The University of Southern Queensland (UniSQ) is inviting applications for its International Stipend and Fee Research Scholarship (DPHD) for students commencing or undertaking a Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in 2027. This fully funded scholarship supports outstanding international researchers across all disciplines, provided their proposed research aligns with UniSQ’s flagship research areas.
The scholarship provides an annual stipend of AUD $39,000 together with full tuition fee coverage for eligible international PhD candidates.
About the Scholarship
The International Stipend and Fee Research Scholarship is designed to attract high-achieving international researchers who wish to pursue innovative doctoral research at UniSQ. Applicants may submit proposals in any field of study, provided the research aligns with one of the university’s strategic flagship research priorities.
Before applying, prospective students are encouraged to identify a suitable academic supervisor and discuss which flagship research area best matches their proposed project. Scholarship and tuition fee support are submitted through one combined application, rather than separate funding applications.
Scholarship Benefits
Successful recipients will receive comprehensive financial support throughout their doctoral studies, including:
- AUD $39,000 annual living stipend
- Full tuition fees paid by UniSQ
- Funding for up to three years of full-time study
- Access to world-class research facilities and academic supervision
For continuing doctoral candidates, any previous period already completed toward the PhD will be deducted from the maximum scholarship duration.
Research Areas and Industry Opportunities
UniSQ welcomes applications across a broad range of research disciplines connected to its flagship research themes. Applicants can also explore available research thesis topics or collaborate with UniSQ experts to develop an original research proposal.
A distinctive feature of the scholarship is the optional Industry Stream, which enables candidates to undertake applied research in collaboration with an industry partner. This pathway includes:
- A mandatory 60-day industry internship
- Opportunities for co-funded scholarships and industry stipend top-ups
- Stronger industry engagement and research impact
Applicants choosing the Industry Stream must secure an industry partner and submit a Letter of Support as part of their application. Prospective supervisors may also assist candidates in identifying suitable industry collaborators.
Additional Scholarship Pathways
Beyond the Industry Stream, UniSQ offers dedicated scholarship opportunities for:
- Women in STEMM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics and Medicine)
- Students with disabilities
These initiatives aim to promote greater diversity and inclusion within postgraduate research.
Eligibility Criteria
The scholarship is open to international students who are commencing or enrolled in a Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) at UniSQ in 2027.
To be eligible, applicants must:
- Meet the admission requirements for the UniSQ PhD programme
- Submit a separate application for admission into the doctoral programme
- Align their proposed research with a UniSQ flagship research area
- Identify and engage with a prospective academic supervisor
For continuing students applying to the Industry Stream, eligibility requires being within 18 months of commencing full-time studies or 36 months of commencing part-time studies.
Application Process
Applying for the scholarship involves two important steps.
First, candidates must begin their PhD admission application, as scholarship eligibility depends on applying for entry into the doctoral programme.
Secondly, applicants submit the combined stipend and tuition scholarship application through UniSQ’s online scholarship portal. During the application process, candidates will nominate the flagship research area that best reflects their proposed doctoral project.
Applicants interested in the Industry Stream should consult UniSQ’s Commercialisation and Partnerships team to ensure their internship proposal satisfies university requirements before submitting their application.
Why Choose UniSQ?
The University of Southern Queensland is recognised for its strong research culture and commitment to addressing global challenges through innovative, interdisciplinary scholarship. International PhD candidates benefit from expert supervision, collaborative research environments, industry engagement opportunities and generous financial support that enables them to focus on producing high-quality doctoral research.
For aspiring researchers seeking a fully funded PhD in Australia, the UniSQ International Stipend and Fee Research Scholarship represents an excellent opportunity to undertake impactful research while receiving substantial academic and financial support.
Scholarship Value
- Living Stipend: AUD $39,000 per year
- Tuition Fees: Fully covered for up to 3 years
- Study Level: Doctor of Philosophy (PhD)
- Location: University of Southern Queensland, Australia
