Edith Cowan University (ECU) has opened the doors for the 2026 Higher Degree by Research (HDR) Scholarships. This prestigious suite of awards which includes both ECU-funded scholarships and the Australian Government Research Training Program (RTP) is designed to attract and support world-class scholars.
Scholarship Overview
| Host | Edith Cowan University (ECU) |
| Institution | Edith Cowan University (ECU) |
| Study Location | Study in Australia |
| Eligible Countries | All Countries |
| Scholarship Category | Postgraduate Scholarships | Masters Scholarships | PhD Scholarships |
| Reward | Full Tuition | $35,000 Annual Stipend | Health Cover | Relocation Allowance |
| Application Closing Date | 31st May, 2026 |
| Application Portal Link | https://www.ecu.edu.au/scholarships/details/ecu-hdr-scholarship |
ECU aims to empowers researchers to tackle complex global challenges through innovation, while living in one of Australia’s most vibrant academic environments through offering full financial coverage.
Benefits of Edith Cowan University HDR Scholarship 2026
Successful applicants are provided with a high-tier funding package to ensure complete focus on their research:
- Annual stipend of $35,000.
- Tuition Sponsorship.
- Health Insurance.
- Relocation Allowance.
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Institutional Framework & Enrollment
The scholarship is tied directly to enrollment in ECU’s higher degree programs:
Available Programs
- Doctor of Philosophy (PhD)
- Doctor of Philosophy (Integrated)
- Master by Research
The Supervisor Requirement
- Mandatory Endorsement: You cannot apply for this scholarship unless you have secured a Principal Supervisor at ECU who has formally endorsed your proposed research project.
Eligibility Requirements
To be considered for the 2026 intake, you must:
- Have received an offer of a place or already be enrolled in an eligible ECU research degree.
- Open to both Domestic (Australian/NZ citizens/Permanent Residents) and International students.
- Selection is based strictly on academic excellence and a demonstrated “outstanding research promise.”
Ineligibility Criteria
- You have received an Australia Award or AusAID scholarship within the last two years.
- You lack the formal endorsement of an ECU supervisor.
- Your commencement date falls after the 2026 deadlines (Dec 1 for PhD; Semester 2 for Integrated PhD/Masters).
How to Apply for Edith Cowan University HDR Scholarship 2026
- To start your application, click on the green button below.
- Before anything else, visit the ECU research directory to find a supervisor in your field.
- Submit your application for your chosen research degree via the ECU Online Admissions Portal.
- Once your admission application is active and your supervisor is secured, log in to the ECU Scholarship Portal between April 5 and May 31, 2026.
- Ensure your CV, transcripts, research proposal, and supervisor’s endorsement letter are correctly attached.
- Finalize your application before May 31, 2026. ECU may issue conditional scholarship offers to candidates whose admission is still being finalized during the ranking period.
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