The Maxwell King PhD Scholarship (MKS) is one of Monash University’s most prestigious scholarships, designed to support exceptional doctoral students who demonstrate academic excellence, research potential, and leadership promise. Named after Professor Maxwell King, who made outstanding contributions to graduate research at Monash, this scholarship provides a substantial stipend and research funding to allow students to focus entirely on their PhD studies.
This scholarship attracts brilliant minds from around the world and is open to both domestic and international students. It stands among Australia’s top fully funded opportunities for doctoral research.
Overview of the Maxwell King PhD Scholarship
The Maxwell King PhD Scholarship is awarded each year to outstanding doctoral researchers. It supports one candidate in the Humanities and Social Sciences (HASS) field and another in the Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) disciplines. This reflects Monash’s vision of nurturing world-class researchers across both arts and scientific disciplines.
The scholarship is designed not only to remove financial burdens but also to empower the recipient with resources to conduct impactful, independent research. Recipients can explore innovative ideas, collaborate globally, and make contributions to their fields while benefiting from Monash’s world-leading research environment.
Benefits of the Maxwell King PhD Scholarship
The Maxwell King Scholarship offers one of the most generous funding packages available for PhD students in Australia. Selected candidates receive a living stipend of approximately AUD 52,352 per year (2025 rate). This stipend is intended to cover living expenses and allows students to focus entirely on research instead of part-time work.
In addition to the stipend, recipients also receive an annual research allowance of around AUD 1,500 to cover expenses such as data collection, software, and research materials. For international students relocating to Melbourne, a relocation allowance of up to AUD 2,000 is provided to help with initial travel and settlement costs.
Tuition fees are usually fully covered under Monash’s existing graduate research scholarship framework. Therefore, for international students, the scholarship is effectively fully funded, covering both living costs and tuition fees.
This funding enables PhD students to devote themselves completely to their research and academic growth without worrying about financial stress.
Eligibility Criteria for the Maxwell King PhD Scholarship
The Maxwell King PhD Scholarship is highly competitive. Only candidates who demonstrate exceptional academic performance and research readiness are considered. Below are the detailed eligibility requirements, including exact academic and English test criteria.
1. Academic Eligibility (CGPA and Percentage Equivalents)
Applicants must meet the academic entry requirements for a PhD at Monash University. The University requires candidates to hold qualifications equivalent to an Australian Honours degree (First Class or Upper Second Class) or a master’s degree with a substantial research component.
In academic terms, the equivalent for international students is roughly as follows:
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Applicants should have maintained at least a CGPA of 3.5 out of 4.0 or equivalent.
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If your institution uses percentage grading, your overall average should be at least 75% or above in your final year or research-based subjects.
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Those who completed a master’s by research must show clear evidence of research output such as a thesis, publication, or project report.
This means that for students from Pakistan and other South Asian countries, a CGPA between 3.5 and 4.0 or a 75%–80% overall average is generally considered competitive. Monash University assesses each transcript individually, converting grades to the Australian system, so make sure your academic records clearly show strong results and research experience.
Meeting the minimum grade requirement is necessary, but in reality, successful applicants often exceed it. High research engagement, prior publications, or awards can strengthen your case even if your grades are slightly below this benchmark.
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2. English Language Proficiency Requirements
If English is not your first language, or if your previous education was not conducted entirely in English, Monash University requires proof of English language proficiency. You can satisfy this through internationally recognized English tests.
The minimum English language test requirements for the Maxwell King PhD Scholarship are as follows:
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IELTS (Academic): Overall score of 6.5, with no band less than 6.0.
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TOEFL iBT: Overall score of 79, with minimum sub-scores of Reading 13, Listening 12, Speaking 18, and Writing 21.
For disciplines in Business, Law, or Arts, where higher communication standards apply, the requirement is slightly higher:
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IELTS (Academic): Overall 7.0, with no band lower than 6.5.
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TOEFL iBT: Overall 94, with Reading 19, Listening 20, Speaking 20, and Writing 24.
Applicants who have completed at least two years of full-time university study in an English-speaking country may be exempt, but Monash decides exemptions on a case-by-case basis.
If you are serious about applying, aim for IELTS 7.0 or higher or the equivalent TOEFL score to stay competitive. A strong English result not only fulfills eligibility requirements but also adds credibility to your research application.
Who Can Apply
The Maxwell King Scholarship is open to both domestic and international students. You can apply from anywhere in the world as long as you meet Monash’s PhD admission criteria. The scholarship is available for full-time research study only and cannot be deferred.
Applicants from all research fields are eligible, provided they meet academic and language criteria and have a research proposal aligned with Monash’s strengths.
Application Process for Maxwell King PhD Scholarship
Applying for this scholarship involves several key steps. It is crucial to start early and plan carefully.
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Find a Suitable Research Area and Supervisor:
Start by exploring Monash’s research themes and academic departments. Identify potential supervisors whose research aligns with your interests. Write to them professionally with your CV, transcripts, and a draft research proposal. If they are interested, they will issue an “Invitation to Apply.” -
Prepare and Submit an Expression of Interest (EOI):
Most Monash faculties require candidates to submit an EOI before applying officially. The EOI helps determine your eligibility and whether a supervisor is available. -
Prepare All Required Documents:
Gather your academic transcripts, degree certificates, curriculum vitae (CV), proof of English proficiency, research proposal, passport copy, and recommendation letters. Your documents should be well formatted and clearly labeled. -
Apply for Admission and Scholarship Together:
You do not need to submit a separate application for the Maxwell King PhD Scholarship. When you apply for admission to a PhD at Monash, indicate that you want to be considered for scholarships. If your application meets the MKS criteria, you will automatically be considered. -
Application Deadline:
The annual deadline for the Maxwell King Scholarship is 31 October each year. Applications received after this date are not considered for that intake. Therefore, it is best to start preparing at least three to four months in advance. -
Selection and Notification:
Monash evaluates all eligible candidates based on academic performance, research experience, publications, English proficiency, and alignment with the University’s research priorities. Final decisions are announced approximately six weeks after the closing date. -
Acceptance and Commencement:
Successful candidates receive an offer of both admission and the scholarship. Once you accept the offer, you can begin your PhD candidature under the scholarship conditions.
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Duration of the Scholarship
The Maxwell King PhD Scholarship supports full-time research for a period of up to three and a half years, which is the standard duration for a PhD at Monash University. Extensions of up to six months may be granted in exceptional circumstances, subject to satisfactory academic progress.
How to Make Your Application Stronger
Because the scholarship is highly competitive, simply meeting the minimum eligibility criteria is not enough. You need to present a strong and distinctive profile. Here are some key tips to improve your chances:
1. Excel in Your Previous Studies:
Maintain excellent grades throughout your undergraduate and master’s studies. Highlight your research-based courses, projects, and thesis work.
2. Develop a Solid Research Proposal:
Your proposal should clearly describe your research problem, objectives, methodology, and expected contributions. It should show depth of understanding and originality. Make sure your research area aligns with the expertise of your proposed supervisor.
3. Engage with a Supervisor Early:
A supportive and interested supervisor is vital. Contact them early, seek feedback, and refine your proposal according to their advice. Their endorsement significantly strengthens your application.
4. Demonstrate Research Experience:
Include any publications, conference presentations, or independent research projects. Even small-scale studies or dissertations can demonstrate your research ability.
5. Write a Compelling Personal Statement:
Explain your motivation for pursuing a PhD, why you chose Monash, and how your research aligns with global challenges. Emphasize your long-term goals and how the Maxwell King Scholarship will help you achieve them.
6. Prepare for English Tests:
Even if you meet the minimum requirement, aim to exceed it. Strong language skills improve your credibility and competitiveness.
7. Secure Strong Recommendation Letters:
Choose referees who can provide detailed, specific comments on your research potential, analytical skills, and independence. Avoid generic letters.
8. Be Meticulous with Documents:
Ensure all uploaded documents are accurate, formatted properly, and free from grammatical errors. Include clear information about grading scales to help Monash assess your results correctly.
Common Mistakes to Avoid in Maxwell King PhD Scholarship
Applicants often make avoidable mistakes that cost them the scholarship. The most common include:
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Submitting incomplete or poorly formatted applications.
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Missing the 31 October deadline.
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Failing to secure a supervisor before applying.
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Submitting a weak or vague research proposal.
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Ignoring English proficiency sub-score requirements.
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Relying on general reference letters instead of tailored recommendations.
Taking the time to prepare carefully and double-check your materials will give you a clear advantage.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Is the Maxwell King PhD Scholarship fully funded?
Yes. The scholarship covers living expenses through an annual stipend, provides research and relocation allowances, and normally covers tuition fees. It is fully funded for international students.
2. Do I need a separate application for this scholarship?
No, you do not need a separate form. Simply apply for admission to a Monash PhD program and indicate that you wish to be considered for scholarships.
3. What is the deadline for the 2026 intake?
The deadline is 31 October 2025 for studies commencing in 2026.
4. Can international students apply?
Yes. The Maxwell King Scholarship is open to all nationalities.
5. What CGPA is required?
A CGPA of 3.5 out of 4.0 or 75% and above in your previous degree is considered competitive.
6. What English test scores do I need?
For most fields, IELTS 6.5 (no band below 6.0) or TOEFL iBT 79. For Business, Law, or Arts, IELTS 7.0 or TOEFL iBT 94 is preferred.
7. What if I already have a PhD?
You are not eligible. This scholarship is for new doctoral candidates only.
8. Can I hold another scholarship simultaneously?
Usually not. MKS cannot be held concurrently with another major award.
Final Thoughts on Maxwell King PhD Scholarship
The Maxwell King PhD Scholarship 2026 is an extraordinary opportunity for ambitious researchers to join one of Australia’s top universities. With its generous funding, world-class research infrastructure, and commitment to excellence, Monash University provides an environment where scholars can innovate, collaborate, and make meaningful contributions to global knowledge.
For students from countries like Pakistan, India, Bangladesh, or anywhere around the world, this scholarship opens a gateway to one of the strongest research ecosystems in Australia. The key to success is early preparation, a clear research plan, strong academic performance, and proactive communication with potential supervisors.
If you meet the CGPA requirement of 3.5 (or 75%), score at least IELTS 6.5 or above, and have a well-crafted research proposal, your chances of success are high.
Start preparing your documents early, polish your proposal, and apply before the 31 October 2025 deadline to be considered for the Maxwell King PhD Scholarship 2026.
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