If you’re a high-achieving research student dreaming of completing a PhD in Australia without financial stress, the Maxwell King Scholarship (MKS) at Monash University is an opportunity worth exploring. Named after Professor Maxwell King, a pivotal figure in advancing graduate research at Monash, this prestigious scholarship aims to empower talented minds across disciplines to reach their full academic potential.
Awarded annually to only two outstanding candidates worldwide, this scholarship offers not only full financial support but also access to Monash University’s world-class research infrastructure, academic mentorship, and a vibrant international community in Melbourne.
What Makes This Scholarship Special?
The Maxwell King Scholarship stands out for its generous financial support (AU$52,352/year), prestigious recognition, and highly competitive selection process that ensures recipients are among the top-tier PhD candidates globally. It supports both STEM and HASS disciplines, offering one award each per year.
Benefits of the Maxwell King Scholarship
The Maxwell King Scholarship is more than just financial aid—it’s a career-launching package that covers:
- Annual Living Stipend: AU$52,352 (2025 rate), tax-free
- Tuition Fee Waiver: Full coverage for the duration of your PhD
- Research Allowance: Financial support for academic projects, conferences, or research tools
- Relocation Allowance: Assists international students with moving expenses to Australia
- Access to Monash Research Facilities: Top-tier labs, libraries, and research networks
- Recognition and Prestige: Being a Maxwell King Scholar elevates your academic profile globally
Eligibility Criteria for the Maxwell King Scholarship 2025
This scholarship is open to both domestic and international students who meet the following requirements:
Who Can Apply:
- International students from any country
- Domestic students (Australian citizens, permanent residents, or humanitarian visa holders)
Academic & Language Requirements:
- Must be applying for or enrolled in a PhD program at Monash
- Must have submitted a scholarship application for the current year
- Must meet Monash’s competitive selection process, which includes:
- Excellent academic record
- Strong research outputs and prior research experience
- Must meet Monash’s English language proficiency requirements (IELTS or equivalent)
Other Notes:
- Available for students pursuing Joint Research Awards where Monash is the home institution
- Only two scholarships are awarded per year: one in STEM and one in HASS fields
Required Documents for Maxwell King Scholarship Application
Here’s what you’ll need to prepare for a complete application:
Mandatory Documents:
- Academic transcripts (certified and scanned)
- Curriculum Vitae (CV)
- Research proposal
- Evidence of English language proficiency (e.g., IELTS, TOEFL)
- Copy of passport (international students)
- Academic references / Letters of recommendation
- Prior research publications or outputs (if available)
Notes:
- All documents should be submitted electronically via the application portal.
- Ensure clarity and proper formatting to avoid processing delays.
Application Timeline for Maxwell King Scholarship
- Applications Open: Ongoing via graduate research admission cycle
- Deadline: October 31, 2025
- Results Announcement: Typically announced within 6–8 weeks post-deadline
- Fixed Deadline: Only awarded in the October round, so plan ahead!
How to Apply for the Maxwell King Scholarship
Step-by-Step Guide:
- Review Eligibility: Confirm you meet the scholarship and PhD admission requirements.
- Obtain an Invitation to Apply: If you’re a new applicant, request this from the relevant Monash faculty.
- Prepare Your Documents: Gather all required academic and supporting documents.
- Apply Online: Submit a single online application for both admission and scholarship at Monash University.
- No Need to Specify Scholarship: Eligible applicants are automatically considered for the Maxwell King Scholarship and other Monash scholarships.
- Submit Before Deadline: Applications must be completed by October 31, 2025.
Pro Tips:
- Start early and contact potential supervisors ahead of time.
- Ensure your research proposal aligns with Monash’s key research areas.
- Upload clearly labeled and legible documents.
- Use a professional and academic tone in your CV and proposal.
FAQs about the Maxwell King Scholarship
Who is eligible to apply?
All PhD applicants (domestic or international) who meet Monash’s academic and language requirements and apply within the eligible round.
Is IELTS mandatory?
Yes, unless you qualify for an exemption. You must meet Monash’s English language proficiency standards.
Can students from Africa/Asia apply?
Absolutely. This is a global scholarship open to all nationalities.
Can I apply if I’m already enrolled in a PhD program at Monash?
Yes, but you must apply within the eligible round and meet all criteria.
Can I apply for other scholarships too?
Yes! A single application automatically considers you for all Monash graduate research scholarships.
Final Thoughts on the Maxwell King Scholarship
The Maxwell King Scholarship is more than just financial support—it’s a recognition of academic excellence and a chance to conduct meaningful research at one of Australia’s top universities. With only two awards available annually, competition is fierce, but the rewards are life-changing.
If you’re ready to take the next big step in your academic journey, don’t hesitate.
Submit your application now before the deadline closes. Don’t miss this opportunity to study in Australia.