What the funding covers
- A living stipend of A$39,991 a year at the 2027 rate.
- Tuition fees: the RTPI through the Australian Government's fee offset, the UIPA from UNSW.
- An Overseas Student Health Cover allowance (single cover) for four years for a doctorate or two for a research master's, plus relocation and thesis allowances. RTPI holders can ask the Department of Home Affairs to waive the visa fee.
What you will still pay
| Cost | Who pays |
|---|---|
| Tuition | The scholarship |
| Living costs | A$39,991 a year |
| Health cover | Allowance from the scholarship |
Who can apply
- International candidates for a PhD or research master's (such as an MPhil) at UNSW Sydney.
- You must meet UNSW's higher degree research admission and candidature conditions.
- Tuition Fee Scholarships (tuition from UNSW, stipend from the faculty or supervisor) share the same deadline.
Which nationalities can apply
Every nationality except citizens of Australia and New Zealand.
Documents you will need
- A UNSW higher degree research application
- A supervisor's support, CV and research proposal as UNSW requires
How to apply
- Find a supervisor and apply for your research degree at UNSW, which also puts you up for the scholarships.
- Submit by 16 April 2027 for the international round.
- Read UNSW's scholarship guidelines and terms before you apply.
Before you apply: things to know
- Research master's and PhD only; coursework master's are not covered.
- Funding is competitive and usually needs a strong research record or publications.
- Allowances are contributions and may not cover the full cost.
Common questions
How much is the UNSW RTPI or UIPA stipend in 2027?
A$39,991 a year at the 2027 rate.
When is the UNSW international scholarship deadline?
16 April 2027, for the RTPI, UIPA and Tuition Fee Scholarships.
Do UNSW research scholarships cover tuition?
Yes. The RTPI includes a fee offset and the UIPA includes tuition fees funded by UNSW.
A working timeline
Counting back from the next deadline (Apr 16, 2027). Steps marked NOW are already due if you start today.
Jan 22, 2027Research the route in depth: confirm eligibility, costs and every required document
Feb 5, 2027Ask your referees (for a PhD, email potential supervisors with a short, specific pitch)
Feb 19, 2027Write the first full draft of your motivation letter or statement of purpose
Mar 5, 2027Order transcripts and certified translations · book any language test
Mar 19, 2027Second draft: get feedback from someone who reads critically
Apr 2, 2027Finalise every document and complete the online form
Apr 9, 2027Submit, but never on the last day
Apr 16, 2027Deadline