Scholarships and available support
Scholarship FAQs
Q. Which current scholarships are affected by the new scholarships policy?
All scholarships funded wholly by the University are covered by the Graduate Research Scholarship and RTP Scholarships Policy, including:
- the La Trobe University Postgraduate Research Scholarship
- the La Trobe University Full-Fee Research Scholarship
- the David Myers Research Scholarship
- and the La Trobe University Research Equity Scholarship.
Scholarships funded by the Australian Government Research Training Program (RTP) are also covered by the policy. This includes
- an RTP Fees Offset Scholarship
- an RTP Stipend
- and an RTP Allowance.
You can access the relevant policy document in the policy library.
Q. Will I still receive my scholarship while on leave?
A. If you are a scholarship recipient, you are encouraged to check the requirements of your scholarship prior to requesting paid leave. You will continue to receive your scholarship throughout periods of recreation and personal leave but not usually when on leave of absence (e.g. Jury Service and Defence Reserve Service Leave are not paid leave). Please check the terms and conditions of your scholarship to identify the types of leave that are paid. Some scholarships include provisions for parental and partner leave, check the terms and conditions or consult the Graduate Research School.
If you are an international student who is sponsored, you must consult with the La Trobe International Sponsored Students Team to discuss your leave of absence application.
Q. I need more than 10 days (allocated entitlement) of sick leave per year. What can I do to need to do to extend my scholarship?
You need to apply for leave of absence, which may be paid if your application is supported with appropriate documentation like medical certificates.
Q. If I want to appeal a decision regarding a scholarship, is the timeline measured in calendar days, or candidature time?
The time to appeal a decision regarding a scholarship is measured in calendar days, not candidature time.
Review of decisions
Q. What can I do if I’m dissatisfied with an outcome or decision made regarding my candidature?
If you are dissatisfied with an outcome or decision made in relation to the procedures outlined in the Graduate Research Candidature Policy, or if you believe that university procedures or policies have not been correctly followed, you may in the first instance approach the Dean of Graduate Studies for a review.
Q. I’m dissatisfied by the decision made by the Dean of Graduate Studies. What can I do?
If you are dissatisfied by a decision made by the Dean of Graduate Studies, you may pursue a complaint through the steps outlined in the Student Complaints Management Policy or through the office of the University Ombudsman.
Q. If I want to appeal a decision, is the timeline measured in calendar days, or candidature time?
The time to appeal a decision is measured in calendar days, not candidature time.
Where to go for help
Q. I need more support. Who can I reach out to?
As a graduate research candidate, your supervisor is your most important source of support. Find out more about your supervisor's responsibilities and what to do in your supervisor's absence.
Other sources of support include
- AccessAbility and Inclusion
- Information for international students
- Living well @ La Trobe
- Research and grant support from the Library
- Student financial support
- Student Union Postgraduate Advocacy
- Workshops and seminars for candidates.
Student Learning also provides advice on thesis writing. Ask your supervisor to send a referral if you require a one-on-one session.