The Vice Chancellor’s PhD Scholarship (VCPS) 2026 at RMIT University, Australia, supports outstanding domestic and international students who want to pursue a Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) degree. RMIT University funds this highly competitive scholarship to attract top researchers across all disciplines and to support advanced, high-impact research.

About the Vice Chancellor’s PhD Scholarship

RMIT University awards the Vice Chancellor’s PhD Scholarship (VCPS) to exceptional PhD candidates who demonstrate outstanding academic achievement and strong research potential.

The university ranks all eligible applicants through a competitive selection process. It considers applicants from all academic fields, including engineering, science, business, health, IT, law, and social sciences.

RMIT does not require a separate VCPS application in most cases. Instead, the university automatically assesses eligible PhD applicants during the main scholarship round based on their admission application, research proposal, academic record, and supporting documents.

The scholarship is fully funded by RMIT University and represents one of its most prestigious research awards.

Why Choose The Vice Chancellor’s PhD Scholarship?

This scholarship allows you to complete a fully funded PhD at one of Australia’s most research-intensive universities.

You gain access to high-quality supervision, modern research facilities, and strong industry collaboration opportunities across multiple disciplines.

You also benefit from financial stability, research funding support, and additional awards that encourage high-impact publications and academic excellence.

Vice Chancellor’s PhD Scholarship Summary

  • Host Country: Australia
  • Host University: RMIT University
  • Scholarship Name: Vice Chancellor’s PhD Scholarship (VCPS)
  • Study Level: PhD (Doctoral Degree)
  • Eligible Fields: All academic disciplines offered at RMIT
  • Funding Authority: RMIT University
  • Scholarship Type: Fully funded
  • Number of Awards: Around 10 scholarships annually
  • Selection Basis: Academic excellence, research output, and research potential
  • Application Requirement: No separate application (automatic consideration during PhD admission)
  • Funding Components: Stipend + research allowance + additional research awards
  • Application Deadline: September 30, 2026

Scholarship Benefits

The VCPS provides strong financial and academic support, including:

  • A high annual stipend (approx. AUD 48,299) for living costs
  • Full tuition fee coverage through research scholarship allocation
  • Annual research support allowance (around AUD 5,000)
  • Access to advanced research facilities at RMIT University
  • Strong academic supervision and interdisciplinary research opportunities
  • Support for high-impact publications and global research engagement

The VCPS ranks among RMIT’s most generous PhD scholarships due to its stipend top-ups and research funding support.

Eligibility Criteria

You qualify for the VCPS if you:

  • Apply for a full-time PhD program at RMIT University
  • Hold strong academic qualifications such as:
    • First-class Honours degree, or
    • Master’s by Research degree, or
    • Master’s by Coursework with a significant research component (high distinction), or
    • Equivalent research experience or publications
  • Demonstrate strong research potential and academic excellence
  • Meet RMIT PhD admission requirements
  • Enrol as a new PhD candidate (commencing students only)
  • Do not already hold a PhD or equivalent research doctorate
  • Meet English language requirements before the scholarship deadline

Required Documents

You must submit the following during your PhD application:

  • Completed PhD admission application
  • Academic transcripts and degree certificates
  • Curriculum Vitae (CV)
  • Research proposal
  • Evidence of publications or research experience (if available)
  • Proof of English proficiency (IELTS/TOEFL if required)
  • Passport copy
  • Supervisor contact or agreement (often required in many faculties)
  • Any additional documents required by the Graduate Research School

Application Process & Timeline

You follow these steps to apply:

  1. You apply for a PhD program at RMIT University.
  2. You prepare and submit your research proposal and academic documents.
  3. You contact a potential supervisor (this is often required before final submission).
  4. RMIT assesses your eligibility for PhD admission.
  5. The university automatically considers you for the VCPS scholarship during the main scholarship round.
  6. RMIT ranks all eligible candidates based on academic excellence and research potential.
  7. The university selects top candidates and issues scholarship offers.
  8. You receive a combined admission and scholarship offer if selected.