The Australian Government, through the Department of Education, has opened the application cycle for the 2027 Curtin University Research Training Program (RTP) Scholarship. Administered directly by Curtin University, consistently ranked in the top 1% of global tertiary institutions, this highly prestigious, fully funded Higher Degree by Research (HDR) framework is open to both domestic and international postgraduates.
Scholarship Overview
| Host Country | Australia |
| Institution | Curtin University |
| Study Location | Study in Australia |
| Eligible Countries | All Countries |
| Requirements | First Class or Second Class Upper – 2.1 minimum |
| Scholarship Category | Postgraduate Scholarships | Masters Scholarships | PhD Scholarships |
| Reward | Full Tuition Fee Waiver | $37,500 to $38,440 Annual Tax-Free Stipend | Relocation Allowance |
| Application Closing Date | 31st October, 2026 |
The program completely covers the academic overheads and living expenses for students pursuing a Master’s by Research or a Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) by Research at Curtin’s campuses in Western Australia.
Benefits of the Curtin University RTP Scholarship
The Australian Government RTP framework provides a comprehensive support infrastructure designed to ensure full focus on competitive research outputs:
- Complete Tuition Fee Offset
- Tax-Free Living Stipend
- Relocation & Travel Subsidies
- Duration Guarantee
Related Scholarship Opportunities:
- Warwick Postgraduate Research Scholarship 2026
- Mary Douglas Research Scholarship 2026
- University of British Columbia (UBC) Sauder School of Business Scholarship 2026
- DAAD SBW Berlin Scholarship 2026
Eligibility Criteria
To secure an invitation into the Higher Degree by Research track, applicants must satisfy these core administrative filters:
- Must hold a recognized bachelor’s degree with strong upper-tier performance (typically a First Class Honours, Master’s degree by coursework with a heavy research component, or equivalent foundational research publication output).
- Candidates cannot apply directly to the central admissions board without establishing contact with a faculty member. You must secure an invitation or endorsement letter from an active Curtin University research supervisor.
- Must be ready to enroll in a full-time Higher Degree by Research (HDR) program matching Curtin’s core active faculties (Science & Engineering, Health Sciences, Business and Law, or Humanities).
Required Documents
Ensure all files are compressed into high-resolution, separate digital PDF files before presenting them to prospective research supervisors:
- A comprehensive academic and research CV detailing publication records or laboratory experience.
- Certified copies of all academic transcripts and tertiary graduation certificates.
- A clear, structured research proposal matching an active Curtin project area.
- A formal Letter of Invitation/Acceptance signed by your approved Curtin University supervisor.
- At least one professional reference letter from an academic mentor.
How to Apply for the Curtin University RTP Scholarship 2027
Because the RTP selection structure is heavily dependent on project-matching, candidates must follow this precise sequential application workflow:
- Click on the green link button below to visit the official Curtin University HDR portal.
- Browse through the pre-approved active research projects.
- Contact the principal investigator or faculty supervisor attached to your selected project line via email to pitch your research profile.
- Engage in the internal Expression of Interest (EOI) protocol.
- Once the faculty member agrees to host your research, they will issue an official supervisor acceptance or invitation letter.
- Log into the Curtin online scholarship application system, input your credentials, and upload your supervisor’s acceptance letter before the closing date.
- Once the central board confirms your RTP funding allocation, proceed to finalize your formal program admission through the Curtin University Student Portal.
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