The University of Sydney Scholarship 2026-2027 is a fully funded scholarship designed for outstanding international students who wish to pursue a Master’s by Research or Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) at one of Australia’s leading research universities.

This prestigious scholarship supports talented researchers from around the world by covering full tuition fees, providing an annual living stipend of AUD 42,754 (2026 rate), relocation assistance, thesis support, and Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC). It enables scholars to conduct high-quality research while working with internationally recognized academics in state-of-the-art research facilities.

If you are passionate about research and aspire to make meaningful contributions in your field, the University of Sydney Scholarship offers an excellent opportunity to study in Australia with comprehensive financial support.

Scholarship Overview

About the University of Sydney Scholarship

The University of Sydney is one of Australia’s oldest and most prestigious universities, consistently ranked among the world’s leading institutions for teaching and research. Through this scholarship program, the university aims to attract exceptional international researchers who can contribute to innovative research across a broad range of academic disciplines.

The scholarship supports students enrolled in Higher Degree by Research (HDR) programs. Recipients benefit from expert supervision, advanced laboratories, extensive research resources, and opportunities to collaborate with leading researchers from around the world.

Whether your interests lie in science, engineering, health, business, social sciences, education, or the humanities, the University of Sydney provides an outstanding environment for advanced research and academic development.

Scholarship Benefits

The University of Sydney Scholarship provides comprehensive financial support throughout the research program.

Successful applicants may receive:

• Full tuition fee coverage
• Annual living stipend of AUD 42,754 (2026 scholarship rate)
• Relocation allowance to assist with moving to Australia
• Thesis allowance to support research-related expenses
• Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC)
• Access to world-class laboratories and research facilities
• Academic supervision from internationally recognized researchers
• Professional development and research training opportunities
• Networking opportunities with researchers and industry partners
• Access to extensive university libraries and digital resources

The scholarship is generally awarded for up to 3.5 years, depending on the program and satisfactory academic progress.

Eligible Study Programs

The scholarship supports students enrolling in:

• Master’s by Research
• Doctor of Philosophy (PhD)

Research opportunities are available across numerous academic disciplines offered by the University of Sydney.

Eligibility Criteria

To be considered for the University of Sydney Scholarship 2026-2027, applicants must meet the following requirements:

• Be an international student.
• Apply for full-time enrollment in a Higher Degree by Research (HDR) program.
• Meet the University of Sydney’s English language proficiency requirements.
• Undertake research aligned with the university’s research priorities and strengths.
• Have strong academic qualifications suitable for admission to a research degree.
• Not have received an Australia Award scholarship within the previous two years.
• Not have previously received an RTP Fee Scholarship unless it was awarded for a completed Master’s by Research program.
• Not already hold a qualification equivalent to an Australian Research Doctorate (for PhD applicants).
• Not already hold a qualification equivalent to an Australian Research Master’s degree (for Master’s by Research applicants).
• Not have been considered for this scholarship more than three times during the previous five years.
• Not simultaneously receive another scholarship substantially funded by the Australian Government that covers tuition fees.

Applicants must also satisfy all admission requirements established by the University of Sydney.

Required Documents

Applicants should prepare the following documents before submitting their application:

• Completed online application form
• Academic transcripts and degree certificates
• Curriculum Vitae (CV) or résumé
• Research proposal
• Proof of English language proficiency (such as IELTS or TOEFL, if required)
• Passport copy
• Academic referee reports (if requested)
• Any additional documents required by the university or research faculty

Preparing these documents early can help ensure a smooth application process.

How to Apply

Follow these steps to apply for the University of Sydney Scholarship:

1. Identify a Master’s by Research or PhD program that matches your academic interests.
2. Develop a clear and well-structured research proposal.
3. Search for and contact a suitable academic supervisor through the University’s Research Supervisor Connect database.
4. Confirm that you meet the admission and scholarship eligibility requirements.
5. Gather all required supporting documents.
6. Submit an online application for admission to a Higher Degree by Research (HDR) program through the University of Sydney application portal.
7. The university will assess your admission and scholarship eligibility as part of the application process.
8. Successful applicants will receive an offer from the university.

Applicants are encouraged to contact potential supervisors well before submitting their application.

Selection Criteria

Applications are assessed based on several factors, including:

• Academic excellence
• Research achievements and experience
• Quality and originality of the research proposal
• Alignment with the university’s research priorities
• Academic references
• Research potential
• Availability of supervision and research funding

Meeting the minimum eligibility requirements does not guarantee selection, as the scholarship is highly competitive.

Why Choose the University of Sydney?

The University of Sydney offers an outstanding environment for postgraduate research, combining academic excellence with modern facilities and global research collaborations. International students benefit from expert supervision, innovative research infrastructure, and opportunities to contribute to impactful projects addressing global challenges.

Studying at the University of Sydney also provides access to a diverse international community, professional development programs, and strong industry connections that can support future academic and career success.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Is the University of Sydney Scholarship fully funded?

Yes. The scholarship provides full tuition fee coverage, an annual living stipend of AUD 42,754 (2026 rate), relocation assistance, a thesis allowance, and Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC).

Who can apply?

International students applying for a Master’s by Research or PhD (Higher Degree by Research) at the University of Sydney are eligible, provided they meet the university’s academic, English language, and scholarship requirements.

Do I need to find a research supervisor before applying?

Yes. Applicants are strongly encouraged to identify and contact a suitable supervisor through the University’s Research Supervisor Connect database before submitting their application.

Can I receive this scholarship if I already have another Australian Government-funded scholarship?

Generally, no. Applicants cannot hold another scholarship that is substantially funded by the Australian Government and covers tuition fees at the same time.

How long does the scholarship last?

The scholarship is typically awarded for up to 3.5 years, subject to the student’s program requirements and satisfactory academic progress.

Apply here https://www.sydney.edu.au/scholarships/australian-government-research-training-program/rtp-international.html