University of Melbourne Human Rights Scholarship in Australia

The University of Melbourne invites suitably qualified candidates to apply for the 2026 Human Rights Scholarship.

The University of Melbourne Human Rights Scholarship is offered to domestic or international students who are enrolling in a graduate research degree and undertaking research in the field of Human Rights.

Eligible applicants are selected on the basis of academic merit, the area of study in and level of commitment to human rights, and the strength of supporting documentation.

To be considered for the University of Melbourne Human Rights Scholarship 2026, you must:

• have applied for and meet the entry requirements for a Master or Doctorate by research degree for commencement in the year of award

• 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

• not have previously received a graduate research scholarship.

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

• Full fee offset for up to two years for students undertaking a Masters by Research degree or up to four years for students undertaking a doctoral degree.

• Relocation grant of $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

To apply for the University of Melbourne Human Rights Scholarship, interested and qualified candidates should;

• 1

  Click the button below to proceed to the scholarship application webpage.

• 2

  You must submit an online application and address your committed to the peaceful advancement of respect for human rights that extends beyond academic studies (such as voluntary work and/or work experience)

• 3

  You will also describe how your proposed research will further your understanding of human rights and enable you to contribute to the human rights field.

• 4

  Applicants will be notified of the outcome by email in February of the following year. Reasons for non-selection and feedback on individual applications will not be provided.