Are you an international student aiming for a fully funded research degree in one of the world’s top-ranked universities? The University of New South Wales (UNSW) is inviting applications for the 2026 Research Training Program International (RTPI) Scholarship, University International Postgraduate Award (UIPA), and Tuition Fee Scholarship. These UNSW Research Scholarships 2026 offer up to AUD $39,206 per year, full tuition fee coverage, and are open to high-achieving international students pursuing PhD or Master’s by Research degrees at UNSW.
About UNSW Sydney
The University of New South Wales (UNSW) in Sydney is part of the prestigious Group of Eight, a coalition of Australia’s top research-intensive universities. Ranked among the Top 20 universities globally (QS 2024), UNSW is known for cutting-edge research, academic excellence, and vibrant multicultural campus life.
UNSW Research Scholarships 2026 Overview
Scholarship Name | RTPI, UIPA, Tuition Fee Scholarship (2026) |
Host University | University of New South Wales (UNSW), Sydney |
Degree Level | PhD, Master by Research, MPhil |
Funding Type | Fully Funded (Stipend + Tuition) |
Eligible Nationality | International Students |
Stipend Amount | AUD $39,206/year (2026 rate) |
Tuition Fee Coverage | 100% |
Program Duration | PhD: 3.5 years, Master’s: 2 years |
Application Deadline | 5 September 2025 |
Start Term | Term 2 or 3, 2026 |
Key Scholarship Benefits
Selected candidates will enjoy:
- AUD $39,206 per annum tax-free living allowance (2026 rate)
- Full tuition fee coverage for the entire research duration
- You’ll be cover with up to 3.5 years of funding for PhD, and 2 years for Master’s
- Access to world-class labs, supervisors, and facilities
- Research opportunities across UNSW faculties including:
- Arts, Design & Architecture
- Engineering
- Business
- Science
- Medicine & Health
- Law & Justice
Eligibility Criteria
Applicants must meet the following requirements:
- Be an international applicant
- Hold a Bachelor’s (Honours) or Master’s degree with a strong research component
- Meet UNSW’s English language requirements:
- IELTS (Academic): Minimum 6.5 overall
- TOEFL iBT: Minimum 90 overall
- Submit a complete HDR application with all supporting documents
- Meet faculty-specific eligibility criteria (where applicable)
- Must not be receiving another scholarship covering 75%+ of living expenses
Application Process of UNSW Research Scholarships 2026
Follow these steps to apply for UNSW’s research scholarships:
- Determine Your Eligibility
- Check program-specific requirements
- Confirm English proficiency standards
- Ensure you meet UNSW HDR criteria
- Find a Supervisor
- Browse UNSW’s Research Project Database
- Email your CV and transcripts to potential supervisors
- Conduct a pre-admission interview
- Prepare Your Research Plan
- Outline your qualifications and capability for research
- Describe your proposed research project
- Justify your supervisor and project choice
- Gather Supporting Documents
- Academic transcripts and degree certificates
- Proof of English language proficiency
- Supervisor expression of interest (EOI)
- Completed research plan
- CV and financial declaration
- Passport copy and reference letters
- Submit Online Application
- Apply via UNSW Apply Online
- Choose your desired program and scholarship type
- Ensure all required documents are uploaded before 5 September 2025
Important Dates
Event | Date |
Application Deadline | 5 September 2025 |
Offer Release Period | 21 November – 5 December 2025 |
Program Start | Term 2 or 3, 2026 |
Comparison with Other Australian Research Scholarships
Scholarship | University | Stipend (AUD) | Deadline | Coverage |
RTPI/UIPA/Tuition – UNSW | UNSW Sydney | $39,206 | 5 Sep 2025 | Stipend + Tuition |
RTP/DUPR – Deakin University | Deakin University | $35,550 | Aug/Oct 2025 | Stipend + Tuition |
Melbourne Research Scholarship | University of Melbourne | $37,000 | Oct 2025 (est.) | Stipend + Tuition |
UQ Graduate School Scholarship | University of Queensland | $35,000 | Sept 2025 (est.) | Stipend + Tuition |
ANU HDR Scholarships | ANU Canberra | $36,652 | Oct 2025 (est.) | Stipend + Tuition |
FAQs About UNSW Research Scholarships 2026
- Can international students apply for these UNSW scholarships 2026?
Yes, these fully funded Australian scholarships are particularly announced for high-achieving international students. - What is the stipend amount of UNSW RTPI scholarship 2026?
The living allowance is AUD $39,206 per year (2026 rate), tax-free. - Are tuition fees covered in UNSW RTPI scholarship 2026?
Yes, all three scholarships include full tuition fee coverage. - Can Master’s by Research students apply?
Yes, the scholarships are open to both PhD and Master’s by Research candidates. - What are the English language requirements?
IELTS Academic 6.5 overall or TOEFL iBT 90 overall. - Is prior research experience mandatory?
Having research experience is obviously strongly recommended as part of a competitive application. - How do I find a supervisor for UNSW HDR application 2026?
1st, you must do your research supervisor search on UNSW’s official website and reach out with your CV and transcript. - When can I expect the results after applying?
Initial offers are made between 21 Nov – 5 Dec 2025. Additional offers may follow. - Can I start in Term 1 for UNSW RTPI, UIPA & Tuition Fee Scholarships 2026?
No, these scholarships are for Term 2 or 3, 2026 for international students. - What happens if I miss the deadline?
You must wait for the next scholarship round in late 2026 or early 2027.
Dreaming of conducting world-class research in Australia? Don’t miss your chance to apply for UNSW’s fully funded RTPI, UIPA, and Tuition Fee Scholarships for the 2026 intake. Start preparing your research proposal, find a supervisor, and apply before 5 September 2025. APPLY NOW. For more details, please visit the official website of UNSW Sydney.
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