University of Sydney International Research Scholarships (RTP and USydIS)

University of Sydney

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Details checked on 30 October 2026. Dates and amounts change every year. Always confirm on the official page.

Who can apply

International students starting or already enrolled in a research degree (PhD preferred) at Sydney, who have not already held an Australian Government or university scholarship at the same level. Apply for admission through Sydney Courses and then submit the RTP scholarship form.

Watch: how to apply

About this opportunity

University of Sydney international research scholarships fund PhD students from overseas with a stipend, a full tuition fee scholarship and allowances, through the Australian Government RTP and university schemes.

How to apply, step by step

1. Check that you are eligible. International students starting or already enrolled in a research degree (PhD preferred) at Sydney, who have not already held an Australian Government or university scholarship at the same level. Apply for admission through Sydney Courses and then submit the RTP scholarship form.
2. Note the deadline. Sep and Dec (two rounds a year; for 2027 the deadlines were 11 Sep 2026 for periods 1-2 and 18 Dec 2026 for periods 3-4 - the 2028 rounds are expected around 10 Sep 2027 and mid-Dec 2027) Confirm the exact date on the official page.
3. Prepare your documents. Passport or national ID; Academic transcripts and degree certificates; CV; Statement of purpose or motivation letter (if requested); Reference or recommendation letters (if requested); Research proposal (for research degrees, if requested); Admission or offer letter for your chosen programme; English-language test result or other language proof (if required); Anything else listed on the official page (this list is a typical checklist - always confirm there).
4. Apply on the official page. Open the official application page and submit your application before the deadline.

Free materials

Templates, checklists and guides to help you apply.

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Tips from our advisors

1. Read the eligibility line by line before you write anything. Most rejections are eligibility mismatches, not weak essays.
2. Contact potential supervisors before you apply. Send a one-page research summary and a short, specific email.
3. Start at least 8 to 12 weeks early. Certified transcripts, translations and referee letters usually take longer than expected.
4. Ask your referees at least 4 weeks ahead and give them your CV, your draft SOP and the deadline.
5. Submit at least 48 hours before the deadline. Portals slow down on the last day.
6. Have your SOP and CV reviewed by someone who has seen successful applications before you submit.

Quick answers

Who can apply for University of Sydney International Research Scholarships (RTP and USydIS)?

International students starting or already enrolled in a research degree (PhD preferred) at Sydney, who have not already held an Australian Government or university scholarship at the same level. Apply for admission through Sydney Courses and then submit the RTP scholarship form.

What does University of Sydney International Research Scholarships (RTP and USydIS) cover?

Stipend of AUD 42,754 a year (2026 rate; AUD 44,293 in 2027) plus relocation and thesis allowances, and a 100% tuition fee scholarship (with overseas student health cover for the RTP fee offset) for up to 14 research periods

When is the deadline for University of Sydney International Research Scholarships (RTP and USydIS)?

Sep and Dec (two rounds a year; for 2027 the deadlines were 11 Sep 2026 for periods 1-2 and 18 Dec 2026 for periods 3-4 - the 2028 rounds are expected around 10 Sep 2027 and mid-Dec 2027) Dates change every year, so confirm on the official page.

Where can I study or work with University of Sydney International Research Scholarships (RTP and USydIS)?

Host countries: Australia.

What documents do I need for University of Sydney International Research Scholarships (RTP and USydIS)?

Passport or national ID; Academic transcripts and degree certificates; CV; Statement of purpose or motivation letter (if requested); Reference or recommendation letters (if requested); Research proposal (for research degrees, if requested); Admission or offer letter for your chosen programme; English-language test result or other language proof (if required); Anything else listed on the official page (this list is a typical checklist - always confirm there).

How much work is the University of Sydney International Research Scholarships (RTP and USydIS) application?

High: Research Admission Portal + Scholarship Application Form + Supervisor Endorsement