Human Rights Scholarship 2026 – Fully Funded Graduate Research at University of Melbourne

The Human Rights Scholarship at the University of Melbourne is offered to domestic and international students enrolling in a graduate research degree (Master by Research or PhD) with a research focus on human rights. The scholarship provides a living allowance of $44,500 per year, 100% fee remission, a relocation grant, and Overseas Student Health Cover for international students.

Four scholarships are available annually. Applications open on 1 April 2026 and close on 31 October 2026. If you are looking for similar opportunities in Australia, explore fully funded scholarships in Australia for international students.

Scholarship Overview

• Scholarship Name: Human Rights Scholarship

• Host University: University of Melbourne, Australia

• Degree Levels: Graduate Research (Master by Research, PhD)

• Benefit Amount: 100% fee remission + $89,000 – $155,000 (living allowance over duration)

• Number of Scholarships: 4

• Eligible Students: Domestic and international

• Applications Open: 1 April 2026

• Applications Close: 31 October 2026

For students seeking other funded programs in Oceania, check latest scholarships in New Zealand for all nationalities.

Benefits

Successful applicants receive comprehensive financial support:

• Living allowance of $44,500 per year (pro rata, 2026 full‑time study rate) – up to 2 years for Master by Research, up to 3.5 years for Doctoral degree. The living allowance may be indexed annually and includes limited paid sick, maternity, and parenting leave.

• Full fee offset – up to 2 years for Master by Research, up to 4 years for Doctoral degree

• Relocation grant – $2,000 for students moving from States or Territories outside Victoria, or $3,000 for students moving from outside Australia

• Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) – single membership for international students who require a student visa to study in Australia

Total value ranges from approximately $89,000 to $155,000 depending on the degree and circumstances.

Eligibility Criteria

To be considered for this scholarship, you must:

• Have received an offer for a graduate research degree commencement in the year for which the scholarship is awarded

• Intend to undertake graduate research in the field of Human Rights

• Have not already completed a research qualification at the same or higher level as the course for which a scholarship is sought

For applicants interested in other Australian government scholarships, see Australia's latest scholarships in 2026.

Selection Criteria

The scholarship is offered to the candidate(s) ranked highest by the selection panel based on their application and course entry score. Applicants must address their:

• Commitment to the peaceful advancement of respect for human rights that extends beyond academic studies (such as voluntary work and/or work experience)

• How their proposed research will further their understanding of human rights and enable them to contribute to the human rights field

How to Apply – Step by Step

Step 1: Ensure you have received an offer for a graduate research degree (Master by Research or PhD) at the University of Melbourne.

Step 2: Prepare your application, focusing on your commitment to human rights beyond academic studies (voluntary work, work experience, advocacy) and how your proposed research will advance human rights.

Step 3: Submit an online application through the University of Melbourne scholarships portal during the application period (1 April – 31 October 2026).

Step 4: Wait for the outcome. Applicants will be notified by email in February of the following year.

Important: Reasons for non‑selection and feedback on individual applications will not be provided.

For additional financial aid options across Oceania, explore financial aids for students in Australia.

Why Choose the University of Melbourne?

• Top‑ranked university – Consistently ranked among the best universities in Australia and the world.

• Research excellence – Melbourne is a leading research institution with strong human rights programs.

• Supportive environment – Access to world‑class supervisors and research facilities.

• Melbourne location – A vibrant, multicultural city with a high quality of life.

Final Thoughts

The Human Rights Scholarship is a prestigious, fully funded opportunity for students passionate about advancing human rights through research.

With generous living allowances, full fee remission, and relocation support, this scholarship allows you to focus entirely on your research. Applications open on 1 April 2026 and close on 31 October 2026. Prepare your application, highlight your commitment to human rights, and apply through the University of Melbourne.

For a complete list of open scholarships in Australia, visit list of all open scholarships in Australia.

Apply Now for Human Rights Scholarship 2026