How to apply

Applicants are able to apply for a Higher Degree by Research through our Graduate Research Application System. Please note, if you are based in Cuba, Iran, North Korea, Syria, the regions of Crimea, Luhansk or Donetsk, you must use an Education Agent to apply for admission. You can search for an Education Agent here.

Once you have started your online application, you will receive updates about your application through this portal, including any further information that we require from you.

The following steps will assist you in preparing your application:

Step 1 – Find a Higher Degree by Research

Find the right research degree for you on our full listing of higher degrees by research here.

Step 2 – Find a Supervisory Team

All applicants must liaise with a potential supervisory team in a School prior to submitting an application.  You can use the Find a Supervisor function to identify potential supervisors. Alternatively, you can contact the school administration office where your degree will be located on the School's webpage.

You will be required to upload a completed Supervision Nomination Form signed by your potential supervisory team with your formal online application.

Download the Supervision Nomination Form.

Step 3 – Develop a Research Proposal

You are required to submit a Research Proposal with your application. This is a clear statement describing your proposed area of research and consultation with your proposed supervisory team is strongly recommended.

Download the Research Proposal Guide.

Step 4 - Prepare your Supporting Documentation

The following mandatory documents are required to be uploaded with your formal application (certified or colour copies are accepted):

  • Research Proposal
  • Supervision Nomination Form
  • Birth Certificate or Passport
  • Evidence of Citizenship if not born in Australia or New Zealand
  • Academic transcripts and certificates for all previous academic qualifications (if in language other than English, please also provide a translated copy)
  • Curriculum Vitae
  • Proof of funding/sponsorship (international applicants only)
Step 5 - Apply Online

Register for our Graduate Research Application System and follow the instructions to submit your application. Please don’t hesitate to contact the Graduate Research team at:

graduate-research@newcastle.edu.au or +61 2 4921 6537 if you have any questions.

International Applicants: Please note that the International Sanctions Compliance Assessment is a requirement of the Higher Degree by Research admission process.

AGENTS

Education Agents wanting to apply for Higher Degree by Research on behalf of an applicant will need to register for our Agent Portal. Agents can then access this portal to submit new applications, upload supporting documentation, and complete action items requested by Graduate Research. Please note, students should ensure that an agent is contracted to the University of Newcastle to avoid delays with your application. If an agent is not a contracted agent, you will be required to submit an Agent Nomination Form and either upload this within the application or provide via email to graduate-research@newcastle.edu.au.