Research scholarships and fees

UWA is one of Australia’s leading research-intensive universities.

A wide range of significant research scholarships ensure UWA remains the university of choice for a large number of Higher Degree by Research (HDR) students – from across the nation and the globe.

Find out more
How to apply
 

Scholarships for HDR

The range of UWA scholarships available to support your Higher Degree by Research includes those funded by the Australian Government, University, and external organisations. Scholarships can cover costs such as tuition fees, stipends (living allowances), overseas student health cover, travel, research and relocation allowances.

UWA offers research scholarships to support the training of domestic and international students, developing graduates with the skills required to build careers in both academic and non-academic employment.

At UWA we award research scholarships through a competitive merit-based selection process which includes two annual scholarship rounds and some additional selection processes. Eligible applicants are ranked according to academic achievement and research potential, based on evidence provided.

 

Scholarships rounds and application dates

UWA usually holds two Higher Degree by Research scholarship rounds per year:

  1. International Round: typically open from July to August.
  2. Domestic Round:  typically open from September to October. 

International students who have completed a degree at UWA are also entitled to apply in the Domestic Round.

Scholarship rounds

International scholarship round for commencement in 2026
  • Open: 1 July 2025 (00:01 AWST)
  • Close: 31 August 2025 (23:59 AWST)
  • Ranking: 1 September - 11 October 2025
  • Offers from: 15 October 2025
  • Commencement: 2 February - 31 March 2026
Domestic scholarship round (incl UWA international students) for commencement in 2026
  • Open: 1 September 2025 (00:01 AWST)
  • Close: 31 October 2025 (23:59 AWST)
  • Ranking: 1 November - 5 December 2025
  • Offers from: 10 December 2025
  • Commencement: 2 February - 31 March 2026
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Understanding RTP scholarships, stipends and allowances

The Australian Government’s Research Training Program (RTP) is a dedicated pool of funding to support domestic and international students who are undertaking Research Doctorate and Research Masters degrees. Universities may use RTP funding to provide support to a student through one or more of the following avenues:

Domestic RTP Tuition Fees Offset Scholarship

Automatically provided to all domestic HDR students, without the need for a competitive application process.

International RTP Tuition Fees Offset Scholarship

Awarded to selected international HDR students, on the basis of a competitive application process.

RTP Stipend Scholarship (living allowance)

Awarded to a limited number of domestic and international students, via a competitive selection process. The current value is $35,000 per annum.

RTP Allowance

Awarded to assist students with ancillary costs of higher degree by research, including relocation.





 

How RTP works for HDR students

An RTP Fees Offset pays for the tuition fees of a Higher Degree by Research student that would otherwise have been paid by the student. 

Students approved for Fees Offset scholarships are normally entitled to up to four years full-time equivalent for a doctorate by research and two years full-time equivalent study for a master's by research. The value of Fees Offset at UWA is approximately $33,500 per annum, and is subject to change in future years.

This entitlement is subject to the student making satisfactory progress and may vary depending on individual circumstances.

Find out more about the RTP under the Quick Links section below

To explore the full RTP Scholarships policy and find details and conditions of award, download the Australian Government Research Training Program Scholarships Policy [DOC 161KB]

 

Available Scholarships

 

Domestic

UWA offers a number of prestigious higher degree by research scholarships to outstanding domestic students who demonstrate exceptional research potential.

Access and equity for all students is paramount. Prospective researchers who identify as Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander are strongly encouraged to apply for the large number of scholarships available across a range of disciplines. 

Find domestic Higher Degree by Research scholarships

International

UWA offers a number of prestigious higher degree by research scholarships to outstanding international students who demonstrate exceptional research potential.

Find international Higher Degree by Research scholarships

Tuition fees for HDR

The amount you pay for tuition fees will generally depend on your Higher Degree by Research course, your enrolment and your citizenship, as well as any scholarships you may be awarded. Tuition fees are due to be paid at the start of each semester.
Fees for domestic HDR students

Citizens of Australia and New Zealand and permanent residents of Australia are exempt from tuition fees if UWA admits them to a HDR course.

This exemption applies for up to four years' full-time equivalent study for a doctorate by research, and two years' full-time equivalent study for a master's by research.

Fees for international HDR students

All international students at UWA must pay tuition fees for their course unless they have a scholarship or sponsorship that covers the fees.

Other fees

All students are required to pay the UWA Student Services and Amenities fee.

This compulsory charge provides access to a range of amenities and services, including recreational, sporting and educational facilities and social, education and representation activities.

Find out more about tuition fees for HDR courses at UWA here:

General information about fees for courses at UWA

Application process for scholarship rounds

Apply for your Higher Degree by Research (HDR) at UWA, and apply for a scholarship at the same time. You’ll be well supported by a team of internationally recognised researchers, plus have access to a range of development opportunities.

Apply now through the two-step process:

 

1. Apply now for admission into your selected course


Follow the step-by-step guide below to ensure you fulfil all the eligibility criteria and submit a complete application.

In the process you will be required to:

• Download and read the Advice for Applicants document.
• Identify and secure an academic supervisor.
• Apply for admission into your selected course via the online HDR application portal.

Begin application here

2. Apply for a scholarship


Search to find the HDR scholarships available to you, whether you’re a domestic or international student. Submit your application via the online scholarship application form 

International Scholarships Round

Domestic Scholarships Round

Quick links to helpful HDR information

HDR scholarships

Find scholarship opportunities for research degrees at UWA.

FAQs for Research Training Program

Find the answers to your queries about the Australian Government’s RTP.

Quick links to helpful HDR information

Download useful information about all the Australian Government Research Training Program Scholarships