Graduate research scholarships: Benefits, Eligibility Criteria, Application Process for International Students and Selection Process

Graduate Research Scholarships

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Syed Yusuf Ashraf

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Graduate research scholarships are offered with an intent to provide an avenue for research to students planning to study in Australia. They can be availed by students at graduate, postgraduate, doctoral and even the postdoctoral level. Students are awarded stipends on the basis of their academic excellence. It is important for them to get good grades in their last completed degree and be thoroughly inquisitive about the field of research.

Students from anywhere around the world can apply for this scholarship at any one of the universities in Australia offering graduate research scholarships to students for further studies. An overseas student health cover (OVHS) is also provided to international students along with funding for cost of Visa. Though the criteria for different graduate research scholarships differ, the basic benefit provided will remain the same.

Graduate Research Scholarships Benefits for students:

  • Tuition fees waived fully/ partially for up to two years (master’s and research degree) or up to four years (doctoral degree)
  • Housing allowance of up to 34,400 AUD annually for up to 2 years (master’s and research degree) or up to three and a half years (doctoral degree). Also includes sick maternity as well as paternity leave.
  • 2,000 AUD Relocation grant for students moving within Australia (except Victoria) and 3,000 AUD for those moving outside Australia.
  • Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) and visa application costs are also covered for international students

Highlights

Scholarship TypeMerit-Based
Offered byInstitution
OrganizationN/A
Application Deadline Oct 31 ,2024
Number of Scholarships600
Amount₹11,395,350 ($135,000)
RenewabilityNo
International Student EligibleYes
Scholarship Website Linkhttps://scholarships.unimelb.edu.au/awards/graduate-research-scholarships
Online Application Linkhttps://scholarships.unimelb.edu.au/awards/graduate-research-scholarships#full-benefit-details

Eligibility Criteria

Students seeking graduate research scholarships must meet the following eligibility requirements in their previous bachelor’s or master’s degree:

Eligibility Criteria:

  • Meet the minimum eligibility requirements for the graduate research degree in Australian university
  • Currently enrolled students in graduate research degrees are eligible
  • A minimum aggregate score of 75-80% is recommended
  • Must be international students
  • English language proficiency Score:

Documents Required:

  • College transcripts
  • University application form
  • A statement of purpose mentioning the intent of pursuing a degree in the research field
  • English Language Proficiency (ELP) results
  • Summary of the intended research project not exceeding 500 words at most
  • A research proposal
  • Letter of recommendations
  • Published research papers or articles
  • Copy of the thesis abstract

Specific Requirements for Some popular Graduate Research Scholarships in Australia:

Scholarship Name Eligibility Requirements Application Deadline Application Portal Scholarship Period Award
Melbourne Graduate Research Scholarships 75% in bachelor’s | pursuing masters or doctoral degree October 31, 2023 UniMelb Application Maximum duration of 3.5 years. 34,400 AUD
Macquarie University graduate research scholarships Merit based October 31, 2023 MQ Application Duration of course chosen 32,000 AUD
Australian Government Research Training Program Merit based | Bachelor’s degree equivalent to honors September 22, 2023 Varies Duration of course chosen 35,000 AUD (UNSW Sydney) | 32,500 AUD - 46,653 (The University of Adelaide)
University of Adelaide Research Scholarship Bachelor’s degree with distinction N.A University of Adelaide Application 3.5 years 32,500 AUD
Western Sydney University Graduate Research Scholarship Doctor or master of Philosophy students September 17, 2023 Western Sydney University Application 3 years 31,500 AUD

Application Process

There are a few basic things that will still be required such as Visa and Language proficiency certificates. In order to apply for a graduate research scholarships, an applicant has to follow the set of rules and guidelines provided by the scholarship program. Here is a general step by step for the application process:-

  • Visit the scholarship program website and click on the application section
  • Review the eligibility requirements that may vary from university to university.
  • Fill out the online application form and enter all necessary information and details
  • Prepare necessary documents for further processing and visa approval
  • A notification will be sent to the selected applicant within 10 business days

Selection Process

The selection process for graduate research scholarships is usually merit based. If a candidate wishes to apply for a scholarship it is important for them to excel in academics, sports, social skills, and be involved in the field of research. It is also necessary for international students to be proficient in the English language. Other specific qualifications include any publications, research proposals, and medical assessments.

Graduate Research Scholarships are beneficial for students looking for funding while studying for their master’s and research degree. Many scholarship programs provide additional advantages along with tuition fee waivers. Furthermore, getting to finish a research degree from well- known universities around the world elevates a person’s resume and puts them ahead of the game.

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