University of Canberra Research Scholarship in Australia 2026

The University of Canberra Research Scholarship 2026 provides a pathway for highly qualified students—both domestic and international—to pursue a Higher Degree by Research (HDR). Funded through the Australian Government Research Training Program (RTP) and the university’s own HDR stipend scheme, this award is designed to attract top research talent to Canberra while supporting candidates financially for the full duration of their studies.

Host country & institution: Australia; University of Canberra (UC), Bruce campus.
Why it’s unique: The scholarship combines generous living support with tuition fee sponsorships and offers candidates a strong research culture, industry‑linked projects, and opportunities in one of Australia’s most innovative universities.

Benefits of the University of Canberra Research Scholarship

• Stipend: AUD $36,225 per annum (2025 rate, tax‑free) to assist with living expenses.
• Tuition fee sponsorship: Coverage of tuition fees for eligible international applicants.
• Duration: Up to 3.5 years full‑time support for PhD candidates.
• Health coverage: Standard student health insurance for international students (where applicable).
• Research environment: Access to UC’s Graduate Research Office support, laboratories, libraries, and industry‑linked projects.
• Back‑paid stipend: International recipients commencing offshore will have their stipend back‑paid once they arrive in Canberra and begin research on campus.

Eligibility Criteria for the University of Canberra Scholarship

• Eligible nationalities: Open to domestic (Australian citizens/permanent residents, New Zealand citizens) and international students.
• Degree level: Doctoral (PhD) studies in any eligible discipline.
• Previous funding: Applicants must not have held an Australian Government‑funded research scholarship for more than 6 months.
• Academic background: Priority for applicants with:
  • First‑Class Honours or equivalent (e.g., a Master’s by coursework with a substantial research component achieving at least 80%).
  • Confirmed PhD candidature with less than 2 years of EFT (Equivalent Full‑Time study).
  • Acceptance into the National Industry PhD Program – Industry Linked stream.
  • Indigenous Australian applicants approved for PhD admission.
• Language requirement: Proof of English proficiency may be required depending on applicant background (IELTS/TOEFL/PTE accepted).

Required Documents for the Application

Applicants must prepare the following materials (in PDF format):

Mandatory:

1. Application for HDR admission (via UC HDR Portal).
2. Curriculum Vitae (CV) with research experience, publications, and academic achievements.
3. Academic transcripts & degree certificates (with official translations if not in English).
4. Research proposal (aligned with faculty priorities and supervisor expertise).
5. Evidence of English language proficiency (if applicable).
6. References or referee contact details (typically two academic referees).

Optional / Advantageous:

• Publications, conference papers, or professional research experience documents.
• Proof of industry engagement or alignment with UC’s strategic research themes.

Formatting note: Ensure documents are consolidated into single PDFs, properly titled, and free of errors. Notarized/attested copies may be required for final enrolment.

Application Timeline for the 2026 Round

• Applications open: Current HDR admission round.
• Deadline for scholarship consideration: September 30, 2025 (AEST).
• Selection & ranking by faculties: October 2025.
• Review by University Research Scholarship Committee: Late October – early November 2025.
• Results announced: November 2025.
• Start of research program: Early 2026 (aligned with UC’s semester commencement).

Scholarships are highly competitive with a success rate under 10%. Submit early and ensure your proposal aligns with UC’s research strengths.

How to Apply for the University of Canberra Research Scholarship (Step‑by‑Step)

1. Identify a research area & supervisor: Review UC’s faculty research strengths and contact potential supervisors.
2. Apply for HDR admission: Begin via the HDR Application Portal—this is required before scholarship consideration.
3. Access the scholarship form: Once your HDR admission application is lodged, you’ll be given access to the Research Scholarship application form.
4. Prepare supporting documents: Upload CV, transcripts, research proposal, and evidence of English proficiency.
5. Submit by deadline: Ensure all forms and uploads are completed by September 30, 2025 (AEST).
6. Faculty review: Applications are assessed and ranked by academic staff based on merit, research proposal quality, and alignment with UC priorities.
7. University ranking: The Research Scholarship Committee finalizes awards based on order of merit.
8. Offer & enrolment: Successful applicants receive an offer with funding details; proceed with enrolment and visa arrangements if international.

Tips for applicants:

• Highlight research excellence and publications where possible.
• Demonstrate alignment with UC’s strategic themes (e.g., sustainability, innovation, health).
• Seek supervisor endorsement early—it strengthens your application.

FAQs about the University of Canberra Research Scholarship

Is IELTS required?
It depends on your academic background. If your prior degree was taught in English, you may be exempt. Otherwise, IELTS/TOEFL/PTE is required.

Can international students apply?
Yes. The program is open to all nationalities meeting academic and language criteria.

When will results be released?
Results are expected in November 2025 for the 2026 start.

Can I apply if I already started a PhD?
Yes, provided you have less than 2 years EFT at the time of application.

What is the stipend amount?
AUD $36,225 per annum (2025 rate, indexed annually; tax‑free).

Final Thoughts

The University of Canberra Research Scholarship is a highly competitive, fully funded opportunity to pursue a PhD in Australia with financial security and world‑class academic support. If you are passionate about research, align with UC’s focus areas, and meet the eligibility requirements, this could be your path to a funded doctoral journey in 2026.

Apply before the deadline closes and take the next step toward studying in Australia.

Note: Always confirm the most recent scholarship conditions of award and eligibility requirements on UC’s HDR scholarship pages before applying.