Southern Cross University RTP Scholarships 2026 | Fully Funded Study in Australia

The Southern Cross University RTP Scholarship 2026 is one of the most competitive fully funded scholarships in Australia. Supported by the Australian Government Research Training Program (RTP), this award is available to both domestic and international students pursuing a Master’s by Research or PhD.

The scholarship covers full tuition fees, a generous living stipend, and Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), making it an excellent opportunity for international students seeking postgraduate scholarships in Australia.

Scholarship Summary

• Host Country: Australia

• Host University: Southern Cross University (SCU)

• Study Level: Master’s by Research | Doctor of Philosophy (PhD)

• Eligible Nationalities: All countries

• Funding Coverage: Full Tuition | Living Stipend | Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC)

• IELTS Requirement: Not mandatory for all applicants

• Duration: Up to 2 years for Master’s | Up to 3 years for PhD

• Deadline: October 31, 2025

This Southern Cross University Masters scholarship and PhD scholarship is a pathway to advanced research for high-achieving students from around the globe.

Scholarship Details

Southern Cross University offers Higher Degree by Research (HDR) scholarships under the RTP Scholarship Australia 2026 program.

Students can conduct impactful research in fields such as:

• Marine and Environmental Sciences

• Health Equity and Medical Research

• Digital Futures and Technology

• Social Sciences and Policy Innovation

The Southern Cross University HDR scholarships provide mentorship from leading academics, fostering excellence in global research.

Eligibility Criteria

To apply for the Southern Cross University RTP Scholarship 2026, candidates must:

1. Be admitted into a Higher Degree by Research program at Southern Cross University.

2. Demonstrate strong academic performance and proven research potential.

3. Secure a commitment from an SCU academic supervisor.

4. Meet English language requirements (IELTS not always required).

5. Commit to full-time, on-campus study in Australia.

Note: This program is open to both domestic and international students, but competition is highly merit-based.

Benefits of the RTP Scholarship

Winners of the Southern Cross University PhD Scholarship and Masters by Research scholarships in Australia will receive:

• Full Tuition Fee Waiver: Covers the entire program cost.

• Living Stipend: Tax-free allowance paid fortnightly, indexed annually.

• Health Insurance: Comprehensive Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC).

• Duration:

  • Master’s by Research – up to 2 years

  • Doctoral (PhD) – up to 3 years

How to Apply for Southern Cross University RTP Scholarship 2026

Follow this step-by-step process to apply for the fully funded scholarships in Australia:

1. Select a Research Topic: Choose an area aligned with SCU’s research priorities.

2. Secure a Supervisor: Contact and gain endorsement from an SCU academic supervisor.

3. Prepare Documentation: Include transcripts, CV, research proposal, and proof of English proficiency (if required).

4. Submit Application: Complete the RTP application form with all supporting documents before the deadline.

5. Assessment: Applications are ranked on academic merit, research proposal quality, and supervisor support.

Application Deadline: October 31, 2025

Click Here to Apply for Southern Cross University RTP Scholarships

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Who is eligible for the Southern Cross University RTP Scholarship 2026?
Both domestic and international students who meet the HDR admission requirements are eligible to apply.

2. Is IELTS mandatory for this scholarship?
Not always. Some applicants can meet English language proficiency through alternative qualifications.

3. What does the scholarship cover?
It covers tuition fees, living stipend, and Overseas Student Health Cover for international students.

4. How long is the funding valid?
Up to 2 years for Master’s by Research and 3 years for PhD students.

5. Can I apply for part-time study under this program?
No. The RTP Scholarship requires full-time, on-campus study at Southern Cross University.

6. How competitive is the RTP Scholarship in Australia?
Very competitive. Selection is based on academic merit, research quality, and supervisor support.

7. What fields of research does SCU support under RTP Scholarships?
Fields include marine sciences, digital futures, health equity, and social sciences.

8. Do international students get health insurance?
Yes. International students receive Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC).

9. When will I know if I am selected?
Notifications are sent after the review process following the deadline.

10. How do I improve my chances of success?
Submit a strong research proposal, maintain excellent academic records, and secure supervisor support early.