Apply for MS Australia Postgraduate Scholarship (New Zealand)

The MS Australia Postgraduate Scholarship supports doctoral-level research in multiple sclerosis at Australian universities. Successful PhD candidates can receive up to AUD 40,000 per year for a maximum of three years, with scholarships commencing in January 2027. Round 1 applications close on 06 March 2026.

Overview

The MS Australia Postgraduate Scholarship is designed to strengthen research capacity in multiple sclerosis (MS) by supporting outstanding PhD candidates undertaking MS-related research at Australian higher education institutions.

The scholarship provides structured financial support to enable doctoral researchers to focus on high-quality research that advances understanding, treatment, and management of multiple sclerosis.

Funding Details

• Successful applicants will receive a stipend of up to AUD 40,000 per annum.
• The scholarship is awarded for a maximum duration of three years.
• All scholarships awarded under both application rounds will commence in January 2027.

Research Focus

• The scholarship specifically supports research directly related to multiple sclerosis.
• Projects may span biomedical, clinical, translational, or other MS-focused research areas, provided they contribute meaningfully to advancing knowledge and improving outcomes for people affected by MS.

Eligibility Criteria

Applicants must:

• Be planning to undertake a PhD or currently enrolled in a PhD programme at an Australian university.
• Conduct research directly related to multiple sclerosis.
• Be an Australian or New Zealand citizen, or a permanent resident of Australia.
• Have confirmed permanent residency status by January of the year the scholarship commences, if applicable.

NHMRC Partner Scheme

• MS Australia participates in a partner scheme with the National Health and Medical Research Council to provide top-up funding to successful NHMRC Postgraduate Scholarship recipients.
• Applicants wishing to be considered under this arrangement must submit separate applications to both MS Australia and NHMRC. Applications are not automatically shared between the two organisations.

Application Deadline

• Applications for Round 1 close on 06 March 2026.
• Applicants are encouraged to prepare early to ensure all eligibility requirements and supporting documentation are met.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Who can apply for the MS Australia Postgraduate Scholarship?
   PhD candidates or prospective PhD students at Australian universities whose research is directly related to multiple sclerosis and who meet citizenship or residency requirements.
2. How much funding is provided?
   Up to AUD 40,000 per year for a maximum of three years.
3. When does the scholarship commence?
   All awarded scholarships will begin in January 2027.
4. Can international students apply?
   Only Australian or New Zealand citizens and Australian permanent residents are eligible.
5. Is this linked to NHMRC funding?
   Yes. MS Australia offers a top-up funding arrangement for successful NHMRC Postgraduate Scholarship recipients, but separate applications must be submitted to both bodies.

Conclusion

The MS Australia Postgraduate Scholarship offers a significant opportunity for emerging researchers committed to advancing multiple sclerosis research in Australia.

By providing substantial financial support and aligning with national research funding frameworks, the scholarship strengthens postgraduate research capacity and contributes to long-term progress in MS treatment, care, and scientific understanding.

For eligible PhD candidates, this programme represents both financial support and a pathway to contributing meaningfully to the future of multiple sclerosis research.