University of Melbourne Australia Graduate Research Scholarship 2026 , Australia (Fully Funded)
The Melbourne Research Scholarship (MRS) is one of Australia’s most prestigious and competitive fully funded graduate research scholarships. Offered by the University of Melbourne, the scholarship supports high-achieving domestic and international students pursuing Master’s by Research or PhD degrees. With generous benefits including 100% fee remission, a stipend of up to $38,500 per year, relocation allowance, and health coverage, the MRS is a top choice for students aiming for cutting-edge research opportunities in Australia.
This scholarship provides a rare opportunity for talented individuals to advance their research ambitions without financial constraints. Whether you are a recent graduate or a current research student, the Graduate Research Scholarship at the University of Melbourne offers a wealth of benefits, including financial support, research opportunities, and academic development.
Degree Level
Available Subjects
All graduate research fields offered by the University of Melbourne, including but not limited to:
- Engineering & Technology
- Science & Mathematics
- Medicine & Health Sciences
- Social Sciences
- Humanities & Arts
- Business & Economics
- Education
- Environment & Agriculture
(Any research field is eligible as long as it is offered at the university.)
Benefits
Recipients of the Graduate Research Scholarship can expect the following benefits:
1. Full Tuition Coverage
- Up to 2 years for Master’s by Research
- Up to 4 years for Doctoral degrees
2. Living Stipend
- AUD $37,000 per year (pro rata, 2024 rate)
- Available for up to 2 years for Master’s students
- Available for 3.5 years for PhD candidates
- Includes limited paid sick leave, maternity leave, and parenting leave
3. Relocation Grant
- AUD $2,000 if moving from another Australian state
- AUD $3,000 for international students relocating from overseas
4. Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC)
- Available for international students needing an Australian student visa
Eligible Nationalities
- Australian domestic students
- International students from all countries
Eligibility Criteria
To be eligible, applicants must:
- Have applied for a graduate research degree at the University of Melbourne, or
- Be currently enrolled in a graduate research program at the university.
- Selection is based on:
- Academic excellence
- Research potential
- Professional experience (if applicable)
- Publications, achievements, or artistic contributions (depending on field)
Application Procedure
1. New Applicants
- If you apply for a graduate research course, you are automatically considered for the Melbourne Research Scholarship.
- You will receive confirmation within 7 days of submitting your course application.
2. Current or Deferred Students
If:
- You already hold an offer and have deferred, or
- You are currently enrolled and want a scholarship
→ You must submit an online scholarship application form.
3. Notification of Results
- Domestic students automatically receive an RTP Fee Offset with their course offer.
- Stipend + fee offset scholarship offers are issued around the same time as course decisions.
Application Status:
- Open for automatic consideration
Why Choose the Melbourne Research Scholarship?
- Study at one of the top 40 universities globally
- Access world-class research facilities
- Receive a fully funded research degree
- Join a diverse, international research community
- Benefit from strong industry links and academic supervision