University of South Australia Research Scholarships 2026 (Fully Funded)

Byadmin

Australia provides excellent research facilities and a high quality of life. The University of South Australia (UniSA) stands out as a modern, industry-focused institution. For 2026, University of South Australia Research Scholarships are offered to international students pursuing Master’s by Research or PhD programs.

For Latest Scholarship Opportunities, Join WhatsApp and Telegram

Join WhatsApp Join Telegram

Key options include Research Training Program international (RTPi) (Australian Government-funded with stipend and fees), University President’s Scholarships (UPS) (similar, with internal stipend support), Enterprise Research Scholarships (ERS) (partner-funded), and International Research Tuition Scholarships (IRTS) (tuition only, requires external stipend). Applications tie to specific projects; merit and research potential decide awards.

From my experience with Australian scholarships, finding a supportive supervisor and aligning with advertised projects is crucial. One applicant from Bangladesh secured RTPi by contacting a PI early. Another from Kenya missed out without external funding for IRTS. Tools like Numbeo show Adelaide costs AUD 1,500-2,500/month. Full RTPi covers most expenses comfortably. Must check Khalifa University Scholarships in UAE.

What Is the Scholarship?

UniSA research scholarships support higher degree by research (HDR) students. RTPi and UPS provide full funding (stipend + fees + OSHC). IRTS covers tuition for those with external stipends. ERS often industry-linked.

Key facts:

  • Full-time required for most.
  • RTPi: Australian Government, competitive.
  • UPS: UniSA-funded, similar benefits.
  • IRTS: Tuition waiver, external living support needed.
  • Duration: Up to 3-4 years PhD, 2 years Master’s.

Adelaide vibrant, affordable, beaches nearby. Multiple campuses.

Eligibility Criteria

General requirements:

  • International student (overseas fees).
  • First-class Honours or equivalent (high GPA).
  • Research capability evidence.
  • Supervisor nomination.
  • For IRTS: External full stipend.

No age limit. English proficiency (IELTS/TOEFL if needed).

Opinion: External funding for IRTS suits sponsored students; RTPi/UPS best for independent applicants.

Scholarship Benefits

Varies by type.

RTPi/UPS:

  • Stipend at least AUD 35,200/year (2025 rate; 2026 indexed).
  • Full tuition offset.
  • OSHC singles cover.
  • Thesis/relo allowance.

IRTS: Tuition only.

Table: Main Types Comparison

TypeStipendTuitionOSHCDuration Max (PhD)
RTPiYes (~$35,200+)FullYes3-4 years
UPSYesFullYes3 years
IRTSNo (external)FullNo3-4 years
ERSVariesVariesVariesProject-based

Renewal requires progress. Recent rates rising with indexation.

Programs You Can Pick

Project-based across areas:

  • Health Sciences
  • Engineering
  • Business/Management
  • Creative Industries
  • Education
  • IT/Cyber
  • Environmental Science

Find advertised projects on unisa.edu.au/research/degrees/projects (some with funding).

Required Documents

  • Transcripts/degrees.
  • CV.
  • Research proposal (project-aligned).
  • References.
  • English proof if needed.
  • Supervisor support.

How to Apply for University of South Australia Research Scholarships?

  1. Browse projects/supervisors on site.
  2. Contact potential supervisor.
  3. Apply online via project link (indicate scholarship).
  4. Upload docs.

Official Link

Tip: Strong supervisor endorsement key. Apply to multiple projects.

Why Study at University of South Australia?

Industry partnerships strong. Practical research. Ranked young unis top.

Adelaide safe, cultural, low stress vs Sydney/Melbourne.

More Scholarships

Tools I Recommend

  • unisa.edu.au/research/degrees/scholarships – Official overview.
  • unisa.edu.au/research/degrees/scholarships/university-wide-scholarships-for-international-applicants – International details.
  • unisa.edu.au/research/degrees/how-to-apply – Guide.
  • numbeo.com Adelaide – Costs accurate (AUD 2,000 single).
  • scholarshipportal.com – Australia research.
  • studyinaustralia.gov.au – Visa/living.
  • fastweb.com – General.
  • goingmerry.com – Clean.

Application Checklist

  • Find funded project/supervisor.
  • Contact PI early.
  • Tailor proposal.
  • Refs ready.
  • English proof.
  • No conflicting funds.
  • Progress plan.
  • Visa estimate.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

No supervisor contact (no nomination). Generic proposal. Wrong type (IRTS without stipend). Miss round. Low progress renewal.

More From Author