Australia La Trobe Flexible Research Scholarship (FLEX) 2026
La Trobe University, one of Australia’s leading research institutions, is committed to supporting inclusive education and accessibility for all scholars. To further this mission, the La Trobe Flexible Research Scholarship (FLEX) 2026 offers additional financial and academic support to research candidates with disabilities pursuing higher degrees by research. This initiative ensures that every talented student—regardless of physical, sensory, or cognitive challenges—has equal access to academic success and world-class research opportunities.
La Trobe University, located in Melbourne, Australia, is renowned for its excellence in research, innovation, and community engagement. Established in 1967, the university ranks among the top 1% of universities worldwide and is highly respected for its inclusive learning environment and strong focus on social responsibility. With multiple campuses across Victoria—including Melbourne, Bendigo, Shepparton, and Albury-Wodonga—La Trobe provides diverse research opportunities and a supportive academic culture for students from around the world.
Scholarship Overview
The FLEX Scholarship is designed to assist students with disabilities who already hold, or have been offered, a Research Training Program (RTP) stipend or a La Trobe University Graduate Research Scholarship (LTGRS). The scholarship provides financial assistance, extra time for degree completion, and research support funding to help eligible candidates achieve their academic goals without disadvantage.
Degree Level
The La Trobe Flexible Research Scholarship (FLEX) is available for:
- Doctoral (PhD) candidates
- Masters by Research candidates
Available Subjects
- All subjects
Benefits
Successful recipients of the La Trobe Flexible Research Scholarship 2025 will receive:
- Stipend Value: AUD $36,000 per annum (full-time), paid fortnightly.
- Extension of Stipend:
- Up to 18 months for doctoral candidates.
- Up to 8 months for Masters by Research candidates.
- Candidature Extension:
- Up to 12 additional months for PhD candidates.
- Up to 6 additional months for Masters candidates.
- Research Support Allowance: Up to $3,000 per year for research-related costs associated with the disability (e.g., Auslan interpreters, personal assistant care, accessibility tools).
- Leave of Absence: An aggregated total of up to 24 months, subject to visa conditions for international students.
- Tuition Fee Scholarship: Covers the extended candidature period.
Eligible Nationalities
Open to applicants of all nationalities.
Eligibility Criteria
To be eligible for the La Trobe FLEX Research Scholarship 2025, applicants must:
- Currently hold or have accepted an offer for an RTP stipend or LTGRS stipend.
- Have a disability that is attributable to one or more intellectual, cognitive, neurological, sensory, physical, or psychiatric impairments.
- Provide medical documentation or proof of participation in the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS).
- Demonstrate that their disability significantly affects the pace of study, requiring additional time for completion.
- Intend to undertake research at a La Trobe University campus.
- Meet the minimum academic standards:
- For PhD scholarships: Completion of a Masters by Research or equivalent with a grade of 70% or above.
- For Masters by Research scholarships: Equivalent of at least a High Honours 2A degree from a recognized university.
Eligible Campuses
The FLEX Scholarship is available at all major La Trobe University campuses, including:
- Melbourne Campus
- Bendigo Campus
- Shepparton Campus
- Mildura Campus
- Albury-Wodonga Campus
Application Procedure
The application process for the La Trobe Flexible Research Scholarship is simple and confidential:
- Download the LTFLEX Scholarship Confidential Statement Form from the official La Trobe University website.
- Complete the form, providing details about the nature and impact of your disability.
- Attach medical evidence confirming the permanent and ongoing nature of your disability and its effect on your research capacity.
- Email the completed form and supporting documents directly to:
For general scholarship queries, you can contact:
- GRSScholarships@latrobe.edu.au
- Application Period: Open from 1 May 2023 to 31 December 2025
Why Choose the FLEX Scholarship at La Trobe?
The La Trobe Flexible Research Scholarship demonstrates the university’s deep commitment to equity, accessibility, and research excellence. It ensures that researchers with disabilities are provided with the time, funding, and support they need to succeed in academia and beyond. This initiative reflects La Trobe’s vision of building a truly inclusive research community.
Final Thoughts
The La Trobe Flexible Research Scholarship (FLEX) 2025 is a groundbreaking initiative that promotes inclusivity, accessibility, and equality in research education. By offering extended support, financial assistance, and research funding, La Trobe University empowers students with disabilities to achieve their full academic potential and contribute meaningfully to global research.
]Official Website: La Trobe University – Flexible Research Scholarship (FLEX)
