Research Scholarships
Research Scholarships
Western Sydney University supports higher degree research candidates with a range of scholarship opportunities. Research scholarships are released periodically, and each type of scholarship has specific application dates, eligibility criteria and conditions.
The information below outlines the requirements for our PhD Research Scholarships.
The frequently asked questions below include important information about how to apply. We receive a very high volume of applications and scholarships are awarded on a competitive basis. Incomplete applications or applications that do not meet the requirements may not be considered.
You can refer to our project scholarships page for information about other scholarship opportunities offered throughout the year.
| Research Scholarships | |
Western Sydney University Scholarship Release (Q1 2026 commencement) | |
Applications open: | Wednesday 1 October 2025 |
Assessment periods: | Applications received by:
will be assessed for scholarships to commence:
Applications received after 31 October (including incomplete applications) will not be considered in this round. |
Scholarship commencement: | Scholarship recipients must be able to commence their program on the date detailed above. |
Program eligibility: |
|
Who can apply? | To be eligible you need to be applying to commence a new program or have commenced in a PhD program in 2025, and: 1. Have completed a Masters-level or Honours-level Degree at Western in 2024 or 2025 2. Be a domestic applicant that can be onshore in Australia at the scholarship commencement date. |
Scholarship inclusions: | Scholarships include a stipend of $35,188 (AUD) per annum for three (3) years. Tuition fees are covered by the Australian Government Research Training Program (RTP). |
Scholarship exclusions: | Travel costs, visa costs, relocation expenses and other expenses are not covered by the scholarship. |
Frequently asked questions
All potential applicants must review the following frequently asked questions before submitting an application for a research scholarship.
How do I apply?
Apply via the portal, click on Research Scholarships, and select 2026 Q1 General Release Round
Are international applicants eligible for a scholarship?
No, international applicants are not eligible to apply for this round of research scholarships.
Are existing WSU PhD candidates eligible to apply?
Candidates who commenced in 2025 are eligible to apply.
Do I need to identify a supervisor for my project before I apply?
Yes. To be considered for a research scholarship, your application must include a letter of support from a suitable supervisor for your proposed research project.
For more information, visit the find a supervisor page.
Can I submit additional documentation after the closing date?
No. Research scholarships are awarded on a competitive basis. To ensure equity for all applicants, late documentation or supporting information will not be accepted after the relevant closing date. This applies to online admission and scholarship applications, evidence of publications, evidence of supervisory support and all other supporting documentation.
What does a scholarship provide?
All scholarships include:
- a tax-free stipend of $35,188 (AUD) per annum for up to 3 years.
- a funded place in a research degree for domestic students
Scholarships do not include funding for insurance, relocation costs, or for other expenses unless otherwise stated.
Are top-up scholarships available?
No. Western Sydney University does not currently award top-up scholarships.
How are scholarships awarded?
Research scholarships are awarded on a competitive basis by a Western Sydney University appointed ranking panel.
Refer to the Guidelines for Ranking Higher Degree Research Scholarships for more information.
The application process, eligibility criteria, ranking criteria and guidelines for awarding scholarships are subject to be revised and may change for future scholarship releases.
Can I work while on a scholarship?
Yes. Scholarship holders are permitted to undertake paid employment provided that the work does not interfere with your study program. It is expected that a minimum of 35 hours per week will be devoted to your study program throughout the year. Scholarship holders are entitled to four (4) weeks annual leave per year of the award.
Scholarship holders are not obligated to undertake tutoring or other academic employment at Western Sydney University.
Can I study from overseas and receive a scholarship?
No. You are expected to be onshore in Australia for the duration of your studies, except for periods of approved overseas study leave to undertake fieldwork or other activities related to your project.
Exceptions may be made on a conditional basis, due to factors such as travel restrictions.
Can I apply for a part-time scholarship?
Scholarships are awarded for full-time study. Part-time awards are available if you have an illness or disability which prevents you from studying full-time or you have significant caring commitments for a family member. Part-time awards are taxable.
When will I be expected to commence my studies?
The Graduate Research School will contact you with further information about research commencement dates.
If you are awarded a scholarship and you are not able to commence your studies by the date indicated on your offer, the scholarship offer may be withdrawn.
Can I apply in another round if my application is unsuccessful?
If your application is unsuccessful, you will need to submit a new online application in the next suitable release.
Who can I talk to about scholarships?
You may find answers to your questions by visiting our Higher Degree Research (HDR) Knowledge Directory.
If you have any other questions about the application process or have a general enquiry about scholarships, please submit your enquiry here to contact the Graduate Research School.
Mobile options:
