Monash University, ranked among the top 1% globally, offers generous research scholarships to outstanding candidates pursuing higher degrees by research (Master’s by Research and PhD) . Research Scholarships at Monash University aim to support both domestic and international students by covering tuition, providing living stipends, and other allowances, enabling scholars to focus fully on their research .
The main scholarship types include:
- Research Training Program (RTP) Scholarship (Australian Government‑funded)
- Monash Graduate Scholarship (MGS) (University‑funded)
- Maxwell King PhD Scholarship
- Monash Silver Jubilee Scholarship
- Raydon Graduate Research Top‑Up Scholarship
- Monash International Tuition Scholarship (MITS)
- Several faculty‑level or project‑specific awards .
These can often be combined (e.g. stipend plus tuition fees waiver plus top‑up funding) depending on a student’s profile .
2. Types of Research Scholarships at Monash University
2.1 Research Training Program (RTP) Scholarship
A federal award available to domestic and international students. Covers tuition fees via RTP Fees Offset and provides a stipend for living expenses In 2024, the RTP stipend at Monash was around A$35,013 per annum, recently increased from ~A$30,000 . Some faculties may top up this amount further.
2.2 Monash Graduate Scholarship (MGS)
Offered directly by Monash to support living costs (stipend + possible relocation allowance). In 2025, the MGS stipend is approximately A$36,063 p.a. . It may be packaged with tuition scholarships for international students.
2.3 Co‑funded MGS (CF‑MGS)
Jointly funded scholarship where Monash top‑up matches an external sponsor, increasing the value (tuition offset and stipend) .
2.4 Maxwell King PhD Scholarship & Monash Silver Jubilee Scholarship
Highly competitive living‑stipend scholarships (~A$50,291 annually in 2024 rates) and additional allowances, open to domestic and international PhD candidates .
2.5 Raydon Graduate Research Top‑Up Scholarships
Allocated to students in Humanities & Social Sciences. Offers up to A$22,600/year on top of base scholarships
2.6 Monash International Tuition Scholarship (MITS)
Exclusive to international students; covers full tuition fees (but usually without stipend). Often combined with stipend‑providing awards like MGS or RTP .
2.7 Faculty‑Specific and Top‑Up Scholarships
Many faculties offer project‑based or departmental scholarships—like Ex Animo Scholarship (Engineering), Indigenous Support Awards, Zema Energy Studies Scholarship, Woodside‑Monash Energy Partnership, and more .
3. Eligibility & Selection Criteria
- Applicants must be domestic (Australian citizen, permanent resident, New Zealand citizen) or international students .
- Hold a bachelor’s degree or be in final year; those with First Class Honours (H1) or equivalent receive priority, especially for merit‑based scholarships
- Selection is based on academic excellence, research outputs or experience, and potential to contribute to research .
- English language proficiency is required for international applicants
- Some equity or diversity scholarships may consider financial hardship, indigenous status, or rural background .
Eligible candidates automatically considered for multiple awards when applying; no separate scholarship application is usually necessary .
4. Monetary Benefits of Scholarships
4.1 Stipend / Living Allowance
- Base stipend in 2024: roughly A$35,013 p.a. (~A$1,336 fortnightly) .
- MGS 2025: around A$36,063 p.a. .
- Top‑up awards (Maxwell King or Silver Jubilee): up to A$50,291 p.a. plus research allowances
4.2 Tuition Fees Coverage
- Domestic students: tuition is covered by RTP Fees Offset (A$37,100 to A$53,200)
- International students: MITS covers full tuition; further coverage possible via CF‑MGS or external sponsors .
4.3 Relocation & Research Allowances
- Relocation: Monetary assistance typically around A$1,000 (domestic interstate) to A$2,000 (international) .
- Research allowance (if offered with top‑up scholarships): e.g. A$1,500/year .
5. Scholarship Application Timeline (Four Annual Rounds)
Monash operates four main application rounds per year for RTP/MGS
| Round | Applicants | Opens | EOI Deadline | Scholarship Application Deadline | Enrolment Period |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | International | 1 Sept | 15 March | 31 March | July–Dec same year |
| 2 | Domestic | 1 Nov | 15 May | 31 May | July–Dec same year |
| 3 | International | 1 April | 15 Aug | 31 August | Jan–June following year |
| 4 | Domestic | 1 June | 15 Oct | 31 October | Jan–June following year |
Faculties may also consider strong applicants outside these rounds on a case‑by‑case basis . For instance, Monash Engineering accepts high‑calibre submissions year‑round .
6. Research Degrees Supported
Scholarships support:
- Master’s by Research and PhD degrees across fields such as:
- Arts, Humanities, Social Sciences
- Business, Education
- Engineering, IT
- Law
- Medicine, Pharmacy, Health Sciences
- Science & Technology .
- Joint degree programs such as dual PhDs in partnership institutions, e.g. IITB‑Monash Research Academy in India, offering a dual credential and research experience in both institutions
7. Student Experiences & Community Feedback
7.1 On the RTP stipend and cost of living
Reddit users shared that while the stipend (~A$35K/year) is modest for Melbourne living costs, it’s possible to manage with tight budgeting. Many supplement with occasional teaching assistant or tutoring roles :
“You can definitely
'survive'on the stipend… you’ll hopefully get tutoring and TA work which will supplement a little bit”
Students reported bonding over free events, workshops, free food, etc., to supplement low-cost lifestyle .
7.2 Merit vs Equity Scholarships
Some prospective students highlighted that Monash leans more heavily toward equity‑based scholarships than pure merit ones at undergraduate level, and only a small number of course‑specific merit scholarships exist :
“There are barely any scholarships outside disadvantage at Monash” .
Graduate‑level research scholarships tend to focus more on academic excellence rather than disadvantage categories.
7.3 Research exposure undergraduate programs
Students in early years (e.g., biomedical scholars program) described the benefit of mentorship and lab exposure, which can aid later eligibility for research scholarships :
“You get a lot of mentorship opportunities … you also get the opportunity to visit biomedical research facilities … the mentorship was interesting.”
8. How to Apply: Step‑by‑Step
- Prepare your academic profile: transcripts, degrees, first‑class honours if available, prior research outputs or publications, research proposal/project outline.
- Submit Expression of Interest (EOI) via the Monash Graduate Research portal by the EOI deadline for the relevant round .
- If invited, submit formal application for candidature and tick the scholarship consideration box—no separate scholarship forms are usually necessary .
- Provide English test scores if required, and optionally apply via SEAS for equity‑based considerations .
- Faculty may offer additional top‑ups or project funding – maintain communication with potential supervisor and faculty research office .
Tips to increase selection chances:
- Engage in early contact with a potential supervisor.
- Emphasize high academic marks and research experience.
- Provide strong, well‑planned research proposals.
- Seek external awards (e.g., LPDP, Australian Awards) to combine with Monash‑funded support .
9. Comparing Scholarship Values (2024–25 Rates)
| Scholarship | Stipend (approx) | Tuition Coverage | Relocation | Additional Benefits |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| RTP Scholarship (base) | A$35,013 | RTP Fees Offset | A$1k–2k | — |
| Monash Graduate Scholarship (MGS) | A$36,063 | Tuition if packaged | Yes | — |
| Maxwell King / Silver Jubilee | A$50,291 | Often includes tuition | Yes | Research allowance, top‑up |
| Raydon Top‑Up (HASS) | — (top‑up) | On top of base | — | Up to A$22,600 per year |
| MITS (international tuition only) | — | Full tuition covered | — | Combined with stipends |
Note: Scholarship values are updated periodically; these are based on 2024–2025 figures.
10. Special Programs & Joint Awards
IITB‑Monash Research Academy
Delivers dual PhDs in engineering and technology, in collaboration between Monash University (Australia) and IIT Bombay (India). Offers full funding and supervisors from both institutions .
John Monash Scholars Program
Operated by the Sir John Monash Foundation (not Monash University), but many recipients later study at Monash. It funds postgraduate study globally, with a strong alumni network .
11. Challenges & Considerations
- Cost of living in Melbourne is high; even though stipend covers basic costs, it may be tight—students often relied on free initiatives or part‑time work, as noted in student forums
- Valuing research scholarships: merit‑based awards are few at undergraduate level—more equity‑focused schemes—but for graduate research, merit weighs heavily.
- Multiple scholarship eligibility: you can hold one merit and one equity scholarship simultaneously—and research scholarships are separate category .
- No guaranteed scholarships for rural/regional background, though SEAS is considered for some equity categories .
12. Practical Advice & Strategy
- Target the scholarship round appropriate for your application (international vs domestic) and ensure submission by deadlines: e.g., Round 1 (International) EOI by Mar 15, application by Mar 31, enrol July–Dec .
- Submit Expression of Interest early, with strong academic and research credentials.
- Engage potential supervisors early—some top‑up or project scholarships are faculty‑based and depend on alignment with supervisor research.
- If lacking formal honours, emphasize research outputs, publications, internships, or strong research proposals.
- Investigate external scholarships (e.g. LPDP, Australia Awards, country‑based schemes) that can be combined with Monash stipends or tuition scholarships .
- Apply via SEAS for equity support if relevant—but don’t rely solely on that for research scholarships .
- Plan financially: assume tight budgeting and consider part‑time tutoring or teaching assistant roles if needed (Monash allows part‑time work with some restrictions) .
13. Future Scholarship Trends
- Stipend rates: universities (including Monash) have incrementally increased RTP stipends in recent years—above the federal base. Monash’s rate rose from ~A$30K to ~A$33K, now ~A$35K+. Future trends may continue modest increases
- Funding competition: more selectivity due to increasing numbers of graduate researchers. Applications should clearly communicate excellence and potential impact.
- Diversity of scholarship offerings: Monash continues expanding top‑up and equity scholarships, particularly in disciplines like Indigenous Research Awards and energy‑themed scholarships
14. Summary
- Monash University offers a diverse suite of research scholarships tailored to support both international and domestic students at the Master’s and PhD levels.
- Core funding comes from RTP (government), Monash Graduate Scholarship, and top‑up awards like Maxwell King and Silver Jubilee.
- Financial support includes living stipends, tuition coverage, relocation allowances, and research expenses.
- Strong academic merit (especially First Class Honours or equivalent) and a well‑developed research proposal increase chances of being awarded.
- The application is streamlined via one portal, with multiple rounds per year and automatic consideration for multiple scholarships.
- Student feedback indicates while the stipend may be tight for Melbourne’s high cost of living, it’s manageable with budgeting and small supplemental work.
- Strategic planning, early supervisor engagement, and exploring top‑up or external scholarships can significantly strengthen your scholarship profile.
15. Additional Resources
- Monash’s official Graduate Research Scholarships pages (e.g., Monash Graduate Scholarship, research tuition & stipend rates, deadlines) .
- Faculty-specific research scholarship pages (e.g. Faculty of Engineering, Education, Health)—useful if your project aligns with specific funds .
- Experiences and advice from Monash graduate students on Reddit provide practical insight into budgeting, stipend sufficiency, and work-life balance .
Final Thoughts
Monash University’s research scholarships offer substantial support and opportunities to talented candidates worldwide. Through a competitive but accessible application process and multiple funding options, students can secure tuition coverage and livable stipends, allowing them to focus on impactful research. If you’d like, I can also help create a draft research proposal outline, locate deadlines for your country, or find faculty‑specific scholarships in your field—just let me know!
1. Overview of Research Scholarships at Monash University
Monash University, ranked among the top universities globally, offers a wide range of research scholarships to exceptional students pursuing Master’s by Research or PhD degrees. These scholarships are designed to help both domestic and international students by covering tuition fees, providing living stipends, and supporting various research costs. The goal is to allow students to focus on their studies and research without financial constraints.
Key scholarship programs include:
- Research Training Program (RTP) Scholarship (funded by the Australian Government)
- Monash Graduate Scholarship (MGS) (funded by Monash University)
- Maxwell King PhD Scholarship
- Monash Silver Jubilee Scholarship
- Raydon Graduate Research Top-Up Scholarship
- Monash International Tuition Scholarship (MITS)
- Various faculty-specific scholarships related to particular projects or disciplines.
In many cases, these scholarships can be combined to offer substantial support to students, including living allowances, tuition fee offsets, and top-up funding.
2. Different Types of Research Scholarships
2.1 Research Training Program (RTP) Scholarship
This government-funded scholarship is available to both domestic and international students. It covers tuition fees through the RTP Fees Offset and provides a living stipend to help with everyday expenses. The stipend for 2024 was about A$35,013 per year and may increase depending on the specific program.
2.2 Monash Graduate Scholarship (MGS)
Monash offers the MGS, which provides a living stipend (approx. A$36,063 per year in 2025). In addition, it may be packaged with a tuition fee scholarship, particularly for international students.
2.3 Maxwell King PhD Scholarship & Monash Silver Jubilee Scholarship
These prestigious scholarships are highly competitive and offer generous stipends (approximately A$50,291 annually in 2024) along with additional allowances to support research activities.
2.4 Raydon Graduate Research Top-Up Scholarships
These are typically offered in the Humanities and Social Sciences fields and provide an additional A$22,600 per year, which is added on top of the base scholarship.
2.5 Monash International Tuition Scholarship (MITS)
MITS covers full tuition fees for international students but does not usually provide a stipend. It is often combined with scholarships like MGS or RTP that offer a stipend.
2.6 Faculty-Specific Scholarships
Monash also offers a variety of faculty-specific scholarships, such as those available through the Engineering Faculty, Indigenous Research Awards, and energy-themed initiatives. These often come with additional support and research opportunities.
3. Eligibility and Selection Criteria
Applicants for Monash’s research scholarships must meet specific academic qualifications, which include:
- Holding a completed bachelor’s degree or being in the final year of undergraduate studies.
- Priority is given to applicants with First Class Honours or equivalent qualifications, particularly for merit-based awards.
- Both domestic (Australian citizens, permanent residents, and New Zealand citizens) and international students are eligible for various scholarships.
- Selection is based on academic excellence, prior research experience, and potential contributions to the field of study.
- International students are also required to meet the English language proficiency requirements set by Monash.
- Some scholarships are targeted at equity groups, such as students from rural areas, those with a financial hardship background, or Indigenous students.
Applicants are automatically considered for multiple scholarships based on their eligibility, so there is generally no need to submit separate applications for each award.
4. Monetary Benefits of the Scholarships
4.1 Stipend or Living Allowance
- The base stipend for 2024 is approximately A$35,013 per year (~A$1,336 every fortnight).
- For 2025, the Monash Graduate Scholarship (MGS) offers a stipend of around A$36,063 per year.
- Top-up scholarships, such as those under the Maxwell King or Silver Jubilee schemes, offer stipends as high as A$50,291 per year.
4.2 Tuition Fees Coverage
- Domestic students benefit from RTP Fees Offset, covering all or part of their tuition fees (typically A$37,100 to A$53,200).
- International students are eligible for the Monash International Tuition Scholarship (MITS), which covers full tuition fees, and may combine with other stipend-providing scholarships.
4.3 Relocation and Research Allowances
- Scholarships may offer relocation allowances ranging from A$1,000 for domestic students to A$2,000 for international students.
- Some scholarships also provide research allowances (approximately A$1,500 per year), especially with top-up scholarships.
5. Application Timelines
Monash University offers four main application rounds for its research scholarships. Each round has specific opening dates, deadlines for the Expression of Interest (EOI), and application deadlines.
| Round | Applicant Type | Opens | EOI Deadline | Application Deadline | Enrolment Period |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | International | Sept 1 | Mar 15 | Mar 31 | July–Dec |
| 2 | Domestic | Nov 1 | May 15 | May 31 | July–Dec |
| 3 | International | Apr 1 | Aug 15 | Aug 31 | Jan–Jun |
| 4 | Domestic | Jun 1 | Oct 15 | Oct 31 | Jan–Jun |
Some faculties, such as Monash Engineering, accept applications on a rolling basis and may consider exceptional candidates outside these rounds.
6. Research Degrees Supported
These scholarships support a wide range of graduate research programs, including:
- Master’s by Research and PhD degrees across various fields such as:
- Arts, Humanities, and Social Sciences
- Business and Education
- Engineering, IT, and Science
- Law and Medicine
- Pharmacy and Health Sciences
Some joint PhD programs are available through Monash’s partnerships with other universities, like the IITB-Monash Research Academy (offering a dual PhD between Monash and IIT Bombay in India).
7. Student Experiences and Community Feedback
7.1 On the RTP stipend and cost of living
While the RTP stipend is seen as manageable, some students on forums like Reddit mentioned that living in Melbourne can be expensive. However, it is possible to live modestly with careful budgeting, and some students supplement their income through teaching assistantships or tutoring roles.
“The stipend is decent, but Melbourne is quite expensive. I recommend budgeting carefully and trying to get some extra work on the side like tutoring.” – Reddit user.
7.2 Merit vs. Equity Scholarships
Monash University tends to prioritize equity-based scholarships (for disadvantaged students) over merit-based scholarships at the undergraduate level. However, for graduate research scholarships, academic merit is given significant weight.
“Monash tends to focus more on equity considerations at undergraduate level, but for graduate research, they’re looking for academic excellence.” – Reddit user.
8. How to Apply
The application process for research scholarships at Monash is straightforward:
- Prepare your academic credentials, including transcripts, research experience, and research proposal.
- Submit an Expression of Interest (EOI) for the scholarship round that aligns with your research interests.
- If invited, submit a formal application for candidature and indicate your scholarship eligibility.
- English language proficiency test scores may be required for international students.
- Keep in regular contact with potential supervisors, as some scholarships are tied to specific research projects and faculty initiatives.
Tips for a successful application:
- Start early and ensure your application reflects your academic strengths, research experience, and future potential.
- Make sure to engage with potential supervisors early in the process, as some scholarships require alignment with faculty research areas.
- Consider external funding opportunities that could complement Monash’s scholarships.
9. Comparing Scholarship Values (2024–2025)
Here’s a quick comparison of some popular research scholarships at Monash University:
| Scholarship | Stipend (approx) | Tuition Coverage | Relocation | Additional Benefits |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| RTP | A$35,013 | RTP Fees Offset | A$1k–2k | — |
| MGS | A$36,063 | Tuition if packaged | Yes | — |
| Maxwell King | A$50,291 | Often covers tuition | Yes | Research allowance, top-up |
| Raydon Top-Up | — (top-up) | On top of base | — | A$22,600 per year |
| MITS | — | Full tuition | — | Combined with stipend |
10. Special Programs & Joint Awards
Monash offers unique joint PhD programs, such as the IITB-Monash Research Academy in India, which provides students with the opportunity to earn a dual PhD degree from both Monash University and the Indian Institute of Technology Bombay (IITB).
11. Challenges and Considerations
While Monash’s research scholarships are highly regarded, there are some challenges, including:
