A world-class research opportunity in Australia is calling! Applications are now open for the Adelaide University Scholarships 2026, a comprehensive, fully-funded package for outstanding international and domestic students pursuing a Master of Philosophy (MPhil) or Doctor of Philosophy (PhD). Ranked among Australia’s top universities, Adelaide offers a prestigious pathway to advanced research with full financial support. If you are a high-achieving graduate with a passion for research, this is your chance to study at a leading global institution. Deadlines vary by scholarship round, so apply early.
Adelaide University Scholarships 2026 – Key Details
Here’s a quick overview of this premier research scholarship:
- University: The University of Adelaide, Australia
- Scholarship Types: Adelaide University Research Scholarships (AURS) & Research Training Program Scholarships (RTPS)
- Study Level: Master of Philosophy (MPhil) & Doctor of Philosophy (PhD)
- Financial Coverage: Fully Funded
- Duration: Up to 3.5 years for PhD
- Target Group: Outstanding Domestic & International Graduates
- Application Deadline: Rolling / Varies by Round (Check official site)
About the Fully Funded Adelaide University Scholarships
The University of Adelaide is a member of Australia’s prestigious Group of Eight research-intensive universities. Its flagship research scholarships are designed to attract and nurture the world’s most promising academic talents.
This is a comprehensive, full-cost award that allows you to focus entirely on your research. The scholarship supports students across all academic disciplines, from sciences and engineering to arts, business, and health. As a scholarship holder, you will be integrated into a vibrant research community with access to world-class facilities and expert supervision.
Scholarship Eligibility Criteria
Adelaide seeks candidates with exceptional academic records and research potential. To be eligible, you must:
- Have an outstanding academic background that meets the university’s high entry requirements for a research degree (MPhil or PhD).
- Secure a written confirmation of supervision from an eligible professor/researcher at the University of Adelaide before applying.
- Meet the English language proficiency requirements:
- General: IELTS 6.5 (no band below 6.0) or TOEFL 79.
- Arts, Business, Economics: IELTS 7.0 (no band below 6.5) or TOEFL 94.
- Apply for and undertake a full-time Master of Philosophy or Doctor of Philosophy program.
- Not be holding another equivalent major award or scholarship concurrently.
Comprehensive Scholarship Benefits & Coverage
The scholarship provides an extensive financial package to cover all major costs:
- Full Tuition Fee Waiver: 100% coverage of tuition fees for the standard duration of your research degree.
- Generous Living Allowance: An annual tax-free stipend of AUD $36,500 (2026 rate) to cover all living costs.
- Relocation Allowance: A one-off payment of AUD $2,000 to assist with moving to Adelaide.
- Health Cover: Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) for international students, if applicable.
- Additional Support: Dedicated allowances and support for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Peoples.
How to Apply for the Adelaide Scholarship (Step-by-Step)
The application is a multi-step process where securing a supervisor is the most critical part:
- Find a Supervisor & Project: This is non-negotiable. Explore the University of Adelaide’s research project database and faculty profiles. Identify and contact a potential supervisor whose work aligns with yours. You must obtain their written agreement to supervise you before applying.
- Check Eligibility & Prepare Documents: Ensure you meet all academic and language requirements. Prepare your academic transcripts, CV (using the university template), a research proposal, and your supervisor’s confirmation email.
- Submit the Online Application: Apply for your chosen MPhil or PhD program through the university’s online portal. You do not need to apply separately for the scholarship; you will be automatically considered for all applicable awards if you are eligible.
- Await Assessment: Applications are assessed in competitive rounds. Ensure all documents are complete to avoid delays.
🔥 Pro Tip: Your first and most important task is to secure a supervisor. Start this process 6-12 months before you intend to start. Craft a professional, personalized email to professors, demonstrating you have read their work and have a clear, relevant research idea.
Application Deadlines
- Important: Adelaide University has multiple scholarship rounds throughout the year. There is no single universal deadline.
- Action: You must check the official Graduate Research scholarship page for upcoming round dates and apply well in advance. Deadlines are strict.
Official Website
For the complete list of research projects, supervisor contacts, scholarship round dates, and the application portal, visit the official website.
👉 CLICK HERE TO VISIT THE OFFICIAL UNIVERSITY OF ADELAIDE GRADUATE RESEARCH SCHOLARSHIPS PAGE
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q1: Do I need to apply separately for the scholarship?
A: No. When you submit your application for an MPhil or PhD, you are automatically considered for all available graduate research scholarships for which you are eligible. There is no separate scholarship application form.
Q2: Is the scholarship open to all nationalities?
A: Yes. The scholarships are open to outstanding applicants from all countries, including Australian and New Zealand citizens, permanent residents, and international students. Specific eligibility may vary slightly between scholarship schemes.
Q3: What is the most challenging part of the application?
A: Without a doubt, securing a confirmed supervisor is the biggest hurdle and the first step. The university will not assess an application without this. Your research proposal and academic CV are also critically important.
Q4: Can I apply for a Master’s by Coursework with this scholarship?
A: No. These specific fully-funded scholarships are exclusively for research degrees: the Master of Philosophy (MPhil) and the Doctor of Philosophy (PhD). They do not apply to coursework-based Masters programs.
Q5: What is the difference between AURS and RTPS scholarships?
A: Both provide similar full benefits. The Adelaide University Research Scholarship (AURS) can be awarded at any time. The Research Training Program Scholarship (RTPS) is funded by the Australian government and awarded through specific, highly competitive merit rounds. As an applicant, you are considered for both.
