Charles Darwin University RTP Scholarships 2025–2026: Fully Funded Master’s & PhD Programs in Australia

Getting your master’s or PhD funded isn’t easy, but at Charles Darwin University (CDU), it’s possible.

Through the Australian Government’s Research Training Program (RTP), CDU offers fully funded scholarships that cover tuition, living costs, and more. For both local and international students, giving them means a chance to focus entirely on research, without any financial stress.

From climate science and Indigenous studies to engineering and public health, CDU supports a wide range of research areas.

If your interests align and you’ve got the academic strength to back it up, this scholarship can open the door to advanced research at one of the best universities in Australia.

Here’s everything you need to know before applying:

What the CDU RTP Scholarship Covers

The RTP Scholarship is designed to fully support research students throughout their degree. Recipients of the award will receive:

1. Full tuition waiver for the entire duration of the research program
2. A tax-free living stipend of AUD 34,190 per year (as of 2024)
3. Relocation allowance of up to AUD 2,500 for international students
4. Paid sick leave and maternity leave (subject to eligibility)
5. Ongoing academic supervision and access to CDU’s research infrastructure

The funding typically lasts up to 3 years for PhD students and 2 years for Master’s by Research candidates, with potential extension based on progress and eligibility.

Who Is Eligible to Apply?

This scholarship is available to domestic applicants (Australian citizens, permanent residents, and New Zealand citizens). As for all international applicants from any country;

To apply, you must:

• Be enrolling in a full-time Master’s by Research or Doctoral (PhD) program at CDU
• Hold a relevant undergraduate degree with honours or equivalent
• Meet CDU’s English language requirements (IELTS, TOEFL, or other accepted tests)
• Not receiving another living allowance scholarship above 75% of the RTP rate
• Have written confirmation of supervision from a CDU staff member
• Be available to commence study between January 12 and March 27, 2026

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How to Apply

The RTP application process at CDU involves two parts: admission and scholarship consideration.

Here’s a clear breakdown:

1. Identify a Research Area and Supervisor

Start by exploring CDU’s research strengths and staff profiles. Once you find a potential supervisor, reach out to discuss your research idea. You’ll need a written confirmation of supervision before applying.

2. Prepare Required Documents

Make sure you have the following:

• Official transcripts and degree certificates
• A well-written research proposal
• Your current CV
• Proof of English proficiency
• Two academic references
• A copy of your passport (for international applicants)

3. Apply for Admission

Submit your HDR application via the CDU HDR Application Portal

4. Apply for the RTP Scholarship

Once your admission application is in, complete the RTP scholarship application. This is submitted via CDU’s Scholarship Application Portal, where you’ll upload all required documents, including your supervisor’s confirmation.

5. Await the result

• International applicants will be notified by mid-November 2025
• Domestic applicants will hear back by mid-December 2025

Successful candidates are expected to begin their studies during CDU’s first semester intake, between January 12 and March 27, 2026.

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Application deadline

• International applicants: Application closes on July 25, 2025
• Domestic applicants: Apply on or before August 31, 2025

Always double-check the university’s Scholarships Page for the most recent updates.

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Take the Leap today!

Opportunities like this don’t wait around. If you’ve been looking for a real chance to grow as a researcher, with full support and zero tuition stress, this is it.

The Charles Darwin University RTP Scholarship gives you the structure, the funding, and the freedom to go all in on your ideas.

But deadlines come fast, and competition is tough. So don’t leave this sitting on your to-do list. Start your prep today. Secure your supervisor. Write that proposal. And give yourself the shot you’ve earned.

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APPLY HERE

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