University of Melbourne Human Rights Scholarship 2026: Fully Funded Graduate Research Program
The University of Melbourne proudly invites applications for its prestigious Human Rights Scholarship 2026. This fully funded scholarship is designed to empower graduate students committed to advancing human rights through rigorous academic research, innovative projects, and practical activism. It is open to both domestic and international applicants who aspire to make meaningful contributions in the field.
Scholarship Overview
| Parameter | Details |
|---|---|
| Host Institution | University of Melbourne, Australia |
| Eligible Levels | Master by Research, Doctorate (PhD) |
| Field of Study | Human Rights |
| Application Window | May 1, 2025 – October 31, 2025 |
| Notification Date | February 2026 |
| Eligibility | Open to all nationalities |
Scholarship Benefits
The University of Melbourne Human Rights Scholarship provides extensive financial support to ensure scholars can focus on impactful research. Benefits include:
- Living Allowance: AUD $43,500 per year, pro rata for part-time students, indexed annually
- Tuition Fee Coverage: Up to 2 years for Master’s, up to 4 years for Doctorate programs
- Relocation Grant: AUD $2,000 for domestic students, AUD $3,000 for international students moving to Melbourne
- Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC): Single membership included for international students requiring a student visa
- Access to Research Support Services: Mentoring, library resources, and professional development workshops
These benefits reduce financial pressures, enabling recipients to dedicate their time to pioneering research that addresses urgent human rights issues worldwide.
Eligibility Criteria
Candidates must meet the following requirements to apply:
- Fulfill admission requirements for Master or Doctorate by research at the University of Melbourne
- Demonstrate commitment to human rights studies and practical engagement
- Provide evidence of previous activism or work experience in human rights or social justice initiatives
- Not hold a prior research qualification at the same or higher level as the program applied for
- Not have previously received a graduate research scholarship from the University of Melbourne
These criteria ensure that scholars are academically capable and passionately engaged with human rights causes.
Why Apply for This Scholarship?
Securing this scholarship opens doors to numerous advantages:
- Opportunity to conduct cutting-edge research in human rights with world-class guidance
- Financial freedom to focus entirely on research without economic distractions
- Networking with global scholars, researchers, and activists in human rights
- Exposure to practical applications of human rights principles through workshops, conferences, and internships
- Enhanced employability due to affiliation with a top-ranked global institution
Application Process
Applicants must submit their documents online by October 31, 2025. The application package should include:
- Completed Scholarship Application Form: Downloadable from the University of Melbourne scholarship portal
- Personal Statement: Detail your dedication to human rights, proposed research objectives, and expected contributions to the field
- Academic Records & Supporting Documents: Include transcripts, curriculum vitae, reference letters, and relevant certifications
Notifications for successful applicants will be sent by February 2026. Individual feedback is not provided.
About the University of Melbourne
Established in 1853, the University of Melbourne is Australia’s second-oldest university and a leader in global education and research. It ranks 33rd worldwide and first in Australia for graduate employability as per QS World University Rankings 2025. The university invests over AUD $1.5 billion annually in research, supporting innovation across various disciplines.
The Parkville campus, near Melbourne’s central business district, combines historic architecture with modern research facilities. With over 56,000 students, including more than 21,000 international scholars, the University of Melbourne offers a vibrant, inclusive, and safe academic environment. More than 1,200 scholarships, including the Human Rights Scholarship, support postgraduate students, while its alumni network of over 400,000 includes Nobel Laureates and global leaders.
Additional Opportunities for Scholarship Recipients
Recipients of the Human Rights Scholarship benefit from:
- Access to specialized human rights research centers and think tanks
- Participation in international conferences and symposia
- Mentorship programs with senior academics and practitioners
- Opportunities for publishing research in leading journals
- Networking with global human rights organizations and NGOs
Important Dates
- Applications Open: May 1, 2025
- Application Deadline: October 31, 2025
- Outcome Notification: February 2026
Official Application Portal
Apply now via the University of Melbourne Human Rights Scholarship page and take a step towards a transformative research journey in human rights.
For more updates on international scholarships, visit WeMakeYouScholar.com.
Fully funded Human Rights Scholarship 2026 at the University of Melbourne for Master and PhD research students.
