Fully Funded Human Rights Scholarship 2026 – Apply Now!

About the Human Rights Scholarship

The Human Rights Scholarship is designed to support graduate research students whose work is centered on human rights theory, practice, and policy. The scholarship recognizes students who have demonstrated exceptional academic potential and a strong, long-term commitment to promoting and defending human rights through peaceful and constructive means.

Hosted at the University of Melbourne, one of the top-ranked universities globally, this scholarship offers the opportunity to study in a world-class research environment while being mentored by leading academics in human rights law, political science, development studies, history, philosophy, and other related disciplines.

The University of Melbourne is deeply invested in using research to create real-world change, making it an ideal setting for scholars eager to engage in meaningful work on social justice and equity.

Are you passionate about championing justice, equality, and dignity for all? Do you want to dedicate your academic career to exploring, defending, and promoting human rights through rigorous research and impactful advocacy? If yes, then the Human Rights Scholarship 2026 in Australia may be the perfect opportunity for you.

This prestigious and fully funded scholarship is offered by the University of Melbourne, one of the world’s leading research universities. It provides financial support to outstanding domestic and international students who wish to pursue a Master’s by research or Doctoral degree focused on human rights issues.

Whether you aim to investigate social justice policies, promote peace and reconciliation, document human rights abuses, or shape legal frameworks for future generations, this scholarship offers the academic foundation and financial stability to help you turn your passion into action.

Eligible Fields

Applicants must be enrolled in or applying for a Master’s by Research or a PhD program at the University of Melbourne in a field directly related to human rights.

Relevant areas of study may include:

• Human Rights Law
• International Relations
• Political Science
• Social Policy
• Conflict and Peace Studies
• Gender and Development
• Indigenous Rights
• Migration and Refugee Studies
• Criminology
• Sociology
• Global Studies
• Humanitarian Affairs
• Public Health (if with a human rights focus)
• Philosophy and Ethics
• Any interdisciplinary research with a strong human rights theme

Eligibility Criteria

The Human Rights Scholarship is open to both domestic and international students, including applicants from Africa, Asia, the Middle East, Europe, the Americas, and the Pacific.

To be eligible, you must:

• Be applying for or currently enrolled in a research Master’s or doctoral (PhD) program at the University of Melbourne
• Not have already completed a research qualification at the same level (for example, you can’t apply for a second PhD)
• Demonstrate a strong academic record
• Show a deep personal and/or professional commitment to human rights
• Be undertaking research that makes a meaningful contribution to human rights discourse or advocacy
• Be willing to commit to peaceful, non-violent means of advancing human rights

This scholarship isn’t just about academic excellence—it’s about impact, advocacy, and the ability to make a difference.

Selection Criteria

Applications are assessed based on a combination of academic and professional merits. Specifically, selection will consider:

• Academic performance in your previous studies
• The quality and significance of your proposed research topic
• Your demonstrated commitment to advancing human rights
• Evidence of previous involvement in community organizing, NGOs, policy work, volunteering, or activism
• Strength and clarity of your research proposal
• Quality of supporting documents, such as reference letters, CVs, and personal statements

Applicants who can show that they have actively worked on or contributed to human rights campaigns, community-based initiatives, or legal reform efforts will be given priority.

Eligible Countries

This scholarship is open to students of all nationalities, making it a truly global opportunity. Applicants from developing nations, conflict-affected regions, and underrepresented communities are strongly encouraged to apply.

There are no restrictions based on nationality, ethnicity, gender, or religious background.

Benefits of the Human Rights Scholarship

The Human Rights Scholarship 2026 offers one of the most comprehensive financial support packages for graduate students in Australia. Here is what successful candidates will receive:

Total Value: Up to AUD 94,200

Includes:

• Annual Living Allowance of AUD 43,500 for up to two years (Master’s) or three years (PhD)
• Full Tuition Fee Offset: 100% tuition fees waived for the duration of your program
• Relocation Grant:
  • AUD 2,000 if relocating from within Australia
  • AUD 3,000 if relocating from outside Australia
• Health Cover:
  • Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) for international students and their dependents
• Paid Leave Entitlements:
  • Paid sick leave
  • Paid maternity or parental leave (where applicable)

This financial support allows students to focus entirely on their research and advocacy without worrying about living or academic expenses.

How to Apply

To apply for the Human Rights Scholarship 2026, you must:

1. Apply for admission to a Master’s by Research or PhD program at the University of Melbourne.
2. Once you have applied (or if you are already enrolled), you can submit a separate scholarship application via the University of Melbourne’s scholarship portal.
3. Prepare the following supporting documents:
   • A detailed research proposal outlining your human rights topic and its potential impact
   • A personal statement or motivation letter showing your commitment to human rights causes
   • Your academic transcripts and certificates
   • Reference letters from academic or professional mentors
   • Curriculum Vitae (CV) detailing your academic and human rights experience

Make sure to submit your application and all supporting documents before the deadline.

Note: The deadline for the submission of this scholarship is October 31, 2025

Applicants are strongly encouraged to apply early to ensure all documents are submitted correctly and on time. Early applications also give you enough time to gather strong recommendations and craft a compelling research proposal.

Final Thoughts

• Start early – Crafting a compelling research proposal and gathering references takes time.
• Focus on your impact – What real-world difference has your work made, or will your research make?
• Showcase your values – The selection committee is looking for individuals who are not only smart but also deeply committed to the cause of human rights.
• Don’t let your location or background hold you back — this scholarship is for the global community.

The Human Rights Scholarship is more than just funding—it’s an invitation to become part of a community of global scholars, researchers, and advocates working toward a more just, equitable, and compassionate world.

If you have the vision, passion, and determination to use research as a tool for social change, don’t miss this chance to study at one of the world’s best universities fully funded.

Apply early. Show your impact. Change the world.

CLICK HERE TO APPLY

See also:

Tokyo University Amgen Scholars Program 2025: Apply Now!

The Letten Prize 2025 for Researchers: Apply Now!

World Trade Organization Internship Program 2025

Apply for the $5,000 Pathways Access Scholarship