Join Universiti Brunei Darussalam as a PhD student with the UBD Graduate Research Scholarship. Enjoy a fully-funded experience at a top-ranked university, surrounded by a vibrant international research community. Apply now to advance your academic career in a beautiful tropical setting.
Universiti Brunei Darussalam (UBD) is the main university in Brunei, located on the north of Borneo island. UBD has 10 academic faculties and 7 research institutes.
Many students from other countries come to study here, and classes are taught in English.
In the Times Higher Education (THE) ranking, UBD is ranked #3 in the ASEAN region and in the top 350 in the world. In the QS University rankings, UBD is ranked #71 in Asia and #256 in the world.
The UBD Graduate Research Scholarship (UGRS) is a special program for top PhD students who want to do research in a global and competitive environment.
UBD wants to attract the best students to work with its researchers, gain valuable experience, and improve the university’s international reputation.
Eligibility
- Visit the UBD Website:
- Go to the UBD Graduate Research Scholarship page here.
- Check Eligibility:
- Ensure you meet all the eligibility requirements:
- Not older than 30 years of age at the time of the application (exceptions may be made on a case-by-case basis).
- Hold a Master’s Degree and at least an Upper Second Degree in a relevant field from an internationally recognized top university, or
- Hold a First Class Degree in a relevant field from an internationally recognized top university.
- Degree should be awarded within 5 years of the starting date of the relevant Academic semester of enrollment (i.e., 1 August or 1 January).
- Be able to fulfill UBD’s admission requirements, including English proficiency.
- Submit a high-quality and impactful research proposal.
- Ensure you meet all the eligibility requirements:
- Prepare Your Documents:
- Gather the following required documents:
- Academic transcripts and certificates.
- A detailed CV.
- A well-prepared research proposal.
- Proof of English proficiency (if applicable).
- Passport-sized photograph.
- Recommendation letters (if required).
- Gather the following required documents:
- Complete the Application Form:
- Fill out the online application form available on the UBD website.
- Submit Your Application:
- Upload all required documents and submit the completed application form through the UBD online application portal.
- Await Confirmation:
- After submitting your application, wait for a confirmation email from UBD. This may include further instructions or a request for additional information.
- Attend an Interview (if required):
- If shortlisted, you may be invited for an interview (in person or online).
- Receive Your Offer:
- If accepted, you will receive an official offer letter from UBD detailing the scholarship terms and next steps.
- Accept the Offer:
- Follow the instructions in the offer letter to formally accept the scholarship and secure your place at UBD.
- Prepare for Departure:
- Arrange your travel to Brunei, including obtaining any necessary visas and preparing for your move.
Benefits
The UBD Graduate Research Scholarship (UGRS) is not just any scholarship. It offers a fully-funded PhD experience with:
- Tuition Waiver: No need to worry about tuition fees.
- Generous Stipend: Receive BND 2,200 per month for a comfortable life in Brunei, with extra money for exploring and enjoying local food.
- Free Housing: Live on campus in a cozy apartment with other students.
- Travel Allowance: UBD will pay for your flights to international conferences.
- Research Funding: Get extra funding for your research expenses.
UBD wants PhD candidates who are passionate about solving global problems. If your research is in areas like energy, biodiversity, or climate change, you’ll work with top researchers.
Pro Tips:
- Start Early: Give yourself plenty of time to gather all documents and prepare a strong application.
- Research Proposal: Spend extra time crafting a compelling research proposal that aligns with UBD’s focus areas.
- Stay Organized: Keep track of deadlines and ensure all parts of your application are complete and submitted on time.
Good luck with your application!
How to Apply
Visit the UBD Website: Go to the UBD Graduate Research Scholarship page here.
Check Eligibility:
Ensure you meet all the eligibility requirements:
- Under 30 years old.
- Hold a Master’s or First-Class degree from a top university.
- Have a strong research proposal.
Prepare Your Documents:
Gather the following required documents:
- Academic transcripts and certificates.
- A detailed CV.
- A well-prepared research proposal.
- Proof of English proficiency (if applicable).
- Passport-sized photograph.
- Recommendation letters (if required).
Complete the Application Form: Fill out the online application form available on the UBD website.
Submit Your Application: Upload all required documents and submit the completed application form through the UBD online application portal.
Await Confirmation: After submitting your application, wait for a confirmation email from UBD. This may include further instructions or a request for additional information.
Attend an Interview (if required): If shortlisted, you may be invited for an interview (in person or online).
Receive Your Offer: If accepted, you will receive an official offer letter from UBD detailing the scholarship terms and next steps.
Accept the Offer: Follow the instructions in the offer letter to formally accept the scholarship and secure your place at UBD.
Prepare for Departure: Arrange your travel to Brunei, including obtaining any necessary visas and preparing for your move.