Scholarships and Offers

Adelaide University Scholarships 2026: Bachelor, Masters & PhD

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Adelaide University Scholarships 2026: Bachelor, Masters & PhD

Students seeking financial support for their studies at Adelaide University, formed in 2026 from the University of Adelaide and the University of South Australia, can choose from several scholarship programs for Adelaide University scholarships 2026 and 2027 entry. International students can get tuition fee reductions of up to 50% on coursework degrees, while research students can apply for stipend-backed PhD and MPhil scholarships. Always confirm current values and dates on the official Adelaide University scholarships pages, because they change each round.

The scholarship landscape at Adelaide includes international coursework fee reductions, Research Training Program Scholarships (RTPS) and Adelaide University Research Scholarships (AURS) for research degrees, and equity awards such as the Undergraduate Access Scholarship for eligible domestic students. Some awards are assessed automatically when you apply for a course, while others need a separate application. Similar opportunities exist at other Australian institutions, such as those available through University of Melbourne scholarships.

Deadlines vary by scholarship. For example, the first 2027 research scholarship round (the Graduate Research Talent Scheme) closes on 2 November 2026, with later rounds in 2027. International coursework fee reductions are mostly assessed automatically when you apply for your degree, so your course application is the key deadline. Check each scholarship page for its current closing date.

TL;DR

  • Adelaide University offers scholarships for international coursework students (fee reductions of 10% to 50%), eligible domestic students and research students (PhD and MPhil)
  • Key programs include international fee reductions and AURS/RTPS research scholarships, which pay a full-time stipend of $36,500 a year in 2026 and cover tuition for research students
  • Deadlines vary by scholarship: research Round 1 for 2027 entry closes on 2 November 2026, and most international fee reductions are assessed automatically with your course application

Adelaide University Scholarships 2026: Complete Overview

Adelaide University presents scholarship opportunities for bachelor’s, master’s, and PhD programs for 2026 and 2027 entry. Some awards are open to domestic students, some to international students and some to both. Fee reductions and stipends help make world-class education more affordable, but most awards are competitive or have set criteria.

Benefits depend on the award. Coursework awards for international students reduce tuition fees, while research awards add a living stipend, a tuition waiver or offset and, for international students, Overseas Student Health Cover. Read the conditions of each award before you apply.

Types of Scholarships Available Across All Study Levels

International coursework fee reductions are the main awards for overseas students in bachelor’s and coursework master’s degrees. There are six: the Adelaide Academic Excellence Scholarship (50%), Adelaide Emerging Leaders Award (25%), Adelaide Merit Scholarship (15%), Adelaide Sibling Award (10%), Adelaide Global Alumni Scholarship (10%) and Adelaide Partner Award (10%).

Research Training Program Scholarships (RTPS) and Adelaide University Research Scholarships (AURS) are for PhD and MPhil candidates. They provide a stipend, a tuition fee waiver or offset and, for international students, health cover, so you can focus on your research.

  • International Student Scholarships: Fee reductions of 10% to 50% for coursework degrees, mostly assessed automatically
  • Research Scholarships: AURS and RTPS for PhD and MPhil candidates, plus out-of-round and partnership awards
  • Indigenous Student Support: Specific scholarships and a higher research stipend for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students
  • Equity Scholarships: Need-based help such as the Undergraduate Access Scholarship for eligible domestic students

Values differ widely. International coursework awards reduce tuition by 10% to 50%, while the full-time research stipend is $36,500 per year in 2026 (indexed annually). The domestic Undergraduate Access Scholarship is worth up to $24,000 in total. Check each award page for current figures.

Key Benefits and Support Packages

Tuition support varies by award. International coursework scholarships reduce fees by a percentage, while research scholarships waive or offset tuition for the standard duration of the degree. This is not automatic across all awards, so confirm what yours covers.

Living stipends apply mainly to research scholarships. The full-time AURS and RTPS stipend is $36,500 per year in 2026, tax-exempt and indexed annually. International coursework fee reductions do not include a living allowance unless the scholarship page says so.

Research scholarship holders can also receive a relocation allowance (up to $1,500 for international students and $1,000 for domestic students) and an early submission allowance of up to two months of stipend if the thesis is submitted early. Other grants, internships and travel awards have their own processes, so check the research scholarships page.

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Scholarship Advantage

Most international coursework fee reductions are assessed automatically when you apply for an eligible degree, so a complete course application is your first step. Check each scholarship page for any extra requirements.

Application Timeline and Important Dates

Research scholarships run in rounds. Round 1 for study starting in 2027 closes on 2 November 2026 at 5pm ACDT, and later rounds follow in 2027. Coursework scholarships for international students are mostly assessed automatically with your course application, so there is usually no separate scholarship deadline for those.

Scholarship RoundApplications OpenClosing DateNotes
Research Round 1 (Graduate Research Talent Scheme)Check the website2 November 2026, 5pm ACDTStudy starting 2027
Research Round 2Mid-February 2027Late March 2027Study starting 2027
Research Round 3Mid-July 2027Mid-August 2027Study starting 2027
International coursework fee reductionsWith your course applicationSame as your course applicationMostly assessed automatically

Round 1 is open to domestic applicants, and to international applicants who have completed (or are completing in 2026) a relevant Australian or New Zealand qualification. Final transcripts and evidence of completion are due by 15 December 2026. Other international research applicants should use the AURS or RTPS option in the online research degree application and check the research scholarships page for the date that applies to them.

Selection is based on academic merit and, for research awards, on research potential and project and supervisor fit. Notification times differ by award and round, so check the timeline published with the round you apply for.

Bachelor's Degree Scholarships

International bachelor’s applicants are assessed for the fee reductions above based on their academic average: a credit average for the 15% Merit Scholarship, a distinction average for the 25% Emerging Leaders Award and a high distinction average for the 50% Academic Excellence Scholarship, which has limited places and a separate application form. The Sibling, Global Alumni and Partner awards (10% each) depend on your connection to the university.

For domestic students, the Adelaide University Undergraduate Access Scholarship supports commencing undergraduate coursework students with demonstrated financial need. It is worth up to $24,000 in total: $3,000 a year for up to four years, plus a one-off $1,500 relocation grant, a $500 starter pack and a one-year accommodation bursary for eligible students. Applicants must be Australian citizens, permanent residents or New Zealand citizens, and applications are made through SATAC (the university says they open in January and July each year).

Rural, Regional and Sport Scholarships

Adelaide University also lists scholarship categories for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students, rural, regional and remote students, and sport. Examples include the STEM Rural Scholarship and the George Alexander Foundation Adelaide University Regional Scholarship. Values and eligibility differ, so use the scholarship finder on the university website.

International students pursuing undergraduate degrees are automatically assessed for the fee reductions above based on their results, which recognise academic achievement from students’ home countries. The 50% Adelaide Academic Excellence Scholarship needs a separate application form and has limited places.

Application Requirements and Academic Thresholds

Requirements differ by award. Many international coursework fee reductions need nothing beyond your course application and academic results, while need-based and research scholarships ask for supporting documents. Read the application instructions on each scholarship page before you start.

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Application Tip

Submit scholarship applications before the closing date for your round. Late applications may miss out on the most competitive awards.

Academic thresholds depend on the award. For international coursework awards the thresholds are average levels (credit, distinction or high distinction). Research scholarships are competitive and are assessed on academic results and research potential, so strong results and research experience help.

Where an application asks for a personal statement, use it to explain your academic goals and why you chose Adelaide University. Keep to any word limit and address each selection criterion.

Masters Degree Scholarships

Postgraduate scholarships at Adelaide University split into coursework awards and research awards. International coursework students use the same fee reductions as undergraduates, while research master’s and PhD candidates apply for AURS or RTPS.

Research Training Program and University Schemes

RTPS is funded by the Australian Government, and AURS is funded by the university. Both are available to PhD and MPhil candidates. Full-time MPhil holders receive the stipend and tuition waiver for up to two years, and international students on AURS have tuition fully waived for the standard duration.

Adelaide University also lists the Master of Research Assistance Scholarship (MResAS) for domestic research students who would be eligible for Austudy or Youth Allowance in a non-research program, and the Master of Research Indigenous Scholarship (MResIS) for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students. Other awards, top-ups and travel grants have their own processes on the university website.

Coursework Masters Funding

Coursework master’s degrees are generally not covered by the research stipend scholarships. International students can use the fee reductions listed earlier, and domestic students can look at the Adelaide University Access Postgraduate Coursework Scholarship or external awards.

Some employers and industry bodies sponsor staff to study, so ask your employer about support, and check the Adelaide University scholarship finder for current awards.

International Postgraduate Opportunities

International postgraduate coursework students can receive the same fee reductions of 10% to 50% listed above, depending on their academic average and connection to the university. The university also lists the China Scholarship Council, Adelaide University Partnership Scholarship Program, a fully funded PhD scholarship for candidates from China, with applications from 1 October 2026 to 1 February 2027 for study starting between July 2027 and June 2028.

International PhD and MPhil candidates can apply for AURS or RTPS, which include a tuition waiver and Overseas Student Health Cover. Additionally, University of Melbourne scholarships offer alternative pathways for students considering multiple institutional options.

Eligibility and Academic Requirements

Eligibility depends on the award. Research applicants must be eligible to enrol in an MPhil or PhD at Adelaide University, must not already hold an equivalent research degree at or above that level, and must not be receiving another RTP scholarship or equivalent Commonwealth award. International applicants need to show English language proficiency by the closing date.

English requirements depend on the degree you choose, so check the course page for the accepted tests and minimum scores. Some scholarships also have extra criteria, so read the conditions of the award.

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Application Strategy

Research scholarships run in set rounds, so check the closing date for your round and submit well before it. Round 1 for 2027 entry closes on 2 November 2026.

PhD and Research Scholarships

Research scholarships at Adelaide University support doctoral candidates and research master’s students. The Research Training Program Scholarship (RTPS) and the Adelaide University Research Scholarship (AURS) form the foundation of PhD funding, with a stipend and tuition support for eligible domestic and international students.

Research Training Program (RTP) Scholarships

The Australian Government funds RTP scholarships through allocations to universities. Adelaide University’s 2026 conditions of award set the full-time stipend at $36,500 per year (tax-exempt, indexed annually), or $18,250 per year for half-time study. Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander recipients receive $53,608 per year full-time.

Full-time PhD scholarship holders receive the stipend for up to 3 years and 6 months, with a tuition waiver for up to 4 years. MPhil holders receive the stipend and tuition waiver for up to 2 years. Australian students receive an RTP Fee Offset paid to the university, while international students on AURS have tuition fully waived for the standard duration. The conditions of award state that there are no extensions.

Adelaide University Research Scholarships (AURS)

The AURS is the university-funded scheme alongside RTPS. International students on AURS have tuition fully waived for the standard program duration and receive compulsory Overseas Student Health Cover for the standard duration. You select AURS or RTPS in the online research degree application.

Other top-ups, internships and travel awards exist, but they have their own processes and dates, which are posted on the Adelaide University research scholarships page. A PhD with a research internship can extend the stipend to up to 3 years and 9 months.

Other Research Scholarship Rounds

Adelaide University also runs the Signature Research Theme (SRT) Scholarship Round, aligned with five Signature Research Themes and open to domestic and international PhD and MPhil applicants. Expressions of interest for the next SRT round open on 31 August 2027 and close on 30 September 2027, and are reviewed by the project supervisor before interviews and a formal application.

International Research Student Scholarships

International PhD candidates can apply for AURS or RTPS, and candidates from China can also apply for the China Scholarship Council, Adelaide University Partnership Scholarship Program. Round 1 of the Graduate Research Talent Scheme is open to international applicants who have completed, or are completing in 2026, a relevant Australian or New Zealand qualification.

International scholarship holders receive a relocation allowance of up to $1,500 and Overseas Student Health Cover for the standard duration, in addition to the stipend. Read the 2026 AURS and RTPS Conditions of Award for the full list of benefits.

Additional Research Support and Conference Funding

Beyond the core scholarship, full-time AURS and RTPS holders can claim an early submission allowance of up to two months of stipend, paid as a lump sum after thesis submission. Ask your school or supervisor about any travel or conference funding.

Additionally, University of Melbourne scholarships offer comparative opportunities for students considering multiple institutional options.

International Student Scholarships

Adelaide University lists six fee reduction scholarships for international students in coursework degrees, and research students can apply for AURS or RTPS. Most coursework awards are assessed automatically when you apply for an eligible degree.

The coursework fee reductions range from 10% to 50%. The 50% Adelaide Academic Excellence Scholarship has limited places, the 25% Emerging Leaders Award is for a distinction average and the 15% Merit Scholarship is for a credit average. For research degrees, AURS waives tuition fully for the standard duration. The university says some scholarships also contribute to relocation and living costs, so check each one.

Partner, Alumni and Sibling Awards

The Adelaide Partner Award (10%) is for applicants from approved Adelaide University partner institutions, and the Adelaide Global Alumni Scholarship (10%) is for applicants who previously studied at Adelaide University, the University of South Australia or the University of Adelaide. The Adelaide Sibling Award (10%) applies if you have a sibling currently studying at, or an alumnus of, Adelaide University.

English Language Requirements and Pathways

Check the English language requirement for your chosen degree before you apply. Fee reductions apply to eligible degrees, so confirm with the university whether a pathway program is covered before you rely on a scholarship.

Financial Support Structure

Support TypeCoverage AmountEligibility
Tuition Fee Reduction10% to 50%Coursework degrees, by academic average or connection to the university
Research Stipend$36,500 per year full-time (2026)AURS and RTPS research degrees
Relocation AllowanceUp to $1,500 (international), $1,000 (domestic)AURS and RTPS research degrees
Health InsuranceOSHC for the standard durationInternational AURS and RTPS holders

Beyond tuition assistance, international research scholarships provide a living stipend and health cover. Coursework fee reductions do not guarantee accommodation or a living allowance, so budget for living costs separately and check the scholarship page for any relocation contribution.

Visa and Residency Requirements

Scholarship holders on a student visa must keep their visa valid and meet course progress requirements, and most scholarships have conditions about enrolment and satisfactory progress. For visa questions, use the Department of Home Affairs website or the university’s international student support team.

After graduation, some students may be eligible for a Temporary Graduate visa (subclass 485), subject to Department of Home Affairs rules. A scholarship does not guarantee a visa or permanent residency, so check Home Affairs for current requirements.

Application Process and Requirements

Securing Adelaide University scholarships 2026 and 2027 awards requires careful preparation, because the process varies by scholarship type and study level. Most international coursework fee reductions are assessed automatically with your course application, research scholarships are selected in the online research degree application, and domestic undergraduate access scholarships go through SATAC.

Step-by-Step Application Guide

  1. Choose your degree and check which scholarships list it as eligible on the Adelaide University scholarships pages
  2. Complete your course application (or the separate scholarship form where one is required) with accurate personal and academic information
  3. Upload the supporting documents listed for your scholarship
  4. Submit your application before the specified deadline for your chosen scholarship
  5. Monitor your application status through the online portal and respond to any requests for additional information

Opening and closing dates vary by award. Research scholarships run in rounds (Round 1 for 2027 entry closes on 2 November 2026), while some awards, such as the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander research scholarships and the Master of Research Assistance Scholarship, can be applied for at any time.

Essential Documentation Requirements

Documentation depends on the scholarship. Academic transcripts in a language other than English will normally need official translations, but check each award for its own reference or statement requirements.

Document TypeRequirementsBachelor/MastersPhD/Research
Academic TranscriptsOfficial copies with grades✓✓
Personal StatementOnly if the scholarship asks for oneCheckCheck
Reference LettersOnly if the scholarship asks for themCheckCheck
Research ProposalCheck with the school and supervisor✗✓
PortfolioProgram-specificSome programsSome programs
CV/ResumeCheck the scholarship pageCheckCheck

If your scholarship asks for a personal statement, explain your academic goals, research interests and why you chose Adelaide University. If it asks for referee reports, give your referees plenty of notice.

Academic Performance Standards

Academic requirements vary by scholarship. International coursework fee reductions are based on your academic average (credit, distinction or high distinction), and research scholarships are competitive and assessed on academic record and research potential. Check the eligibility section of each award.

Research degree scholarships are competitive. Demonstrated research experience and publications, where applicable, strengthen an application, and applicants must meet the eligibility rules in the AURS and RTPS conditions of award.

English Language Proficiency

International applicants must meet the English language requirement for their chosen degree. Recognised tests such as IELTS Academic, TOEFL iBT and PTE Academic are commonly accepted, but the minimum scores depend on the program, so check the course page.

  • IELTS Academic: Minimum scores depend on your chosen degree
  • TOEFL iBT: Minimum scores depend on your chosen degree
  • PTE Academic: Minimum scores depend on your chosen degree
  • Higher requirements: Some degrees set higher scores than others

English test results are normally valid for a limited period, and some applicants may be exempt based on previous study in English. Check the entry requirements for your degree.

Portfolio and Program-Specific Requirements

Some creative and professional programs require portfolios, auditions or interviews as part of course admission. Check the entry requirements for your degree.

Research scholarship applicants need detailed research proposals that align with faculty expertise and available supervision. These proposals should demonstrate clear methodology, feasibility, and potential contribution to the field. Similarly, some programs may require additional assessments such as interviews or written examinations to evaluate candidate suitability.

For comprehensive scholarship opportunities across Australian universities, prospective students might also explore University of Melbourne scholarships to compare available funding options and application requirements.

Key Dates and Deadlines

Planning your Adelaide University scholarship application requires attention to the round dates below. Coursework fee reductions follow your course application dates, while research scholarships run in rounds.

Application Opening Dates by Scholarship Round

For research degrees, Round 1 closes on 2 November 2026 (5pm ACDT) for study starting in 2027. Round 2 runs from mid-February to late March 2027 and Round 3 from mid-July to mid-August 2027. Final transcripts and evidence of completion for Round 1 are due by 15 December 2026.

The Signature Research Theme round has a separate expression-of-interest window, from 31 August to 30 September 2027. The China Scholarship Council partnership program accepts applications from 1 October 2026 to 1 February 2027.

Scholarship RoundOpensClosesNotes
Research Round 1Check the website2 November 2026Study starting 2027
Research Round 2Mid-February 2027Late March 2027Study starting 2027
Research Round 3Mid-July 2027Mid-August 2027Study starting 2027
China Scholarship Council partnership1 October 20261 February 2027PhD for candidates from China

Closing Dates and Submission Tips

Submit before the closing date for your round. The Round 1 closing date is 2 November 2026 at 5pm ACDT, and the university publishes later rounds for 2027. Always check the closing time on the scholarship page.

Coursework fee reductions usually have no separate deadline, because they are assessed with your course application. Check your course application closing date and the intake you want.

Critical Deadline Note

Closing times for scholarship rounds are strict. Submit all materials well before the deadline to allow for technical issues, and check the time zone shown on the scholarship page.

Notification Timelines and Acceptance Process

Notification dates differ by scholarship and round, and they are published with each round. Allow enough time for visa processing and relocation planning before your start date.

Automatically assessed coursework scholarships depend on your course offer, so check your offer letter and the scholarship page to see which awards apply.

Respond to scholarship offers by the date stated in your offer, and monitor your email regularly so you do not miss it.

Semester Commencement and Scholarship Activation

Scholarship benefits generally start when you commence and enrol in your degree. Research scholarship holders must complete enrolment before stipend payments begin, so check your offer for your start date.

Relocation allowances for research scholarship holders cover one-way travel by the most direct route, worth up to $1,500 for international students and $1,000 for domestic students.

For students considering multiple scholarship opportunities across Australian universities, exploring Monash University scholarships can provide valuable comparison points for funding amounts and application requirements.

Selection Criteria and Tips for Success

Scholarship selection committees evaluate candidates through comprehensive assessment frameworks that weigh academic performance, research potential, leadership qualities, and personal attributes. Understanding these criteria enables applicants to strategically position their applications for maximum impact.

Academic Excellence Requirements and GPA Benchmarks

Undergraduate coursework awards for international students are based on your academic average (credit, distinction or high distinction), and need-based awards such as the Undergraduate Access Scholarship depend on demonstrated financial need. International students must show equivalent academic standing through their national qualifications.

Postgraduate applicants face different criteria by award. Coursework fee reductions look at your academic average, while PhD scholarships prioritize research capabilities and academic trajectory. Check the AURS and RTPS conditions of award for the exact eligibility rules.

International fee reductions at Adelaide University range from 10% to 50% and depend on your academic average

Research Potential Assessment for Postgraduate Applicants

Research scholarship evaluation extends beyond academic transcripts to examine research methodology understanding, analytical thinking, and innovation potential. Selection panels assess candidates’ ability to formulate research questions, design appropriate methodologies, and contribute meaningfully to their chosen field.

Previous research experience significantly strengthens applications, whether through honors projects, industry collaborations, or independent studies. Publications, conference presentations, and research assistant roles demonstrate practical engagement with scholarly processes. Additionally, alignment between proposed research interests and available supervisor expertise influences selection outcomes.

International applicants must demonstrate English proficiency alongside research capabilities, with the score depending on the degree you apply for. Check the course page for the current requirement.

Leadership Experience and Extracurricular Achievements

Leadership demonstrations encompass formal positions, community involvement, and initiative-taking across diverse contexts. Selection committees value sustained commitment over brief involvement, seeking evidence of positive impact and personal growth through leadership roles.

  • Student government positions and club executive roles
  • Community volunteering and social impact initiatives
  • Sports team captaincy and coaching responsibilities
  • Peer mentoring and tutoring programs
  • Cultural organization leadership and event coordination

Extracurricular achievements should demonstrate transferable skills relevant to academic and professional success. Quality trumps quantity – sustained involvement in fewer activities with measurable outcomes outweighs superficial participation in numerous organizations.

Personal Statement Writing Tips and Common Mistakes to Avoid

Effective personal statements tell compelling narratives that connect past experiences with future aspirations while demonstrating fit with Adelaide University’s values and programs. Successful statements avoid generic language and instead provide specific examples that illustrate personal growth, resilience, and academic passion.

Pros

  • Start with engaging anecdotes that demonstrate key qualities
  • Connect experiences to academic and career goals clearly
  • Show genuine enthusiasm for your chosen field of study
  • Demonstrate knowledge of Adelaide University's specific programs
  • Use concrete examples rather than abstract statements

Cons

  • Avoid clichéd opening sentences and overused phrases
  • Don't simply repeat information from your academic transcript
  • Never submit generic statements without customization
  • Avoid negative language or dwelling on weaknesses
  • Don't exceed word limits or ignore formatting requirements

Common mistakes include failing to address selection criteria directly, using passive voice excessively, and focusing too heavily on achievements without explaining their significance. Successful applicants demonstrate self-awareness, articulate clear goals, and show how scholarship support will enable their academic and professional development.

Proofreading remains crucial – grammatical errors and typos suggest carelessness that undermines otherwise strong applications. Furthermore, authentic voice resonates more effectively than overly formal language that obscures personality and passion.

Interview Preparation for Scholarship Finalists

Some scholarships and research applications involve an interview. Interviews assess communication skills, intellectual curiosity, and personal qualities that go beyond written applications. Check whether yours includes one.

Preparation strategies should focus on articulating academic interests clearly, discussing research goals confidently, and demonstrating knowledge of Adelaide University’s strengths in relevant fields. Candidates should prepare thoughtful questions about programs, research opportunities, and campus life that show genuine interest beyond scholarship funding.

Interview ComponentPreparation StrategyKey Focus Areas
Academic DiscussionReview recent developments in your fieldResearch interests, methodology, career goals
Personal ReflectionPractice articulating growth experiencesLeadership, challenges overcome, values
University KnowledgeResearch specific programs and facultyFit with Adelaide’s offerings, contribution potential
Current AffairsStay informed about relevant issuesCritical thinking, global awareness, perspective

Mock interviews with teachers, mentors, or career counselors help candidates practice structured responses while maintaining conversational flow. Successful interviewees balance confidence with humility, showing enthusiasm without appearing presumptuous about scholarship outcomes.

Scholarship Values and Benefits

Adelaide University scholarships provide financial support that varies significantly across program levels and scholarship types. Research scholarships (AURS and RTPS) offer the most substantial support for research students, while coursework awards focus on tuition fee reductions.

Tuition Fee Coverage and Payment Structure

Research scholarships cover tuition for the standard duration. International AURS holders have tuition fully waived, international RTPS holders have any gap between the fee offset and tuition fees waived, and Australian RTPS students receive an RTP Fee Offset valued between $40,600 and $52,200 paid to the university. International coursework awards reduce tuition by 10% to 50%.

Coursework awards are applied as a percentage reduction on tuition, so the dollar value depends on your course fees. Check the scholarship page for how the reduction is applied.

Living Allowance Rates and Payment Frequency

Full-time research scholarship recipients receive a stipend of $36,500 annually for 2026, which is tax-exempt and indexed annually. Half-time holders receive $18,250 per year, which is taxable.

Scholarship TypeAnnual Stipend (2026)Tax TreatmentDuration
PhD AURS/RTPS, full-time$36,500Tax-exemptUp to 3.5 years
PhD AURS/RTPS, half-time$18,250TaxableUp to 7 years
MPhil AURS/RTPS, full-time$36,500Tax-exemptUp to 2 years
Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander, full-time$53,608Tax-exemptCheck the conditions of award

Additional Benefits and Support Services

International AURS and RTPS holders receive compulsory Overseas Student Health Cover (a Bupa Comprehensive OSHC Single policy) for the standard duration, starting two weeks before arrival.

Beyond the scholarship itself, students can use the university’s general academic and career support services.

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Research Fund Benefits

Research scholarship holders can claim an early submission allowance of up to two months of stipend if they submit their thesis early, and a relocation allowance on arrival. Check the conditions of award for details.

Duration and Program-Specific Support

Scholarship duration is set by the award. Full-time PhD scholarships pay the stipend for up to 3.5 years, while MPhil awards provide 2 years of support. Coursework fee reductions apply to the eligible degree, so check the scholarship page for how long they run.

Part-time research students receive half the full-time stipend ($18,250 per year in 2026, taxable) for up to 7 years. Similarly, University of Melbourne scholarships offer comparable duration structures, though specific allowance rates may differ between institutions.

Renewal Conditions and Academic Progress Requirements

Scholarship conditions require satisfactory academic progress as defined by university policies. Research students are generally expected to show progress through milestone reviews and supervisor evaluations, so read the conditions of your award for the exact requirements.

Scholarships can be suspended or ended if progress requirements are not met, and the conditions of award set out the rules. Speak to your school or the scholarships team early if your circumstances change.

Full-time AURS and RTPS holders receive a stipend of $36,500 a year in 2026 for up to 3.5 years, plus tuition support

Frequently Asked Questions

What scholarships are available at Adelaide University for 2026?

Adelaide University offers international coursework fee reductions (10% to 50%), research scholarships (AURS and RTPS), equity awards such as the Undergraduate Access Scholarship, Indigenous student scholarships and rural, regional and remote awards. These cover bachelor’s, master’s, and PhD levels with varying amounts and benefits.

How much funding do Adelaide University scholarships provide?

Amounts vary by award. International coursework fee reductions range from 10% to 50% of tuition. Full-time AURS and RTPS research scholarships pay a stipend of $36,500 per year in 2026 plus tuition support. The Undergraduate Access Scholarship is worth up to $24,000 in total.

What fee reductions can international students get at Adelaide University?

International coursework students can receive the Adelaide Academic Excellence Scholarship (50%, limited places, separate application), the Emerging Leaders Award (25%, distinction average), the Merit Scholarship (15%, credit average), and 10% awards for siblings, alumni and approved partner institutions. Most are assessed automatically when you apply for an eligible degree.

Are Adelaide University scholarships available for international students?

Yes. International students can receive fee reductions of up to 50% on coursework degrees, and can apply for AURS or RTPS for PhD and MPhil study. Check each scholarship page for eligibility and extra requirements.

What is the RTP Scholarship at Adelaide University?

The Research Training Program Scholarship (RTPS) is an Australian Government funded scholarship for PhD and MPhil candidates. It provides a stipend ($36,500 per year full-time in 2026), tuition support and, for international students, health cover. The university-funded AURS works alongside it.

When are the application deadlines for Adelaide University scholarships?

Deadlines vary by scholarship. Research Round 1 for 2027 entry closes on 2 November 2026 at 5pm ACDT, with later rounds in 2027. Most international coursework fee reductions are assessed with your course application. Check each scholarship page for its current date.

What are the eligibility criteria for Adelaide University scholarships?

Eligibility criteria depend on the specific scholarship. Coursework fee reductions are based on your academic average or connection to the university, research scholarships have eligibility rules in the conditions of award, and equity awards such as the Undergraduate Access Scholarship require demonstrated financial need.

Do Adelaide University scholarships cover living expenses?

Research scholarships (AURS and RTPS) include a living stipend of $36,500 per year for full-time study in 2026. International coursework fee reductions reduce tuition and do not automatically include a living allowance.

Are there scholarships for specific groups of students at Adelaide University?

Yes. Adelaide University lists scholarships for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students, rural, regional and remote students, and sport, as well as equity awards. Use the scholarship finder on the university website to see current options.

What support do scholarship recipients receive beyond funding?

Beyond funding, research scholarship holders may receive a relocation allowance, an early submission allowance and, if international, Overseas Student Health Cover. Check the conditions of award for your scholarship.

How competitive are Adelaide University scholarships?

Many scholarships are competitive, especially research scholarships and awards with limited places such as the 50% Academic Excellence Scholarship. Strong academic results and a well prepared application help.

Can PhD students apply for multiple scholarship programs?

PhD applicants select AURS or RTPS in the online research degree application and may be considered for other research rounds. Check the conditions of award, because you generally cannot hold another equivalent Commonwealth award or overseas sponsored scholarship at the same time.

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