Research Higher Degrees Fees and Support

At CQU, we offer a strong sense of research community, as well as generous project funding, training and support, so that you can thrive as a researcher. We're committed to supporting you throughout your journey, providing a range of benefits including multiple supervisors, mentorship, access to Research Higher Degree Academies and more. 

Financial Support

The Australian Government, through the Research Training Program, provides funding to universities to assist with meeting the tuition fees for eligible domestic research higher degree candidates, whether you are studying full time or part time, on campus or online. Scholarships are also available to assist with the cost of living and ancillary costs while undertaking a research higher degree. Students who are not eligible for allocation of an RTP Offset Scholarship, or who have exceeded the standard duration of enrolment, will be liable for tuition fees.

Tuition-Free and Discounted Study 

If you are an Australian or New Zealand Citizen, or Australian Permanent Resident you may be eligible for allocation of a Research Training Program (RTP) Offset Scholarship: 

  • For doctoral candidates: up to four years full-time (or part-time equivalent)
  • For masters by research students: up to two years full-time (or part-time equivalent)

Candidates who are awarded an RTP Offset Scholarship will not be required to pay tuition fees for the standard duration of their course. 

For further information about RTP Scholarships and Allowances at CQUniversity please refer to the Research Training Program and Research Higher Degree Scholarships Policy and Procedure. For more information on the cost of a research degree without an offset, view our tuition fees

On top of project and conference funding, international students may also be eligible for the International Student Scholarship and the International Student Scholarship – Regional. New students who will commence their studies at CQUniversity from Term 2, 2020 onwards will be awarded up to the value of 25 per cent off their course tuition fees. 

Stipend and Allowance Scholarships

Under the Australian Government’s Research Training (RTP) Program, research higher degree candidates in receipt of an RTP Offset Scholarship may also eligible to receive a RTP Stipend Scholarship and RTP Allowance, to assist with the living and ancillary costs of undertaking a research higher degree. 

Applications for scholarships are accepted year-round, however applicants must be endorsed by their principal supervisor as a condition of being invited to apply during the admissions process. 

Why CQU?

World-class Research

22 areas ranked 'at', 'above', or 'well above' world standards.

Focus on Impact

We focus on research that directly impacts the industries and communities we serve.