Charles Darwin University (CDU): 2025 Research Training Program (RTP) Scholarship (Application links At The End Of This Blog)

Are you passionate about research and looking to pursue a Higher Degree by Research (HDR) in 2025? Charles Darwin University (CDU) has opened its competitive round of the Research Training Program (RTP) Scholarships, offering an excellent opportunity for both domestic and international students to begin their research journey. If you are an aspiring scholar with exceptional research potential, this scholarship can help you focus on your academic ambitions while receiving financial support.

Here’s everything you need to know about the RTP Scholarships at CDU and how to apply.

What is the Research Training Program (RTP) Scholarship?

The RTP Scholarship, funded by the Australian Government, is designed to support students undertaking a Higher Degree by Research (HDR), such as a doctoral or research master’s degree, at Australian universities. These scholarships provide financial assistance to cover general living costs, allowing scholars to dedicate more time to their research. CDU’s RTP Scholarship offers the following:

AU$32,192 (2024 rate) per annum, tax-free for full-time students, paid in fortnightly installments.
AU$16,096 (2024 rate) per annum, taxable for part-time students, also paid fortnightly.
Scholarships are provided for up to three years for doctoral degrees and two years for research master’s degrees.

These funds are aimed at covering basic living expenses, allowing students to focus on producing high-quality research without the distraction of financial stress.

Application Timeline and Important Dates

CDU has separate application rounds and deadlines for domestic and international students:

International Applicants:
- Closing date: 30 September 2024
- Application outcomes: Mid-November 2024
Domestic Applicants (Australian citizens, Australian Permanent Residents, and New Zealand citizens):
- Closing date: 31 October 2024
- Application outcomes: Mid-December 2024

Scholarships are highly competitive and are not automatically granted to all students, so it is crucial to apply before the deadlines.

Benefits of the RTP Scholarship

In addition to the stipend, recipients of the RTP Scholarship at CDU are entitled to a variety of additional benefits:

Paid Sick Leave: Scholarships provide up to 10 days of paid sick leave annually, ensuring that students can recover without financial worry.
Maternity Leave: Paid maternity leave of up to 12 weeks is available to eligible students.
Relocation Allowance: Domestic students can receive up to AU$2,000, and international students can receive up to AU$2,500 to assist with the costs of moving to CDU. Conditions apply, so be sure to review the eligibility criteria.

Eligibility and Application Requirements

To be eligible for the RTP Scholarship at CDU, you must:

Be enrolled or intending to enroll in an accredited HDR course at an Australian Higher Education Provider (HEP).
Demonstrate exceptional research potential as assessed by CDU.
Secure a CDU supervisor before applying (find a supervisor here).
Ensure that you are not receiving additional income for living expenses from another source that exceeds 75% of the RTP stipend rate.

It’s essential to understand that RTP scholarships do not cover tuition fees; they are primarily intended to assist with general living expenses during your studies.

How to Apply for the RTP Scholarship at CDU

To apply, follow these steps:

Find a CDU Supervisor: Before applying for the RTP Scholarship, you must have a CDU-approved supervisor who aligns with your research interests. You can explore potential supervisors here.
Submit Your Application: Complete and submit your HDR candidature and scholarship application through CDU’s online portal here.
Prepare Required Documents: Ensure you have all necessary documents, including your academic transcripts, research proposal, and other supporting materials.

Why Choose Charles Darwin University?

CDU is known for its strong emphasis on research and innovation. With a commitment to solving real-world problems, CDU’s research community focuses on key areas such as environmental sustainability, Indigenous knowledge, and global health challenges. Being part of CDU’s research programs gives you access to excellent facilities, experienced supervisors, and a diverse research community.

By choosing CDU and the RTP Scholarship, you are investing in a future filled with academic opportunities and meaningful contributions to society.

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Final Thoughts

The 2025 RTP Scholarship round at CDU presents a fantastic opportunity for domestic and international students to pursue a Higher Degree by Research. With financial support, access to world-class research facilities, and the backing of experienced supervisors, you’ll be well-positioned to make a significant impact in your field. Make sure to apply before the deadlines and start your research journey at CDU.

Useful Links:

Be sure to apply now to secure your spot in the 2025 RTP Scholarship round at CDU!