La Trobe University is offering the Flexible Research Scholarship to eligible applicants with disabilities. It provides individually tailored support, providing a longer period of time for completion of a graduate research degree and payment of a stipend, extended periods of leave of absence, and access to additional funding for research-related costs associated with having a disability.
When is the Application Deadline:
📅 Applications are open now and will close on 31 December 2025.
(Applications are accepted year-round within this period, but international students are encouraged to apply early to allow time for visa and stipend arrangements.)
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Tell Me About The Award:
The La Trobe Flexible Research Scholarship (FLEX) is a unique initiative designed to support graduate researchers with permanent disabilities. It provides extended financial support, tuition coverage, and tailored assistance to ensure equal opportunities for success in research degrees. FLEX allows PhD and Master by Research students the additional time and resources they need to complete their programs without financial burden.
Which Fields are Eligible?
All fields of research at La Trobe University are eligible.
Type:
🎓 Full Scholarship (Stipend + Tuition + Allowances).
Who can Apply?
- Future and current graduate researchers (PhD or Master by Research).
- Must hold or have accepted an offer for a Research Training Program (RTP) stipend or a La Trobe Graduate Research Scholarship (LTGRS).
- Must provide medical evidence of a permanent disability that impacts the pace of study.
- Open to domestic and international students.
How are Applicants Selected?
Selection is based on:
- Verification of disability or condition (medical evidence required).
- Demonstrated need for additional time and support.
- Academic merit and research preparedness (e.g., previous research experience, grades).
- Priority given to those conducting research at La Trobe University campuses.
Which Countries Are Eligible?
🌍 Open to all countries (Australian citizens, permanent residents, New Zealand citizens, and international students are all eligible).
Where will the Award be Taken?
📍 La Trobe University campuses: Melbourne, Bendigo, Shepparton, Albury-Wodonga, or Mildura.
How Many Awards?
Limited number of awards (not specified).
What is the Benefit of the Award?
- AUD $35,000 annual stipend (paid fortnightly).
- Up to 18 months additional stipend support for PhD candidates.
- Up to 8 months additional stipend support for Master by Research candidates.
- Tuition fee coverage during the extended candidature.
- Research support allowance up to AUD $3,000 per year for disability-related costs (e.g., interpreters, assistive technologies, personal support at conferences).
- Up to 24 months of leave of absence (subject to visa conditions for international students).
How Long Will the Award Last?
- Duration of standard candidature plus extension:
- PhD: up to 18 months extra.
- Master by Research: up to 8 months extra.
- PhD: up to 18 months extra.
- Additional leave and support provided as needed.
How to Apply:
- Apply for or hold an RTP or LTGRS stipend.
- Submit an application for the FLEX Scholarship with supporting medical evidence.
- International students should apply early to align with visa processing.
👉 Visit the Award Webpage for Details: La Trobe Flexible Research Scholarship (FLEX)
