Fully Funded UWA Research Scholarships for 2026 – Study a Master’s or PhD in Australia

Overview

The University of Western Australia (UWA), one of Australia’s top research-intensive institutions, offers prestigious research scholarships for both domestic and international students pursuing Higher Degree by Research (HDR) programs, including Master’s by Research and PhD. These scholarships are awarded through merit-based competitive selection rounds, covering tuition fees, living allowances (stipends), health insurance, relocation, and research-related costs. UWA welcomes outstanding applicants with strong academic backgrounds and high research potential.

Scholarship Categories

Scholarships are funded by:

• The Australian Government (e.g., RTP Stipend and Fee Offset)

• The University of Western Australia

• External organizations

Typical benefits include:

• Full tuition fee waiver

• Annual living stipend

• Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC)

• Relocation and travel allowances

• Access to development opportunities and support

Eligibility Criteria

• Must be applying for a Higher Degree by Research (Master’s or PhD) at UWA

• Demonstrated academic excellence and research potential

• Meet English language proficiency requirements

• Open to:

  • Domestic applicants

  • International applicants (including UWA alumni eligible for the domestic round)

• Must submit all required documentation during the application window

Documents Required

• Academic transcripts and certificates

• Curriculum Vitae (CV)

• Research proposal

• Two academic referee reports

• Proof of English language proficiency (e.g., IELTS/TOEFL)

• Supervisor support (recommended for better chances)

Important Notes

• Applicants must apply for admission and the scholarship together through UWA’s HDR application portal.

• Existing HDR students or those with UWA offers need to submit a separate scholarship application only.

Scholarship Rounds and Deadlines

International Round (Commencement in 2026)

• Open: 1 July 2025 (09:00 am AWST)

• Close: 31 August 2025 (11:59 pm AWST)

• Ranking: 1 September – 12 October 2025

• Offers From: 20 October 2025

• Commencement: 2 February – 31 March 2026

Domestic Round (Also includes UWA international students)

• Open: 1 September 2025 (09:00 am AWST)

• Close: 31 October 2025 (11:59 pm AWST)

• Ranking: 1 November – 5 December 2025

• Offers From: 8 December 2025

• Commencement: 2 February – 31 March 2026

Application Process

• Apply via the UWA HDR online portal
• Read the “Advice for Applicants” carefully
• Prepare and upload all required documents
• Ensure a supervisor is willing to support your application (recommended)