Are you looking for a fully funded research scholarship to pursue a PhD or Master of Philosophy in Australia? The Graduate Research School Scholarships (UQGRSS) 2026 at the University of Queensland (UQ) provide an outstanding opportunity for both domestic and international students to receive financial support while undertaking world-class research studies.
Graduate Research School Scholarships (UQGRSS) 2026
The Graduate Research School Scholarships (UQGRSS) 2026 include the Australian Government Research Training Program (RTP) and are designed to support exceptional students pursuing higher degree research programs. These prestigious scholarships provide a generous tax-free living stipend, tuition fee support, and overseas student health coverage for eligible international students.
The program aims to attract outstanding researchers from around the world and help them focus on innovative research projects that can contribute to global knowledge and solve real-world challenges.
Graduate Research School Scholarships (UQGRSS) 2026 Summary
| Category | Details |
| Host Country | Australia |
| Study Destination | University of Queensland (UQ) |
| Scholarship Name | Graduate Research School Scholarships (UQGRSS) – including Research Training Program (RTP) |
| Study Level | Postgraduate Research (HDR) |
| Eligible Applicants | Domestic and International Students |
| Study Areas | All Study Areas |
| Scholarship Focus | Academic Excellence |
| Scholarship Value | Living stipend of AUD $37,500 per year (tax-free), indexed annually, plus Single Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) |
| Scholarship Duration | 3.5 years with possible extension |
| Number of Awards | Varies annually |
| Funding Type | Living Stipend and Tuition Support |
| Study Mode | Full-Time (Part-time considered in special circumstances) |
| Application Type | Automatic consideration through Expression of Interest (EOI) |
What Is the UQ Graduate Research School Scholarship All About?
The Graduate Research School Scholarships (UQGRSS) are highly competitive scholarships offered by the University of Queensland to support students undertaking higher-degree research programs.
These scholarships cover students pursuing:
- Doctor of Philosophy (PhD)
- Master of Philosophy (MPhil)
- Research-focused professional doctorate programs
The scholarship package is designed to relieve students of financial burdens so they can dedicate themselves entirely to their research projects.
Students benefit from a strong academic environment, access to world-class laboratories, experienced supervisors, and extensive research resources.
The University of Queensland is internationally recognized for research excellence, making it an attractive destination for ambitious scholars worldwide.
Who Can Apply? (Eligibility Criteria)
To qualify for the Graduate Research School Scholarships (UQGRSS) 2026, applicants must meet the following requirements:
- Must be either a domestic or international student.
- Must be nominated by an enrolling school or institute at the University of Queensland.
- Must satisfy all admission requirements for a higher degree by research program.
- Must not be receiving another living allowance or scholarship that provides more than 75% of the RTP living stipend rate.
- Must be applying for a PhD, Master of Philosophy, or research-focused professional doctorate.
- Must demonstrate strong academic performance and research capability.
For Part-Time Study Applicants
Domestic students with any of the following circumstances may be considered for part-time scholarship arrangements:
- Carer responsibilities
- Medical conditions
- Disabilities that prevent full-time study
Supporting evidence must be provided during the application process.
Scholarship Benefits
Recipients of the Graduate Research School Scholarships (UQGRSS) will receive substantial financial support, including the following:
Tax-Free Living Stipend
Students will receive:
- AUD $37,500 per year (2026 rate)
- Tax-free payments
- Annual indexation adjustments
Tuition Fee Support
Eligible students will receive tuition fee assistance throughout their research program.
Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC)
International students will receive:
- Single Overseas Student Health Cover
- Health insurance for the duration of their studies
Scholarship Duration
The scholarship covers:
- 3.5 years initially
- One possible extension, subject to UQ and RTP policies
Available Study Areas
The scholarship is open to students from all academic disciplines offered at the University of Queensland.
Fields may include:
- Engineering
- Medicine
- Health Sciences
- Business
- Agriculture
- Environmental Sciences
- Law
- Social Sciences
- Computer Science
- Education
- Arts and Humanities
- Science and Technology
Required Documents
Applicants should prepare the following documents before applying:
New Applicants
- Academic transcripts
- Curriculum Vitae (CV)
- Research proposal (if required)
- Evidence of academic achievements
- Any additional documents requested by the supervisor or faculty
Current UQ Students
Applicants must provide:
- Details of their candidature
- Details of their Principal Advisor
- Current CV
- Names of two referees
After submission:
- The principal advisor will complete a support form.
- Referees will be contacted to submit referee reports.
Step-by-Step Application Procedure
Step 1: Check Eligibility
Ensure you meet the admission requirements for your preferred PhD or Master of Philosophy program.
Step 2: Find a Suitable Supervisor
Identify a supervisor whose expertise aligns with your proposed research topic.
A strong supervisor relationship significantly strengthens your application.
Step 3: Submit an Expression of Interest (EOI)
Submit an EOI for your chosen research program.
You do not need to submit a separate scholarship application.
Step 4: Complete the Scholarship Section
Within your EOI, answer the following:
- Are you applying for an advertised project? Select “No”.
- Are you applying for or have you been awarded a non-UQ scholarship? Select “No”.
- Domestic applicants should indicate whether they want to be considered for a living stipend scholarship.
Step 5: Supervisor Assessment
If your nominated supervisor supports your EOI, you will be invited to submit a final application.
Step 6: Await Outcome
The University of Queensland will assess your application and communicate the final decision via email.
Current UQ students will receive their results after final academic results are published.
Selection Criteria
Applications are evaluated using UQ’s scholarship selection rubric, which considers:
Academic Performance
Assessors will review:
- Previous grades
- Academic achievements
- Research capability
Research Project Quality
Your proposed project should:
- Be innovative
- Be feasible
- Demonstrate clear research value
Research Environment
The university will evaluate:
- Available facilities
- Research resources
- Institutional support
Supervisory Team Quality
The advisory team will be assessed based on:
- Successful supervision history
- Appropriate workload
- Complementary expertise
Why Study at the University of Queensland?
Globally Recognised Institution
UQ consistently ranks among the world’s leading universities for teaching and research excellence.
World-Class Research Facilities
Students gain access to:
- Advanced laboratories
- Research centres
- State-of-the-art technology
Outstanding Supervisors
Researchers work alongside internationally recognized academics and industry experts.
Strong International Community
Students benefit from a diverse learning environment with scholars from around the world.
Career Opportunities
Graduates often pursue successful careers in:
- Academia
- Government
- Industry
- International organisations
- Research institutions
If you have strong academic credentials and a passion for research, this scholarship could be your chance to become a future leader in your field.
For more information and to begin your application, visit the official University of Queensland Graduate Research School website.
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