RTP Application Documents: The 2027 Checklist
Universities ask for broadly the same file: academic records, English evidence, a short academic CV, a research proposal and referees. Missing pieces push you into a later round.
ScholarshipUnion Editorial
3 min read
Updated Oct 6, 2026
Your document tracker
Tick items as you collect them. Based on Monash’s published list, which is the most detailed of the universities in this guide, plus Melbourne and UQ requirements.
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Academic records
Monash wants certified copies of transcripts for every completed qualification, degree certificates and an explanation of the grading scheme (Monash: applying with us). Melbourne asks for transcripts and a CV at minimum, plus your final results and evidence of completion as soon as they are available if you are still studying (Melbourne international applications).
Melbourne also accepts verified digital copies of your documents. If your university issues verified digital records, using them can speed up assessment.
Scholarship ranking at Melbourne’s MDHS faculty only happens once your previous degree is complete and final results are in. If you’re finishing a degree, choose a round whose assessment starts after your results are released.
English evidence
Most universities take IELTS, TOEFL iBT, PTE Academic and some others; requirements vary by programme. At UQ, most programs ask for IELTS Academic 6.5 overall with no band below 6.0 (UQ English requirements). Monash also accepts official confirmation that your previous study was completed in English, but check that your specific country and institution qualify.
Academic CV
Monash limits the CV to two pages and asks it to cover academic qualifications, relevant employment, research experience and any publications, exhibitions or awards. No photo, date of birth or unrelated personal details. That is a good default anywhere. Put research first: thesis title and grade, methods you can use, publications with full citations, and conference talks.
Referees
Melbourne asks for two referees. If you finished your last course less than five years ago, they should be academics; after five years, professional referees are acceptable. Referees receive an online link after you submit, so enter their email addresses exactly and warn them in advance.
- Choose people who supervised your research or thesis, not just lecturers who taught a big class.
- Send them your proposal, CV and the round deadline at least four weeks ahead.
- Use institutional email addresses where possible.
- Check the portal a week before the deadline and chase missing reports.
Field-specific extras
Creative and performance-based disciplines may need a portfolio (Monash) or a folio of creative works (Melbourne). Some Melbourne courses ask for a writing sample. If you want a part-time scholarship at Monash, you need a supporting statement explaining why full-time study isn’t possible, though international students can study part-time only where the visa allows.