How to Apply

A Step-by-Step Guide to applying for a Higher Degree by Research

If you plan to start a Higher Degree by Research in 2025:
Consider applying to the University of Adelaide or UniSA now to begin your studies in 2025. From 2026, you’ll be highly supported to transition to Adelaide University in either your existing program or in an equivalent program.

Applications for Higher Degree by Research are made online through our portal. 

You can apply for admission at any time throughout the year.

However, if you’d like to be considered for any scholarship(s), you’ll need to apply in one of the rounds listed below:

Application Rounds

The following students are eligible to apply in the current/recent University of Adelaide graduates round:

• University of Adelaide students who are in the final semester of their current program
• University of Adelaide students who have recently completed their program within the last 2 years (4 semesters)

Learn more about eligibility here.

Please note:  We are only able to assess applications with qualifications that will be complete by the application deadline.  We cannot guarantee that any applications with qualifications that will be completed after this deadline will be considered as part of the round.

Applicants applying in one of the listed rounds will need to refer to the outcome dates listed above for information on when they will receive correspondence regarding their application.

Scholarships

For detailed information on Scholarships, including Scholarships that are offered for Higher Degree by Research Students, please refer to the Scholarships page here.

If you plan to start a Higher Degree by Research in 2026:

You can apply for a Higher Degree by Research through the new Adelaide University. 

Applications open in February 2025, and you can apply for admission at any time throughout the year.

However, if you’d like to be considered for any scholarship(s), you’ll need to apply in one of the rounds listed on the Adelaide University research scholarships page.

Scholarships
At Adelaide University, research students will be able to apply for a range of scholarship types, including major and top-up scholarships, research internship scholarships, travel scholarships, and more. These scholarships will provide a range of benefits and allowances, including living stipends and tuition fee waivers. You can find out more about Adelaide University research scholarships here.

You can also learn more about Adelaide University’s Graduate Research projects here.