Scholarships and Costs
University and Commonwealth Government Scholarships
The University offers a number of postgraduate research scholarships to support international research candidates. Applications are accepted between 1 January and 31 August each year.
What does a scholarship offer?
A scholarship funded by the University of Newcastle or the Commonwealth Government provides:
- An annual living allowance $24,653 p.a. (2013 rate). This amount is indexed annually.
- A full tuition fee scholarship
- Relocation and establishment allowance of up to $2,020
- Overseas student health cover
Please note that the figures above would only support a single person and additional money will be required if you intend to bring any family members with you.
Scholarship Eligibility Criteria
Successful scholarship candidates usually have:
- An IELTS of at least 6.5
- Honour class one or equivalent
- An outstanding Grade Point average
- A master degree with strong research component
- International peer reviewed research publication or research experience
How do I apply?
Applicants apply for a scholarship as part of applying for admission by answering the relevant questions on the admission application form.
Your application for admission must include:
- Certified copies of all academic transcripts
- A research proposal
- Evidence of extra academic attainments e.g. publications and research work experience
- Certified evidence of meeting the English proficiency requirement
Please ensure you attach the following documents to support your scholarship application:
- Copies of research publications, exhibitions or conference papers
- Curriculum Vitae
- Details of previous research experience e.g. research work experience / study
- Any additional documents that may add to your scholarship application e.g. evidence of the award of a University Medal
Applications for these scholarships are accepted from 1 January and close 31 August at 4pm each year.

Related documents |
What happens once I submit my application?
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Other Scholarships
Project-based scholarships
University of Newcastle Postgraduate Research Scholarships (UNRS External) are funded from external sources (e.g., research grants) and become available throughout the year. They are advertised on the Postgraduate Scholarship Database for Australia at www.jason.edu.au/.
International Scholarships
- Chinese Government Scholarships
- Vietnamese Government Scholarships
- Iraqi Government Scholarships
- AusAID's Australia Awards Scholarships provide opportunities for people from developing countries.
Need more information about scholarships?
T: +61 2 4921 7486
E: ResearchScholarships@newcastle.edu.au
Costs
The cost of your research degree
In order to dedicate the necessary time and energy to your research degree, you must have sufficient finances to cover your study and living costs. It is important to look carefully at your unique situation and assess the finances you will require to successfully complete your research degree.
The indicative annual cost of a research degree with the University of Newcastle is between AU$19,000 and AU$27,000 depending on your chosen degree.
As an international student, you may receive sponsorship from your home government, university or employer.
Sponsorships recipients must compare their funding to the amount of money provided by University of Newcastle research scholarships, as living off less than this base rate is extremely difficult. Check if your sponsorship will cover tuition fees, health cover, allowances and living costs.
Please be aware that the University cannot provide any additional subsistence to research students who choose to come to Newcastle with insufficient funding.
To check what support is available for international research students, visit International Student Support.
Student Services and Amenities Fee
- This fee is applicable to all students and money is used to improve student services offered by the University.
- Please note that this fee is not covered by any research degree scholarship. Off-campus, online and distance students are also required to pay a service and amenities fee.
- Find out more about SSAF.


