how to find phd in australia

How to apply for a PhD in Australia

Knowing where to start when applying for a phd can be tricky, especially when applying for one in a different country. this guide from monash university explains all the key information you need when applying for a phd in australia, amarpreet abraham, .css-76pyzs{margin-right:0.25rem;} ,, fiona lilley.

/student/advice/what-phd-advice-phd-students Applying for a PhD is a big step in anyone’s academic career. While it may sometimes seem like a daunting and often quite lengthy process, applying for a PhD shouldn’t have to be a chore and the way you do so varies by country and university.  To make this process as clear as possible, Fiona Lilley from the graduate research office at Monash University in Australia answers the most pressing questions when it comes to applying, especially as an international student. With help from Monash PhD student and teaching associate, Amarpreet Abraham, this will be your go-to for all things PhD in Australia.

How can I apply for a PhD in Australia as an international student?

When applying to study a PhD in Australia, applicants are encouraged to identify possible academic supervisors and contact the faculty they would be enrolling in. Each university will have its own process, so it is important to familiarise yourself with the enquiry and application process. Not following the process or having the incorrect documentation can result in delays. For example, at Monash there is a two-step process. First, applicants submit an “Expression of Interest” (EOI) to the faculty where they intend to study; each faculty has different requirements, so it is important to check what is required. If the faculty determines that they have resources and facilities to support the student project, they will issue an Invitation to Apply (ITA), permitting the applicant to make a formal application for admission (and scholarships).

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Is there a correct/recommended way to look for a supervisor.

The right supervisory match for the student and their project is crucial. Universities have different processes – some require a supervisor to confirm they will supervise before an application; others may appoint a suitable supervisor for the student’s project. In Australia there is a requirement for all research students to have a minimum of two supervisors.  Most universities will have several options to support applicants in identifying and connecting with supervisors, such as a Find a Researcher database. This is an extensive resource of all academic research in the university.

Top tip : Look for the “Available to supervise PhD” indicator on a researcher’s profile. “When looking for a supervisor it is important that they are involved in your field in some way. A prospective supervisor could be someone you have a pre-established positive academic relationship with, where you work well together or are aware of the expectations and boundaries from this academic,” says Amarpreet Abraham. 

Do you have any tips for finding the right supervisor?

First step would be to decide which university you would like to do your PhD at and approach researchers depending on your interests – this could include emailing them with a brief research proposal and why they are best suited to your project. From there, the prospective supervisor can let you know if they are interested in your proposal/have availability to take on a new PhD student.  “Picking someone with the knowledge of your field is important, but I would stress that choosing a supervisor who you have a positive working relationship with is even more vital,” says Abraham.

When should I start applying for my PhD?

Start initial conversations as early as you can. In some instances, potential supervisors may want to review a research proposal, interview the applicant and identify if the project scope is something that they have the capacity and resources or facilities to supervise.  

There is no hard and fast rule on when you should start your application, but it is always advisable to start researching supervisors and topics as soon as you can. 

How long will the application process take?

Each university will have different processes, deadlines and outcome notification dates. At Monash, it is generally six weeks after closing for the notification of either scholarship offer or admission offer to be sent.

This also depends on the time of year, volume of applications and, most importantly, whether the applicant has submitted all the required documentation, such as academic transcripts and evidence of English language proficiency.

How should I approach writing my research proposal?

Universities and supervisors will have different approaches to research proposals, so it is important to check and understand the requirements before you start.  According to Abraham, “a research proposal should include a tentative title, an abstract, an introduction, proposed theoretical/conceptual framework, research questions, significance of the study, limitations, literature review, methodology/research approach, data collection and analysis methods, and a reference list. For all the criteria of the research proposal to be fulfilled, a lot of thought and discussion with your potential supervisor(s) is required. This allows you to voice your interests and approaches for your PhD, while your supervisors can make suggestions on what they think is best suited for your research. It is also important to note that all the elements of the thesis outlined above change/develop as the PhD candidature progresses.”

What are the associated costs of applying for a PhD in Australia?

This will differ depending on the university, and in some instances whether an applicant chooses to engage a registered agent to assist them with their application. At present, there is no application fee at Monash for international PhD or masters by research applicants. Other fees, including tuition fee costs, are published on university websites.  Depending on the course, there may be associated costs for laboratory materials or travel for study (such as fieldwork). Applicants should check with the university and the faculty to understand what these may be. The Australian Government requires service providers to provide full details of course tuition and non-tuition costs in any formal offer or International Student Contract.

What would be your top pieces of advice for someone looking to apply for a PhD?

“Find a supervisor you work well with, be prepared, attend workshops around how to do research and practice self-care and self-kindness right from the beginning. It is easy to lose sight of boundaries when doing a PhD, but it is essential to look after yourself because life continues to happen at full speed while you are pursuing a PhD. I would also recommend getting involved in social research groups, as a PhD can be an isolating endeavour and having others who are in a similar position as you can be reassuring,” Abraham concludes.

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ANU College of Science

Doctor of Philosophy (PhD)

The Australian National University provides PhD students with a vibrant research community and outstanding program support .  When selecting a research program, an institution's reputation is everything. ANU is one of the world's leading universities, and the smart choice for your research program.

As a PhD student you will work with increased independence, under the direction of a supervisory panel of experts in the field. Your research will make an original and important contribution to human knowledge, research and development.

Program details

The major component of a research program is a substantial written work known as a thesis, which investigates a particular subject or issue. As a research student, you will work with increased independence, under the direction of an academic supervisor or a supervisory panel of academic staff.

A PhD will normally take you between 2-4 years to complete.

• 2 - 4 years full time
• Access to state-of-the-art facilities

The Doctor of Philosophy is your gateway to an academic or research career in science. In addition to academia, PhD graduates work in diverse fields within government, education, industry and media.

World class facilities

Students will have access to state-of-the-art facilities and support, including labs, computational services and recreation and relaxation rooms.

Learning experience

Industry engagement

Industry engagement is one of the best ways for a PhD student to test their capabilities as a researcher, and to obtain transferable and professional skills.

Get out of the classroom

PhD student Kate Holland takes us on a field trip to One Tree Island to explain her research.

PhD student unearths the Holy Grail of paleontology

Ilya Bobrovskiy had a crazy idea for his PhD. And then he made one of the biggest scientific breakthroughs of the year.

Fees & scholarships

Scholarships.

Whether you are looking for financial support to start your studies at ANU or help to move away from home for the first time, we have scholarship opportunities for you and your situation.

• How to apply
• International

Understand the how to apply steps

Visit the domestic postgraduate research applications page to prepare for your application to ANU.

Finding an academic supervisor

Prospective research students first need to identify a research project and find an academic supervisor.

Review the  fields of research  we offer and contact the academic convenor for advice about potential projects, supervisors, and the pre-application process. The  ANU Researchers  website is also a good place to start looking for a supervisor.

Email your academic supervisor directly to enquire about projects and supervision. Your email should outline the reason(s) why you are attracted to their field of research, the type of research you would like to pursue and a summary of your academic qualifications and research experience. You may also submit a short research proposal, however, this is not mandatory at this point.

The academic supervisor may contact you to discuss your research proposal and possibly other projects, or they may forward your email to other staff in the research school / centre.

Once an academic supervisor has been confirmed to support your application you may proceed to step three.

If you are not sure which area of research or supervisor matches your interest please complete an  expression of interest  and we will get in contact with you. Do not proceed to next step until advised.

Finding available scholarships

ANU Colleges and individual research schools offer a number of  scholarships  that are awarded on a merit basis. You can also talk to your academic supervisor about other sources of funding you might access to assist with living expenses and tuition fees.

Visit the international postgraduate research applications page to prepare for your application to ANU.

Need more information?

Send us an enquiry and we'll get back to you within 48 hours

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ANU Postgraduate research

Research is at the core of everything we do. It informs the content of our degrees, influences public policy and solves some of our region’s greatest challenges.

ANU postgraduate research

Find a supervisor

Scholarships & Fees

How to apply

Change the conversation

Studying an advanced, research-focused Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) or Master of Philosophy (MPhil) degree at The Australian National University (ANU) is an opportunity to make a substantial and original contribution to your discipline or area of professional practice.

We’ll automatically consider you for a scholarship when we receive your application.

Research areas

Our research priorities reflect the challenges facing the world today.

ANU researchers are currently exploring a range of disciplines and study areas .

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Before you apply

Find a potential supervisor and explore our colleges’ research opportunities. Some colleges have different application requirements – so make sure you’re aware of and follow these before you apply.

1. Find a supervisor

Discover potential supervisors. Explore their research and published works and find their contact details.

Search supervisors

2. ANU college research opportunities

Our colleges can provide you with information about research areas, supervisors and groups, as well as who to contact.

NOTE: More than one college can offer supervision in a particular study area.

• ANU College of Arts & Social Sciences
• ANU College of Asia & the Pacific
• ANU College of Business & Economics
• ANU College of Engineering, Computing & Cybernetics
• ANU College of Health & Medicine
• ANU College of Law
• ANU College of Science

3. Explore college application requirements

If you have found a supervisor you would like to work with and the college that offers this supervision, you will need to find out if there are any pre-application steps that your college would like you to take.

Most colleges would like you to find and secure the support of a potential supervisor before you complete your application. For example, the ANU College of Business & Economics has different arrangements for setting up supervision, so please check in with them before applying.

Some colleges will ask you to send a short description of your proposed area of research as an expression of interest and a summary of your academic qualifications, including grades, to them first.

Visit the ANU college research pages for pre-application advice (see the links under 'ANU colleges’ content above).

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Applying to ANU

You can apply at any time of the year – but if you would like to be considered for a scholarship, you will need to send your application within the scholarship’s application deadline.

Scholarship applicants

Your referees should send their reports before your scholarship’s deadline. Give them as much time as possible by completing your ANU application 2–3 weeks earlier than the scholarship’s deadline. We’ll contact your referees when we get your application.

Application requirements

Your application to study at ANU must meet the following requirements.

1. Minimum admission requirements

Explore our minimum admission requirements.

Requirements for admission to a Doctor of Philosophy degree

• An Australian bachelor’s degree with at least second-class honours (Upper first-class honours may be required by some programs) or the international equivalent, or
• Another degree with a significant research/thesis component, or
• A combination of qualifications, research publications and/or professional experience related to your field of study

Requirements for admission to a Master of Philosophy degree

• An Australian bachelor’s degree or higher, with an overall grade of distinction or higher, or the international equivalent, or
• Another equivalent degree, or
• A combination of qualifications, research publications and/or professional experience that are related to your field of study

2. English language requirements

You must meet our English language requirements to be eligible for admission to ANU. While you can apply without having met them, you will need to show that you do when you get a study offer from us.

Unsure whether you can meet the English language requirements? Contact your research school or the Graduate Research Office before you send your application.

Learn more about ANU English language requirements

3. Research proposal

Your draft research proposal only needs to be short. Check in with your potential supervisor to clarify their expectations for this proposal before you send it in with your application.

Your proposal should present your idea or question in your discipline area clearly. Consider it a statement about the basis of the research you’d like to do.

Your research proposal should:

• establish the relevance of your idea
• show gaps in your field – and how your research would address these
• include how you would go about your research project – your approach, methodologies and resources.

You will be able to change the proposal once you have enrolled in your program.

Learn about research proposals

4. Referees

Referee reports are mandatory when applying for admission to a HDR Program. At least 2 referees reports are required to commence assessment of the application. Academic referees, who are able to comment on the applicant’s ability to undertake the program, are preferred, however, professional references can also be used. The University may request additional referee reports during the assessment of the application.

Ensure their contact details are correct; we will email them a report to complete from within the application portal as soon as we have received your application.

If your referee is unable to access our system-generated referee report, they can contact the Admissions team and ask for another version of the form.

Your referees must send their completed reports confidentially and directly to the University rather than to you.

Reference documents:

• Research Application Referee Report (DOCX, 82.99 KB)

5. Supporting documentation

Upload clear, colour copies of your academic transcripts and graduation certificates with your application. You do not need to certify these documents, but they must be original copies. We will verify their authenticity.

If your academic documents were originally given to you in a language other than English, we will need official copies of the document in that language and original translations for verification purposes.

6. Incomplete qualifications

You can apply to ANU before you complete your current degree if you are in your final year. Advise the Graduate Research office your expected completion date via your application and supply a copy of the qualification when we make you an offer.

For more information, refer to ‘Supporting documentation’.

If you have the approval of a college and a potential supervisor, you can apply for admission to ANU. Without this endorsement, though, we might not be able to assess your application.

Choose the program you want to study from the Program & Courses catalogue

On the program’s page, click 'apply’ to open the application portal

Complete your application

Receiving an offer from ANU

After we assess your application, we will contact you via email about the outcome within 6–8 weeks (about 2 months). This could take longer if we're also considering you for a scholarship.

If you do not hear from ANU within two months, contact your research school or email the Graduate Research Office.

• Contact Graduate Research Office

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• Doctor of Philosophy

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Doctor of Philosophy (PhD)

• Springfield
• 3 year(s) (or part-time equivalent)
• Jan, Feb, Apr, May, Jul, Aug, Sep, Nov

Career outcomes

Entry requirements, degree structure, fees and scholarships.

• Do you have a passion for research? The Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) is a research degree available in all study areas and provides you with the skills to become an effective researcher in your previously studied discipline.
• By undertaking a Doctor of Philosophy you will have expansive intellectual freedom to be able to make an original and substantial contribution to your area of study.
• UniSQ academics are recognised throughout the world for their excellence in research. Some of the projects you can tap into are at the forefront of cutting edge research.
• As a research student you will have the commitment and support to make a difference to society in a meaningful way. UniSQ is committed to excellence in research training and provide a quality research training experience for our students. We maintain our relevance in research by linking with industry and business through local and international research networks.
• Our research extends across all of the Schools and Centres in the university. Within the Division of Research and Innovation it is focused across three research institutes and nine research centres , reflecting a wide array of research excellence.
• To start your PhD you need to clarify your research topic and seek an academic staff member to be your supervisor. This can sometimes take time so it is wise to allow several months for discussion with potential supervisors and for consideration of your application.
• Graduating with a Doctor of Philosophy is ideal if you wish to pursue a career in industry, academia or government with specialisation in your chosen field.

Applicants must have one of the following:

• an Australian-university Bachelor honours degree with First Class Honours or Second Class Honours (Division A) or equivalent (with a thesis comprising at least two units), or
• an Australian-university Masters degree (with a thesis comprising at least two units) or equivalent, or
• other qualifications and/or experiences equivalent to First Class or Second Class Honours (Division A).

English language requirements

You are required to satisfy the applicable English language requirements  and this degree requires a minimum of IELTS 6.5 or equivalent . If you do not meet the English language requirements you may apply to study a University-approved English language program .

UniSQ offers a number of masters degrees  for you to study to help you meet the entry requirements for your chosen degree.

The Doctor of Philosophy comprises a minimum of 16 independent research units, although students would normally complete 24 independent research units, with the option to extend to 32 independent research units if needed.

Refer to the UniSQ Handbook for courses to be studied and recommended enrolment patterns.

Your actual fees may vary depending on the courses you select. We review our fees annually so these may be subject to change.

1 These are indicative annual fees for 2024. 

Grant to help you pay your fees

All Australian citizens, Australian permanent residents, and New Zealand citizens commencing a Higher Degree by Research (HDR) degree will have their tuition fees paid by the Australian Commonwealth Government under the Research Training Program (RTP) Fees Offset scheme. The RTP Fees Offset scheme covers program fees for an HDR student up to a maximum period of four years for full-time study or up to eight years part-time study for a Doctoral degree, and up to a maximum period of two years for full-time or four years part-time for a Masters by Research degree.

As part of the enrolment process, students are required to submit proof of citizenship or permanent residency status and transcripts of all previous academic study. This documentation enables the University of Southern Queensland to determine eligibility for an RTP Fees Offset place.

• have not used RTP Fees Offset funding in the previous three years; or
• have already used RTP Fees Offset funding and have successfully completed an HDR degree. Once a student completes an HDR degree, full entitlements of RTP Fees Offset are restored.

If a student's RTP Fees Offset entitlement expires before completion of the degree, the student will be required to pay full tuition fees, or if meeting the eligibility criteria be able to apply for a FEE-Help loan . 

Scholarships

At UniSQ, we offer a range of scholarships to support your success at university. Find a scholarship  that works for you.

How to apply

Complete your online application directly to UniSQ.

Applications may be submitted at any time, but it is ideal to allow a minimum of 25 working days between when you submit your application and the start of your requested study period.

Select to start in one of the following intakes:

Further information

To learn more about the application process and how to find and connect with a research supervisor please visit the Graduate Research School  website.

Got questions?

Begin your study journey today with the university rated 5/5 stars for graduates starting salaries* and start the degree that’s right for you.

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PhD is short for Doctor of Philosophy – a globally recognised research qualification. Traditionally, PhD students completed a substantial piece of original research which is presented as a thesis or dissertation. This research is conducted under the guidance of at least one expert supervisor.

Discover more about higher degrees by research  at UniSQ.

If you have a passion for research and want to expand your knowledge in your choose field beyond a masters degree, a PhD might be for you. Other reasons to study a doctorate degree include:

• Expanding your career prospects with the highest achievable postgraduate qualification.
• Become an expert – after your PhD you will be considered an expert in your choose area of research.
• Showcasing your transferrable skills. Achieving a PhD degree involves more than research – your qualification demonstrates your work ethic, problem solving skills, commitment, communication skills and much more depending on your choose research topic.

A PhD qualification can open up many exciting career paths in a variety of roles and settings including:

• Academica or government
• Postdoctoral positions at a university or research institute
• Graduate lecturer
• Researcher/consultant
• Non-government or private organisations
• Scientific research
• Researcher/consultant in industry or non-for-profit.
• Entrepreneur.

A PhD degree will take you approximately three years to complete. Some students choose to study part-time which increases the time it takes to complete the doctorate.

To start a PhD you need to clarify your research topic and seek an academic staff member to be your supervisor, therefore we recommend allowing several months to consider your application.

Graduating with a PhD is a noteworthy achievement as it is considered the highest postgraduate achievement you can earn. After completing your Doctor of Philosophy you will likely be considered an expert in your field, opening up a variety of new career paths. After completing your PhD, take this unique opportunity to:

• Tailor your resume – showcase the skills and knowledge you learnt during your studies, including transferrable skills. Don’t be modest about your achievement as it is significant and your potential employer may not understand what it took to achieve a PhD.
• Networking – put your newly found expertise to good use by attending industry events and meeting other experts or notable professionals in your field. This will not only expand your horizons but may lead to potential job opportunities.

The cost of a Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) degree will vary depending on the education provider you choose.

When you study with us, your degree will cost approximately AUD 31000 (Domestic full fee paying).

All Australian citizens, Australian permanent residents, and New Zealand citizens commencing a Higher Degree by Research (HDR) degree will have their tuition fees paid by the Australian Commonwealth Government under the Research Training Program (RTP) Fees Offset scheme.

For further information on Fees, including RTP and scholarships, please view the Fees and scholarships section of this webpage.

The entry requirements for studying a PhD degree can vary depending on your chosen education provider. At UniSQ applicants must hold either a relevant bachelor honours degree, masters degree or other qualifications and satisfy applicable English Language requirements.

For further details please view the entry requirements section of this page.

Get a strong start to your research career:

• Learn from world class researchers – according to the latest ERA  results, UniSQ is rated at world standard or better in 30 areas of research.
• Study for your PhD while balancing your life work and family commitments with flexible online or on-campus study.
• Benefit from our leading research expertise, extending across three research institutes and nine research centres.
• We are proud to partner with industry leaders to drive impactful change, giving our students opportunities to experience research in real-world environments.

Apply for postgraduate research

Follow the below steps to apply* for a research degree as a domestic or international research student.

These steps apply unless you are interested in the  Sydney Law School  or the  Business School , in which case you apply for your course first and if successful are allocated a supervisor.

• Determine eligibility and suitable course
• Develop your research proposal and find a research supervisor
• Applying for scholarships to support your research degree
• Gather required documentation and s ubmit your application onlin e

*The steps listed on this page are a guide and applicable to most courses. Please also check if there are any faculty-specific requirements .

1. Determine eligibility and suitable course

To be eligible to pursue postgraduate research study you will need previous research experience and a high academic record.  You need to have undertaken a significant research project or thesis in your previous university-level studies.

This could be the equivalent of:

• an Australian honours degree
• a master’s by research degree
• a master’s by coursework with a thesis component (dissertation)

We also consider your undergraduate performance. You will need a bachelor's degree with first or upper second-class honours. Below is a guide based on the University of Sydney grading system, equivalent requirements will be determined for other institutions:

• WAM of 75 over degree
• Honours class I WAM greater than 80
• Honours class II WAM between 75 and 80

English language requirements depend on the course, your country of origin and educational background. Find out if you need to prove  English language proficiency .

To apply for a PhD, you need to demonstrate sufficient prior research experience and capability. In most cases, you will have either:

• a bachelor's degree with first or upper second-class honours, or
• a master's degree performed at a high academic standard, which includes a substantial component of research, or
• an equivalent qualification that demonstrates research experience, excellence and capability.

In most cases, to apply for a master’s by research or a Master of Philosophy, you need to have one of the following:

• a bachelor’s degree with first or second-class honours from the University of Sydney or another approved institution
• an equivalent qualification that demonstrates sufficient research experience and capability.

If you’re interested in a Joint PhD program, you need to follow the Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) application steps 1-3. In addition, your proposed supervisor will need to complete a proposal to negotiate a student agreement form. If accepted, you will also be required to sign an individual student agreement. After your student agreement is finalised, you will then be sent an application form for the Joint PhD program.

Please refer to the University's Dual and Joint Degree Policy for full policy details.

Download our  Joint PhD programs factsheet (pdf, 116KB)  to learn more.

2. Develop your research proposal and find a supervisor

Before you submit your application, you must first secure a supervisor. Carefully consider the subject of your research project and start to develop a research proposal to provide to potential academic supervisors. Your initial proposal will likely evolve, however, it is important to clearly explain your ideas about your research, show why your research is noteworthy and how it aligns with your proposed supervisor’s own research.

Check out these guidelines on how to  write a research proposal for a strong PhD application .

You can search for supervisors’ contact details via their academic profile, or you can search for supervisors and projects  by discipline, keywords, and research themes. Our faculty and research centre websites are also good places to start.

To support your enquiry, send an email describing your academic background and research experience, the topic you'd like to research and how your research project aligns with the work of your proposed supervisor. You must include your resume/CV, academic transcripts for all degrees and your initial research proposal. Please check your HDR course page on Sydney Courses for specific faculty requirements.

3. Applying for scholarships to support your research degree

We have one of the largest research scholarship  schemes in Australia. Scholarships can be a big help in funding your research or helping you with living costs while you do your research. Some scholarships are specific to a research project or discipline, and many are assessed on academic merit and research potential. Search for a scholarship .

When you submit your course application, you can elect to be automatically considered for the Research Training Program stipend. The stipend is competitively awarded and is based on academic merit and research potential.

For domestic students, you do not pay tuition fees as this is covered by the government Research Training Program fee offset. For international students, tuition fees are applicable. If you are an international student and are awarded RTP, this will cover your tuition fees and provide a stipend. Please note: there are limited places available in the Research Training Program for international students, and these are highly competitive.

Please refer to your course page on Sydney Courses for information about the fees you will need to pay, and also read our general information on fees and financial support .

Depending on your research project, many PhD students also work part-time to fund their study, similar to undergraduate and postgraduate coursework students.

4. Submit official application online with required documentation

Postgraduate research degree applications are open all year round, with most research intakes starting in Research Period 2 (March) and Research Period 3 (July). However, to be considered for the RTP stipend you will need to submit your application by these dates . You can still submit your course application past the RTP deadline but you will not receive a stipend outcome until the next round of RTP rankings.

Please check your course page on Sydney Courses for the research periods your faculty offers. We recommend applying as early as possible prior to your intended start date, and you will also need to discuss your start date with your supervisor.

International students are recommended to factor in the Department of Home Affairs visa processing times when considering a likely start date for their HDR course.

Documentation to include in your application form

When you have secured a supervisor, you will discuss and refine the project together. Once your research proposal is finalised, gather all the essential documents that you will need to submit with your application:

• Final research proposal. In conjunction with your supervisor, you’ll finalise your research proposal of up to 2000 words, covering the objectives and significance of your research. Refer to our  Research Proposal Guidelines .
• Official academic transcripts in the original language and English translation.
• Proof of English language proficiency if English is not your first language.
• Curriculum Vitae (CV) or resume.
• Evidence that a primary supervisor has agreed to supervise you. This could be a copy of the email correspondence showing the staff member’s agreement to supervise you. Sydney College of the Arts doesn’t require evidence of supervision, however, you must submit a portfolio with your application. The Sydney Conservatorium of Music may require you to attend an interview.
• Proof of identity: a valid passport (biodata page), an Australian birth certificate or an Australian or New Zealand citizenship certificate for domestic students.
• you’ll have sufficient time available to carry out the research under the supervision of the University and complete the course within the maximum period allowed for a part-time PhD enrolment
• a declaration from your employer (if relevant) confirming that you will be permitted to take the time required to effectively pursue your studies.
• Two referee reports (pdf, 113.7KB)
• Any other documents, such as a portfolio of work or audition, specified in the course listing for your degree.

International students  

If you are an international student, you will also need:

• To apply for your student visa, after you have received an offer of admission or an electronic Confirmation of Enrolment (eCoE) for an HDR course at the University.
• To pay a non-refundable  application processing fee . This fee is waived if you’re a sponsored student, or if you are granted an exemption by a University staff member during an office interview or recruitment event.
• If you would like to apply through an authorised University of Sydney agent, we have partnered with a range of  authorised agents who can apply to the University and make arrangements on your behalf.

Further information

Our frequently asked questions provide further information on our HDR courses and the application process.

You will need to pass  health and security checks  if your research involves fieldwork in the New South Wales hospital and education systems. The  course page  details explain what admission criteria you need to satisfy to get into the course. 

You may also need to apply for approval from the Animal Ethics and/or Human Research Ethics Committee .

Additional course requirements

*Please also refer to your faculty for additional admission requirements, or variations in the application process, which may apply.

How to write a research proposal

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Doctor of Philosophy

A Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) at UNSW Science will lead you to make a new and original contribution to your chosen scientific specialisation. The PhD is a program of specialist expert knowledge which will open doors to academic, research and professional roles nationally and internationally. 

Entry requirements 

The minimum entry requirement for admission to a PhD includes: 

• an appropriate UNSW bachelor degree with upper second-class honours; or 
• a completed Masters by Research from UNSW with a substantial research component and demonstrated capacity for timely completion of a high-quality research thesis; or 
• an equivalent qualification from a tertiary institution as determined by the Faculty Higher Degree Committee (HDC). 

The minimum requirement for a UNSW scholarship with admission to a PhD include: 

• a four-year bachelor degree with honours class from an Australian institution or equivalent research qualification experience -this qualification must be awarded in a field relevant to the proposed area of research. 

English requirements  

All applicants must provide evidence that their English language ability meets the minimum requirements for admission: UNSW English Language Requirements.

Domestic students: The Australian Government's Research Training Scheme (RTS) provides Commonwealth-funded higher degree by research (HDR) candidates with an exemption from tuition fees for the duration of their PhD by research for a maximum period of four years' full-time equivalent study. Domestic students are liable for the UNSW Student Services Amenities Fee. 

International students: Full details can be found on the GRS Fees and Costs page for International Postgraduate Research Candidates. Note that international students are exempt from the UNSW Student Services Amenities Fee. 

Scholarship opportunities

We assist postgraduate researchers with a range of prestigious scholarships with annual stipends, living allowances, tuition fee costs, travel scholarships and supplements. Our scholarships support both current and new postgraduate research candidates.  

Our research areas

Environmental sciences and climate

Fundamental sciences 

Materials sciences

Health sciences

Combined phd/master of psychology programs.

PhD/Master of Psychology (Clinical)

PhD/Master of Psychology (Forensic)

A Guide to Doing Your PhD in Australia

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If you’re an international student who has completed higher education studies, you might now be considering studying a doctorate degree, also known as a PhD. In Australia, this is the highest level of study and, once completed, can unlock doors to better employment, higher wages, and industry recognition.

Here’s a handy guide on how to apply, what to expect, and where to find further information for your exciting next step.

What is the difference between honours, a master ’s and a PhD?

An honours  is an extra year of study in Australia. To qualify you need to have completed your undergraduate degree, otherwise known as a bachelor’s degree, to a high standard. This is often considered a stepping stone to further postgraduate study.

Graduates with a bachelor’s degree might consider a graduate certificate, which usually takes one semester of full-time study and can help you specialise in your chosen career path. One step up from a certificate is a graduate diploma. This type of study takes one year of full-time study and can often be continued on from the graduate certificate.

A master’s by coursework is similar to a graduate diploma but takes a little longer and is regarded as a higher qualification. In most cases, you need a relevant bachelor’s degree; however, in certain circumstances, extensive relevant work experience might be accepted instead. This type of course typically takes 18 months to complete. A master’s by research takes two years of full-time study and is based on a research project supervised by a university academic.

A doctorate by research or a PhD is the highest level of study offered in Australia. A PhD requires submission of a thesis that is assessed by examiners who determine whether the research is worthy of the qualification. A PhD student must show through their thesis that they have made a significant contribution to their field. Once graduated, the candidate may use the title of Doctor.

How does a PhD work in Australia?

A PhD in Australia is usually studied over the course of three years. While some students take a little longer, extensions are subject to funding, as well as other important factors. Domestic students may have the option to study part-time but as an international student, you must study full-time in order to be eligible for a student visa .

According to the Australian Government , fees to study a PhD range from A$19,000 to A$78,000 per year, depending on the education provider. There is a chance you may not have to pay the full amount if there is funding available, which is common in Australia. Most universities have funding for promising PhD students set aside. Get in touch with your chosen university directly to find out what scholarships are available to international students. The Australian Government also runs Destination Australia , which funds eligible education providers in regional areas to offer scholarships to both domestic and international students. The government also offers the Research Training Program for participating universities.

International students also need to consider the cost of living while abroad to qualify for their visa. You’ll need at least roughly A$21,041 for each year of your study in your bank account in order to be granted a visa.

Do I need honours to apply for a PhD?

In most cases you will need an undergraduate degree with a minimum of Second Class Honours (Division A) – also known as ‘upper second-class’ honours – to apply for your PhD to demonstrate you have significant research experience. However, many education providers offer research-based qualifications to give you this experience if you didn’t complete an honours degree originally.

What is the basic structure of a PhD?

PhDs in Australia are usually research-based and, while they may contain other aspects, the focus of your studies will be on working towards your doctoral thesis.

In general, a PhD begins with a literature review that collects, analyses and summarises the current research published on your chosen subject. This then provides the basis for designing, implementing and analysing your own research that you’ll write about for your thesis.

In Australia, you are not required to undergo a viva voca , which is an assessed oral exam in defence of your research topic, method and predicted results. Instead, you are assessed solely on your thesis.

How do I apply for a PhD?

To apply for an Australian PhD, the first step is to contact a university academic working as a supervisor for PhD projects. You contact them, usually about four months before you wish to commence your studies, with the research topic you would like to propose. The person you choose should be the lead researcher for the institution you wish to apply to, in the relevant field you wish to study.

Once you have what is known as an ‘expression of interest’ from a provisional supervisor, you can begin your formal application to the university. Most universities won’t consider an application without an expression of interest from a supervisor, so make sure you have this first.

What else do I need to know?

To study as an international student in Australia, you must have a student visa (subclass 500) from the Australian government. Unless you are exempt, the application fee for this visa is AUD$710. You can read more about student visas and their requirements here .

Australian PhDs are delivered in English and have language skill requirements. There are various tests you can take to verify your English language skills including the IELTS, CAE and PTE. The score you need is usually specified on the universities website and will depend on the test you take.

International students must have Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) in order to be granted their student visa. There are a variety of providers to choose from, including many universities, but the policy you choose must adhere to the Overseas Student Health Cover guides. Explore your options in greater detail here .

The new international student working limit of 48 hours every fortnight does not apply to international students who are pursuing a doctorate or a master’s degree through research. These students are not restricted in terms of the number of hours they can work. However, your actual work hours should align with your study requirements and also require approval from your academic supervisor. This is to ensure that your employment does not interfere with your primary objective of completing your academic research.

PhD study is an excellent way to enter the Australian workforce and graduate visas are available that can entitle you to stay in Australia for up to four years after you have finished your PhD. In other words, if you have dreams of both furthering your education and settling long-term in Australia, a PhD could be the perfect way to make those dreams a reality.

Sarah Price

Originally from the UK, Sarah has worked as a freelance writer for nearly 10 years, both at home and now in Perth where she lives. Once an international student in South West WA herself, she loves to help new students feel welcome, confident, and ready to make the most of their study abroad. Having lived in Perth and explored a lot of WA, Sarah knows just how wonderful it is to discover this beautiful state.

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Doctor of philosophy - science.

• CRICOS code: 056958E

Course overview

• 4 years full time / 8 years part time
• On Campus (Parkville)
• Available to domestic and international students

Join one of our world-renowned research groups, work with state-of-the-art equipment, and soak up all the professional development opportunities and international connections that come with studying at Australia's leading university.

With many research disciplines to choose from (Ecosystem Sciences, BioSciences, Chemistry, Geography, Earth and Atmospheric Sciences, Mathematics and Statistics and Physics), and more than 500 academic researchers to work with, you’re sure to find a team and a PhD project that will suit you.

Global opportunities

In addition to our own leading PhD program, we also offer several joint PhD opportunities, where you can conduct your research at both the University of Melbourne and a  top research institution overseas .

Industry connections

To prepare you for your post-PhD career, you can take advantage of the time between submitting your thesis and it being conferred by completing a 3–6 month industry placement through our Specialist Certificate in Research Practice for Scientists .

Not just a researcher

The Melbourne experience enables our graduates to become specialists within their field, leaders in communities, attuned to cultural diversity, and active global citizens.

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You're a domestic student if you are:

• a citizen of Australia or New Zealand,
• an Australian permanent resident, or
• a holder of an Australian permanent humanitarian visa.

You're an international student if you are:

• intending to study on a student visa,
• not a citizen of Australia or New Zealand,
• not an Australian permanent resident, or
• a temporary resident (visa status) of Australia.

How to get a PhD scholarship or funding

Uni life Published 23 Jan, 2024  ·  3-minute read

If you’re passionate enough about a topic to complete a PhD on it, we think that’s amazing. But, understandably, you’ll want some reassurance that you’ll be supported financially during your research endeavours. Let’s look at how to get a PhD scholarship in Australia.

A common way for PhD candidates to supplement their income is to do casual or even part-time work while completing their degree. However, this isn’t a viable option for everyone – and it may not be enough in some circumstances.

In such cases, a PhD scholarship is just what the doctorate ordered.

What is a PhD scholarship?

A PhD scholarship is much like any scholarship – it supports a PhD candidate to complete their studies. 

PhD scholarships are offered by a variety of universities, specific schools, and research institutes. For example, at The University of Queensland (UQ), there are 2 categories of PhD scholarships you can consider:

• UQ Graduate School scholarships  (UQGSS)  – about $33K per year for 3.5 years
• earmarked scholarships for joining an existing research project – about $32K per year for 3.5 years.

In either case, your scholarship will comprise tuition fees and a living stipend. Both types also come with the possibility of a single extension and both domestic and international students are eligible to apply.

There is also a UQ Graduate School Scholarship which only covers tuition fees and does not include a living stipend. The UQGSS-T is only available to domestic students.

Deciding which scholarship category suits you will likely come down to whether an existing research project aligns with your interests. If you’ve got a niche passion and the ambition to find your own supervisor and create a fresh research proposal , a Graduate School scholarship is likely the path for you.

If you’d prefer to join an existing team of researchers pursuing an established line of research, you might find an earmarked scholarship more appealing. You can expand your search for a project that interests you by visiting FindAPhD.com , though we’d obviously love to see you contribute to the groundbreaking research efforts right here at UQ.

UQ has earmarked scholarships available for a wide variety of research projects. Our research areas span from agriculture to creative arts, health, business, science and everything in between. Explore our research areas and find an earmarked scholarship that appeals to your interests .

Top-up PhD scholarships in Australia

You may also find yourself eligible for a top-up scholarship of $7-14K per year. Find out more about top-up scholarships .

How to get a scholarship for a PhD

When you’re looking at an earmarked PhD scholarship for an existing project, the process is rather simple: apply for the advertised position by contacting the project supervisor.

However, things get a bit trickier when you’re creating a new research proposal. Here are some tips for how to get a fully funded PhD project:

• Make sure your school or institute knows you want a scholarship , as they will need to nominate you for one. At UQ, this means selecting the option in your PhD application that says I would like to be considered for a UQ scholarship…
• Choose the right supervisor. Some of the criteria for getting a PhD scholarship include the experience and expertise relevance of your supervisor and advisory team. So, you’ll want to find a supervisor who checks all the right boxes .
• Get advice from your PhD supervisor . The quality of your research project is another large factor in determining whether you get a PhD scholarship. At the start, the main means of demonstrating this is your research proposal, so be sure to use your supervisor’s wisdom to make this proposal as steadfast as possible .
• Prepare the appropriate documents/evidence. Other criteria include your academic performance, your research capabilities, and the quality of your proposed research environment. This means having evidence prepared to demonstrate these factors (e.g. the academic transcript from your honours/postgraduate degree, or details of the laboratory where you’ll be conducting your research) can help you attain a PhD scholarship.

Learn more about completing your PhD at UQ Explore all UQ scholarships available for postgraduate research students

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PhDs and research degrees

Research programs and requirements

• Choose your research topic
• Find a supervisor
• Scholarship application tips
• Griffith Graduate Research School

Entry requirements and admission pathways options for research students

Whether you're beginning your research study or continuing at a higher level, our degrees provide a unique opportunity to follow a specific interest in a particular research area.

Doctor of Philosophy

The PhD is Griffith’s premier research training degree. It is awarded for a thesis (or a series of published papers), drafted under supervision, which makes an original, significant, and extensive contribution to knowledge and understanding in your field of study.

Learn more about PhDs

Doctor of Philosophy (by prior publication)

This degree can offer you formal recognition for your work if you are an established researcher and do not already hold a doctoral level qualification.

Learn more about PhDs by prior publication

Doctor of Medicine / Doctor of Philosophy concurrent pathway

The PhD will allow you to complete the first two years of the Doctor of Medicine program before commencing two years of full time PhD work in clinical research.

Learn more about concurrent pathways to a PhD

Professional Doctorates

These are integrated degrees of professional and research work, and include doctoral level coursework associated with a thesis.

Doctor of Philosophy in Clinical Psychology

Doctor of Education

Doctor of Musical Arts

Doctor of Visual Arts

Master of Philosophy

The Master of Philosophy (MPhil) is awarded for a thesis, drafted under supervision, which presents original research and demonstrates both knowledge of a research topic and discipline. It is shorter than a PhD and offered across all schools.

Learn more about the MPhil

Specialist Masters by Research

These are specialist degrees which combine coursework with professional and/or artistic practice.

Master of Arts Research

• Master of Design Research
• Master of Education and Professional Studies Research

Master of Medical Research

Master of Music Research

Master of Science

• Master of Visual Arts Research

Graduate Diploma of Research Studies

The Graduate Diploma of Research Studies provides a Griffith pathway to a PhD or MPhil for applicants who do not possess the required qualifications for direct admission. These are offered in specific disciplines.

• Graduate Diploma of Criminological Research Studies
• Graduate Diploma of Health Research
• Graduate Diploma of Law Research Studies
• Graduate Diploma of Research Studies in Business
• Graduate Diploma of Research Studies in Engineering
• Graduate Diploma of Research Studies in Information Technology
• Graduate Diploma of Research Studies in Science

Research study abroad

International students currently enrolled in a research degree in a university overseas may undertake a research project at Griffith University for one to three semesters, under the research study abroad program.

You’ll be able to study in any research area, provided supervision and resources are available. Credit gained at Griffith is transferred toward the degree at your home institution, with that institution’s agreement.

Learn more about research study abroad

A joint doctoral program allows you to undertake research at Griffith University and one of our partner universities.

Griffith offers a joint degree with the University of Chinese Academy of Sciences. Students undergo a five-year program commencing with one year of coursework training at UCAS , followed by a four-year research program at both UCAS and Griffith.

The GU - UCAS application round for Griffith University is currently closed.

Intake Dates

Griffith offers you the choice of four research intake dates to commence your PhD or Master of Philosophy.

If your research program includes coursework, please also check the trimester start dates .

Intake 4, 2023  9 October 2023

Intake 1, 2024 26 February 2024

Intake 2, 2024 22 April 2024

Intake 3, 2024  8 July 2024

Intake 4, 2024  14 October 2024

Pathways to research

Griffith offers multiple admission pathways to a PhD or other doctoral degrees

Find out more

Fees and financial support

Domestic candidates.

Australian (domestic) candidates are any applicants who are: Australian citizens; or New Zealand citizens residing in Australia; or holders of an Australian permanent residency visa; or holders of an Australian permanent humanitarian visa.

If you are a domestic candidate applying for a doctorate or masters by research, you are currently exempt from tuition fees under the federal government’s Research Training Program. You will need to consider additional study costs such as personal study materials and some support services.

Note. Doctor of Philosophy (by Prior Publication), Master of Science, and Graduate Diploma of Research Studies candidates are required to pay tuition fees.

International candidates

International candidates are any applicants who are not Australian or New Zealand citizens or Australian Permanent Residents, or a holder of an Australian Permanent Humanitarian visa.

International candidates study on a fee-paying basis and they must pay the full costs of their education through tuition fees, either directly or through a third party (sponsor, government, or scholarship). International candidates will also need to consider living costs associated with studying in Australia, such as living expenses and accommodation.

Remote candidature

If you are not intending to relocate to the Brisbane/Gold Coast region to undertake your program, you can apply to pursue your candidature predominantly away from the University (remote candidature). A number of factors will need to be considered including the appointment of a qualified local supervisor and a minimum period to be spent on campus at the University. You will need to provide a statement with your application that addresses the following:

• The resources and facilities available at the location to support the research program (for example laboratory space, library facilities, computer access)
• A schedule of contact indicating the frequency and medium of communication between the candidate and supervisors
• A program of visits to the University, as required to undertake your research project
• Details of a qualified person at the location who has agreed to act as a local associate supervisor, where appropriate

Understand your program requirements

Griffith research programs have different requirements for entry and for completion.

Degree Finder

Equivalent qualifications for HDR program admission

Doctor of Philosophy (PhD)

Qualifications required

A bachelors degree with first-class or second-class honours (Division A), or a masters degree incorporating a significant research component with equivalent grades (GPA of at least 5.5, and a grade of 6.0 for the research component on a 7.0 point scale).

Doctor of Philosophy (by Prior Publication)

Established researcher of international standing in the respective field on the basis of an ongoing record of academic work, and for who admission to the PhD program is inappropriate; and have a portfolio of high quality publications that meet the program criteria.

A bachelors degree in psychology with first-class or second-class honours (Division A), or a masters degree in psychology incorporating a significant research component with equivalent grades (GPA of at least 5.5, and a grade of 6.0 for the research component on a 7.0 point scale). Qualifications must be accredited by the Australian Psychology Accreditation Council (APAC). Note: Admission is restricted to candidates who are registered Psychologists or who are eligible for probationary registration with the Psychology Board of Australia.

Doctor of Medicine/Doctor of Philosophy

A numerical score equivalent to a Distinction for year 1 of the Doctor of Medicine program; and a bachelors degree with first-class or second-class honours (Division A), or a masters degree incorporating a significant research component with equivalent grades (GPA of at least 5.5, and a grade of 6.0 for the research component on a 7.0 point scale).

Research Study Abroad (Non-Award)

Enrolled in a Doctoral program in an overseas institution.

A bachelors degree with first-class or second-class honours (Division A), or a masters degree incorporating a significant research component with equivalent grades (GPA of at least 5.5, and a grade of 6.0 for the research component on a 7.0 point scale), and professional engagement pertinent to the degree of at least 3 years.

A bachelors degree with first-class or second-class honours (Division A), or a masters degree incorporating a significant research component with equivalent grades (GPA of at least 5.5, and a grade of 6.0 for the research component on a 7.0 point scale), and normally professional experience pertinent to the degree of at least 5 years.

A bachelors degree with second-class honours (Division B), or a masters degree incorporating a significant research component with equivalent grades (GPA of at least 5.0, and a grade of 5.0 for the research component on a 7.0 point scale).

A postgraduate qualification with a GPA of at least 5.0 (on a 7.0 point scale), or a bachelors degree with second-class honours (Division B). Qualification must be in a related discipline.

Master of Education and Professional Research Studies

A Bachelor degree in medical science, biological science, pharmaceutical science or a related health discipline with a GPA of at least 5.0 (on a 7.0 point scale) or equivalent.

A Bachelor of Music degree with second-class honours (Division B) or a postgraduate qualification in music with appropriate professional experience.

A Bachelor of Science degree in microbiology in a relevant science discipline with a GPA of at least 5.0 (on a 7.0 point scale) or equivalent.

Master of Visual Arts

A bachelor degree with second-class honours (Division B) or an equivalent 4 year bachelor degree in an appropriate visual art or design discipline. Practitioners with substantial experience and a corresponding exhibition record will be considered.

Master of Design (Research)

English Language Requirements

All research applicants are expected to have reached an appropriate level of proficiency in English. International applicants and other applicants who have undertaken their prior studies overseas must provide documentary evidence of their English language proficiency (ELP). Full documentary evidence in support of English proficiency must be submitted with applications for candidature and scholarship.

English language tests

Applicants to research programs will need to show they meet:

• A minimum overall band score of 6.5 on the IELTS (Academic) with no band score less than 6.0
• OR a minimum score of 575 on the paper-based TOEFL including a score of no less than 5.0 on the TWE
• OR a score of 79 on the internet-based (iBT) TOEFL with no sub-score less than 19

English test results must be no more than two years old at the time of application. For a full list of accepted English tests and minimum scores, please see the Higher Degree Research Policy.

Applicants should be aware that these test scores are the minimum scores required by Griffith University for most disciplinary areas and that some elements may require higher levels of proficiency.

Higher Degree Research Policy

English pathway option

If you do not meet specific English entry requirements for your program, you may wish to consider English pathway options at Griffith University. The Griffith English Language Institute (GELI) provides high-quality English language instruction for international students who wish to prepare for postgraduate courses in Australia. GELI has three centres located at Griffith’s Nathan, Mt Gravatt and Gold Coast campuses. You can complete the Direct Entry Program at GELI to meet the language requirements for your program.

Direct Entry Program