The University of Melbourne Human Rights Scholarship 2026 presents an outstanding academic and financial opportunity for students committed to advancing the cause of human rights. Whether you are a domestic or international student, if you intend to pursue graduate research in the field of human rights, this scholarship provides generous support to help you realize your academic and advocacy goals.
Open to both current and future students, this scholarship underscores the University of Melbourne’s dedication to fostering global leaders in human rights through advanced research. Below, we detail everything you need to know about eligibility, benefits, the application process, and selection criteria for this prestigious award.
About the Human Rights Scholarship 2026:
Offered by one of Australia's leading research universities, the Human Rights Scholarship 2026 is available to students undertaking a Master by Research or a Doctoral research degree at the University of Melbourne. The scholarship is specifically designed for candidates whose research is focused on the field of human rights.
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Overview of University of Melbourne Human Rights Scholarship 2026:
• Institution: University of Melbourne.• Study Level: Graduate research (Master by Research or Doctorate).
• Field of Study: Human Rights.
• Student Type: Open to both domestic and international students.
• Application Period: 1 May 2025 – 31 October 2025.
• Status: Applications are open.
• Benefit Amount: Up to AUD 94,200.
• Benefit Duration: One or more years, depending on degree type.
Scholarship Benefits:
The University of Melbourne Human Rights Scholarship offers a comprehensive package that supports students throughout the course of their graduate research studies.
1. Living Allowance:
A living allowance of AUD 43,500 per year (pro rata) is provided, based on the full-time study rate for 2025. This allowance is:
• Available for up to two years for Master by Research students.• Available for up to three and a half years for Doctoral degree students.
• Indexed annually.
• Inclusive of limited paid sick, maternity, and parenting leave.
2. Full Fee Offset:
The scholarship includes a full fee offset, which means the University waives your tuition fees:
• Up to two years for Master by Research candidates.• Up to four years for Doctoral candidates.
• This ensures that students can focus entirely on their research without financial stress related to tuition.
3. Relocation Grant:
A relocation grant is available to assist students who need to move to Melbourne to commence their studies:
• AUD 2,000 for students relocating from another Australian state or territory.• AUD 3,000 for students moving to Melbourne from overseas.
4. Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC):
International students requiring a student visa to study in Australia will receive Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) – Single Membership, providing healthcare support during the duration of their studies.
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Eligibility Criteria:
To be eligible for the Human Rights Scholarship 2026 at the University of Melbourne, applicants must meet the following requirements:
· Academic Admission:
You must apply for and meet the entry requirements of a graduate research degree (Master by Research or Doctorate) at the University of Melbourne, with commencement planned in 2026.
· Field of Research:
Your research must focus on human rights, demonstrating a clear and committed academic and practical interest in the area.
· Academic Background:
Applicants must not have completed a research qualification at the same or higher level as the degree for which the scholarship is sought.
· Previous Scholarships:
You must not have previously received a graduate research scholarship from the University of Melbourne.
These requirements ensure that the scholarship is reserved for students who are truly at the early or transitional stages of their research journey in human rights.
Selection Criteria:
Selection for the Human Rights Scholarship is highly competitive. Eligible applicants are evaluated based on the following key criteria:
• Academic Merit: Strong academic records in previous university study are essential.
• Research Proposal: The quality and relevance of the proposed research in the field of human rights.
• Supporting Documentation: Strength and clarity of documents such as your research proposal, academic transcripts, and references.
• Commitment to Human Rights: Demonstrated engagement in human rights beyond academic interest. This may include:
1. Volunteer work.
2. Internships or professional experience in human rights.
3. Advocacy or community work.
Only candidates who show a well-rounded commitment to the human rights field academically and practically will be considered for this scholarship.
How to Apply for University of Melbourne Human Rights Scholarship 2026?
Applications for the Human Rights Scholarship must be submitted online via the University of Melbourne's official application portal. When preparing your application, ensure that you address the following:
• Demonstrate your commitment to human rights: Describe how your work academic and otherwise reflects your dedication to promoting and advancing human rights. Include examples from volunteer activities, internships, or professional experiences.
• Outline your research goals: Explain how your proposed graduate research project will deepen your understanding of human rights and contribute to the field at large.
• It is highly recommended to begin preparing early, allowing time to gather references, develop a strong proposal, and articulate your commitment to the advancement of human rights.
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Important Dates:
• Applications Open: 1 May 2025.• Applications Close: 31 October 2025.
• Outcome Notification: February 2026 (via email).
Please note that reasons for non-selection will not be provided, and individual feedback on applications is not available.
Conclusion:
The University of Melbourne Human Rights Scholarship 2026 stands out as one of the most valuable and prestigious scholarships for graduate research in human rights in Australia. With a generous funding package that includes tuition, living costs, relocation, and health insurance, this scholarship supports outstanding students as they pursue meaningful research that addresses global human rights challenges. Whether your interests lie in international human rights law, social justice, refugee advocacy, or policy reform, this scholarship provides the platform and resources to help you make a lasting impact in the field. So to apply and know more visit the University of Melbourne Human Rights Scholarship 2026 official link here.