Are you ready to advance your research career at one of Australia’s top-ranked universities? The Curtin University (RTP) Scholarships 2025 offer an exclusive, fully funded pathway for high-achieving domestic and international students to pursue a PhD at Curtin, equipping graduates to become leaders in their fields.
Basic Information About the RTP 2025 Scholarship
- Scholarship Name: Curtin University Research Training Program (RTP) 2025
- Host Country: Australia
- University: Curtin University (Top 1% globally)
- Level: Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) and Master by Research
- Scholarship Type: Fully Funded
- Application Opens: 1 July 2025
- EOI/Application Deadline: 18 August 2025 (Expression of Interest), 31 October 2025 (Final admission application)
- Program Start: By 31 March 2026
About Curtin University
Curtin University is a globally recognized research institution based in Perth, Western Australia, with campuses and research partners worldwide. Consistently ranked among the top 1% of universities globally, Curtin is renowned for excellence in research, industry engagement, and innovation across disciplines such as engineering, health sciences, business, and humanities.
- Campuses: Perth (Main), Malaysia, Singapore, Dubai, Mauritius
- Students: Over 56,000 (with significant international representation)
- Research Reputation: World-class facilities, strong industry partnerships, leading global impact
Study Areas: Eligible Programs
You can pursue a Higher Degree by Research (HDR) in any of Curtin’s research concentrations, including:
- Engineering & Technology: Mechanical, Civil, Electrical, Petroleum, Chemical
- Health & Medical Sciences: Public Health, Biomedical Sciences, Epidemiology, Pharmacology
- Earth, Environmental, and Sustainability Sciences: Geology, Environmental Science, Climate Change
- Energy & Clean Technologies: Renewable Energy, Green Hydrogen, Carbon Capture
- Computer Science & AI: Cybersecurity, Machine Learning, Big Data
- Business & Economics: Finance, Digital Economy, Innovation, Entrepreneurship
- Humanities & Social Sciences: Indigenous Studies, Language, Culture, Education, Humanities
Applicants may apply for listed research projects or propose an original topic aligned with Curtin’s areas of research strength.
Scholarship Benefits
Curtin University’s RTP 2025 provides one of the most generous PhD packages in Australia:
- Full Tuition Fee Offset: You will not pay any tuition fees for up to 4 years (PhD) or 2 years (Master’s)
- Annual Stipend: AUD37,500 per year (tax-free for 2025; higher than the national base rate)
- Relocation Allowance: Generous support for students moving to Perth, Australia
- Research Support: Funding for research and related activities (subject to approval)
- Thesis Allowance: For printing and preparation costs
- Health Insurance: Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) for international recipients
- Sick/Maternity/Parental Leave: In line with Curtin policy
At a Glance Table: RTP 2025 Benefits
| Benefit | Value/Description |
|---|---|
| Tuition Fees | Fully funded (up to 4 years PhD, 2 years MSc) |
| Annual Living Stipend | AUD37,500 (2025 rate), tax-free |
| Relocation Allowance | Provided (if relocating from overseas) |
| Health Insurance (Int’l) | Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) |
| Research & Thesis Allowance | Funding available |
| Paid Leave | Sick/maternity/parental, as per Curtin policy |
Benefits Not Included
- Accommodation: The scholarship does not cover on-campus or off-campus housing costs.
- Living Expenses Exceeding Stipend: The stipend aims to cover basic living costs, but expenses above this are the student’s responsibility.
- Family/Dependents: Support is not provided for dependents’ visa, schooling, or accommodation.
- Travel Costs: International flights and personal travel expenses are generally not funded beyond initial relocation assistance.
- Personal/Luxury Expenses: Entertainment, holidays, and luxury items are not included.
Eligibility Criteria
To qualify for the Curtin RTP 2025:
- Nationality: Open to both domestic (Australian/NZ) and international applicants
- Degree: Must possess at least a Bachelor’s degree with Honours (H2A or above) or equivalent in a relevant field
- Academic Record: Demonstrated high academic achievement
- Admission: Meet Curtin’s entry and English language requirements for HDR
- Research Proposal: Have a feasible, relevant research topic
- Supervisor: Must secure in-principle support (invitation) from a Curtin academic supervisor
- First-Time HDR: Applicants must not already hold an equivalent research degree.
Required Documents for Application
- Completed Admission & Scholarship Application Form (HDR)
- Official University Transcripts and Degree Certificates (certified English translations if applicable)
- Curriculum Vitae (CV)
- Research Proposal (typically 500+ words outlining your intended project)
- Academic Referee Reports (usually 2, using Curtin’s confidential report template)
- English Language Proficiency Evidence (if applicable: IELTS, TOEFL, PTE, etc.)
- Passport Copy (for international applicants)
- Supervisor Invitation/Acceptance Letter (provisional offer from a Curtin supervisor)
Applicants may supplement with published papers, awards, and proof of extracurricular engagement for additional merit.
Curtin RTP Scholarship Application Process: Step-by-Step Guide
1: Explore Research Opportunities
- Review available HDR projects or develop your own proposal
- Find a potential supervisor via Curtin’s researcher directory
2: Obtain Supervisor Invitation
- Email your potential supervisor with your background and project idea
- Discuss feasibility and align interests
- Secure an Invitation to Apply (written support)
3: Submit an Expression of Interest (EOI)
- Complete the official EOI between 1 July and 18 August 2025
- Provide a summary of your academic history, CV, and research proposal
4: Prepare Your Application Package
- Gather required documents as detailed above
- Ensure all materials are certified and translated if needed
5: Apply for Admission and Scholarship
- Submit a complete admission and RTP scholarship application via Curtin’s HDR portal by 31 October 2025
6: Academic Referees
- Request at least two confidential academic referee reports
7: Wait for Assessment & Offers
- All applications are reviewed and competitively ranked in November
- Offers are sent by email
8: Accept and Enroll
Tips for a Successful Application
- Start Early: Research supervisors and prepare your EOI before the window opens.
- Build a Strong Research Proposal: Make it original, feasible, and aligned with Curtin’s strengths.
- Network with Supervisors: Personal engagement can improve your nomination chances.
- Double-Check Documents: Submit all required and correctly certified materials.
- Choose Referees Wisely: Select academic referees who know you well.
- Showcase Achievements: Highlight research outputs, awards, and relevant experience.
- Meet All Deadlines: Missing an EOI or final deadline will render you ineligible.
- Meet English Requirements Early: Book tests in advance if needed.
- Tailor Every Submission: Use project and university-specific language.
Monthly Living Expenses for International Students in Perth, Australia (USD)
| Expense Type | Monthly Estimate (USD) |
|---|---|
| Accommodation | $600 – $1,200 |
| Food & Groceries | $350 – $550 |
| Utilities/Internet | $100 – $150 |
| Local Transport | $80 – $150 |
| Health Insurance | $40 – $80 |
| Books/Supplies | $40 – $70 |
| Miscellaneous | $100 – $200 |
| Total | $1,310 – $2,400 |
Curtin’s annual stipend (approx. $25,000–$26,000 USD equivalent) generally covers modest living, but budgeting is recommended—especially if you have accompanying family or choose private housing.
Why Choose the Curtin RTP Scholarship? (Top 5 Reasons)
- Generous Full Funding: Covers tuition, living stipend, and research costs, reducing financial barriers to world-class research.
- Top-Ranked Research University: Curtin is globally ranked in the top 1% with cutting-edge facilities and strong industry collaboration.
- Extensive Research Areas: Flexibility to pursue high-impact research in STEM, Health, Business, and Social Sciences.
- Global Reputation & Employability: Graduates secure roles in leading academia, industry, and government within Australia and abroad.
- Supportive Environment: Access to mentorship, professional development, and comprehensive student services.
Additional advantages include relocation support, networking with leading academics, and placement in one of Australia’s most vibrant student cities.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q1: Who can apply for the Curtin RTP 2025?
A: Both domestic and international students with a bachelor’s degree or higher in a relevant field can apply, provided they have not previously received a similar HDR award.
Q2: What does the stipend cover?
A: The stipend covers most essential living costs, but students are responsible for any expenses that exceed this allowance.
Q3: Can I apply if I have not yet finished my bachelor’s degree?
A: You must have your final results and degree certificate before enrolment; offers are conditional on meeting all requirements.
Q4: How many scholarships are available?
A: The number varies yearly, based on funding and faculty allocation; RTP is highly competitive.
Q5: Do I need to find a supervisor before applying?
A: Yes, a supervisor’s written invitation is mandatory for the RTP application.
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Q6: Is IELTS/TOEFL required?
A: Yes, unless you are from an exempt country or have completed an eligible program in English. Minimum IELTS 6.5 (or equivalent) is typical.
Q7: When will I know if I received an offer?
A: Scholarship outcomes are announced in November 2025. Classes commence by March 2026.
Q8: Can I work during my PhD?
A: International students on a student visa can generally undertake part-time/casual work within visa conditions, but research load is demanding.
Q9: Can I bring my family?
A: Yes, but you are responsible for obtaining dependent visas, arranging accommodation, and covering extra expenses.
Secure your academic future and contribute to groundbreaking research—apply to the Curtin University RTP 2025 and take the next step toward your doctorate in Australia’s world-class research environment.