Study in Australia - Apply now for the fully funded Deakin University RTP & DUPR Scholarships 2026
Are you looking to advance your research career at one of Australia’s most innovative and highly-ranked institutions? If so, the Deakin University Research Scholarships 2026 offer a premier opportunity that should be explored. Located in the vibrant state of Victoria, Deakin University has earned a stellar reputation for its 5-star teaching quality and world-class research impact. Consistently ranking among the top 10 universities in Australia and the top 1% globally, Deakin provides a unique vantage point for scholars who wish to bridge the gap between academic theory and real-world application. Furthermore, with campuses in Melbourne, Geelong, and Warrnambool, students are provided with access to state-of-the-art facilities and a supportive community that fosters both personal and professional growth.
Deakin University offers two major pathways for fully funded postgraduate research: the Research Training Program (RTP), funded by the Australian Government, and the Deakin University Postgraduate Research Scholarship (DUPR), funded by the university itself. Consequently, these programs are designed to attract the brightest domestic and international minds. Therefore, if you are eager to pursue a Master’s by Research or a PhD in a high-impact environment, these scholarships must be prioritized.
[Image: The modern architecture of Deakin University’s Melbourne Burwood Campus]
Scholarship Details at a Glance
- Host Country: Australia (Victoria)
- University: Deakin University
- Degree Levels: Research Master’s & PhD (HDR)
- Financial Status: Fully Funded
- Stipend Value: $35,550 per annum (approx.)
- International Deadline: August 24, 2025 (for 2026 intake)
- Domestic Deadline: October 24, 2025 (for 2026 intake)
Eligible Research Faculties & Institutes
Scholarships are awarded across a diverse range of disciplines. Notably, priority is given to applicants whose research aligns with the following faculties and specialized institutes:
- Faculty of Health
- Faculty of Arts and Education
- Faculty of Business and Law
- Faculty of Science, Engineering, and Built Environment
- Institute for Frontier Materials (IFM)
- Applied Artificial Intelligence Institute (A2I2)
- Intelligent System Research and Innovation (IISRI)
Comprehensive Financial Benefits
The Deakin RTP and DUPR scholarships provide a robust financial package to ensure researchers can focus entirely on their innovation and discoveries. Specifically, the following benefits are provided:
- Annual Stipend: A tax-free living allowance of approximately $35,550 per year.
- Tuition Fee Waiver: Full coverage of tuition fees for the duration of the scholarship.
- Health Cover (OSHC): For international students, a standard Overseas Student Health Cover policy is included for the duration of the student visa.
- Relocation Allowance: Eligible students moving to Victoria are granted between $500 and $1,500 (depending on single/family status).
- Sick & Parental Leave: Provisions for paid leave are available under specific scholarship conditions.
Scholarship Duration
- Doctoral Degree: 3 years for the stipend and 4 years for the tuition fee offset.
- Research Master’s: 2 years for the stipend and 2 years for the tuition fee offset.
Eligibility Requirements
To be considered for the Deakin University Scholarships 2026, specific academic and professional criteria must be met.
- Academic Excellence: Applicants must demonstrate a strong academic record, typically requiring a high-honours degree or a Master’s with a significant research component.
- Enrollment: Candidates must be enrolled in or applying for a Higher Degree by Research (HDR) course at Deakin.
- Residency: Open to both Australian domestic students and international students from all countries.
- Exclusivity: Applicants shall not receive any other equivalent scholarship or award from the Commonwealth.
- Language Proficiency: You must satisfy Deakin’s English language requirements for postgraduate research.
How to Apply (Step-by-Step)
The application process for a research degree at Deakin is rigorous and requires early preparation.
- Check Entry Requirements: First, verify that you meet the specific academic pathways for your chosen degree.
- Find a Supervisor: Notably, you cannot apply without a supervisor. You must find an academic at Deakin who shares your research interests and secure their in-principle agreement to supervise your project.
- Prepare a Research Proposal: Draft a brief outline of your proposed topic. This should be developed in consultation with your potential supervisor.
- Arrange Referees: You must provide two referee reports from academics or employers who can comment on your research potential.
- Online Application: Complete the Higher Degree Research Application Form via the Deakin portal. Ensure all documents, including your CV, transcripts, and publications, are attached.
Application Deadlines
- International Students: August 24, 2025
- Domestic Students: October 24, 2025