If you’re planning to pursue a PhD and want to do it with full financial support at one of the world’s top universities, the Maxwell King PhD Scholarship (MKS) might just be the opportunity you’ve been waiting for.
This prestigious, fully funded scholarship is offered by Monash University in Australia – an institution known not just for its global reputation but also for its vibrant research culture. The scholarship is named after Professor Maxwell King, a former Pro Vice-Chancellor who played a major role in shaping Monash’s graduate research landscape.
It’s not just about the money – though that helps. This scholarship is about investing in people who are ready to go deep into research that matters.
What does the Maxwell King PhD Scholarship offer?
The scholarship comes with generous funding to make your research journey smooth and focused.
Here’s what you get:
- Annual living allowance: AUD $50,291 to help you cover your day-to-day living expenses while studying.
- Relocation allowance: AUD $2,000 one-time payment to support your move to Australia.
- Research support: AUD $1,500 each year for anything related to your research – conferences, fieldwork, resources, you name it.
Essentially, it makes your research work easier – so you can concentrate on your work, and grow as a researcher in the process.
Who can apply for the scholarship?
Monash wants to attract the brightest minds from around the world.
Here’s who can apply:
- International students from any country.
- Australian citizens or permanent residents.
- New Zealand citizens.
- Holders of Australian humanitarian visas.
It’s open to anyone who meets the eligibility and academic standards, and who’s genuinely passionate about research.
Academic & language requirements
To be eligible, here’s what you need to have:
Academic requirements:
- You must be enrolled in (or applying for) a PhD program at Monash University.
- You should have applied for a scholarship in the past 12 months.
English language requirements:
If English isn’t your first language, you’ll need to show proof of language skills:
- IELTS: At least 6.5 overall (with no band lower than 6.0).
- TOEFL iBT: A total score of at least 79 (Reading 13, Listening 12, Speaking 18, Writing 21).
Note: If you’re applying for a course in Arts, Business, or Economics, you need a higher score, like an IELTS of 7.0 or TOEFL of 94+.
How to apply for this scholarship
Here’s how the application process works, step by step:
- Find a Supervisor or Submit an Expression of Interest (EOI)
Before you apply, you need to either get in touch with a potential supervisor at Monash or submit an EOI form. You can’t just jump straight into the application. - Register on the Monash Graduate Research Portal
Once you’ve been invited to apply, head over to the official application portal and start your submission. - Fill Out the Application
There’s no need for a separate scholarship form, just tick the right boxes during the main application and you’ll be considered automatically. - Upload the Required Documents
These include:- Your academic CV
- Official academic transcripts and certificates
- Proof of citizenship or residency
- English test results (if needed)
- Your research proposal
- Invitation to Apply or evidence of supervisor contact
All of these documents are important, so take your time and make sure everything is in order.
What makes Monash University stand out?
If you’re going to spend years doing a PhD, it makes sense to choose a university that’s supportive, well-resourced, and globally respected. Monash ticks all those boxes.
Here’s what makes it special:
- World-Class Research Environment: From high-tech labs to specialized libraries, Monash has resources that are second to none.
- Global Recognition: Ranked among the world’s top universities, Monash qualifications open doors – both in academia and industry.
- International Community: With campuses in Australia, Malaysia, India, and Italy, you’re part of a truly global network.
- Support and Mentorship: You won’t be going it alone. Expect ongoing guidance, collaborative opportunities, and personal development programs.
Whether your passion lies in science, health, humanities, business, or engineering, you’ll find a place, and a purpose at Monash.
The benefits of the Maxwell King PhD Scholarship is beyond funding, as a recipient, you will be given a platform to launch your academic career, explore the world, and make your mark through research.
If you’re serious about contributing something meaningful to your field and want to do so in a world-class environment, this could be the perfect next step.
Where to apply?
If you want to apply, go to the Monash scholarship page here: Maxwell King PhD Scholarship