The Higher Degree by Research Scholarships at Edith Cowan University (ECU) in Australia support excellent postgraduate students in pursuing advanced research degrees — including Master by Research and Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) programs. These awards are based on academic merit and research potential and aim to help scholars focus fully on their studies and research.
Program Overview
‑ Host University: Edith Cowan University (ECU), Australia
‑ Study Levels: Master by Research and PhD (including Integrated PhD)
‑ Selection Basis: Academic excellence and research performance
‑ Opportunity Types: ECU Higher Degree by Research Scholarship or an RTP (Research Training Program) Stipend Scholarship
Key Benefits
‑ Tuition fee sponsorship: The scholarship covers your research degree tuition fees.
‑ Stipend support: Recipients receive a living allowance of around AUD 35,000 per year, paid fortnightly while enrolled full‑time.
‑ Additional allowances: Where applicable, domestic students may receive a relocation allowance, and international students may receive partial reimbursement of Overseas Student Health Cover costs.
‑ Duration: Up to 3 years full‑time support for PhD and 2 years full‑time for Master by Research.
Who Can Apply
‑ Applicants must have an offer (conditional or unconditional) to enrol in a Master by Research or PhD (including an Integrated PhD) at ECU before the scholarship deadline.
‑ Both domestic and international students are eligible, provided they meet enrolment and research requirements.
Eligibility Requirements
To be considered:
• You must hold a confirmed or pending offer of admission into an ECU research degree (PhD, Integrated PhD, or Master by Research).
• You must have approval from a principal supervisor to undertake your proposed research.
• Applicants who have recently held certain Australian government‑backed scholarships (e.g., Australia Awards) may be ineligible.
• Scholarships are generally available for candidates starting by the specified semester intake (e.g., Semester 1).
Application Process & Deadlines
‑ Prospective candidates usually apply through ECU’s online scholarship portal after securing admission and supervisor support.
‑ For example, applications may open in early September and close in October each year for the following academic intake.
Why This Scholarship Matters
This award provides substantial financial backing and recognition for students pursuing research at a university in Australia. It covers crucial costs like tuition and living expenses, allowing scholars to focus on advanced research, innovation, and academic contributions in their field.
