The University of Melbourne, Australia’s leading research institution and consistently ranked among the world’s top universities, proudly announces its Graduate Research Scholarships (MGRS) for Fall 2025 intake. These prestigious, fully funded scholarships provide exceptional international and domestic students with the opportunity to pursue Master’s by Research or PhD degrees across all academic disciplines at one of the most prestigious universities in the Southern Hemisphere.
Comprehensive Scholarship Overview
The Melbourne Graduate Research Scholarships (MGRS) program represents one of Australia’s most generous and competitive funding packages for research students. For the 2025 academic year, successful candidates will receive:
- Full Tuition Fee Waiver:
- 100% coverage of tuition fees for up to 2 years for Master’s by Research candidates
- 100% coverage for up to 4 years for PhD candidates
- Living Allowance:
- Annual stipend of $37,000 AUD (tax-free) for 2025
- Annual indexation to account for cost of living increases
- Paid sick leave and parental leave entitlements
- Additional Benefits:
- Relocation Grant of $2,000 AUD for students moving from interstate
- Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) for international candidates
- Research Travel Grant up to $2,500 AUD for fieldwork/conferences
- Thesis Allowance up to $1,000 AUD for printing/binding
Academic Programs and Research Strengths
The University of Melbourne offers graduate research opportunities across 10 faculties and 30+ research institutes, with particular research strengths in:
- Biomedical and Health Sciences:
- Melbourne Medical School
- Peter Doherty Institute for Infection and Immunity
- Engineering and Technology:
- Melbourne School of Engineering
- Melbourne Energy Institute
- Social Sciences and Humanities:
- Melbourne Law School
- Faculty of Arts
- Natural Sciences:
- School of Physics
- Melbourne Climate Futures
- Business and Economics:
- Melbourne Business School
- Faculty of Business and Economics
Eligibility Criteria
To be considered for the 2025 MGRS program, applicants must:
- Academic Requirements:
- For PhD: First-class Honours or Master’s degree with significant research component
- For Master’s by Research: Bachelor’s degree with minimum 80% average (or equivalent)
- Application Status:
- Have applied for or currently hold an unconditional offer for a graduate research degree at Melbourne
- Not currently enrolled in the proposed research degree
- Selection Criteria:
- Academic merit (previous study and research achievements)
- Research potential (quality and originality of research proposal)
- Alignment with University research priorities
- English Language Proficiency:
- Minimum IELTS 7.0 (no band less than 6.0) or equivalent
- TOEFL iBT 94+ (writing 27, other sections 24+)
Application Timeline and Process
Key Dates for Fall 2025 Intake:
- Applications Open: 1 April 2024
- Priority Round Deadline: 31 October 2024
- Final Round Deadline: 31 May 2025
- Outcome Notifications: Rolling basis from November 2024
Application Process:
- Find a Supervisor:
- Identify potential supervisors through faculty websites
- Contact academics with aligned research interests
- Prepare Application Documents:
- Research proposal (1,500-2,000 words)
- Academic transcripts (certified copies)
- Curriculum vitae (including publications if any)
- Two academic references
- Proof of English proficiency
- Submit Online Application:
- Apply simultaneously for admission and scholarship
- Use the University’s online application portal
- Selection Process:
- Faculty-level review of applications
- University-wide ranking of candidates
- Final selection by Graduate Research Scholarships Committee
Why Choose University of Melbourne?
- World-Class Research Environment:
- Ranked #1 in Australia (QS World University Rankings 2024)
- AUD $1.3 billion annual research expenditure
- 100+ research centers and institutes
- Exceptional Student Support:
- Dedicated graduate research academy
- Professional development programs
- Mental health and wellbeing services
- Vibrant Campus Life:
- Historic Parkville campus with modern facilities
- 200+ student clubs and societies
- Comprehensive sporting facilities
- Career Outcomes:
- 94% graduate employment rate
- Strong industry partnerships
- Global alumni network of 480,000+
Tips for Competitive Applications
- Research Proposal Development:
- Clearly articulate research questions and methodology
- Demonstrate alignment with University research strengths
- Show potential for original contribution to knowledge
- Supervisor Engagement:
- Initiate contact early with potential supervisors
- Seek feedback on draft research proposals
- Demonstrate understanding of their research work
- Application Presentation:
- Ensure all documents are professionally presented
- Adhere strictly to word limits and formatting
- Proofread thoroughly for language and clarity
Post-Award Requirements
Scholarship recipients must:
- Maintain satisfactory academic progress
- Participate in annual progress reviews
- Complete compulsory research integrity training
- Acknowledge scholarship support in publications and presentations
- Contribute to the research community through seminars and outreach
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I hold other scholarships concurrently?
A: The MGRS may be held with other small awards, but not with other major tuition or living allowance scholarships.
Q: Is there an age limit for applicants?
A: No, there are no age restrictions for graduate research scholarships.
Q: Can the scholarship be extended beyond the standard duration?
A: Possible in exceptional circumstances, subject to approval and available funding.
The University of Melbourne Graduate Research Scholarships 2025 represent one of the most prestigious and comprehensive funding opportunities available for research students globally. With its generous financial support, world-class research facilities, and vibrant academic community, Melbourne provides an ideal environment for advanced research training across all disciplines.
Prospective applicants are encouraged to begin preparing their applications well in advance, particularly in developing strong research proposals and establishing connections with potential supervisors. For complete details and to begin your application, visit the University of Melbourne Graduate Research Scholarships webpage. This opportunity could launch your career as part of Australia’s leading research university and connect you to a global network of academic excellence.
