Applications are currently open for Australia’s 2026 Research Training Programme (RTP) scholarship, giving Nigerian and other international students the opportunity to pursue fully funded Master’s by Research and Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) degrees at participating Australian universities.

Funded by the Australian Government, the scholarship supports higher degree by research students through eligible universities across Australia. The award covers full tuition fees, provides a living stipend and includes other research-related benefits.

According to information published by the Australian Government’s Department of Education, applications are not submitted through a central government portal. Instead, each participating university manages its own admission, scholarship application and selection process.

The programme is open to both domestic and international students, including Nigerians, provided they meet the admission requirements and English language proficiency standards of their chosen institution.

Introduced in 2017, the Research Training Programme replaced the Australian Postgraduate Award, the International Postgraduate Research Scholarship and the Research Training Scheme. It is designed to support research training and produce graduates equipped for careers in academia, industry and other professional fields.

Successful applicants may receive full tuition coverage, a living allowance and additional financial support for costs associated with higher degree research.

For the 2026 academic year, the base full-time RTP living stipend is valued at AUD 34,315 annually, although some universities may offer higher amounts depending on their funding arrangements.

The scholarship is tenable for up to two years for Master’s by Research students and up to four years for full-time PhD candidates.

Applications are currently being accepted through participating universities, with submission deadlines varying from one institution to another. While some universities have application rounds closing between July and October 2026 for early 2027 admission, others operate multiple admission cycles throughout the year.

Prospective applicants are encouraged to identify universities that match their research interests and prepare all required documents before applying. These typically include a research proposal, curriculum vitae, academic transcripts, referee reports and proof of English language proficiency.

The Department of Education advised applicants to contact their preferred universities directly for detailed information, stressing that there is no single application portal for the scholarship.

Key facts about the 2026 Research Training Programme scholarship:

It is a fully funded scholarship covering full tuition fees, a living stipend and, in many cases, additional research-related allowances.

The programme is available only for Master’s by Research and PhD degrees.

Nigerians and other international students are eligible to apply.

There is no central application portal; applications must be submitted directly through participating Australian universities.

Application deadlines differ by university, with several admission rounds held throughout the year.

The scholarship is highly competitive, making a strong academic record, a well-prepared research proposal and quality recommendation letters important.

The award is tenable for up to two years for Master’s by Research students and up to four years for PhD candidates.

Many participating universities also offer additional benefits such as Overseas Student Health Cover, relocation assistance and paid leave provisions.

There is no fixed age limit, although applicants are expected to demonstrate strong research capability and potential.

Most universities require proof of English language proficiency through recognised tests such as IELTS, TOEFL or PTE, depending on their admission requirements.

Applicants are advised to check the website of their preferred university for specific eligibility requirements, deadlines and application procedures before submitting their applications.

For application details and participating institutions, visit the Australian Government's Research Training Programme guide: https://www.education.gov.au/research-block-grants/research-training-program⁠�