The Research Training Program (RTP) Scholarship is one of the most prestigious funding schemes granted by the Government of Australia. It basically caters to both domestic and international students who aspire to pursue higher education in Australia. These scholarships are designed to be provided in the form of tuition fees, living allowances, and other monetary benefits so as to make it easier on the student when researching.
All the information that will be helpful to candidates concerning the RTP Scholarship for the year of study 2025-2026 is highlighted in this article, including its closing date, who is eligible, levels of study, study areas, the value of the scholarship, and the requirements that apply to nursing students.
What is the RTP Scholarship?
The RTP Scholarship forms part of the Australian Government’s commitment to attract high-quality researchers and scholars to Australian institutions. Funding provided through universities to support eligible students who undertake research-based higher degree programs, such as a Master of Research (MRes) or Doctor of Philosophy (PhD).
It gives students sufficient financial support to focus on their studies and research work, which may lead to discoveries in their respective fields of interest. Funds are granted by participating in any university of Australia; the award amount may vary from university to university as part of the policies they have undertaken.
Important Information about RTP Scholarship 2025-2026
1. Deadline
Application closing dates of the RTP Scholarship are run independently by each university. Each university, therefore, has its own closing date. However, these dates for 2026 run from mid-August to October 2025. This, therefore, calls for a lot of importance to be attached to verifying the university deadline dates so as not to be left out upon application.
2. Student Type
The ones listed below are the categories allowed to apply for the RTP Scholarship:
Domestic Students: It includes Australian citizens, permanent residents, and New Zealand citizens.
International Students: A student from any part of the world can apply for the scholarship, but it has certain admission and scholarship eligibility criteria that each university will address.
3. Level of Study
The RTP Scholarship is designed for research-based higher-degree levels, including:
Master of Research (MRes): This is a two-year research-based degree taken by students aspiring to gain further, advanced skills in research.
Doctor of Philosophy: An extensive research program that students pursue for valuable contributions to be made in a field. Note: Excluded from the RTP award coverage are coursework-based programs, for instance, taught Master’s degrees or undergraduate studies.
4. Area of Study
The RTP Scholarship is offered across a wide range of disciplines and areas of study, which include but are not limited to:
- Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics
- Humanities and Social Sciences
- Health Sciences
- Business and Economics
- Arts and Creative Industries
Every university can have its sub-priorities of research areas concerning strategic goals or skills. As such, it’s recommended that you go through the institution offering the scholarship and its research focus areas before application.
5. Scholarship Value
The award value for the RTP Scholarship is quite substantial. Generally, it would consist of:
- Tuition Fee Offset: The tuition fee offset under this scholarship is to meet tuition fees of up to two years for a Master’s by research and up to four years for a PhD.
- Living allowance: An annual award that contributes to living costs. It is likely to be around AUD 29,000 to AUD 30,000 per annum for 2025-2026. The living allowance is tax-free.
- Relocation allowance: Relocation costs to Australia-AUD 500 to AUD 3,000.
Health insurance: Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC).
The overall worth of an RTP Scholarship varies from university to university and the student’s specific requirements, which could cover additional research-related costs or fieldwork support.
6. Requirements for Nursing School
Students with nursing-focused research proposals applying for an RTP Scholarship should have the following qualifications:
Eligibility
- Completed a bachelor’s degree in nursing or other courses related to the health sciences.
- Having attained a minimum GPA or honors as minimum specified by the university.
- Proof of registration or licensure as a nurse.
English Proficiency
Applicants from non-English speaking countries should provide evidence of a sufficient level of English proficiency through internationally recognized tests such as IELTS, TOEFL, or PTE Academic.
The minimum scores are usually:
- IELTS: Overall band score of 6.5 and no band less than 6.0.
- TOEFL iBT: Minimum score of 79
Research Proposal
Applicants are expected to provide an effective research proposal giving details on the area of nursing research they will be working on, aims, and the kind of research methodology they will apply.
Some areas may include:
- Advanced clinical nursing practice.
- Public health interventions
- Nursing education and leadership
Supervisor Availability
You are encouraged to identify and contact a potential supervisor in Nursing at the institution of your choice well in advance of applying.
Other Documentation
- Current CV/resume identifying experience related to nursing
- Transcripts and certificates academic
- Letters of recommendation from academic or professional referees
How to Apply for RTP Scholarship
Application Step 1: Finding a University
Identify those Australian universities offering RTP Scholarship and check whether their area of research is in line with your interest.
Step 2: Eligibility Criteria
Eligibility criteria will differ from one university offering RTP Scholarship to another. Ensure that you first meet the minimum requirements concerning academic qualification and, where applicable, the minimum English language requirements.
Step 3: Gather Supporting Documents
Start making preparations for compiling all documents needed: a research proposal, academic transcripts, and references.
Step 4: Contact a Supervisor
Get in touch with potential supervisors at the university with whom you share your research interest and ask for support in applying.
Step 5: Application Submission
Access the university’s online portal and submit an application for an RTP Scholarship. Ensure to be keen on the deadline dates and provide accurate information.
Benefits of RTP Scholarship
- Financial Security: The scholarship winner will have tuition fees paid, and living costs with other research costs met.
- World-Class Education: Avails the recipients of an opportunity to get the best education from Australia’s leading universities and research facilities.
- International Networking: Guarantees opportunities for working together with top-ranking researchers and fellows from around the world.
- Career Prospects: Guarantees a more lucrative educational and professional avenue for many fields.
Conclusion
The RTP Scholarship 2025-2026 is a promised land for potential researchers to be able to pursue higher education in Australia. Comprehensive financial coverage opens the door to prestigious institutions and a path to academic and professional fulfillment.
If you are about to apply, start researching universities and prepare application materials. Whatever you may be-a domestic or an international applicant-the RTP Scholarship will make your research aspirations come true. Never let the closing dates for your desired institutions slip away!
To the nursing students, meeting specific requirements and finding a supervisor in your area of interest surely will give weight to your application. Good luck with your scholarship journey!