UBD Graduate Research Scholarship is a fully funded scholarship designed to support outstanding PhD candidates in pursuing advanced research degrees at UBD. Open to both domestic and international applicants, the Universiti Brunei Darussalam (UBD) Graduate Research Scholarship (UGRS) aims to develop a strong research culture and promote academic excellence aligned with Brunei’s national development goals.
This competitive scholarship covers tuition, a generous monthly stipend, research funding, and other benefits for the entire duration of the PhD program. It is ideal for students with a strong academic record and a passion for innovative research in UBD’s priority areas.
Scholarship Benefits
UBD Graduate Research Scholarship (UGRS) offers a comprehensive package of financial and academic support, including:
- Tuition Fees: Full waiver of registration and tuition fees for the duration of the program.
- Monthly Stipend: BND 2,200 per month (approximately USD 1,600), provided throughout the 36-month program.
- Accommodation: On-campus accommodation at no cost (administrative fees may apply).
- Travel Support: One round-trip economy class airfare to and from Brunei for international students.
- Research Grant: Up to BND 3,000 to support approved research and conference travel.
- Visa Support: All visa-related costs are covered for international scholars.
Eligibility Criteria
To be eligible for the UBD Graduate Research Scholarship (UGRS), applicants must meet the following requirements:
- Academic Qualifications: Must hold a Master’s degree with excellent academic performance or a First-Class Bachelor’s degree if applying directly into a PhD program.
- Recent Graduate: Applicants must have completed their most recent degree within the last 5 years.
- Age Limit: Applicants should be 30 years of age or younger at the time of application (exceptions may apply).
- Research Proposal: Applicants must submit a high-quality, original research proposal aligned with UBD’s priority areas.
- English Language Proficiency: Must meet the English language requirements set by UBD (e.g., IELTS, TOEFL, or UBD’s English test).
- Admission Eligibility: Applicants must satisfy all other UBD PhD admission requirements.
Application Process
Applying for the UBD Graduate Research Scholarship (UGRS) involves the following steps:
- Online Application: Submit an application for PhD admission through the UBD Online Admission System (OASys) at apply.ubd.edu.bn.
- Indicate Scholarship Interest: When prompted during the application, select “Yes” to be considered for the UGRS.
- Submit Required Documents: Upload academic transcripts, certificates, CV, research proposal, proof of English proficiency, and identification documents.
- Confirmation and Review: After submission, eligible applications will be reviewed, and shortlisted candidates may be invited for interviews.
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Required Documents
Applicants must prepare and upload the following documents:
- Academic Transcripts and Certificates: Bachelor’s and/or Master’s degree transcripts and certificates (certified copies).
- Curriculum Vitae (CV): Detailing academic background, research experience, and any publications.
- Research Proposal: A clearly written proposal that outlines research objectives, methodology, and expected outcomes.
- Proof of English Proficiency: Valid test scores from IELTS, TOEFL, or UBD English Test.
- Identification Document: A valid passport or national ID card.
- Additional Documents: May include employer release letters or security clearances, depending on applicant category.
Selection Process
The selection process for the UGRS is rigorous and merit-based. It includes the following stages:
- Eligibility Screening: Applications are first screened for compliance with the basic eligibility criteria.
- Academic Evaluation: A detailed review of academic qualifications, research proposal, and scholarly achievements.
- Interview Stage: Shortlisted applicants may be invited for a virtual or in-person interview.
- Final Review: The final selection is made based on academic merit, proposal quality, and alignment with UBD’s research priorities.
Scholarship Duration
The duration for the Universiti Brunei Darussalam (UBD) Graduate Research Scholarship (UGRS) is up to 36 months (3 years), which covers the entire standard period of a full-time PhD program at UBD.
Application Deadline
The application for the January 2026 intake of the Universiti Brunei Darussalam (UBD) Graduate Research Scholarship (UGRS) will close on 31 July 2025.
