The University of Melbourne Graduate Research Scholarship 2026—also known as the Melbourne Research Scholarship (MRS)—stands among the most respected graduate funding opportunities in Australia. It offers a prestigious, fully funded pathway for outstanding students. Whether you are applying from within Australia or from overseas, you can pursue a Master’s by Research or a PhD with strong financial support.
The scholarship package is highly generous. Scholars receive full tuition fee coverage, a living stipend worth up to AUD $37,000 per year, relocation assistance, and health insurance for eligible international students. Therefore, you can concentrate fully on producing high-quality research without worrying about financial pressure.
Degree Level
Master’s by Research
Doctoral (PhD)
Available Fields of Study
If the University of Melbourne offers a research program in a subject, then it qualifies under this scholarship. Consequently, nearly the full academic spectrum is included, such as:
Engineering and Technology
Science and Mathematics
Medicine and Health Sciences
Social Sciences
Humanities and Arts
Business and Economics
Education
Environment and Agriculture
In short, if the university runs the research degree, you can apply under this scholarship.
Scholarship Benefits
This scholarship creates a strong financial base so you can focus on your studies.
Full Tuition Fee Remission
You receive full fee coverage for the duration of your program:
Up to 2 years for a Master’s by Research
Up to 4 years for a PhD
Living Stipend
You also receive AUD $37,000 per year (2024 rate, pro rata). This support lasts:
Up to 2 years for Master’s students
Up to 3.5 years for PhD candidates
Additionally, the stipend includes paid sick leave and parental or maternity leave.
Relocation Allowance
If you move for your studies, you receive:
AUD $2,000 when relocating from another Australian state
AUD $3,000 when relocating from overseas
Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC)
Eligible international students also receive OSHC when they require a student visa.
Eligible Nationalities
Both Australian domestic students and international students from any country can apply.
Eligibility Criteria
To be eligible, you must:
Apply for a graduate research degree at the University of Melbourne, or
Already study in a graduate research program at the university
Furthermore, selectors consider several factors, including:
Academic achievement
Research potential
Relevant experience
Publications or creative outputs
Application Process
New Applicants
When you submit your application for a graduate research program, you automatically enter the scholarship selection process. Therefore, no separate application is required. Usually, you receive confirmation of consideration within about one week.
Current or Deferred Students
However, if you already study at the university, hold an offer, or previously deferred, you must submit the online scholarship application form. In these cases, automatic consideration does not apply.
Notification Timeline
Domestic students receive an RTP Fee Offset with their course offer.
In addition, scholarships that include both fee remission and stipend are normally issued alongside course admission decisions.
Application Status: Open for automatic consideration
Why Choose This Scholarship?
You benefit from:
Study at a global top-40 university
Access to world-class research facilities
A fully funded research degree
A diverse and collaborative research community
Excellent supervision and industry connections
Location
Melbourne, Australia
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Is the University of Melbourne Graduate Research Scholarship fully funded?
Yes. The scholarship covers your full tuition fees and also provides a living stipend, relocation allowance, and health cover for eligible international students.
Do I need to submit a separate application for the scholarship?
If you are a new applicant, you are considered automatically. However, current and deferred students must submit a separate online form.
Who can apply?
Both domestic and international students enrolling in, or currently studying, a Master’s by Research or PhD at the University of Melbourne may apply.
Which fields of study are included?
All graduate research fields qualify, as long as the university offers them.
How long does the scholarship run?
The scholarship normally lasts up to 2 years for a Master’s by Research and up to 3.5–4 years for a PhD.
What is the stipend amount?
The current stipend rate is AUD $37,000 per year (2024 rate), paid pro rata.
Does the scholarship include health insurance?
Yes. Eligible international students receive Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC).
