Are you planning to pursue a postgraduate research degree in Australia? The QUT Postgraduate Research Award (QUTPRA) 2026 offers an incredible opportunity for both domestic and international students to undertake research degrees at the Queensland University of Technology (QUT) with full financial support.
The QUTPRA is one of the most competitive and prestigious postgraduate research scholarships in Australia. Designed to support students with exceptional research potential, this scholarship provides a generous stipend, tuition fee sponsorship, and health cover for eligible candidates.
What is the QUT Postgraduate Research Award (QUTPRA)?
The QUTPRA is a fully funded scholarship available to new and current students enrolling in a Higher Degree by Research (HDR) program at QUT. This includes both PhD and MPhil degrees.
The scholarship offers:
● A tax-free stipend paid fortnightly to support living costs.
● Tuition fee offset or sponsorship.
● Single Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) for international students.
● This scholarship is aimed at fostering research excellence and developing future leaders in all academic disciplines.
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Scholarship Benefits:
Here’s what recipients of the QUTPRA 2026 will receive:
1. Living Stipend:
● $37,010 per annum (from 1 January 2026), paid fortnightly.
● This stipend is tax-exempt and indexed annually.
2. Duration:
● Up to 3.5 years for PhD students.
● Up to 1.75 years for MPhil students.
Includes the possibility of an extension (6 months for PhD and 3 months for MPhil) upon approval
3. Tuition Fee Offset/Sponsorship:
Domestic students: Receive a Research Training Program (RTP) Fees Offset, covering tuition for up to:
● 4 years (PhD).
● 2 years (MPhil).
● International students: Receive a Tuition Fee Sponsorship (TFS) for the same durations.
● Covers the full tuition fees for the standard length of the research degree.
4. Health Insurance:
● International students are provided with Single OSHC for the duration of their student visa.
● Family cover is not included.
Eligibility Criteria for New Applicants:
To be eligible for the QUTPRA as a new student, you must:
● Meet QUT’s admission criteria for a research degree, including English language requirements.
● Not currently hold another living allowance scholarship.
● Enroll as a full-time, internal student (unless part-time or external study is pre-approved).
● Hold no higher research qualification (for MPhil applicants, not already hold an equivalent or higher degree).
Eligibility Criteria for Current QUT Students:
Current HDR students at QUT must:
● Have completed less than 1 year full-time equivalent of their PhD.
● Have completed less than 6 months full-time equivalent of their MPhil.
● Be meeting QUT’s HDR progression milestones.
Additional Conditions:
● Scholarships are typically not awarded for external study modes.
● Candidates must be based in Australia.
● Must maintain satisfactory academic progress throughout their candidature.
● International students must comply with all visa conditions.
Study Areas:
The QUTPRA is open to all fields of study across QUT. Whether your focus is on science, engineering, health, creative industries, education, or business, you can apply for this scholarship if you're enrolling in an eligible research program.
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Leave and Other Conditions:
1. Leave Entitlements:
● Paid leave is available while enrolled (e.g., sick leave, parental leave).
● Unused paid leave is forfeited when the scholarship ends.
● Candidates must apply for leave in advance (preferably 4 weeks).
2. Unpaid Leave:
● Can be taken with approval, but does not extend the scholarship duration.
Important:
● External attendance (studying outside Australia) is not eligible.
● Part-time enrolment is allowed only in special circumstances and must be approved.
● You must notify QUT of any changes in circumstances that may affect your scholarship eligibility.
Why Choose QUT?
The Queensland University of Technology is a leading Australian university, known for its commitment to real-world research, industry connections, and cutting-edge facilities. With a strong support network for research students and a vibrant academic community in Brisbane, QUT is an ideal destination for postgraduate research. By receiving the QUTPRA, you’ll be joining a community of high-achieving researchers contributing to innovative solutions across various disciplines.
Selection Process:
The number of QUTPRAs offered varies by year. Scholarships are awarded based on:
● Academic excellence.
● Research potential.
● Alignment of your research topic with QUT’s strategic research priorities.
● Strength of your references and research proposal.
● If you're an international student, securing a supervisor and meeting visa requirements early is crucial.
How to Apply for QUTPRA 2026?
Step 1: Meet the Requirements:
Before applying, make sure you:
● Meet academic and English language requirements.
● Have a research topic or proposal.
● Find a suitable supervisor at QUT.
● Prepare all supporting documentation including your CV, academic transcripts, and research proposal.
Step 2: Submit an Expression of Interest (EOI):
● Submit your EOI via QUT's online application portal.
● Wait for a preliminary review.
● If successful, you’ll be invited to submit your final application.
Step 3: Apply for the Scholarship:
● During QUT’s annual research scholarship round, apply for QUTPRA.
● Make sure to tick the box for “QUTPRA” in your final application form.
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Applications Deadline for QUTPRA 2026:
● International students: 31 July 2025.
● Domestic students: 31 August 2025.
● Outcomes Announced: From 21 November 2025.
● Scholarship Start Date: Between January and July 2026.
Conclusion:
The QUT Postgraduate Research Award 2026 is a golden opportunity for both domestic and international students who aspire to undertake a fully funded research degree in Australia. With a generous stipend, tuition coverage, and health insurance, QUTPRA helps eliminate financial barriers so you can focus on impactful research. Whether you're looking to start a PhD or MPhil, now is the time to prepare your documents, connect with potential supervisors, and begin your journey toward advanced academic achievement at QUT. So to apply and know more visit QUT Postgraduate Research Award 2026 official link here.