Australian Government launches scholarship for Nigerians, others at University of Sydney

The Australian Government Research Training Programme (RTP) Scholarship is a prestigious scholarship that supports international and domestic students pursuing research degrees in Australia. 

It supports domestic and international students undertaking a research doctorate (PhD) or a Master of Research (MRes) at eligible Australian universities. 

At the University of Sydney, the RTP Scholarship provides significant financial support to international students, helping them manage tuition fees, living expenses, and other research-related costs. 

The scholarship is awarded based on academic merit and research potential, making it a highly competitive and sought-after funding opportunity for students worldwide.

Here's an in-depth look at the RTP scholarship for international applicants at the University of Sydney.

Benefits of the RTP scholarship

The RTP stipends are valued at $41,753 annually (2025 rate). The RTP International Scholarship provides a stipend to assist with living costs, relocation allowance, research costs, overseas health coverage, and tuition fee offsets (i.e., no tuition fees are applicable).

Eligibility criteria

To be considered for the RTP Scholarship at the University of Sydney, international applicants must meet the following criteria:

• Enrollment: The applicant must have applied for admission to a research degree programme at the University of Sydney. Typically, this includes a Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) or a Master of Research (MRes).
• Academic merit: Applicants are selected based on academic excellence. A strong educational background is essential, including high grades in previous degrees, research experience, and demonstrated research potential.
• Research proposal: The candidate must submit a well-formulated research proposal that aligns with the research interests of the University of Sydney's academic staff and faculties.
• English proficiency: International students must demonstrate proficiency in English through standardised tests like the IELTS or TOEFL, as outlined in the University's language requirements.
• No prior funding: Applicants must not already receive a similar research degree scholarship that provides equivalent benefits.

Application process

The RTP Scholarship at the University of Sydney has a specific application process that must be followed closely:

1. Application for admission: International students must first apply for admission to a research degree (PhD or MRes) at the University of Sydney. This requires submitting a research proposal, academic transcripts, and letters of recommendation.

2. Scholarship application: While applying for admission, students can express their interest in being considered for the RTP Scholarship through the university’s online portal. There is no separate application for the scholarship; it is integrated into the research degree application process.

3. Supervisor support: Securing the support of a potential supervisor is a critical step. Prospective students are encouraged to contact faculty members whose research aligns with their proposal to discuss potential supervision.

Key dates

The University of Sydney has specific deadlines for RTP Scholarship applications:

• Semester 1 (Feb): 1 December
• Semester 2 (Aug): 15 May

Application deadline for RTP scholarship: 

• Research Period 1 and 2, 2025: 13 September 2024
• Research Period 3 and 4, 2025: 17 December 2024

Selection criteria

Selection for the RTP Scholarship is highly competitive, and candidates are evaluated based on the following:

a. Academic merit.

b. Research experience.

c. Availability of a high-quality research environment and resources to support the candidature.

d. Availability of highly qualified supervisory arrangements to support the candidature.

With comprehensive support covering tuition fees, living costs, and additional research expenses, the RTP fosters a supportive and stimulating environment for researchers. 

International students with outstanding academic achievements and a passion for research should consider applying for this prestigious scholarship, which can be the foundation for a successful research career.

UK Chevening Scholarship for international students: A complete guide to applying

Earlier, TheRadar compiled a complete guide on steps to apply for the 2025 UK Chevening scholarship successfully. The Chevening Scholarship is a fully-funded programme that enables eligible applicants to pursue a one-year master’s degree in the UK. 

It covers tuition fees, a monthly stipend, travel costs, an arrival allowance, and other expenses, providing scholars with the resources to focus entirely on their studies and network.