RMIT University is inviting applications for its 2027 central research scholarship round, offering prospective higher degree by research (HDR) candidates the opportunity to pursue advanced research at one of Australia’s leading universities.
The scholarship round is open to both domestic and international applicants. Candidates interested in commencing a research degree in 2027 are encouraged to begin preparations early, identify a suitable research project and secure academic supervision before submitting an Expression of Interest (EOI).
From June 2026, applicants are required to submit an In-Principle Supervisor Supporting Statement Form together with their EOI. This means prospective candidates should establish contact with an appropriate RMIT academic and obtain agreement to supervise their proposed research before completing the EOI process.
Step 1: Choose a Research Program
Applicants should first identify an RMIT research degree that aligns with their academic background, research interests and long-term career objectives. Research degree options may include doctoral and other higher degree by research programs across RMIT’s academic disciplines.
Candidates should carefully review the relevant program information, including research areas, admission requirements and available supervision opportunities, before proceeding with an application.
Step 2: Check Eligibility
Prospective applicants must confirm that they satisfy RMIT’s admission and scholarship eligibility requirements before submitting an EOI.
For scholarship and admission purposes, RMIT generally classifies applicants as either domestic or international students.
Domestic applicants include Australian citizens, Australian permanent residents, permanent humanitarian visa holders and New Zealand citizens. Applicants who do not hold Australian or New Zealand citizenship or permanent residency are generally classified as international students and may be required to pay international tuition fees.
Because scholarship places are highly competitive, applicants are advised to carefully review all eligibility conditions and application instructions before submission.
Step 3: Identify a Research Project and Supervisor
A strong research proposal and appropriate academic supervision are important components of the application process.
Applicants should identify a research topic that aligns with RMIT’s research strengths and available supervision capacity. Scholarship applicants must provide evidence that an academic staff member has agreed to supervise their research when submitting their EOI.
From June 2026, the In-Principle Supervisor Supporting Statement Form must be completed and submitted with the EOI. Candidates should therefore contact potential supervisors early enough to discuss their proposed research and obtain the required supporting documentation.
Step 4: Explore Scholarships and Funding
RMIT’s centrally awarded research scholarships are administered and funded directly by the university. However, prospective research candidates may also explore research projects supported through alternative funding sources, including school- or college-based scholarships, industry-sponsored opportunities and other financial arrangements.
The 2027 central scholarship round opened for EOIs on 1 June 2026.
The key deadlines are:
- Domestic applicants: EOI deadline – 30 September 2026
- International applicants: EOI deadline – 30 August 2026
- Domestic applicants: Full application deadline – 30 October 2026
- International applicants: Full application deadline – 30 September 2026
Successful international applicants are expected to begin receiving offers from 23 November 2026, while domestic scholarship offers are expected from 14 December 2026. Final outcomes for all applicants are expected to be completed by March 2027.
Step 5: Prepare a Competitive Application
Because scholarship awards are highly competitive, applicants should prepare their submissions carefully. Candidates should ensure that their academic documentation, research proposal, supporting materials and supervisor information are complete and meet RMIT’s requirements.
Applicants are encouraged to begin the process as early as possible rather than waiting until the deadline. Early preparation can provide additional time to refine the research proposal, communicate with prospective supervisors and address any documentation requirements.
Successful applicants are expected to commence their research degree in March 2027, although individual Schools or Colleges may approve an alternative commencement date depending on the applicant’s circumstances.
Step 6: Submit the Application
Once all required materials have been prepared, eligible candidates can proceed with their RMIT research degree application through the university’s application system.
Applicants seeking consideration for the Vice-Chancellor’s PhD Scholarship (VCPS) must also complete the relevant VCPS Expression of Interest Form at the same time.
Due to the competitive nature of the scholarships, some eligible applicants may be placed on a reserve list after available scholarships have been allocated. Being placed on the reserve list means an applicant may still receive consideration if another candidate declines an offer or additional funding becomes available.
Application Support and Enquiries
Prospective applicants and educational agents requiring assistance with HDR admissions or scholarships can contact RMIT’s School of Graduate Research through RMIT Connect. Enquiries should be directed to the Admissions team by selecting the option relating to HDR Admission.
Candidates should carefully read RMIT’s official application instructions, eligibility criteria and scholarship information before submitting their EOI or full application.
Key Takeaway
The RMIT University 2027 Research Scholarships provide an important funding opportunity for domestic and international students planning to undertake higher degree research in Australia. With applications already open, prospective candidates should identify a suitable research program, confirm eligibility, secure academic supervision, prepare a strong research proposal and submit all required documents before the applicable deadlines.
For international applicants in particular, the 30 August 2026 EOI deadline makes early preparation essential.
RMIT University encourages prospective researchers to begin the application process without delay and ensure that every requirement is satisfied before submission.
