Applications are now open for the 2026 Higher Degree by Research (HDR) Scholarships at Edith Cowan University (ECU), Australia. Funded through the Research Training Program (RTP) and the ECU Higher Degree by Research Scholarship (ECUHDRS), these prestigious awards provide financial support to outstanding postgraduate students undertaking a PhD, Integrated PhD, or Master by Research degree at ECU. Offering a full tuition fee waiver, a stipend of AUD $35,000 per annum, relocation allowance, and health cover support, these scholarships give international and domestic students an excellent opportunity to engage in world-class research at one of Australia’s most dynamic universities.

About Edith Cowan University (ECU)

Edith Cowan University, located in Perth, Western Australia, is recognized globally for its research innovation and practical focus. According to the QS World University Rankings 2025, ECU ranks among the top 450 universities worldwide, and the Times Higher Education (THE) Rankings 2025 place ECU within the top 200 young universities globally. The university emphasizes industry partnerships, impactful research, and modern facilities, making it a highly attractive destination for research students.

ECU Higher Degree by Research Scholarships 2026 Overview 

Feature	Details
Scholarship Name	HDR Scholarships (RTP & ECUHDRS)
Host University	Edith Cowan University (ECU), Australia
Degree Level	PhD, Integrated PhD, Master by Research
Eligibility	Domestic & International students
Scholarship Value	Full tuition + AUD $35,000 stipend/year
Duration	3 years (PhD), 2 years (Master by Research)
Application Deadline	16 October 2025 (11:59 PM AWST)
Starting Session	2026 intake
Eligible Programs	Wide range across Schools (Science, Engineering, Arts, Education, Business, Health, Nursing)

Scholarship Benefits

Recipients of ECU HDR Scholarships receive:
• Full tuition fee coverage
• Annual stipend of AUD $35,000 (paid fortnightly)
• Relocation allowance (for eligible domestic students)
• You’ll be getting reimbursement of Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC). This is for international students.
• Opportunity to work on funded projects aligned with industry and global research priorities

Eligibility Criteria

Applicants must meet the following:

1. Hold an offer for a PhD, Integrated PhD, or Master by Research program at ECU.
2. Be a domestic or international student with excellent academic and research potential.
3. If applying with a self-proposed project, secure approval from potential supervisors before applying.
4. For current ECU HDR students, maintain green progression status to qualify.
5. Demonstrate alignment with ECU’s research priorities in the chosen field.

Application Process

To apply for the ECU HDR Scholarships 2026:

• Step 1: Review the research projects list.
• Step 2: Contact the HDR Supervisor or Project Lead to discuss your suitability.
• Step 3: If approved, obtain a confirmation email inviting you to apply.
• Step 4: Submit your application via the ECU Online Portal before 16 October 2025.
• Step 5: Await scholarship ranking results. Conditional offers may be provided if course admission decisions are pending.

Comparison with Similar Scholarships

Scholarship	Host University	Stipend (Annual)	Tuition Coverage	Duration
ECU HDR Scholarships 2026	Edith Cowan University	AUD $35,000	Full	PhD: 3 yrs, Master: 2 yrs
Melbourne Research Scholarships 2026	University of Melbourne	AUD $37,000	Full	PhD: 3.5 yrs, Master: 2 yrs
ANU Research Scholarships 2026	Australian National University	AUD $36,652	Full	PhD: 3.5 yrs, Master: 2 yrs
UNSW RTP Scholarships 2026	UNSW Sydney	AUD $36,000	Full	PhD: 3.5 yrs, Master: 2 yrs

FAQs about ECU Higher Degree by Research Scholarships 2026

1. Who can apply for the ECU HDR Scholarships?
   Domestic and international students with a PhD, Integrated PhD, or Master by Research offer.
2. What is the stipend amount?
   AUD $35,000 per year, paid fortnightly.
3. Does the scholarship cover tuition fees?
   Yes, it provides full tuition fee sponsorship.
4. Can international students apply?
   Yes, international students are fully eligible.
5. What is the deadline to apply?
   16 October 2025, 11:59 PM (AWST).
6. Are there specific research areas available?
   Yes, projects span Arts, Business, Education, Engineering, Health, Nursing, and Science.
7. Do I need to contact a supervisor before applying?
   Yes, you must secure supervisor approval for your project.
8. Is Overseas Student Health Cover included?
   Yes, partial OSHC reimbursement is available for international students.
9. How long is the scholarship valid?
   This is valid for PhD studies of up to 3 years and Master studies of up to 2 years.
10. Can current ECU students apply?
    Yes, if they maintain green progression status.

Important Notes

• Applications open 3 September 2025 and close 16 October 2025.
• Only one project nomination is allowed per applicant.
• Competition is high, and selection is based on academic merit and research potential.

The ECU HDR Scholarships 2026 present a fully funded pathway to pursue world-class research in Australia. If you are passionate about making a research impact, ensure you contact your supervisor and apply before the deadline to secure this opportunity. APPLY NOW.

Stay updated with the latest scholarships, fellowships, and internships worldwide. Subscribe to our updates and explore more opportunities to shape your academic journey.