Research degrees

• Check that you meet our course entry requirements and English language proficiency
• Thoroughly check our scholarships and fees information prior to applying
• Review the list of available projects and select ONE project you wish to apply for
• Carefully consider the associated costs with relocating, including accommodation options

• Choose ONE project that aligns with your research experience and interests.
• Please read the project description carefully – some projects may have specific eligibility and/or selection criteria.
• Contact the nominated supervisor to discuss your suitability and the project requirements. You must use the Supervisory Support form to confirm their support and upload this as part of your application. Note this is a mandatory requirement.
• Develop a Research Proposal in collaboration with the project supervisor, a good proposal shows you have a clear vision of the research topic and frames your project. The proposal should be approximately 2 pages long. Please consider using the following structure for your research proposal:
  • The aims and objectives of your research
  • The importance of your research question to the field
  • The research methodology
  • The expected outcomes

Before you start, prepare your application documents

• You will be prompted to upload documents as you complete the application form. It’s recommended that you use a standard naming convention for your uploads – for example, NAME_CV; NAME_Undergraduate qualifications
• At a minimum you will need -
  • A copy of your passport
  • A signed copy of the Supervisory support form
  • A Research Proposal (see Step 2)
  • Evidence of your qualifications
  • Certified copies of transcripts/academic records and testamur/degree certificates for ALL previous university studies, complete and incomplete. A copy of your research thesis (from your Honours or Masters degree)
  • A Curriculum Vitae (CV), this must include the contact details of two referees
  • Evidence of English language proficiency

Once you have prepared your documents, use the Online Application System to submit your application.

Detailed instructions on how to complete the form can be found using our 'HDR How to Apply guide' (PDF 1.4 MB).

When prompted, please ensure you copy and paste the exact project title as listed at available projects.

Once all the mandatory fields have been completed, and the supporting documents have been uploaded to your application, please click the submit button.

• The Graduate Research Office will undertake an initial assessment of your application.
• If you meet the minimum entry requirements for your chosen course, your application will be forwarded to your proposed School/Institute and College for consideration.
• The Graduate Research Office will advise you of the outcome of your application via email.

You will receive a formal written offer of admission via email. The offer will include terms and conditions of candidature and, if applicable, scholarship conditions.

• Domestic candidates have two weeks to accept or decline an offer of candidature and/or scholarship, and two months to commence their candidature.
• International candidates have eight weeks to accept or decline an offer of candidature and/or scholarship, and six months to commence their candidature. International candidates who accept an offer of candidature only must be able to cover all expenses associated with a research degree.