Looking to pursue a fully funded PhD or Masterβs by Research in Australia? The University of Southern Queensland (UniSQ) is now accepting applications for the prestigious HDR (Higher Degree by Research) Scholarship Round 2025, offering generous support for international research students.
With a tax-free stipend of AUD $38,000 per year, full tuition fee coverage, and access to top-tier supervision, UniSQ is calling outstanding global applicants to join a thriving research ecosystem that aligns with real-world impact and innovation.
π About the Scholarship
The UniSQ HDR Scholarship 2025 is part of UniSQβs ongoing commitment to attract high-achieving international research students and foster world-class academic talent in Australia.
π Host Country: Australia
π« Institution: University of Southern Queensland (UniSQ)
π Duration: Up to 3 years Full-Time Equivalent (FTE)
π Deadline: 30 September 2025
π― Program Start: Early 2026
π What Does the UniSQ HDR Scholarship Include?
This is a fully funded research scholarship, available for PhD and Masterβs by Research applicants.
β Scholarship Benefits:
- π° Stipend: AUD $38,000 per annum (tax-free)
- π Full Tuition Fee Coverage for the entire duration of the research program
- π Time already spent toward the degree will be deducted from the maximum scholarship term
- π§βπ Available for on-campus, full-time international students only
- π For research commencing or continuing in 2026
This generous scholarship helps eliminate financial burdens so you can focus on producing high-quality, impactful research.
π©βπ¬ Who Can Apply?
This opportunity is open to international students only (non-Australian or non-New Zealand citizens or permanent residents) who meet the academic and enrollment criteria.
β Eligibility Criteria:
- π Hold a Bachelorβs Degree with First Class Honours (or equivalent)
- π Must be eligible for full-time, on-campus enrolment in a research program at UniSQ
- π Must commence or continue studies in 2026
- π Must not hold citizenship or permanent residency in Australia or New Zealand
π― Selection Criteria
UniSQ uses a merit-based evaluation system, focusing on both academic and research readiness.
Candidates will be assessed based on:
- Academic Achievement
- First-Class Honours or equivalent
- Postgraduate academic performance
- Academic awards or distinctions
- Research Capability
- Research publications
- Conference participation
- Internship or lab experiences
- Research Project & Environment
- Quality and feasibility of the proposed project
- Alignment with UniSQβs research priorities (e.g., agriculture, engineering, digital innovation, regional development)
- Supervisory Team
- Strength and relevance of the supervisory match
- Capacity of the research team to support the student
π Fields of Study
UniSQ encourages applications from a broad range of disciplines aligned with their research strengths, including:
- πΎ Agriculture and Environmental Science
- π οΈ Engineering and Built Environment
- π± Digital & Computational Innovation
- π§ Health and Psychology
- π Business, Law, and Policy
- π‘ Space and Astrophysics
- 𧬠Biomedical Science
- π Education and Social Sciences
Applicants are encouraged to discuss their ideas with potential supervisors ahead of time to ensure research alignment.
π Required Documents
Youβll need to compile the following documents as part of your application:
- β Supervisor Support Letter
- β Current CV (highlighting academic achievements, research outputs, and experience)
- β Preliminary Research Proposal
- β Statement addressing the Selection Criteria
- β Proof of Citizenship or Passport Copy
- β Official Academic Transcripts & Certificates
Ensure all documents are properly formatted and clearly address the selection criteria.
π How to Apply
- π§ Email your complete application to:
hdrscholarships@unisq.edu.au - π₯οΈ Or submit via the official scholarship application portal linked below: π International PhD Applicants
π Domestic PhD Applicants
π Masters by Research Applicants
π Deadline: All applications must be submitted by 30 September 2025.
Pro tip: Reach out to your potential supervisor early. Youβll need a Supervisor Support Letter for your application to be eligible.
If you require any help regarding your application, you can contact us at scholarshipswithaakash@gmail.com
π Why Choose UniSQ?
The University of Southern Queensland is a leader in regional innovation and applied research, with multiple campuses and a growing global reputation. As an HDR student, youβll gain:
- π International networking opportunities
- π§ͺ Access to high-tech labs and research facilities
- πΌ Career development and researcher training
- π Strong publication and presentation support
- π A vibrant and supportive research culture
Whether your goal is academia, industry, or policy, UniSQ provides the tools, mentorship, and resources to succeed.
π€ Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
β Is this scholarship open to international students?
β Yes. Only non-Australian and non-New Zealand citizens or PR holders are eligible.
β Can I apply if Iβm already enrolled in a UniSQ research program?
Yes, but the scholarship duration will be reduced by the time already spent.
β Is the stipend taxable?
No. The AUD $38,000/year stipend is tax-free.
β Do I need a supervisor before applying?
Yes. You must obtain a Supervisor Support Letter as part of your application.
β When will I receive the results?
Shortlisted candidates will be contacted in late 2025 for research commencement in early 2026.
π Final Thoughts
The UniSQ HDR Scholarship 2025 is one of the most generous and competitive funding opportunities for international research students looking to pursue their academic dreams in Australia. With full funding, world-class supervision, and a wide range of research fields, UniSQ is a top destination for ambitious scholars aiming to tackle global challenges through research.
π Donβt miss the deadline: 30 September 2025
π§βπ Start planning your application today and join a university committed to innovation, inclusion, and impact.
π§βπ Author Bio

Mubeen Ali Niaz
Founder of ScholarshipsWithAakash.site
Mubeen curates top-ranked, fully funded scholarships for international students. With a strong background in global education and SEO, he helps students worldwide gain access to world-class research programs.
Stay tuned with Scholarships with Aakash β Where Your Academic Dreams Take Flight.
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