phd program in australia

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How to get a PhD

Study tips Published 5 Apr, 2022  ·  4-minute read

Trying to wrap your head around how PhD programs work? We don’t blame you. Sometimes it feels like you need a PhD just to figure out how to get a PhD.

So, with a little help from our academics and some UQ PhD candidates, we’ve broken down the application and preparation process into 10 manageable steps:

• Complete prior research
• Choose your topic
• Find a PhD supervisor
• Write your PhD proposal
• Identify potential scholarships
• Gather required documents and apply
• Determine if you'll continue working during your PhD
• Calculate how long you’ll be researching your PhD
• Develop the traits and behaviours of a good PhD student
• Apply and get accepted

Let’s discuss how to get a PhD in Australia – from choosing your topic to getting stuck into the actual research.

1. Complete prior research (if necessary)

You don’t necessarily need a master’s degree to start a PhD. However, you do need to have completed extensive research. This might involve an academic research program (such as a bachelor's degree with an honours year or a Master of Philosophy ), research conducted in your professional career, or a combination of both. The important thing is that you can demonstrate experience in conducting effective research, as this is a key part of the PhD selection criteria.

Learn more about doing a PhD without a master's degree

2. Choose your topic

Whether you’re developing a thesis on a topic you’ve already worked on or branching out into a new area of interest, you’ll want to know early what kind of topic you want to research for your PhD. Finding a niche that sparks your curiosity is important for ensuring you’ll stay inspired during the 3+ years ahead.

Keep in mind that you generally have two options here. You can complete a PhD by:

• joining an existing research project in an area that interests you 
• start a fresh research project that aligns with your specific goals.

Get tips for choosing your PhD topic or explore available research projects at UQ

3. Find a PhD supervisor

One of the essential steps to consider when thinking about how to get a PhD is finding someone to guide you through the process.

Approaching academics about your PhD can be intimidating, but shortlisting and selecting the most appropriate person / team to supervise your research project is important. By choosing your mentor carefully, you can ensure you’ve got someone in your corner who understands your research, has relevant expertise, and will be there to support you throughout your journey.

Learn how to find the right PhD supervisor

4. Write your PhD proposal

Check with your supervisor to see if they require a formal PhD proposal (most will, but not all). If so, with their guidance, it’s time to put pen to paper (or fingers to keyboard).

Even if your supervisor doesn't explicitly ask for one, a PhD proposal is a valuable document for outlining the scope of your research and giving your project its initial momentum – so it might be worth writing one either way.

Learn how to write a good PhD proposal

5. Identify potential scholarships

Dedicating yourself to research sometimes means sacrificing your income in the short term, though it can lead to more financial security in the long term . To help support yourself during your studies, you can apply for PhD scholarships and funding.

Learn how to get a PhD scholarship

6. Gather required documents and apply

It’s time to jump online and do the official application process. Aside from your research proposal, you should also prepare to provide your:

• academic CV
• academic transcript
• degree certificate(s)
• English language documents (if needed)
• ID (such as a passport)
• two references / letters of recommendation from people who can comment on your research experience.

  Learn how to apply online for a UQ PhD

7. Determine if you'll continue working during your PhD

Some PhD candidates continue doing part-time or casual work while completing their research. However, this isn't easy and may not be feasible in most cases; it takes serious time-management skills to juggle any kind of job alongside a full-time PhD. So, think carefully about whether you’d like to keep working in some capacity or commit your attention fully to your research.

Learn more about working while doing a PhD

8. Calculate how long you’ll be researching your PhD

To complete your PhD within the standard 3.5-year* timeframe, you'll need to be organised with a clear project plan. Of course, the very nature of research is that you'll discover unexpected things and take unplanned detours along the way. So, your plan should include contingencies for any obstacles you might hit to ensure you still complete your research on time. 

*In special cases, you may be able to request an extension of your tuition for up to 4 years, but that is the maximum time allowed for a PhD.

Explore how long a PhD takes

9. Develop the traits and behaviours of a good PhD student

We know you’ve already got what it takes, but there are some skills and attributes you could cultivate or practise to make your upcoming journey a little smoother. Between writing your proposal and meeting with potential supervisors, be sure to set some time aside to work on yourself as well.

Discover what makes a good PhD student

10. Apply and get accepted

All the preparation is done. You’ve equipped all the gear, chosen your guide and mapped out your route. It's time to apply and set the wheels in motion.

Submit your PhD application

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Doctor of Philosophy

As a Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) candidate, you’ll complete a substantial program of independent and original research in your chosen field of study. A PhD prepares you for a range of careers - from academic to industry and is the highest degree qualification available. 

• 3–4 years (full time) minimum commitment of 35 – 40 hours per week or
• 6–8 years (part time) minimum commitment of 15 hours per week.
• Offered in all Faculties
• A thesis of no more than 100,000 words.

Entry requirements

Future careers.

• Fees & costs

UNSW undertakes world-class research that tackles some of the greatest challenges facing society today. When you join the UNSW research community, you join a passionate collective of people who are using research to transform minds, transform lives, and transform the world.

UNSW will support you to develop the skills and expertise you need to make a difference in your field. We are committed to providing you with an unmatched PhD experience that includes outstanding research training and mentorship, world-class supervision, and access to research environments defined by excellence and collaboration.

You will receive advanced specialist research training and produce a thesis that provides evidence for independent thought, critical analysis, and expert knowledge of the discipline in an international context. In some disciplines, creative work may form part of the thesis.

Find information about individual PhD programs and codes on the UNSW Handbook .

Learn about the graduate attributes and learning outcomes for UNSW higher degree research programs here . 

The minimum requirement for admission to a PhD is:

• A UNSW Bachelor degree with first or upper second class Honours from UNSW; or
• a completed Master by Research from UNSW with a substantial research component and demonstrated capacity for timely completion of a high quality research thesis; or
• an equivalent qualification from a tertiary institution as determined by the Faculty Higher Degree Committee (HDC)

The minimum requirement for UNSW Scholarship with admission to a PhD is:

• a four year Bachelor degree with first or upper second class Honours from an Australian institution or equivalent research qualification as above.

You may think of yourself as a student, but we think of you as a professional researcher in the early stages of a long and vibrant career.

UNSW will provide you with the skills and expertise to pursue a range of career pathways after you graduate, from academia to industry.

As a PhD candidate, you’ll have access to a wealth of opportunities to work with and alongside industry through industry PhD programs to internships and mentorships .

You’ll also have access to the most comprehensive student entrepreneurship program in Australia, that can help you develop your ideas, raise capital and launch a startup.

Fees and costs

The costs associated with enrolment in a research higher degree program vary depending on whether you are a domestic or international candidate. Learn more about the fees and costs here .

Have questions? Contact us

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Postgraduate research degrees

Our research is driven by the big picture. The University of Sydney is home to leading researchers who are finding solutions to the world's most pressing issues by changing the way they look at them. 

We are home to 90 world‑renowned multidisciplinary research and teaching centres that tackle some of the world’s biggest challenges, such as health, climate change and food security. These centres include the Charles Perkins Centre, the Brain and Mind Centre ,  The University of Sydney Nano Institute , the Sydney Policy Lab , the Sydney Environment Institute , and the Sydney Southeast Asia Centre .

Our interdisciplinary approach means that students are part of a community of scholars that unites experts in fields as diverse as medicine, arts, social sciences, engineering, information technologies and science. 

As a researcher at Sydney, you'll work alongside some of the world's brightest and most accomplished academics. You can access high-calibre facilities and unique international partnerships with top-ranked institutions, including Stanford, UCLA, the University of Edinburgh, Utrecht University, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, and the University of Hong Kong.

Types of research degrees

Master's degree by research.

A master's degree by research at Sydney:

• is the second-highest qualification on the Australian Qualifications Framework
• can be a gateway to study at a PhD level
• is usually one to two years full-time or two to four years part-time*
• is awarded based on a supervised thesis, which makes a substantial contribution to the knowledge of the subject concerned.

*Part-time is not available to international student visa holders.

Doctor of Philosophy (PhD)

A PhD at Sydney:

• is our premier research award and the highest qualification on the Australian Qualifications Framework
• comprises of independent research and writing on an approved topic toward a thesis for examination
• may be undertaken in all faculties and divisions, or across disciplines
• is usually 3.5 years of full-time or seven years of part-time* study.

If you’re interested in a Joint PhD program, you need to follow the Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) application steps 1-3. In addition, your proposed supervisor will need to complete a proposal to negotiate a student agreement form. If accepted, you will also be required to sign an individual student agreement. After your student agreement is finalised, you will then be sent an application form for the Joint PhD program.

Please refer to the University's Dual and Joint Degree Policy for full policy details.

Download our  Joint PhD programs factsheet (pdf, 116KB)  to learn more.

Professional doctorate

A professional doctorate at Sydney:

• allows candidates to pursue rigorous scholarship alongside advancing their practice in many fields
• is usually three to four years of full-time or six to eight years of part-time* study.

Internship opportunities

Grow professionally and academically through a paid 3-6 month internship with an industry partner as you complete your degree.

The University of Sydney has partnered with  Australian Postgraduate Research Intern (APR.Intern)  to provide domestic and international HDR students with internship opportunities  in a range of sectors and disciplines.

A paid internship will allow you to:

• Develop competencies that will contribute to your research
• Gain industry experience, develop skills and build networks
• Enhance your employability
• Earn additional income

HDR coursework 

HDR coursework is mandatory for some of our research degrees. HDR coursework adds to your researcher toolkit so you can graduate with a robust set of skills, for a career in academia or industry.

Your faculty may elect to define certain units of study as mandatory for a given degree, or define any other studies as required by the progress evaluation panel of the research project. Refer to the relevant course in the  handbook .  

Frequently asked questions

Getting started, do i need prior research experience.

Yes, all HDR courses require prior research experience. This is because HDR courses are largely self-driven, requiring pre-requisite research, time and project management skills.

If I have no prior research experience how can I get started?

If you do not have any previous research experience, there are ways to gain what you need. Both the one-year honours and masters by coursework degrees containing substantial research components are great pathways into research. These courses will allow you to gain the research skills necessary to apply for the PhD.

What is the difference between a Master of Philosophy/Research and a PhD?

The PhD is our premier research award and the highest qualification on the Australian Qualifications Framework. The PhD is usually three years full-time or six years part-time.

The Master of Philosophy/Research is usually one to two years full-time or four years part-time (part-time is available to domestic students only). A PhD thesis is generally around 80,000 words while a master’s thesis is 50,000 words.

How do I find a supervisor?

To browse through the profiles of our researchers and learn about their current and past research, please refer to Find a Researcher . Here, you will also be able to access the publications lists and contact details of our researchers. 

My research idea crosses two disciplines – is this a problem?

No. Interdisciplinary research is highly regarded in the world of academia and working across disciplines can be very beneficial in developing and demonstrating different analytical skills. Working on research from two perspectives can also offer insight that you would not be able to achieve from one discipline perspective.

What are the English language requirements for a PhD?

Please check your  course page  for the requirements of each course. Generally, the English requirements are between 6.0 to 7.0 IELTS overall or equivalent in other accepted English proficiency tests.

How much do HDR courses cost?

There are no course fees for domestic students – fees are covered by the government Research Training Program (RTP) fee offset. However, fees apply to international students. Please refer to the  course page  for fee details.

What scholarships are available?

We have one of the largest research schemes in Australia. Opportunities include the Australian government-funded Research Training Program (RTP) stipend scholarships, and the University of Sydney and faculty-specific awards. Explore your options .

Degree progression

Do i have to undertake hdr coursework.

It depends on your degree. Your faculty may define certain units of study as mandatory for a given degree. Where this is not the case, you may still have the opportunity to complete units of study that you find useful to support your learning and research. 

Can I transfer from the Master of Philosophy into a PhD?

It is possible for students to move to the PhD after the first year of study, if you have made satisfactory progress and if the transfer is approved by your Faculty. It is important to inform your supervisor of your plans early so that you can work on a timeline together to achieve this goal.

Support during your studies

Am i able to work while studying my hdr course full-time.

Yes, you can work during your PhD. How many hours you take on is at your own discretion, and you must ensure that you still allow time for the completion of your research. International HDR students can generally work more hours than coursework students. Please check your individual visa for specific restrictions.

Will the university employ me during my PhD?

There are sometimes opportunities for PhD candidates to engage in paid employment at the University, but this is not guaranteed and is dependent on the Faculty/Department. If opportunities do arise, they may be in the form of teaching, marking, acting as a research assistant, or other roles.

What support services are available to research students?

There is extensive support for research students at Sydney, including 100+ multidisciplinary research and teaching centres.

Other services:

• Library workshops for research skills
• Academic Liasion Librarians
• Research Support Officers
• Careers Centre
• Sydney University Postgraduate Representative Association (SUPRA)
• Learning Hub

How to apply

Find a supervisor.

Search by keyword, location, topic or supervisor name

• 1800 SYD UNI ( 1800 793 864 )
• or +61 2 8627 1444

Student Centre, Level 3 Jane Foss Russell Building, Darlington Campus

Opening hours: 9am to 5pm, Monday to Friday

Prospective students

Facts & figures

Research at Sydney

• Top 20 Ranked one of the world's top universities*
• 100% of our research is ranked at world standard and above by the Australian Research Council
• 100+ multidisciplinary research and teaching centres
• * QS World University Rankings 2024

Research scholarships

Find the right scholarship for you

How to write a research proposal

A guide to preparing a strong research proposal

6 ways to finance your postgraduate study

Find out how to reduce the cost of your tuition fees

ANU College of Science

Doctor of Philosophy (PhD)

The Australian National University provides PhD students with a vibrant research community and outstanding program support .  When selecting a research program, an institution's reputation is everything. ANU is one of the world's leading universities, and the smart choice for your research program.

As a PhD student you will work with increased independence, under the direction of a supervisory panel of experts in the field. Your research will make an original and important contribution to human knowledge, research and development.

Program details

The major component of a research program is a substantial written work known as a thesis, which investigates a particular subject or issue. As a research student, you will work with increased independence, under the direction of an academic supervisor or a supervisory panel of academic staff.

A PhD will normally take you between 2-4 years to complete.

• 2 - 4 years full time
• Access to state-of-the-art facilities

The Doctor of Philosophy is your gateway to an academic or research career in science. In addition to academia, PhD graduates work in diverse fields within government, education, industry and media.

World class facilities

Students will have access to state-of-the-art facilities and support, including labs, computational services and recreation and relaxation rooms.

Learning experience

Industry engagement

Industry engagement is one of the best ways for a PhD student to test their capabilities as a researcher, and to obtain transferable and professional skills.

Get out of the classroom

PhD student Kate Holland takes us on a field trip to One Tree Island to explain her research.

PhD student unearths the Holy Grail of paleontology

Ilya Bobrovskiy had a crazy idea for his PhD. And then he made one of the biggest scientific breakthroughs of the year.

Fees & scholarships

Scholarships.

Whether you are looking for financial support to start your studies at ANU or help to move away from home for the first time, we have scholarship opportunities for you and your situation.

• How to apply
• International

Understand the how to apply steps

Visit the domestic postgraduate research applications page to prepare for your application to ANU.

Finding an academic supervisor

Prospective research students first need to identify a research project and find an academic supervisor.

Review the  fields of research  we offer and contact the academic convenor for advice about potential projects, supervisors, and the pre-application process. The  ANU Researchers  website is also a good place to start looking for a supervisor.

Email your academic supervisor directly to enquire about projects and supervision. Your email should outline the reason(s) why you are attracted to their field of research, the type of research you would like to pursue and a summary of your academic qualifications and research experience. You may also submit a short research proposal, however, this is not mandatory at this point.

The academic supervisor may contact you to discuss your research proposal and possibly other projects, or they may forward your email to other staff in the research school / centre.

Once an academic supervisor has been confirmed to support your application you may proceed to step three.

If you are not sure which area of research or supervisor matches your interest please complete an  expression of interest  and we will get in contact with you. Do not proceed to next step until advised.

Finding available scholarships

ANU Colleges and individual research schools offer a number of  scholarships  that are awarded on a merit basis. You can also talk to your academic supervisor about other sources of funding you might access to assist with living expenses and tuition fees.

Visit the international postgraduate research applications page to prepare for your application to ANU.

Need more information?

Send us an enquiry and we'll get back to you within 48 hours

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ANU Postgraduate research

Research is at the core of everything we do. It informs the content of our degrees, influences public policy and solves some of our region’s greatest challenges.

ANU postgraduate research

Find a supervisor

Scholarships & Fees

How to apply

Change the conversation

Studying an advanced, research-focused Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) or Master of Philosophy (MPhil) degree at The Australian National University (ANU) is an opportunity to make a substantial and original contribution to your discipline or area of professional practice.

We’ll automatically consider you for a scholarship when we receive your application.

Research areas

Our research priorities reflect the challenges facing the world today.

ANU researchers are currently exploring a range of disciplines and study areas .

university in the world

QS World University Rankings 2024

Nobel laureates among ANU staff & alumni

in Australia in 13 disciplines

QS World University Rankings by Subject 2023

for student-teacher ratio and staff qualifications

Good Universities Guide 2023

Before you apply

Find a potential supervisor and explore our colleges’ research opportunities. Some colleges have different application requirements – so make sure you’re aware of and follow these before you apply.

1. Find a supervisor

Discover potential supervisors. Explore their research and published works and find their contact details.

Search supervisors

2. ANU college research opportunities

Our colleges can provide you with information about research areas, supervisors and groups, as well as who to contact.

NOTE: More than one college can offer supervision in a particular study area.

• ANU College of Arts & Social Sciences
• ANU College of Asia & the Pacific
• ANU College of Business & Economics
• ANU College of Engineering, Computing & Cybernetics
• ANU College of Health & Medicine
• ANU College of Law
• ANU College of Science

3. Explore college application requirements

If you have found a supervisor you would like to work with and the college that offers this supervision, you will need to find out if there are any pre-application steps that your college would like you to take.

Most colleges would like you to find and secure the support of a potential supervisor before you complete your application. For example, the ANU College of Business & Economics has different arrangements for setting up supervision, so please check in with them before applying.

Some colleges will ask you to send a short description of your proposed area of research as an expression of interest and a summary of your academic qualifications, including grades, to them first.

Visit the ANU college research pages for pre-application advice (see the links under 'ANU colleges’ content above).

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Applying to ANU

You can apply at any time of the year – but if you would like to be considered for a scholarship, you will need to send your application within the scholarship’s application deadline.

Scholarship applicants

Your referees should send their reports before your scholarship’s deadline. Give them as much time as possible by completing your ANU application 2–3 weeks earlier than the scholarship’s deadline. We’ll contact your referees when we get your application.

Application requirements

Your application to study at ANU must meet the following requirements.

1. Minimum admission requirements

Explore our minimum admission requirements.

Requirements for admission to a Doctor of Philosophy degree

• An Australian bachelor’s degree with at least second-class honours (Upper first-class honours may be required by some programs) or the international equivalent, or
• Another degree with a significant research/thesis component, or
• A combination of qualifications, research publications and/or professional experience related to your field of study

Requirements for admission to a Master of Philosophy degree

• An Australian bachelor’s degree or higher, with an overall grade of distinction or higher, or the international equivalent, or
• Another equivalent degree, or
• A combination of qualifications, research publications and/or professional experience that are related to your field of study

2. English language requirements

You must meet our English language requirements to be eligible for admission to ANU. While you can apply without having met them, you will need to show that you do when you get a study offer from us.

Unsure whether you can meet the English language requirements? Contact your research school or the Graduate Research Office before you send your application.

Learn more about ANU English language requirements

3. Research proposal

Your draft research proposal only needs to be short. Check in with your potential supervisor to clarify their expectations for this proposal before you send it in with your application.

Your proposal should present your idea or question in your discipline area clearly. Consider it a statement about the basis of the research you’d like to do.

Your research proposal should:

• establish the relevance of your idea
• show gaps in your field – and how your research would address these
• include how you would go about your research project – your approach, methodologies and resources.

You will be able to change the proposal once you have enrolled in your program.

Learn about research proposals

4. Referees

Referee reports are mandatory when applying for admission to a HDR Program. At least 2 referees reports are required to commence assessment of the application. Academic referees, who are able to comment on the applicant’s ability to undertake the program, are preferred, however, professional references can also be used. The University may request additional referee reports during the assessment of the application.

Ensure their contact details are correct; we will email them a report to complete from within the application portal as soon as we have received your application.

If your referee is unable to access our system-generated referee report, they can contact the Admissions team and ask for another version of the form.

Your referees must send their completed reports confidentially and directly to the University rather than to you.

Reference documents:

• Research Application Referee Report (DOCX, 85.97 KB)

5. Supporting documentation

Upload clear, colour copies of your academic transcripts and graduation certificates with your application. You do not need to certify these documents, but they must be original copies. We will verify their authenticity.

If your academic documents were originally given to you in a language other than English, we will need official copies of the document in that language and original translations for verification purposes.

6. Incomplete qualifications

You can apply to ANU before you complete your current degree if you are in your final year. Advise the Graduate Research office your expected completion date via your application and supply a copy of the qualification when we make you an offer.

For more information, refer to ‘Supporting documentation’.

If you have the approval of a college and a potential supervisor, you can apply for admission to ANU. Without this endorsement, though, we might not be able to assess your application.

Choose the program you want to study from the Program & Courses catalogue

On the program’s page, click 'apply’ to open the application portal

Complete your application

Receiving an offer from ANU

After we assess your application, we will contact you via email about the outcome within 6–8 weeks (about 2 months). This could take longer if we're also considering you for a scholarship.

If you do not hear from ANU within two months, contact your research school or email the Graduate Research Office.

• Contact Graduate Research Office

Related links

Personalise your experience

Graduate Research

Doctor of Philosophy - Science

• Course code:   DR-PHILSCI

Course overview

Join one of our world-renowned research groups, work with state-of-the-art equipment, and soak up all the professional development opportunities and international connections that come with studying at Australia's leading university.

With many research disciplines to choose from (Ecosystem Sciences, BioSciences, Chemistry, Geography, Earth and Atmospheric Sciences, Mathematics and Statistics and Physics), and more than 500 academic researchers to work with, you’re sure to find a team and a PhD project that will suit you.

Global opportunities

In addition to our own leading PhD program, we also offer several joint PhD opportunities, where you can conduct your research at both the University of Melbourne and a  top research institution overseas .

Industry connections

To prepare you for your post-PhD career, you can take advantage of the time between submitting your thesis and it being conferred by completing a 3–6 month industry placement through our Specialist Certificate in Research Practice for Scientists .

Not just a researcher

The Melbourne experience enables our graduates to become specialists within their field, leaders in communities, attuned to cultural diversity, and active global citizens.

Related study areas

• Agricultural and veterinary sciences
• Agricultural sciences
• Bioinformatics
• Biological sciences
• Biomedical sciences
• Computer science
• Conservation
• Data and analytics
• Data science
• Earth and environmental sciences
• Engineering
• Environment
• Environmental engineering
• Environmental law, policy and sustainability
• Food science
• Health sciences
• Information systems
• Information technology and computer science
• Mathematics and statistics
• Veterinary science

Griffith University

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Home > Research study > PhDs and research degrees

PhDs and research degrees

Research programs and requirements

• Choose your research topic
• Find a supervisor
• Scholarship application tips
• Griffith Graduate Research School

Entry requirements and admission pathways options for research students

Whether you're beginning your research study or continuing at a higher level, our degrees provide a unique opportunity to follow a specific interest in a particular research area.

Doctor of Philosophy

The PhD is Griffith’s premier research training degree. It is awarded for a thesis (or a series of published papers), drafted under supervision, which makes an original, significant, and extensive contribution to knowledge and understanding in your field of study.

Learn more about PhDs

Doctor of Philosophy (by prior publication)

This degree can offer you formal recognition for your work if you are an established researcher and do not already hold a doctoral level qualification.

Learn more about PhDs by prior publication

Doctor of Medicine / Doctor of Philosophy concurrent pathway

The PhD will allow you to complete the first two years of the Doctor of Medicine program before commencing two years of full time PhD work in clinical research.

Learn more about concurrent pathways to a PhD

Professional Doctorates

These are integrated degrees of professional and research work, and include doctoral level coursework associated with a thesis.

Doctor of Philosophy in Clinical Psychology

Doctor of Education

Doctor of Musical Arts

Doctor of Visual Arts

Master of Philosophy

The Master of Philosophy (MPhil) is awarded for a thesis, drafted under supervision, which presents original research and demonstrates both knowledge of a research topic and discipline. It is shorter than a PhD and offered across all schools.

Learn more about the MPhil

Specialist Masters by Research

These are specialist degrees which combine coursework with professional and/or artistic practice.

Master of Arts Research

• Master of Design Research
• Master of Education and Professional Studies Research

Master of Medical Research

Master of Music Research

Master of Science

• Master of Visual Arts Research

Graduate Diploma of Research Studies

The Graduate Diploma of Research Studies provides a Griffith pathway to a PhD or MPhil for applicants who do not possess the required qualifications for direct admission. These are offered in specific disciplines.

• Graduate Diploma of Criminological Research Studies
• Graduate Diploma of Health Research
• Graduate Diploma of Law Research Studies
• Graduate Diploma of Research Studies in Business
• Graduate Diploma of Research Studies in Engineering
• Graduate Diploma of Research Studies in Information Technology
• Graduate Diploma of Research Studies in Science

Research study abroad

International students currently enrolled in a research degree in a university overseas may undertake a research project at Griffith University for one to three semesters, under the research study abroad program.

You’ll be able to study in any research area, provided supervision and resources are available. Credit gained at Griffith is transferred toward the degree at your home institution, with that institution’s agreement.

Learn more about research study abroad

A joint doctoral program allows you to undertake research at Griffith University and one of our partner universities.

Griffith offers a joint degree with the University of Chinese Academy of Sciences. Students undergo a five-year program commencing with one year of coursework training at UCAS , followed by a four-year research program at both UCAS and Griffith.

The GU - UCAS application round for Griffith University is currently closed.

Intake Dates

Griffith offers you the choice of four research intake dates to commence your PhD or Master of Philosophy.

If your research program includes coursework, please also check the trimester start dates .

Intake 3, 2024  8 July 2024

Intake 4, 2024  14 October 2024

Intake 1, 2025   24 February 2025

Intake 2, 2025 28 April 2025

Pathways to research

Griffith offers multiple admission pathways to a PhD or other doctoral degrees

Find out more

Fees and financial support

Domestic candidates.

Australian (domestic) candidates are any applicants who are: Australian citizens; or New Zealand citizens residing in Australia; or holders of an Australian permanent residency visa; or holders of an Australian permanent humanitarian visa.

If you are a domestic candidate applying for a doctorate or masters by research, you are currently exempt from tuition fees under the federal government’s Research Training Program. You will need to consider additional study costs such as personal study materials and some support services.

Note. Doctor of Philosophy (by Prior Publication), Master of Science, and Graduate Diploma of Research Studies candidates are required to pay tuition fees.

International candidates

International candidates are any applicants who are not Australian or New Zealand citizens or Australian Permanent Residents, or a holder of an Australian Permanent Humanitarian visa.

International candidates study on a fee-paying basis and they must pay the full costs of their education through tuition fees, either directly or through a third party (sponsor, government, or scholarship). International candidates will also need to consider living costs associated with studying in Australia, such as living expenses and accommodation.

Remote candidature

If you are not intending to relocate to the Brisbane/Gold Coast region to undertake your program, you can apply to pursue your candidature predominantly away from the University (remote candidature). A number of factors will need to be considered including the appointment of a qualified local supervisor and a minimum period to be spent on campus at the University. You will need to provide a statement with your application that addresses the following:

• The resources and facilities available at the location to support the research program (for example laboratory space, library facilities, computer access)
• A schedule of contact indicating the frequency and medium of communication between the candidate and supervisors
• A program of visits to the University, as required to undertake your research project
• Details of a qualified person at the location who has agreed to act as a local associate supervisor, where appropriate

Understand your program requirements

Griffith research programs have different requirements for entry and for completion.

Degree Finder

Equivalent qualifications for HDR program admission

Doctor of Philosophy (PhD)

Qualifications required

A bachelors degree with first-class or second-class honours (Division A), or a masters degree incorporating a significant research component with equivalent grades (GPA of at least 5.5, and a grade of 6.0 for the research component on a 7.0 point scale).

Doctor of Philosophy (by Prior Publication)

Established researcher of international standing in the respective field on the basis of an ongoing record of academic work, and for who admission to the PhD program is inappropriate; and have a portfolio of high quality publications that meet the program criteria.

A bachelors degree in psychology with first-class or second-class honours (Division A), or a masters degree in psychology incorporating a significant research component with equivalent grades (GPA of at least 5.5, and a grade of 6.0 for the research component on a 7.0 point scale). Qualifications must be accredited by the Australian Psychology Accreditation Council (APAC). Note: Admission is restricted to candidates who are registered Psychologists or who are eligible for probationary registration with the Psychology Board of Australia.

Doctor of Medicine/Doctor of Philosophy

A numerical score equivalent to a Distinction for year 1 of the Doctor of Medicine program; and a bachelors degree with first-class or second-class honours (Division A), or a masters degree incorporating a significant research component with equivalent grades (GPA of at least 5.5, and a grade of 6.0 for the research component on a 7.0 point scale).

Research Study Abroad (Non-Award)

Enrolled in a Doctoral program in an overseas institution.

A bachelors degree with first-class or second-class honours (Division A), or a masters degree incorporating a significant research component with equivalent grades (GPA of at least 5.5, and a grade of 6.0 for the research component on a 7.0 point scale), and professional engagement pertinent to the degree of at least 3 years.

A bachelors degree with first-class or second-class honours (Division A), or a masters degree incorporating a significant research component with equivalent grades (GPA of at least 5.5, and a grade of 6.0 for the research component on a 7.0 point scale), and normally professional experience pertinent to the degree of at least 5 years.

A bachelors degree with second-class honours (Division B), or a masters degree incorporating a significant research component with equivalent grades (GPA of at least 5.0, and a grade of 5.0 for the research component on a 7.0 point scale).

A postgraduate qualification with a GPA of at least 5.0 (on a 7.0 point scale), or a bachelors degree with second-class honours (Division B). Qualification must be in a related discipline.

Master of Education and Professional Research Studies

A Bachelor degree in medical science, biological science, pharmaceutical science or a related health discipline with a GPA of at least 5.0 (on a 7.0 point scale) or equivalent.

A Bachelor of Music degree with second-class honours (Division B) or a postgraduate qualification in music with appropriate professional experience.

A Bachelor of Science degree in microbiology in a relevant science discipline with a GPA of at least 5.0 (on a 7.0 point scale) or equivalent.

Master of Visual Arts

A bachelor degree with second-class honours (Division B) or an equivalent 4 year bachelor degree in an appropriate visual art or design discipline. Practitioners with substantial experience and a corresponding exhibition record will be considered.

Master of Design (Research)

English Language Requirements

All research applicants are expected to have reached an appropriate level of proficiency in English. International applicants and other applicants who have undertaken their prior studies overseas must provide documentary evidence of their English language proficiency (ELP). Full documentary evidence in support of English proficiency must be submitted with applications for candidature and scholarship.

English language tests

Applicants to research programs will need to show they meet:

• A minimum overall band score of 6.5 on the IELTS (Academic) with no band score less than 6.0
• OR a minimum score of 575 on the paper-based TOEFL including a score of no less than 5.0 on the TWE
• OR a score of 79 on the internet-based (iBT) TOEFL with no sub-score less than 19

English test results must be no more than two years old at the time of application. For a full list of accepted English tests and minimum scores, please see the Higher Degree Research Policy.

Applicants should be aware that these test scores are the minimum scores required by Griffith University for most disciplinary areas and that some elements may require higher levels of proficiency.

Higher Degree Research Policy

English pathway option

If you do not meet specific English entry requirements for your program, you may wish to consider English pathway options at Griffith University. The Griffith English Language Institute (GELI) provides high-quality English language instruction for international students who wish to prepare for postgraduate courses in Australia. GELI has three centres located at Griffith’s Nathan, Mt Gravatt and Gold Coast campuses. You can complete the Direct Entry Program at GELI to meet the language requirements for your program.

Direct Entry Program

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PhD by Distance

Become world-ready, from wherever you are in the world, with a UTS PhD by distance mode.

If your research is based internationally but you want access to UTS's world-leading researchers and reputation, you've been required to complete a PhD for your career but you don't want to relocate, or you want to expand your global networks to create real-world research impact, the PhD by distance mode might be right for you. 

A UTS PhD by distance mode empowers you to develop your future as a researcher in a global context —all without applying for a visa or subletting your apartment.

What you can expect

• full enrolment as a PhD student at UTS
• supervision and mentorship from a panel of experts
• administrative support and guidance from your faculty
• PhD from a Top 100 global university
• access to UTS online facilities and resources
• high-quality research training and professional skills development 

Study requirements

The study expectations of PhD by distance mode students are the same as on-campus students. This means that you will:

• need to meet the same admissions requirements , including English-language proficiency
• be supported by a panel of supervisors
• complete any mandatory coursework
• go through the same candidature stage assessments as other PhDs from your faculty
• be subject to the same student rules that govern PhD study at UTS
• have the same expected timelines for your study as other PhD students
• be liable for the same course fees as other international students unless you are assessed as eligible for a tuition fee scholarship

Support and development

As a fully-enrolled UTS student, you’ll have access to a variety of forms of support for your research, your professional development as a researcher, and your own health and wellbeing, including:

• UTS Library’s extensive digital catalogue and one-on-one researcher support
• online skills development workshops and training modules, including in areas like research writing, software training, and project management
• personalised advice from UTS Careers and access to online resources 
• inclusion in the online research student Teams channel

Find more information about the support available to you as a distance mode PhD student  (PDF, 0.8MB).  Please note that not all benefits available to on-campus students exist in digital form or translate to distance study.

Find out more: Distance mode is available for international students. Read all admissions requirements → There are scholarships that can help with fees. Find out more about the costs of a PhD by distance → Ready for the next steps? Explore the application process → 

UTS acknowledges the Gadigal people of the Eora Nation, the Boorooberongal people of the Dharug Nation, the Bidiagal people and the Gamaygal people, upon whose ancestral lands our university stands. We would also like to pay respect to the Elders both past and present, acknowledging them as the traditional custodians of knowledge for these lands.

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PhD Degrees in Australia

A PhD is the highest degree awarded at global universities. PhD study is based on a substantial research project in an area of academic interest, typically up to 100,000 words in length, written as a thesis which must be defended in an oral examination at the end of the program. All PhD students are assigned a supervisor, and the duration of a PhD is typically three years full-time and six years part-time.

Very few research degrees feature taught modules, and as such a, student is expected to take more responsibility for their work and schedule. Universities in Australia are known for their academic excellence and state-of-the-art research infrastructure, along with their support for enterprise partnerships.  

PhD Entry Requirements

Australian institutions are free to admit anyone to a PhD program, with admission generally conditional on the prospective student having completed an undergraduate degree with at least upper second-class honours, as well as a master's degree . English language ability proof is a must, and a minimum IELTS score of 6.5 is generally required. There is usually a first-year assessment of the remaining study, and the thesis is submitted at the end of the completed program.

Once you have decided on an area of research and have looked into how you will fund your study, there are a number of documents required when submitting your application. They include:

• Academic transcripts
• Academic references
• Personal statement
• Research proposal

- PhD Research Proposal

A research proposal is required by all students when applying to study for a PhD. The proposal should address the research you wish to undertake, how you will do it, and why it is important. A panel of experts must accept the proposal before your program can begin.

How much does a PhD cost in Australia?

Funding and researching a PhD can be expensive. In Australia, candidates can expect to pay 40,000 AUD- 60,000 AUD. Dedicated scholarships can help support your PhD, and it is rare for a PhD student not to be supported by some form of bursary, grant or scholarship .

Study a PhD in Australia

If you are interested in studying for a research degree in Australia, arrange a free consultation with SI-Australia today.

Increase your chances of success when applying

SI-Australia specialises in selecting the right Australia university or college for international students by reviewing your academic background, discussing your career goals and helping you apply. Our application services can help you achieve your dream of studying in Australia.

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PhD (Computer Science)

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Use your advanced research skills to contribute to the growth of computer science. 

You're viewing program information for local students.

RMIT considers you a local student if you are:

• a citizen or permanent resident of Australia, or
• a New Zealand citizen, or
• a person seeking asylum who holds either a: Temporary Protection Visa (TPV), or Safe Haven Enterprise Visa (SHEV) or Bridging Visa E or Humanitarian Stay (Temporary) visa or Temporary Humanitarian Concern Visa.

Asylum seekers who reside in Australia and study onshore are required to pay international onshore tuition fees for higher education courses.

If you are unsure or hold a different visa type, please contact  Study@RMIT for more information.

Not a local student?

You're viewing program information for international students..

RMIT considers you an international student if you are:

• intending to study on a student visa, or
• not a citizen or permanent resident of Australia, or
• not a New Zealand citizen, or
• not a a person seeking asylum who holds either a: Temporary Protection Visa (TPV), or Safe Haven Enterprise Visa (SHEV) or Bridging Visa E or Humanitarian Stay (Temporary) visa or Temporary Humanitarian Concern Visa.

If you are unsure or  hold a different visa type, please contact  Study@RMIT for more information.

Not an international student?

Not applicable

Research Training Scheme

See admissions

AU$36,480 (2024 annual)

As a computer science research candidate, you have the flexibility to pursue an individual topic, or contribute to one of our existing research areas.

You will join an active research community, working with academics, peers and partner organisations who have demonstrated research success in a range of specialities, including:

• artificial intelligence
• machine learning
• data science and analysis 
• distributed systems and networking
• heuristic optimisation
• information retrieval and web search 
• software engineering.

RMIT's success is demonstrated in international university rankings, with computer science and information systems at RMIT ranked #10 in Australia and in the top 200 globally per QS Rankings by Subject 2024, in the top 150 globally for ShanghaiRankings by Subject 2022 and 124th globally (top 150) for 2022 NTU World University Rankings.

The Australian Research Council identified our research in Artificial Intelligence and Image Processing and Information Systems as above world standard in the Excellence in Research for Australia (ERA) reports.

Research collaborations

There are many research collaborations with national and international institutes, centres, groups and partners, including strategic partnerships with:

• RMIT Data Analytics Lab
• Australian-India Research Centre for Automation Software Engineering (AICAUSE).

Research support

Throughout your candidature, you will be supported through:

• expert supervision
• participation in high-quality professional development programs delivered by RMIT's School of Graduate Research
• access to RMIT's extensive facilities, laboratories and equipment and those of our partners.

Computer science candidates may be eligible for a range of scholarships including:

• Australian Postgraduate Awards – funded by the Australian Government
• PhD and Research Masters Scholarships – funded by RMIT University
• PhD scholarships in computer science and IT – funded by the School of Science
• other postgraduate research scholarships.

How you will learn

Research at rmit, time spent on research.

Full-time candidates are expected to commit at least four days per week (or at least two days per week for part-time candidates) to their research. The academic year is 48 weeks.

Regular contact with your supervisor

A schedule of meetings with your supervisor/s must be established to assess progress against milestones and timely completion.

Resources, facilities and support

You will have access to the Learning Hub and other online and digital resources through the myRMIT student portal.

You will be part of an active research community and have access to resources and workshops to help you succeed.

School of Graduate Research

The School of Graduate Research works with Schools to further support candidates during their postgraduate research degree.

RMIT University is committed to providing you with an education that strongly links formal learning with professional or vocational practice.

Computer science and information technology projects are heavily based on industry needs and we are currently working with:

• Australia Council for the Arts
• Deloitte Digital
• RealThing Entertainment Pty Ltd

Learning outcomes

The knowledge and skills you will acquire throughout this degree and how they can be applied in your career are described in the  learning outcomes .

Electives and course plan

You will complete this program under academic supervision.

The PhD program is structured to enable you to:

• complete a compulsory research methods course
• receive training in research integrity and ethics
• select studies in qualitative and quantitative research techniques
• complete a thesis/project which demonstrates your original contribution to the field and your ability to communicate complex or original research for peers and the community to an international standard

You are required to complete:

Research Integrity modules

You are required to complete the online modules:

• Research integrity
• Copyright and intellectual property

Research methods for sciences

Research methods courses step you through the literature review and preparing your research proposal for confirmation of candidature. They are taught in large discipline groups.

You may need to complete an ethics module to ensure your research is ethical and responsible.

Research Techniques

You may elect to take (where relevant) electives in qualitative or quantitative research techniques once data collection has begun. You can use your own data to explore different research analysis techniques. Your supervisor will help you decide when you should take these electives.

Co-curricular activities

You are encouraged to participate in activities offered with the university, college and school according to your needs and interests.

This PhD may be undertaken in a project, thesis by publication or thesis mode. Prospective candidates should discuss these modes of submission with their potential supervisor/s.

Course structure

Choose a plan below to find out more about the subjects you will study and the course structure.

*The maximum duration of the PhD program is 4 years full-time and 8 years part-time. However, candidates are expected to complete their program within 3-4 years full-time equivalent and 6-8 years part-time equivalent.

*The maximum duration of the PhD program is 4 years full-time. However, candidates are expected to complete their program within 3-4 years full-time equivalent.

Note: International student visa holders can only study full-time.

You will be able to pursue an academic career in a university, be employed in senior leadership, management and research positions in government, scientific and industrial research laboratories, or work in or start high tech companies.

On completion, our candidates have gone on to senior positions with industry leaders including SENSIS, Seek, CSIRO and Tinder.

Minimum requirements for admission

Prerequisites, selection tasks.

The minimum requirements for admission to a PhD program are:

• a bachelor degree requiring at least four years of full-time study in a relevant discipline awarded with honours. The degree should include a research component comprised of a thesis, other research projects or research methodology courses that constitute at least 25% of a full-time academic year (or part-time equivalent). The applicant must have achieved at least a distinction average in the final year;  or
• a master degree that includes a research component comprised of at least 25% of a full-time academic year (or part-time equivalent) with an overall distinction average or a master degree without a research component with at least a high distinction average;  or
• evidence of appropriate academic qualifications and/or experience that satisfies the Associate Deputy Vice-Chancellor, Research Training and Development or nominee that the applicant has developed knowledge of the field of study or cognate field and the potential for research sufficient to undertake the proposed program.

At RMIT a grade of distinction represents academic achievement of 70% or higher and a high distinction is 80% or higher.

If you are a current master by research candidate, you are able to apply for a transfer to a doctor of philosophy program through the process prescribed in the  RMIT Higher Degree by Research policy .

These entrance requirements are the minimum academic standard you must meet in order to be eligible to apply for the program. You will need to complete a selection task as part of your application.

A selection process will be conducted in conjunction with the School and supervisors you nominate.

For further information on the steps you need to take to apply for a research program see  How to apply – Research programs .

English language requirements

Research proposal and supervisor.

You must attach a substantive research proposal that is 2 to 5 pages in length which articulates the intent, significance and originality of the proposed topic using the following headings:

a) title / topic b) research questions to be investigated in the context of existing research/literature in the area c) significance and impact of the research d) methodology / research tasks required to undertake the research e) particular needs (e.g. resources, facilities, fieldwork or equipment that are necessary for your proposed research program, if applicable).

Your application will not be considered if you have not discussed your research topic with a proposed senior and associate supervisor or joint senior supervisors. You must provide the names of the academic staff in the school you have applied to and with whom you have discussed your proposed research.

To study this course you will need to complete one of the following English proficiency tests:

• IELTS (Academic): minimum overall band of 6.5 (with no individual band below 6.0)
• TOEFL (Internet Based Test - IBT): minimum overall score of 79 (with minimum of 13 in Reading, 12 in Listening, 18 in Speaking and 21 in Writing)
• Pearson Test of English (Academic) (PTE (A)): minimum score of 58 (with no communication band less than 50)
• Cambridge English: Advanced (CAE): minimum of 176 with no less than 169 in any component.

For detailed information on English language requirements and other proficiency tests recognised by RMIT, visit  English language requirements and equivalency information .

Don't meet the English language test scores? Complete an English for Academic Purposes (EAP) Advanced Plus Certificate at  RMIT English Worldwide .

You can gain entry to this program from a range of RMIT four year  Bachelor and Honours degrees  or  Postgraduate  or Masters by Research programs.

Fee summary

Fee information for masters by research and doctorate (PhD) programs.

If you are an Australian citizen, Australian permanent resident or New Zealand citizen you may be eligible for a Research Training Scheme (RTS) place where your tuition costs are funded by the Commonwealth Government under the RTS and you have full exemption from tuition fees.

Acceptance in an RTS place is very competitive and places are granted on the condition that you meet annual progress requirements and complete within the allotted time for your program and your status as a part-time or full-time candidate.

This means a maximum of 2 years for a full-time Masters by Research or 4 years for a PhD (or the equivalent part-time).

Contact the School of Graduate Research for more information.

The  student services and amenities fee (SSAF)  is used to maintain and enhance services and amenities that improve your experience as an RMIT student.

In addition to the SSAF there may be  other expenses  associated with your program.

Income tax deductions

Candidates may be eligible to apply for income tax deductions for education expenses linked to their employment. See the  Australian Taxation Office (ATO) website  for more information.

RMIT awards more than 2000 scholarships every year to recognise academic achievement and assist students from a variety of backgrounds.

The annual tuition fee for 2024 is AU$36,480.

The total indicative tuition fee for 2024 commencement is AU$151,680.

International applicants

• Fees information  for international candidates looking to study at RMIT's Melbourne campuses.
• PhD  and  masters by research  fees for international candidates studying offshore. 

Other costs

Important fee information.

Find out more details about  how fees are calculated  and the expected annual increase.

Applying for refunds

Find information on how to apply for a  refund  as a continuing international student.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Looking for answers or more general information.

Use our Frequently Asked Questions to learn about the application process and its equity access schemes, find out how to accept or defer your offer or request a leave of absence, discover information about your fees, refunds and scholarships, and explore the various student support and advocacy services, as well as how to find out more about your preferred program, and more.

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RMIT University acknowledges the people of the Woi wurrung and Boon wurrung language groups of the eastern Kulin Nation on whose unceded lands we conduct the business of the University. RMIT University respectfully acknowledges their Ancestors and Elders, past and present. RMIT also acknowledges the Traditional Custodians and their Ancestors of the lands and waters across Australia where we conduct our business - Artwork 'Luwaytini' by Mark Cleaver, Palawa.

RMIT University acknowledges the people of the Woi wurrung and Boon wurrung language groups of the eastern Kulin Nation on whose unceded lands we conduct the business of the University. RMIT University respectfully acknowledges their Ancestors and Elders, past and present. RMIT also acknowledges the Traditional Custodians and their Ancestors of the lands and waters across Australia where we conduct our business.

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Postgraduate qualifications

A postgraduate qualification can help you progress in your career, advance your studies after an undergraduate degree, or take your studies in a new direction.

Main content

Masters degree.

 One to two years

Completed following

 Bachelor Degree; or Bachelor Degree (Honours); or Graduate Diploma. For some postgraduate qualifications, you might be accepted if you have significant, relevant work experience.

A masters degree is a specialised course that requires you to find advanced answers to complex problems or questions.

Studying for a masters degree can help you become a leader in your field, or lead to further study in a doctoral degree (PhD). 

There are three main types of masters degrees: 

• Masters Degree (Research): The purpose of this degree is to produce research or add new knowledge in your field. You will usually need to complete a large project or a thesis (long essay of 20,000 to 40,000 words). 
• Masters Degree (Coursework): In a masters degree (coursework) you can focus on professional practice or your academic field of study. As part of your studies, you may need to complete a large project or a minor thesis (long essay of 12,000 to 20,000 words). 
• Masters Degree (Extended): In this type of masters degree, you will usually focus on professional practice. As part of your studies, you may need to complete a large project or a thesis (long essay of 12,000 to 20,000 words).

Note: Some masters degrees have ‘exit points’ within them. These may allow you to stop your studies at a certain point and be awarded a Graduate Certificate or Graduate Diploma. These are described below. 

Doctoral degree or doctorate (including PhD)

Three to four years

Bachelor Degree (Honours) with a research component; or Masters Degree.

This is the highest award on offer at Australian universities. 

There are two types: 

• Doctorate by research, also known as a Doctor of Philosophy or PhD requires you to conduct original, in-depth research, often leading to a potential career in academia. Once you graduate, you will be given the title of ‘Doctor’.  
• Professional doctorate: This doctoral degree is a coursework qualification. Upon completion, you will also be given the title of ‘Doctor’ but this qualification that usually has an outcome related to a profession. 

In both types of doctoral degrees, you will review literature, undertake experiments or investigate new methods, making a major contribution to knowledge in your field. The result is often a major project or thesis (40,000 to 60,000 words).

Find out about Australia’s world-class research.

Other postgraduate qualifications

Graduate certificate.

•   Bachelor Degree; or Bachelor Degree (Honours).
• In some cases, you might be granted admission if you have significant, relevant work experience.

A Graduate Certificate can be studied on its own or as a pathway to further studies, usually to advance to a Graduate Diploma. This type of qualification can help you build your knowledge and skills for your current career, or help you change careers. 

Graduate Certificates are usually delivered by universities and by non-university and private higher education providers.

Graduate Diploma

• Bachelor Degree; or Bachelor Degree (Honours); or Graduate Certificate.

A Graduate Diploma is the next step up from a Graduate Certificate. It involves twice as many study units (subjects) and can be studied as a standalone qualification, or as part of a masters degree. 

Graduate Diplomas are usually delivered by universities and non-university government private higher education providers.

Bachelor degree (honours)

Usually four years in total (a four-year degree with the final year being the Honours year); or one additional year after a three-year Bachelor degree, depending on academic results.

•  For the four-year program: Year 12 or equivalent; Certificate III or Certificate IV in TAFE or vocational education and training (VET).
• For the one-year program: Bachelor degree 

Graduating with an Honours degree shows that you have the ability to reach high academic standards, and that you have advanced project management and research skills. Your qualification can lead to further research-based studies, like a PhD, or can give you a strong set of skills for future employment.

In some cases, an Honours year will be built into your degree from the beginning (usually a four-year degree). In other cases, if you graduate from your Bachelor degree with high grades, your education provider might give you the opportunity to complete an additional year of study. This will allow you to graduate ‘with honours’.

An Honours year will usually involve some coursework and a large project or a written thesis (long essay of 12,000 to 20,000 words). 

Note: All Bachelor degree (honours) courses must meet the same requirements, and they are at the same level in the Australian Qualifications Framework.

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Power System Engineering PhD Scholarships

Centre for New Energy Transition Research (CfNETR), Federation University Australia, is pleased to partner with Qatar University and Qatar Research Development and Innovation Council to offer Two Fully Funded HDR scholarships in Power System Engineering.

Scholarship details

Stipend : $35,000 per annum (indexed annually) Top-Up: $2,000 per annum Tuition Scholarship : RTP Fee Offset (Domestic Students) or Tuition Fee Scholarship (International Students) Project support:  $6,000 (entire candidature) Funding length : 3 years Location : Mt Helen campus

Eligibility

Scholarship applicants must be eligible to undertake a PhD. Verify you can meet  eligibility requirements outlined on the Graduate Research School website . If you are applying for ‘ Honours equivalence ,’ please provide detailed information to support your case.

Applicants : International students and/or Domestic students (Australian citizens/permanent residency status).

Application closing date: 20 June 2024

This is an outstanding opportunity for motivated candidates in Power System Operation and Planning with Distributed Energy Resources to work with world-renowned senior researchers (IEEE Fellows and Editor in IEEE Transactions) and an emerging mid-career researcher(s) on an international collaborative project that involved four IEEE Fellows , multiple industries, and research fellows. Two senior professors from Federation University are involved with the project, Professor Syed Islam (IEEE Life Fellow) and Professor Nima Amjady (IEEE Fellow, Editor in IEEE Transactions) , supported by a strong team of researchers, computation and lab facilities including opportunities for internship in Australia and overseas. The research team also has strong connections with international research leaders on power and energy in the UK, USA, Canada and other locations. The position will provide significant opportunities for high-impact publications and the opportunity to work with stakeholders from the power and energy sectors nationally and internationally.

Applicants should contact the supervisory team via e-mail ( [email protected] or [email protected] ) before applying.

The applicant must submit a detailed resume with publication records and a 1200-word research proposal/plan .

How to Apply: Domestic students should apply using the HDR Domestic Application form . International students should apply using the StudyLink application system.

Commencement date: Successful applicants will be expected to commence in September 2024 . However, the successful candidate may negotiate the commencement date.

Research Project Outline

Project title: developing load time series analysis and forecasting methods.

This project involves developing load time series using historical data and real-time information from sources like smart meters. The candidate will analyse the obtained data.

• Signal processing tools in both the time domain and frequency domain, such as volatility analysis tools in the time and frequency domain.
• Artificial intelligence tools, such as recent versions of deep neural networks.

The HDR candidate should be able to develop a tool based on data mining and deep learning technologies that can accurately predict electric load using historical load data and other relevant influencing factors. The tool should be able to generate multi-step-ahead load forecasts in the presence of electric vehicle parking lots and distributed energy resources, which is crucial in the planning and operation of today electric power utilities.

Eligibility: Electrical or Computer Engineering Degree with good mathematical and programming skills. Student from Applied Mathematics are also encouraged to apply.

Project title: Bi-level uncertainty-aware DER aggregation planning tool

Distributed Energy Resources (DERs) may not fully benefit the power system if they act independently. Additionally, their uncertain and conflicting interactions may even harm the system. Moreover, their uncertainties may cause the system operating conditions to deviate from the planned conditions, resulting in a suboptimal or even infeasible system operating point. In this project, the prospective HDR candidate addresses these essential requirements by optimizing the aggregation of DERs while considering their various relevant uncertainties.

Eligibility: Electrical Engineering Degree with good mathematical and programming skills.

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PhD Scholarship: Alzheimer’s Disease at Western Sydney University, Australia

PhD Scholarship: Alzheimer’s Disease: Embark on a pioneering journey to unravel the mysteries of Alzheimer’s disease through a multidisciplinary PhD project at Western Sydney University’s School of Medicine. Delve into the therapeutic potential of curcuminoids using cutting-edge in vitro methodologies and contribute to novel treatment strategies targeting disease-modifying pathways.

Exploring Curcuminoids Mechanisms in Alzheimer’s Disease: PhD Scholarship Opportunity at Western Sydney University

Summary Table:

• Position: Ph.D. Student
• Deadline: 22 May 2024
• Employment Start Date: 9 September 2024
• Contract Length: 3 years
• City: Campbelltown
• Country: Australia
• Institution: Western Sydney University
• Department: School of Medicine

Study Area: Neuroscience and cognition research, with a focus on investigating the mechanisms underlying the therapeutic effects of curcuminoids in Alzheimer’s disease using Human-Derived Stem Cell Models (iPSCs).

Location: Western Sydney University, Campbelltown Campus, Australia

Eligibility/Qualification:

• Hold qualifications and experience equivalent to an Australian First Class Bachelor (Honours) degree, coursework Masters with at least 25% research component, Research Masters degree, or equivalent overseas qualifications.
• Demonstrate strong academic performance in subjects relevant to cell culture techniques, molecular biology, proteomics, genomics, and pharmacology.
• Possess an understanding of the importance of research on medical disorders.
• Be willing to employ sophisticated novel methods.
• Display enthusiasm and high motivation to undertake advanced-level study.
• International applicants must also meet English language proficiency requirements.

Description: The School of Medicine at Western Sydney University invites highly motivated candidates to apply for a research scholarship aimed at elucidating the mechanisms underlying the potential therapeutic effects of curcuminoids in Alzheimer’s disease (AD). Through advanced in vitro methodologies utilizing human-derived stem cell models, this interdisciplinary project seeks to investigate the impact of curcuminoids on key molecular pathways associated with AD pathology, including amyloid-beta aggregation, tau hyperphosphorylation, neuroinflammation, and oxidative stress. Led by Dr. Erika Gyengesi and in collaboration with internal and external partners, the project offers an exceptional opportunity to contribute to groundbreaking research with real-world implications.

What does the scholarship provide?

• Domestic students: Tax-free stipend of $32,192 per annum supported by the Research Training Program (RTP) Fee Offset.
• International students: Tax-free stipend of $32,192 per annum to support living costs. Eligible candidates may receive a tuition fee waiver based on their track record.
• Support for conference attendance, fieldwork, and additional costs as approved by the School/Institute.
• International candidates are required to hold an Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) insurance policy for the duration of their study in Australia.

How to Apply: Interested applicants should submit their Expression of Interest (EoI) to Dr. Erika Gyengesi at [email protected] . For inquiries and advice about the research project, prospective candidates are encouraged to reach out to Dr. Gyengesi.

Last Date: 22 May 2024

This scholarship presents a unique opportunity for passionate individuals to contribute to cutting-edge research while advancing their academic and professional pursuits. Join us in unraveling the complexities of Alzheimer’s disease and shaping the future of therapeutic interventions. Apply now and be part of a transformative journey at Western Sydney University.

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Phd programme in biomolecular sciences, university of trento, italy, scholarship opportunity: cdt-d2air, university of edinburgh, uk, fully funded phd positions on cellular biophysics at the international max planck research school, germany, associate research fellow in computational statistics, australia, phd studentship: environmental challenge, university of plymouth, uk, 15 fairomics open phd positions: project in eu, leave a reply cancel reply.

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• Australia Awards in Indonesia

The Australia Awards are prestigious, transformational scholarships and short courses offered to emerging leaders for study, research and professional development in Australia

Australia Awards scholars from Indonesia enjoy the beginning of spring under Australia's jacaranda trees dotted with vibrant purple blossom. Jacarandas usually bloom around October in Australia.

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Australia Awards Indonesia Nusantara Scholarships

Australia Awards Indonesia Nusantara Scholarships are prestigious international awards offered by the Australian Government to the next generation of global leaders from Indonesia. The Scholarships were jointly announced by the President of Indonesia and the Prime Minister of Australia at the Australia-Indonesia Annual Leader’s Meeting in July 2023.

In 2024, ten Australia Awards Indonesia Nusantara Scholarships will be offered to aspiring Indonesian leaders who can contribute to the exchange of knowledge in fields crucial to developing Indonesia's new capital city, Nusantara. The awards will be offered to undertake full-time postgraduate study at  Monash University, Indonesia , September 2024. Monash University established the first Australian university in-country campus in 2020.

Applicants will be assessed on their professional and personal qualities, academic competence, and, most importantly, their potential to impact development challenges in Indonesia. Applicants will be required to show that they can contribute to the development of Indonesia’s new capital city, Nusantara, using the knowledge, skills and networks gained through their study.

The Australia Awards Indonesia Nusantara Scholarships aims to achieve a balance across female and male awardees and encourages applicants from diverse backgrounds, including applicants from the  Equity Target Groups (ETG) .  Applicants from Kalimantan Timur are also encouraged to apply.

Australia Awards in Indonesia Nusantara Scholarships are offered within two main categories: Targeted and Non-Targeted Categories .

Applicants from the  Targeted  category include:

• Equity Target Groups (ETG)  that comprise:
• People with disability .
• Women from disadvantaged backgrounds .
• People from equity target provinces , namely East Nusa Tenggara, West Nusa Tenggara, Maluku, North Maluku, Papua, West Papua, Southwest Papua, South Papua, Highland Papua, Central Papua, West Sulawesi, West Kalimantan, Gorontalo, Central Sulawesi, and Lampung.
• Government of Indonesia (GoI) agencies , including any candidate from a government agency (including central, provincial, or local), but not extending to employees of state-owned enterprises. The category will be limited to employees with the status of civil servant ( Pegawai Negeri Sipil ).

Applicants from the  Non-Targeted  category include those outside the above category.

Level of study

The Australia Awards Indonesia Nusantara Scholarships provide citizens of Indonesia with the opportunity to obtain a Masters from Monash University, Indonesia.

Applicants will be able to apply for the following Masters programs:

• Masters in Business Innovation
• Masters in Data Science
• Masters in Cybersecurity
• Masters in Public Policy and Management
• Masters in Urban Design
• Masters in Public Health
• Masters in Marketing and Digital Communication

Awards will be offered for study commencing in September 2024.

The scholarships are offered for the minimum period necessary for individuals to complete the academic program specified by the academic institution, including any preparatory training. Read  here  for more information about the scholarship benefits.

Eligibility criteria

Applicants of the Australia Awards Indonesia Nusantara Scholarships must already hold an undergraduate degree and meet all eligibility requirements. Read  here  for more information.

Scholars will be expected to enrol on a fulltime basis. Monash University, Indonesia recognises that many students balance work and study commitments and have designed their programs of study accordingly.

Application dates

The application process will be for study commencing at Monash University, Indonesia, in October 2023:

Opening date:  15 April 2024      Closing date: 12 May 2024 (23.59 WIB)

Applications and/or supporting documents received after the closing date will not be considered.

The application process­

Apply online through Cognito Form at  this link . 

When applying online, all essential supporting documents must be uploaded on the online application form (Cognito Form) to meet the specific requirements for Indonesia. Read  here  for more information on the relevant documents the applicants must prepare.

We advise applicants to submit their online application well before the closing date. The online application facility (Cognito Form) experiences peak usage in the days leading up to the closing date, and applicants may experience delays.

If you have questions regarding the application, please text us on WhatsApp at + 62 812 8595 8221.  You can also contact us at  [email protected] .

The selection process­

• Applications will be shortlisted after eligibility checking.
• Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.
• Academic competence;
• Potential outcome, specifically the contribution to development outcomes in Indonesia;
• Professional and personal leadership attributes, including relevant work experience;
• Potential to contribute to the development of Indonesia’s new capital.
• Successful candidates will be notified no later than  30 June 2024.

Read  here  for more information on the important attributes of alumni that the scholarships seek to produce.

Further information

More general information about Australia Awards and Australia’s aid program can be found at  this link.         

Information about Monash University, Indonesia, can be found at  this link.

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Study Abroad: Australia has Announced Changes to its Temporary Graduate Visa Programs

• Updated on  
• May 14, 2024

The Temporary Graduate Visa programs in Australia is undergoing significant changes as announced by the Australian Government in its Migration strategy. These changes will come into effect from 1st July 2024 and aim to realign the visa streams with the levels of study undertaken by applicants.

The temporary graduate visa programs allow international students who have completed a course registered under the Commonwealth Register of Institutions and Courses for Overseas Students (CRICOS). 

Longer Work Permits for Healthcare and Trades Graduates in Canada

 Streamlined Visa Process and Stronger Support for Students

Benefits of the Temporary Graduate Visa Program

Check below the benefits listed offered by the temporary graduate visa program:

The holders of the temporary graduate visa can stay in Australia after completing their studies to explore further opportunities, gain work experience in the country.

Students can include family members, such as partners, children or their partner’s children in their visa application. But the family members must meet the health and character requirements as per the visa regulations.

Holders of this visa can work for unrestricted hours in any sector. Therefore, the candidates will get an opportunity to gain valuable work experience in their field of study or explore other career ways while they stay in Australia.

Graduate Work Stream

Check below the changes to Australia’s Temporary Graduate Visa Programs. The upcoming changes to the Temporary Graduate Visa program in Australia will bring significant adjustments to the Graduate Work Stream also known as the Post-Vocational Education Work Stream. These changes include:

• The maximum age limit for applicants applying under post vocational education work stream will be reduced to 35 years or younger.
• Individuals who have Hong Kong or British National Overseas passports will remain eligible for this stream if they are under the age of 50.
• Applicants under the post-vocational educational work stream may continue to stay in Australia for upto 18 months.

For more visa and immigration news and daily news updates follow Leverage Edu and start your study abroad journey today!

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Australia announces changes to its temporary graduate visa programs.

The Australian Government has announced significant changes to the Temporary Graduate visa programs starting July 1, 2024, realigning visa streams with study levels. Key benefits include work opportunities, family inclusion, and extended stays for Hong Kong and British National Overseas passport holders. Age limits and qualification requirements will be adjusted.

• Stay: Holders of the Temporary Graduate visa can stay in Australia after completing their studies, allowing them to explore further opportunities or gain work experience in the country.
• Include Family: Applicants can include family members, such as partners, children, or their partner's children, in their visa application. However, family members must meet health and character requirements as per the visa regulations.
• Work: One of the significant advantages of the Temporary Graduate visa is the ability to work unrestricted hours in any sector. This provides graduates with the opportunity to gain valuable work experience in their field of study or explore other career pathways while residing in Australia.

Here's a breakdown of the changes to Australia's Temporary Graduate visa programs.

• Age Eligibility: The maximum age limit for applicants applying under the Post-Vocational Education Work stream will be reduced to 35 years or younger.
• Eligibility for Hong Kong and British National Overseas Passport Holders: Despite the age reduction, individuals holding Hong Kong or British National Overseas passports will remain eligible for this stream if they are under the age of 50.
• Alternative Visa Options: Applicants who no longer meet the age requirements for the Post-Vocational Education Work stream may still have options available through other visa pathways. They are encouraged to explore these alternatives to continue their stay in Australia.
• Qualification Requirements: To be eligible for the Post-Vocational Education Work stream, applicants must hold an associate degree, diploma, or trade qualification closely related to their nominated occupation on the Medium and Long-term Strategic Skills List (MLTSSL). Those with degree-level qualifications or higher will no longer qualify for this stream and must apply through the Post-Higher Education Work stream .
• Duration of Stay: Successful applicants under the Post-Vocational Education Work stream may continue to stay in Australia for up to 18 months.
• Extended Stay for Passport Holders: Hong Kong or British National Overseas passport holders may have the option to extend their stay for up to 5 years, providing them with an extended period to live and work in Australia.

Australia tightens student visa rules, increases financial requirement as migration surges

• Age Eligibility: The maximum age limit for applicants applying under the Post-Higher Education Work stream will be lowered to 35 years or younger.
• Eligibility for Hong Kong and British National Overseas Passport Holders: Despite the age adjustment, individuals holding Hong Kong or British National Overseas passports will remain eligible for this stream if they are under the age of 50.
• Alternative Visa Options: Applicants who no longer meet the age criteria for the Post-Higher Education Work stream may still qualify for other visa options. They are advised to explore these alternatives to extend their stay in Australia.
• Termination of the 'Select Degree' Extension: The 'select degree' extension, which allowed for an additional two years of stay, will no longer be available under this stream.
• Bachelor's degree (including honours): Up to 2 years
• Masters (coursework and extended): Up to 2 years
• Masters (research) and doctoral degree (PhD): Up to 3 years
• Extended Stay for Passport Holders: Hong Kong and British National Overseas passport holders may have the option to extend their stay for up to 5 years, providing them with an extended period to reside and work in Australia.
• Bachelor's degree (with first-class honours in STEM, including ICT): Up to 3 years
• Masters (coursework, extended, and research): Up to 3 years
• Doctoral degrees (PhD): Up to 4 years

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Australia tweaks Temporary Graduate Visa Programme. Will it hit Indians?

Australia's temporary graduate visa programme is being overhauled from july 1. stay periods are also revised for graduates with different degrees. will the changes impact international students to australia from india.

Listen to Story

• The changes in Australia's Temporary Graduate Visa Programme will be effective from July 1
• Applicants must choose stream matching their qualifications; the age limit will be 35
• Stay periods revised for Post-Higher Education Work stream, based on type of degree

The Australian government has announced changes to the Temporary Graduate Visa Programme, which will take effect from July 1. These changes aim to streamline the visa process and introduce more clarity for international graduates seeking to work in Australia.

The existing visa streams will be renamed to better reflect the level of study they are associated with. The Graduate Work stream will now be called the Post-Vocational Education Work stream, and the Post-Study Work stream will be called the Post-Higher Education Work stream.

Applicants will need to choose the stream that aligns with their qualifications. Those with associate degrees, diplomas, or trade qualifications should apply for the Post-Vocational Education Work stream, provided it's related to an occupation on the government's skilled occupations list.

Applicants with degrees or higher qualifications will need to apply for the Post-Higher Education Work stream.

A significant change is the introduction of a new maximum age limit. Both the Post-Vocational Education Work stream and the Post-Higher Education Work stream will now have an age limit of 35 years old.

"The maximum eligible age for Post-Vocational Education Work stream applicants will be reduced to 35 years of age or under at the time of application. Applicants no longer eligible for the Post-Vocational Education Work stream due to the age reduction may be eligible for other visas," stated the Australian Department of Home Affairs.

The maximum stay periods for the Post-Higher Education Work stream have also been revised. Graduates with Bachelor's degrees (including honours) will now be eligible to stay for up to 2 years, while those with coursework and extended Master’s degrees will have the same limit. Masters by research and Doctoral degrees (PhDs) will allow graduates to stay for up to 3 years.

According to government data, a significant number of Indian students—100,009 in 2022—were enroled in Australian institutions .

Additionally, it said 1.22 lakh Indian students were studying in Australia in the January-September 2023 period.

Stay periods for Indian nationals, as agreed in the Australia-India – Economic Cooperation and Trade Agreement (AI-ECTA), remain the same. For Indians, the stay duration is:

Bachelor's degree (including honours) – up to 2 years Bachelor's degree (with first class honours in science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM), including Information and communication technology) – up to 3 years Masters (coursework, extended and research) – up to 3 years Doctoral degrees (PhD) – up to 4 years.

The Second Post-Study Work stream will be renamed the Second Post-Higher Education Work stream. There are no other changes to this stream. Published By: Girish Kumar Anshul Published On: May 13, 2024

Warning HECS debt relief will only be temporary

While the changes to HECS debt have been celebrated, there are warnings that it will only provide short term relief with bigger problems looming.

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Clare Megahey is one university graduate who has racked up a HECS-HELP of more than $50,000.

When her university debt was slugged with a 7.1 per cent increase last year as part of indexation, it shot up by $3500 to almost $53,600.

That year, she only paid $2400 off; meaning her debt was growing despite her trying to pay it off.

“It was definitely going up faster than I would have been able to pay it off, which was scary,” Ms Megahey, who completed a five year degree in international relations and media from the University of NSW in 2021, told news.com.au.

“It was definitely disheartening not seeing it paid off as I worked a full-time job.

“I did think it was alarming as I was obviously paying off the minimum amount, so in theory that would be enough to have the debt go down gradually and not gradually increase. It seemed like a broken way of doing it.”

For university students and graduates, indexation jumps of 7.1 per cent last year and 3.9 per cent in 2022 saw debts rise by 15.7 per cent in just three years.

It prompted independent MP Monique Ryan to start an online petition calling on the government to make HECS repayments fairer, which attracted 288,000 signatures, as the politician argued students were going backwards as debts rose despite working to pay them off.

While HECS debt does not accrue interest, it is indexed for inflation every year.

This means, from June 1, anyone who hasn’t paid off their loan traditionally faces a debt rise in line with inflation, which last year was a whopping 7.1 per cent; the biggest increase in 30 years.

With backlash building, the government recently announced the indexation rate would instead be capped to the lower of either the Consumer Price Index (CPI) or the Wage Price Index (WPI) with effect from June 1, 2023.

Ms Megahey said she was relieved to hear of Prime Minister Anthony Albanese’s plan to wipe $3 billion in HECS-HELP student debt for three million Aussies.

The 26-year-old still sees her degrees as “worthwhile” to allow her to pursue a profession she is passionate about but added it was “disappointing” to see arts degrees become more expensive during her time at university.

In 2020, the Morrison government’s Job-Ready Graduates Package made changes to the way degrees were billed with humanities degrees put into the same bracket as law, pushing up fees by 113 per cent.

The move was made to push students into areas of “national priority” and it saw fees divided into four areas with the likes of nursing and agriculture starting at $3950 a year, law hitting $14,500 a year, while accounting and most arts degrees cost more than $15,000.

“It’s discouraging when doing a degree and everyone is telling you it’s a waste of money,” added Ms Megahey.

The communications professional, who has been working full-time for four years, believes she will be able to pay off her $51,000 HECS-HELP debt completely.

But, Australian National University higher education policy expert Andrew Norton said many graduates who have completed arts degrees or have amassed huge HECS-HELP debts will struggle to pay it all in their lifetime.

He noted the core issue with HECS-HELP isn’t indexation but that some people have “excessive debts” and it’s not something that would be fixed easily in the short term.

“One thing the government wants to do but may not do in the budget is address the very high student contribution with humanities, which is $16,000 for the whole year for most humanity subjects, and the debts are way too high relative to earnings of art graduates,” he said.

“There’s also the issue of people doing multiple degrees, and the other problem is particularly doing a postgraduate course immediately or very soon after graduating. These full fee debts could be $50,000 to $100,000 before they have had a full time job and if you start from that point, it’s very difficult to get that under control in any reasonable time frame.”

Prof Norton said professions like psychology and teaching may need to renegotiate the need for expensive postgraduate studies.

A deeper problem

Another flaw in the system is when payments are made, Professor Norton added.

While payments towards your HECS debt are taken out of your pay in real time, that money is not coming off your debt at the same rate.

Instead, the Australian Taxation Office (ATO) holds these funds as a credit until you file your tax return on or after July 1.

But, because indexation occurs before this on June 1, your past contributions are actually applying to the higher indexed rate, despite coming out of your pay much earlier.

Prof Norton suggested the government may make moves in the budget to have the compulsory repayments deducted from debt in a more timely manner.

Meanwhile, he said the change to indexation was a “good response to the pain” caused last year but warned the problem was simply being kicked down the road.

“It is solving the problem we had in (the) last two to three years without thinking of the problems we have in the future,” he noted.

“Both CPI and the Wage Price Index are going up together at fairly high rates. While we have got a lower rate with the Wage Price Index, it’s still a higher level than at historical levels.

“Since the start of this century, there have only been four years where the Wage Price Index is lower than CPI.”

Buying a house

A change in lending criteria recently has seen HECS-HELP now counted the same as a credit card debt when it comes to obtaining a mortgage – slashing people’s borrowing power and causing difficulties in getting a home loan.

It's had a crippling impact on young Australians, with a major review into universities earlier this year revealing enormous debts were forcing some to choose between buying a home and an education.

The Universities Accord report urged the government to ensure banks recognised that HECS-HELP – which is paid back once graduates start earning $51,550 a year – was unlike other types of loans because it was not possible to default.

“Unless someone earns sufficient income, there is no obligation to repay and as such they should be treated differently,” the report said.

Prof Norton said this was a relatively new issue introduced by financial services regulator the Australian Prudential Regulation Authority, which required banks to include the HECS-HELP debt.

“What that has done is that the banks are less willing to lend substantial sums to HELP debtors whereas before they took into account annual repayments based on income, rather than the size of debt,” he said.

“It’s a mistake. The government has written to banks to try and get this changed and it probably has a good chance but it might take a year or two. It’s resting on a misunderstanding of the nature of HELP debt and I’d be surprised if the total balance of HELP is a reliable predictor of default.”

Lizzie Vines, who is in her second year of a Bachelor’s in Advertising, Marketing, and Public Relations at Edith Cowan University, is one of the students who signed Dr Ryan’s petition and was happily surprised when it worked.

However, the online marketing specialist said despite the government lowering the potential indexation rate, the percentages were still “ridiculous”.

“Personally, I have not paid off my HECS debt because I am waiting to have enough in savings so I can pay it off in one fell swoop,” she said.

She currently has a HECS debt of $32,000.

The 20-year-old from Western Australia believes students don’t understand the HECS-HELP system well enough.

“Although there is technically no interest, there is indexation, which is much worse in our financial crisis,” she said,

“When told about university in high school, they did discuss the HECS debt, but they made it out to be something so small and insignificant, even going as far as to say that it wouldn’t harm our chances of getting a loan for your first home. Those people could not be further from the truth.

“Looking back now, I am very glad I have not spent any money on paying off my debt because the government is still sorting things out. On the off chance some of my HECS debt could be wiped, I’m willing to take it.”

For Ms Megahey, a home loan wasn’t a concern because she doesn’t aspire to buy a house given the huge property prices in Sydney.

However, on some property forums young people have spoken about their HECS-HELP debt knocking off hundreds of thousands from their borrowing power.

Some have even grappled with whether to pay off their HECS-HELP debt with money saved for a house deposit.

Education Minister Jason Clare will reveal the first stage of his response to the University Accord’s recommendations in next week’s budget.

What’s changing?

The Higher Education Contribution Scheme (HECS) was absorbed into the Higher Education Loan Program (HELP) in 2005 and is now officially called HECS-HELP, but the scheme is still commonly referred to as HECS.

The Prime Minister announced last week the cost-of-living budget measure to change the way HECS-HELP is indexed for cash-strapped millennials and millions of other Australians, in a bid to address the mounting weight of student debt and rising rental costs.

The plan does not wipe out HECS debts entirely, but rather backdates a change to how interest on student loans is calculated to last year, meaning many people will get thousands of dollars refunded.

An individual with an average HECS debt of $26,500 will see around $1200 wiped from their outstanding loans this year, pending the passage of legislation.

But students with huge debts of $100,000 who have studied expensive degrees including medicine, law or even studied multiple degrees could have $5000 wiped.

Universities Australia CEO Luke Sheehy said students had been doing it “tough” not only in terms of their HECS-HELP debt, but with the cost of living spiral pushing up their costs for food, rents and fuel.

He welcomed the indexation changes and described the HECS-HELP system as “genius” by allowing any students regardless of their earnings or family background to attend university with no upfront cost for fees.

More Coverage

Mr Sheehy said the average debt for a graduate who had done a bachelor’s degree was $26,000.

“With a bachelor degree, that gives an almost $1 million benefit for earning capacity over the course of someone’s life, so it’s a good investment,” he added.

– with Frank Chung

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