Financial Support

The RTP Scholarship covers your full tuition fees via the RTP Fee Offset, which automatically waives fees for international students if you secure the stipend. This is complemented by a yearly stipend of AUD $41,753 (2025 rate) to support living and research expenses while enrolled in a full-time Master’s or PhD program at Sydney.

Additional financial support includes relocation allowance, up to AUD $1,485 for travel to and from your home country, and thesis production grants (up to AUD $840 for PhD candidates). Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) is also included, ensuring you’re well supported throughout your studies 6.

Who Is Eligible? Domestic and International Students

Both domestic and international students embarking on or currently enrolled in an HDR at the University of Sydney are eligible for the RTP Stipend Scholarship.

Applicants must demonstrate excellent academic records and research experience, with selection based on academic merit, the quality of research proposal, supervisory environment, and resources available. Preference may also be given to Indigenous students and applicants who haven’t previously received the same scholarship level.

Duration and Conditions of Award

The scholarship covers up to 14 research periods (around 3.5 years) for PhD candidates and 7 periods (1.75 years) for Master’s by Research students. Note that part-time study may be considered under exceptional circumstances (e.g., medical or carer responsibilities), though certain stipulations apply.

While stipend support isn’t extendable beyond your candidature, leave provisions include up to 20 days of annual recreation leave, 10 days of sick leave, and additional leave for serious illness or parental responsibilities.

How to Apply: Step-by-Step Guide

Step 1: Apply for HDR Admission, Submit your application for a PhD or Master’s by Research via the Sydney Courses portal. Domestic and international applicants must apply according to scheduled HDR intake periods.

Step 2: Submit Scholarship Application, Complete the RTP scholarship form in parallel with your course application. Current HDR students may apply mid-candidature in designated research periods.

Deadlines are divided into research periods. For example, for the international cohort starting in 2025, deadlines were 13 Sept 2024 (Periods 1 & 2) and 17 Dec 2024 (Periods 3 & 4). Similarly, domestic deadlines align with intake periods, upcoming deadlines will be published on the University’s Scholarships page.

Selection Process and Notification Timeline

The Higher Degrees by Research Scholarships Sub-Committee (HDRSSC) evaluates applications, focusing on academic merit, research plan quality, supervisory match, and institutional support.

Successful candidates for international 2025 intakes were notified by 19 March 2025 (Periods 3 & 4), with domestic applicants informed by 24 June 2025 for the same intake cycle.

Why This Scholarship Matters Globally

The University of Sydney is ranked among Australia’s top institutions, renowned for leadership in research, sustainability, and educational impact. This scholarship enables students to pursue cutting-edge research without the burden of tuition or living costs.

Whether you’re investigating climate resilience, tech innovation, public health, or cultural studies, this RTP Scholarship offers a world-class platform to make impactful contributions while ensuring financial security.

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Tips for a Strong Application

Highlight your academic achievements, research experience, and alignment with your proposed supervisor’s expertise. Ensure your proposal is rigorous, clear, and impactful.

Also secure strong referee reports and proofread your application. Starting early boosts your chances, applications typically require detailed documentation and coordination with academic staff and admissions timelines.

A Life-Changing Opportunity

At AUD $41,700+ per year plus full tuition coverage, the University of Sydney’s RTP Scholarship 2025 is one of the most valuable research awards available to international and domestic students alike.

If you’re committed to meaningful research and ready to contribute to global knowledge, this fully funded scholarship provides the support and prestige to launch an exceptional academic career. Apply early, prepare carefully, and open the door to world-class research without financial stress.