The benefits of a research scholarship
Attending university is a life-changing experience. It can open doors to careers, connections and unlimited possibilities. Graduate research, through a PhD or masters by research, is the ultimate point in many people’s academic journey, an opportunity to focus everything you’ve learned and experienced on a topic you’re passionate about. Yet for many, barriers like cost and distance stand in the way. That’s where scholarships make a difference, providing vital support to help students access these opportunities.
What can a research scholarship offer me?
Research scholarships help PhD and masters by research degree candidates cover the costs associated with their research, from buying books and lab equipment to living expenses like accommodation. For international students, they can also cover some or all of your tuition fees. All domestic graduate research tuition fees are automatically covered by the Australian Government’s Research Training Program Scholarship (RTP).
A key benefit of a university scholarship is the ability to fully immerse oneself in their cutting-edge research. Scholarships help take some of the financial pressure off, allowing research scholarship recipients to focus more clearly on their research.
Some university research scholarships even include benefits like a tax-exempt stipend and a relocation allowance, making the pursuit of a research degree even more affordable.
Does Deakin give scholarships to international students?
Yes. Deakin welcomes thousands of international students each year, and for many, it’s all thanks to the benefits of a university scholarship.
Meet Dilendra Wijesekara, a scholarship recipient
Dilendra Wijesekara is a leading light in Deakin’s growing group of women in science. She’s taken the long road to get here, coming from Sri Lanka where a recession made finding the funds for international study seem like a dream-stopping roadblock. But, with the help of a PhD scholarship, Dilendra could follow her passion for knowledge and innovation at Deakin University.
‘To me, pursuing a PhD represented the pinnacle of academic achievement, and I was determined to reach it,’ She says.
‘Receiving the scholarship not only made this goal attainable, but it also provided me the opportunity to conduct research at Australia’s largest materials research institute - the Institute for Frontier Materials.
The power of a scholarship
For Dilendra, getting access to one of these international student scholarships has relieved financial pressure and opened the door to studying at a world-class institution and all the benefits that come with it.
‘Receiving a scholarship at the Institute for Frontier Materials has provided me with access to state-of-the-art instruments and a dynamic, collaborative research environment,’ she says. ‘It also allowed me to work closely with brilliant mentors like my supervisor, Assoc. Prof. Rangam Rajkhowa, and senior research fellow Ben Allardyce.’
This support relieved significant financial pressure, allowing me to fully focus on my research and academic growth without the burden of economic constraints.
Graduate Researcher
Find a research scholarship
Hoping to conduct graduate research at university but don’t have the financial means to get there? A postgraduate scholarship can provide the resources to change your future and push the limit with your research ideas.
The overall benefits of a university scholarship
No matter your field or level of study there are many benefits of a university scholarship.
Financial help
The main reason for applying is financial, and it makes sense – a scholarship could cover your tuition fees, help pay for books and equipment, fund fieldwork or help cover rent.
Freedom
A scholarship takes away financial burdens. This means you may be able to study without working – or working less. They also can also open the door to studying in places (including other countries) that may not be possible otherwise.
Opportunity
Thanks to a Deakin PhD scholarship, students like Dilendra have incredible opportunities, from researching at a world-class institution to working alongside some of their field’s most respected academics. It’s like she says – taking the leap is worth it.
How to apply for a PhD scholarship
Applying for a PhD scholarship may feel complex, but the process is more straightforward than it seems.
Look at what project-based scholarships are currently available. If you believe you are the ideal candidate, reach out to the contact listed on the scholarship page to start a conversation.
If you aren’t a suitable candidate for one of these projects, don’t worry. Not all PhDs come with project funding. Our How to apply for a research degree page outlines the process for finding the right opportunity and how to apply. And the scholarships and fees page provides details about costs and funding for all graduate researchers.
My advice is simple: do it. Apply - you have nothing to lose. The best outcome is becoming part of a collaborative research community with access to outstanding facilities that bring your ideas to life.
Graduate researcher
