Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Research Scholarships 2026 present an outstanding opportunity for Indigenous Australians to pursue postgraduate studies at top universities like the University of Queensland. These fully funded scholarships support both Master’s and PhD students across a wide range of academic fields offered by the university. With a generous living stipend of AUD 46,400 per year and full tuition coverage, the program is designed to empower Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students to thrive in research and higher education.
The 2026 scholarship intake is open exclusively to individuals of Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander descent, aiming to increase representation and leadership in academic and research communities. By removing financial barriers and providing a strong academic support system, these scholarships help foster innovation, cultural knowledge, and scholarly excellence. If you’re an aspiring researcher ready to make an impact, now is the time to apply and shape your future through this prestigious opportunity.
Scholarship Summary
- Country: Australia
- Host: University of Queensland
- Study Level: Masters, PhD
- Benefits: Fully Funded
- Deadline: 30 September 2025
Scholarship Benefits
- Living Stipend: $46,400 per annum (2025 rate), indexed annually
- Tuition Fees: Full coverage for the duration of the program
- Duration: Up to 4 years for PhD, 2 years for MPhil
- Eligibility: Open to Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander students enrolled full-time in Australia
Eligibility Criteria for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Research Scholarships 2026
- Applicant must be an Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander person.
- Applicant must be studying full-time and onshore in Australia.
- Applicant must be nominated by an enrolling school or institute at UQ.
- Applicant must be assessed by the Graduate School as meeting all conditions for admission to the higher degree by research program.
- Applicant must not qualify for the same or a higher level than the higher degree by research program.
- Recipients of Commonwealth-funded tuition fee scholarships are not eligible.
How to apply for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Research Scholarships 2026
Before submitting an application to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Research Scholarships 2026 you should:
- check your eligibility for a Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) or a Master of Philosophy (MPhil)
- prepare your documentation and
- contact the HDR Liaison Officer in your proposed school or institute with any questions you may have.
When you apply, please ensure that under the scholarships and collaborative study section you:
- Include a Confirmation of your Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander Status.
- Select ‘My higher degree is not collaborative’
- Select ‘I am applying for, or have been awarded a scholarship or sponsorship’.
- Select the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander scholarship type
The HDR Liaison Officer in your proposed enrolling school or institute will be able to help you with the application process.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
The Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Research Scholarships 2026 offer financial support, including a $46,400 annual stipend and tuition coverage, for eligible Indigenous students pursuing postgraduate research at UQ. Applications require confirmation of Indigenous status and should be submitted at least 12 weeks before the intended start date.
What is the value of the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Research Scholarships?
The Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Research Scholarships 2026 provides a living stipend of $46,400 per annum (2025 rate), indexed annually, and covers tuition fees. It supports Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander students undertaking a Doctor of Philosophy, Master of Philosophy, or a research-focused professional doctorate at UQ.
Who is eligible to apply for these scholarships?
Eligibility requires being an Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander person studying full-time and onshore in Australia. Applicants must be nominated by a UQ school or institute and meet all conditions for admission to a higher degree by research program.
Are there any restrictions on holding other scholarships?
Applicants must not hold a qualification at the same or higher level than the intended research program. They also must not be receiving another living allowance exceeding 75% of the RTP Scholarship rate or a Commonwealth-funded tuition fee scholarship.
What documentation is required to prove Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander status?
Applicants need to provide compelling evidence, typically a confirmation under the common seal of a community organisation. In exceptional cases, statutory declarations and other documentation may be considered, with original or certified copies required.
How does one apply for the scholarship?
Before applying, check eligibility for a PhD or MPhil, prepare documentation, and contact the HDR Liaison Officer in the proposed school or institute. During application, include confirmation of Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander status and select the appropriate scholarship type.
What are the application deadlines?
The academic year is divided into four research quarters: RQ1 (1 Jan–31 Mar), RQ2 (1 Apr–30 Jun), RQ3 (1 Jul–30 Sep), and RQ4 (1 Oct–30 Dec). Applicants should apply at least 12 weeks before the intended commencement date.
Can part-time students apply for the scholarship?
Domestic part-time students with carer’s responsibilities, a medical condition, or a disability preventing full-time study may be eligible for scholarship consideration on a case-by-case basis. Retrospective payments are not available if awarded after commencement.
What is the duration of the scholarship?
The Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Research Scholarships 2026 duration is up to 4 years for a Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) and up to 2 years for a Master of Philosophy (MPhil). It supports students throughout their research project at UQ.
Are there specific study areas covered by the scholarship?
The Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Research Scholarships 2026 is available for all study areas, supporting Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander students undertaking postgraduate research (HDR) programs across various disciplines at UQ.
Who can assist with the application process?
The HDR Liaison Officer in the applicant’s proposed enrolling school or institute can assist with the application process, including eligibility queries and documentation preparation. Contacting them is recommended before submitting an application.
⚠️ Disclaimer
Scholarship Union shares publicly available scholarship opportunities for informational purposes only. We are not affiliated with or endorsed by any listed institution unless clearly stated.
Listings may come from public sources or user submissions. We do not guarantee their accuracy, completeness, or availability.
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