Sir James McNeill Postgraduate Research Scholarship 2025 | Monash University, Australia

The Sir James McNeill Postgraduate Research Scholarship 2025 at Monash University is one of the most prestigious opportunities available. This scholarship supports high-achieving research students who are passionate about making a positive impact on the environment and society through their research. It is open to both domestic and international students who are ready to take their academic careers to the next level.

 

About Monash University

Monash University, located in Victoria, Australia, is one of the world’s leading universities known for innovation, research excellence, and global impact. It offers a range of competitive scholarships to support talented students, and the Sir James McNeill Scholarship (SJMN) is among its most distinguished.

 

Scholarship Summary

• Host Country: Australia
• Host University: Monash University
• Scholarship Name: Sir James McNeill Postgraduate Research Scholarship (SJMN)
• Degree Level: Master’s by Research and PhD
• Eligibility: Open to both domestic and international students
• Deadline: 31 October 2025
• Award: Offered once every two years

 

Eligibility Criteria

To apply for the SJMN Scholarship, you must meet all of the following:

• Nationality / Residency
  You may be any of the following: Australian citizen; New Zealand citizen; Australian permanent resident; Australian humanitarian visa holder; or an international student.
  
• Research Focus
  Your proposed research must be environmentally responsible and socially beneficial. That means research that contributes positively to environmental sustainability, community wellbeing, or social justice.
  
• Academic Merit & Research Capability
  You must meet Monash University’s competitive scholarship selection standards: strong academic record, prior research experience or output is a plus.
  
• English Language Requirements
  You must satisfy Monash’s English proficiency requirements for graduate research candidates.
  
• Application Timing
  
  • Submit a scholarship application in the same year the scholarship is offered.
    
  • The SJMN is awarded in the 31 October scholarship round only.
• Be applying to one of the following faculties:

• • Faculty of Arts (School of Music only)
  • Faculty of Engineering
  • Faculty of Medicine, Nursing, and Health Sciences
  • Faculty of Science

 

Benefits

If you receive the SJMN Scholarship, the benefits include:

• Living allowance (stipend): About AUD 52,352 per year (2025 rate) to cover living expenses.
  
• Research allowance: Additional funds to assist with project-related research costs.
  
• Relocation allowance: If you need to relocate to Monash University to study, you may receive an allowance.
  
• Prestige & resources: Access to Monash’s facilities, supervision, and opportunities for interdisciplinary work.

 

How to Apply

• Apply for Graduate Research + Scholarship Together
  When you apply for your graduate research degree (Master’s by Research or PhD) at Monash, use the Monash “myApp” Portal.
  
• Automatic Consideration
  You don’t need to submit a separate application specifically for this scholarship. Eligible applicants are automatically considered if they meet eligibility criteria.
  
• Faculty Invitation (if required)
  New applicants may need an invitation to apply from the relevant faculty before completing the scholarship application. This depends on faculty procedures
  
• Use the Correct Application Round
  The SJMN is awarded in the October 31 scholarship round. Applications submitted outside this round will not be eligible.
  
• Submit Required Documents
  Be ready with:
  • Academic transcripts / certificates
  • Research proposal that clearly shows environmental and social benefit
  • CV and evidence of prior research work or outputs
  • English language proficiency proof
    
• Meet Other Monash Graduate Research Requirements
  The standard conditions under the Monash Research Training Program or graduate scholarships apply, including enrolment status, full-time study, progress milestones, etc.

 

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Who can apply for the Sir James McNeill Scholarship 2025?

• The scholarship is open to both domestic and international students. This includes Australian citizens, New Zealand citizens, Australian permanent residents, holders of Australian humanitarian visas, and students from overseas who meet Monash University’s entry requirements for a Master’s by Research or PhD.

2. What kind of research qualifies for this scholarship?

• To be eligible, your research must be environmentally responsible and socially beneficial. This means your project should have a positive impact on the community, sustainability, or the environment. Examples could include renewable energy, climate change solutions, medical innovations that improve public health, or socially inclusive technologies.

3. Do I need to apply separately for the Sir James McNeill Scholarship?

• No. You only need to apply for admission into a research program at Monash University (PhD or Master’s by Research). When you submit your application, you will automatically be considered for the scholarship.

4. How often is the scholarship awarded?

• Unlike other Monash scholarships, the Sir James McNeill Postgraduate Research Scholarship is awarded once every two years. The next round will close on 31 October 2025.

5. What are the eligible faculties or fields of study?

• You must be enrolled in one of the following faculties:
  • Faculty of Arts (School of Music only)
  • Faculty of Engineering
  • Faculty of Medicine, Nursing and Health Sciences
  • Faculty of Science

6. Can I hold another scholarship at the same time?

• Generally, no. Monash University allows students to hold only one main research scholarship at a time. If you are offered multiple scholarships, you will need to choose one.

7. How competitive is the scholarship?

• The SJMN is highly competitive because only one award is made every two years. Applicants must demonstrate academic excellence, research capability, and a project with clear social or environmental benefits.

8. Do I need a supervisor before applying?

• Yes. For research programs at Monash, you usually need to secure a supervisor whose expertise aligns with your proposed research topic. It is recommended to contact potential supervisors early to discuss your research interests.

9. What is the application deadline for 2025?

• The deadline is 31 October 2025. Late applications will not be considered, so it’s best to prepare and apply well in advance.

10. Can international students apply, and will visa support be provided?

• Yes, international students are welcome to apply. If you are successful, Monash will issue you a Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) to support your student visa application.