HDR Program & Scholarship Eligibility and how to apply

HDR competitive scholarship opportunities are open to PhD applicants commencing in 2026 & 2027.

How to apply

Step 1 – Do I meet the HDR Program Eligibility Criteria

To be eligible to start a Higher Degree by Research (HDR) at CDU, you need to meet three requirements.

Academic performance You need a Bachelor’s or Master’s degree with a Distinction GPA. You’ll need to provide your academic transcripts as evidence.

Research experience You need to have completed research training as part of your previous studies:

  • For a PhD: at least 40 credit points, one semester full-time of Post-graduate of (AQF Level 8) research training

If you don’t meet these exact requirements, equivalent research experience may still be considered — as long as you can show a strong research track record.

English proficiency (international applicants only) You’ll need to provide a certificate showing one of the following:

Step 2 – Do I meet scholarship eligibility criteria

Competetive applicatints will have:

      • Strong academic record — Honours or Master’s with a thesis (or substantial research units) at AQF Level 8 or 9, plus a high GPA
      • Research outputs — peer-reviewed publications in Q1–Q4 journals or other high-quality research outputs. See scimagojr for journal rankings.
      • Relevant experience — practical research experience or a research portfolio
      • Aligned skills — knowledge that fits the proposed research area.

    Strong applicants will typically have at least one quality publication e.g. one Q1 Journal article, or a Master by Research / MPhil with GPA ≥ 80%.

    For HDR Projects – Specific requirements vary by project, so always read the project description and speak with the supervisor before applying.


    Step 3 – Submit your Expression of Interest to your potential supervisor

    Send your EOI Email directly to the lead supervisor. Your EOI must include:

            • Cover email — outlining your eligibility for the PhD program, your suitability for the project and why you’re interested in this project.
            • Curriculum vitae — Include your qualifications, relevant experience and your 4 best publications (if possible) with their quality indicators.
            • Postgraduate transcripts — showing grading scheme, GPA, and all thesis/research units


    Step 4 – Wait for the outcome

    If you’re selected by the Associate Dean of Research (ADR) Review Panel, you’ll receive an invitation to apply via email with further instructions for completing your formal application.

    Questions?

    Contact the lead supervisor for any project-specific or application questions.