Australian Catholic University (ACU) Stipend Scholarship 2026–2027

Applications are now open for the Australian Catholic University (ACU) Stipend Scholarship 2026–2027. The scholarship supports outstanding domestic and international students undertaking a Research Master's or Research Doctorate degree at Australian Catholic University.

The scholarship is awarded on a competitive, merit-based basis and provides financial assistance to help students focus on their research. In addition to an annual living stipend, recipients receive a full tuition fee offset, while eligible international students may also receive Overseas Student Health Cover and a relocation allowance.

About the Scholarship

The ACU Stipend Scholarship is funded by Australian Catholic University and administered in accordance with the university's Research Training Program Scholarship Policy.

The programme aims to attract talented researchers whose proposed research aligns with ACU's priority research areas and strengths. Successful candidates become part of a vibrant research community with access to experienced supervisors, modern research facilities, and opportunities for academic and professional development.

Scholarship Benefits

Successful applicants will receive:

• Annual living stipend of AUD 34,315 (2026 rate, indexed annually).
• Full tuition fee offset valued at approximately AUD 34,728 per year.
• Overseas Student Health Cover for eligible international students.
• Relocation allowance of up to AUD 2,000 for eligible international applicants.
• Access to ACU's research training, supervision, and academic support services.

Eligibility Criteria

Applicants must:

• Be a domestic or international student.
• Apply for or be enrolled in an accredited Research Master's or Research Doctorate programme at ACU.
• Propose research that aligns with ACU's broad research areas of expertise.

Priority may be given to applicants:

• Whose research aligns with the University's strategic research priorities.
• Whose research can be effectively supported through ACU's research environment and supervision.
• Who are Indigenous Australians.
• Applying for doctoral study with outstanding academic achievement, including First Class Honours or an equivalent qualification.
• Who have not previously completed doctoral-level study.

Eligible Countries

Applications are open to:

• Australian citizens and permanent residents.
• International applicants from all countries who meet the admission requirements for a research degree at ACU.

Eligible Programmes

The scholarship supports:

• Research Master's degrees.
• Research Doctorate (PhD) degrees.

Applicants may undertake research in any discipline where their proposed project aligns with ACU's research strengths and an appropriate supervisor is available.

Required Documents

Applicants should prepare:

• Research degree application.
• Research proposal.
• Academic transcripts and degree certificates.
• Curriculum Vitae (CV).
• Proof of English language proficiency (where applicable).
• Referee details and reports.
• Any additional documents requested by ACU during the application process.

Selection Criteria

Applications are assessed on a competitive basis, taking into account:

• Academic excellence.
• Research potential.
• Quality and feasibility of the proposed research.
• Alignment with ACU's research priorities.
• Availability of appropriate supervision and research infrastructure.

How to Apply

To apply for the scholarship:

1. Develop a research proposal aligned with ACU's research expertise.
2. Identify a suitable research programme and, where appropriate, a potential supervisor.
3. Gather all required supporting documents.
4. Submit an application for admission to a Research Master's or Research Doctorate at ACU.
5. Complete the scholarship application as part of the research degree admission process or follow the instructions for current students, where applicable.
6. Ensure referee reports and all supporting documentation are submitted before the deadline.