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PhD in Australia: Requirements, Cost and Application Process

A PhD is more than just a degree; it's an exciting journey of learning and development. During this journey, we will learn about what a PhD is and why Australia is the best place for obtaining a degree. It's not just studying; it's exploring new ideas, doing research on exciting topics, and adding your own knowledge to the world.

Australia is known for welcoming students from all over the world. It's not just about studying; it's about having an awesome time while you learn. So, get ready to uncover the secrets of PhDs and why Australia is the perfect place for your educational adventure.

Study in Australia

Why Study PhD in Australia?

Choosing Australia for your PhD journey is like picking the perfect destination for an unforgettable adventure. Here's why studying for a PhD in Australia is the best idea:

• Best Universities: Australia is home to world-class universities known for their excellent academic standards, where you will learn from the best minds in a vibrant and supportive environment.
• Diverse and Inclusive Culture: Australia welcomes people from all over the world, making your academic journey not just about studying but also about connecting with people from different backgrounds.
• Research Opportunities: The vastness of Australia is not just breathtaking; it also offers unique opportunities for research. Whether you're into science, technology, or the environment, Australia has exciting projects waiting for you.
• Innovative Environment: The collaboration between universities, industries, and the government creates an atmosphere where new ideas flourish. It's a place where your creativity can truly shine.
• Global Recognition: A PhD from an Australian university is globally recognized and respected. It opens doors to opportunities not just in Australia but around the world.

PhD Requirements in Australia for International Students

While specific criteria may vary across universities, there are common standards for admission to a PhD program in Australia. Candidates must meet these criteria to secure admission. Here's a breakdown:

• Educational Background: A bachelor's or master's degree in a relevant field, including a substantial research component.
• Minimum GPA: A minimum GPA of 5.5 on a scale of 7.0 is necessary.
• GRE or GMAT Scores (for Business PhD): For a PhD in business, a GMAT score of 680 or a GRE score of 324 is required.
• English Proficiency Test Scores: Proficiency in English is crucial. An IELTS score of 7.0 or above, or a TOEFL score of 96+, is necessary.
• Statement of Purpose (SOP): Submission of a 1-2 page Statement of Purpose outlining your interest in the program and your future plans.
• Letters of Recommendation (LOR): Provision of a minimum of 2 academic LOR.

Remember, each university might have its unique requirements, so it's advisable to check the specific criteria of your chosen institution.

Cost of Studying PhD in Australia

Considering a PhD in Australia involves looking at specific study-related costs. Here's a breakdown to help you plan the cost of a PhD in Australia for international students:

• Tuition Fees: PhD tuition fees for international students can range from AUD 30,000 to AUD 40,000 per year on average. However, this can vary based on the university and the field of study.
• Health Insurance (OSHC): Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) is a must for international students. The cost is around AUD 500 to AUD 700 per year. This ensures you have health coverage while studying in Australia.
• Research Expenses: Depending on your research field, you might incur additional costs. This could include specialized equipment, software, or fieldwork expenses. Research costs can vary widely.

How to apply for PhD in Australia: Application Process

If you're dreaming of pursuing a PhD in Australia as an international student, here's a guide to the key requirements:

• Select Your Area of Study: Choose the specific field or subject you want to focus on for your PhD.
• Research Proposal: Craft a clear and compelling research proposal. This document outlines what you want to study, why it's important, and how you plan to do it. It's like the roadmap for your PhD journey.
• Complete the Online Application Form: Fill out the university's online application form. Provide accurate and complete information, and ensure you attach all required documents.
• English Proficiency: As classes and research are conducted in English, international students must prove their English proficiency. Commonly accepted tests include IELTS , TOEFL, or equivalent. Check with the specific university for their requirements.
• Academic Transcripts and Certificates: Prepare your academic records, including transcripts and certificates from previous educational institutions. These documents help the university assess your academic background.
• Visa Requirements: Check and fulfill the visa requirements for international students in Australia. This includes providing proof of financial capacity and meeting health insurance obligations.
• Application Fee: Be aware of any application fees. Ensure that you submit your application before the deadline, and pay attention to the specific requirements set by the university.
• Review and Submit Carefully: Review your entire application before submission. Ensure all necessary documents are attached and all information is accurate. Submit your application well before the deadline.
• Wait for Confirmation: After submission, patiently wait for a response from the university. Regularly check your email for updates on your application status.

Top Universities Offering PhD in Australia

Here are some of the top universities in Australia offering PhD programs:

• Australian National University
• University of Melbourne
• University of Sydney
• University of Queensland
• University of New South Wales
• Monash University
• University of Western Australia
• University of Adelaide
• University of South Australia
• Queensland University of Technology
• University of Newcastle
• University of Wollongong
• Macquarie University
• University of Technology Sydney

These PhDs in Australian universities are recognized for their commitment to research excellence and provide a conducive environment for PhD candidates to pursue their academic and research goals.

Popular PhD Courses in Australia

Australia offers a wide range of popular PhD courses across various fields. Some of them are:

• PhD in Engineering
• PhD in Environmental Science
• PhD in Health Sciences
• PhD in Computer Science and Information Technology
• PhD in Business and Management
• PhD in Biomedical Sciences
• PhD in Psychology
• PhD in Education
• PhD in Social Sciences
• PhD in Creative Arts and Design
• PhD in Biotechnology
• PhD in Materials Science

These programs cover a wide range of topics. As usual, it's advised to look through the websites of each university to get full information about the PhD programs that are offered.

Obtaining a PhD in Australia opens up a lot of exciting possibilities because it is recognized and valued around the world. If you're thinking about doing a PhD, AusStudies is here to help. Take advantage of the chance to help with important new studies, learn from other cultures, and start a journey that goes beyond traditional schooling. We at AusStudies are excited to help you get started on your academic journey in Australia.

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The costs of a research degree

As a research student at Macquarie University, you will need to understand the costs involved with your degree and the fee payment process.

Research degree fees vary depending on whether you are a domestic or international student.

Ways to save on your tuition fees

Domestic and international students can save time and money if eligible for a scholarship or Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL). There is also financial help for domestic students and some support is available to international students.

Financial assistance

View the range of financial support initiatives.

Get credit for relevant prior studies.

Scholarships

See the scholarships available to students.

Domestic students

You are a domestic research degree student if you are enrolled in a research degree and are one of the following:

• an Australian citizen or permanent resident
• a New Zealand citizen
• an Australian humanitarian visa holder.

How you add up your fees

When working out the cost of your BPhil tuition, you will need to take into account:

• course type and unit cost
• student services and amenities fees, textbooks etc.

Research degrees

There are different domestic fee structures for the two types of research degrees.

Bachelor of Philosophy/Master of Research

• First year – Commonwealth Supported Places (CSP) are available for domestic students enrolled in the Bachelor of Philosophy/Master of Research (BPhil/MRes). You will also be required to pay the Student Services and Amenities Fee (SSAF) .
• Second year – you’ll be offered the Research Training Program (RTP) fee offset scholarship from the Australian Government so you don’t need to pay fees. This scholarship covers the cost of your course for the minimum duration.

The Bachelor of Philosophy is an approved course for the purposes of student income support. Students may be eligible for student income support payments such as Youth Allowance or Austudy, provided all other qualifications are met. Check with Services Australia (was Centrelink) directly for further information.

Doctor of Philosophy/Master of Philosophy

Domestic candidates enrolled in either the Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) or the Master of Philosophy (MPhil) program are funded by the government under the Research Training Program (RTP) .

Students are entitled to a maximum of three years’ full-time equivalent study if undertaking a PhD, and a maximum of two years’ full-time equivalent study if undertaking a MPhil.

Candidates with incomplete research degrees will have their prior candidature period deducted from their full RTP entitlement when they enrol.

International students

If you are studying with us on an international student visa, you’re considered an international student and must pay international fees. Find out more about our international student fees .

International fees per faculty

Learn more about fees for degrees in each of our faculties below.

Faculty of Arts

Faculty of Medicine, Health and Human Sciences

Faculty of Science and Engineering

Macquarie Business School

*Total annual cost is based on 80 credit point for a full-time study load.

**Total annual cost is based on two enrolment periods at a full-time study load.

Refunds of any fees paid must be in line with the Higher Degree Research International Fee Refund Policy .

Download 2023 international tuition fees document .

International Out of Time (iOOT) fee

Candidates who apply for and are approved for an extension of Expected Work Submission (EWS) date in accordance with the HDR Variations to Candidature Policy will be charged a flat rate of AUD $2000 for a three-month extension (iOOT fee).

Candidates can apply for a cumulative maximum of 1 EFTSL (PhD/MPhil) or 0.5 EFTSL (MRes Y2) in accordance with the policy, and each extension application of three months will incur a flat rate $2000 charge.

• Candidates will be expected to apply for an extension of EWS date before the expiry of their candidature.
• If you do not pay your iOOT fee by the payment due date, late payment penalties may also apply.
• Applicable to MRes Y2, MPhil and PhD only. See further details below.

MRes Y2 candidates

• Candidates will not be liable for full tuition fees for more than one year (full time equivalent) of the MRes Y2 program.
• Candidates may apply for up to two extensions of EWS date for three months at a time.
• The first extension of candidature for MRes Y2s for three months up to the end of January (for Session 1) or end of July (Session 2) will not incur a charge of full tuition fees or a write up fee.
• $2000 iOOT fee will apply for the second approved application for extension of EWS date.
• When a candidate has an approved extension, marks are not deducted should they submit on or before their new EWS date.

MPhil/PhD candidates

• Candidates will not be charged full tuition fees for the period beyond their standard period of candidature. The standard period of candidature is defined in the Higher Degree Research Rules .
• Candidates may apply for up to four extensions of EWS date for three months at a time.
• $2000 iOOT fee will apply for each approved application for extension of candidature.
• Where candidates are Macquarie University funded scholarship holders, the first approved application for extension may include an extension of stipend, where the candidate applies and is approved for an extension under the Macquarie COVID-19 Extension Scholarship Scheme. In these circumstances the iOOT fee will not apply.

iOOT fee FAQs

Can I apply for six months’ extension?

PhD and MPhil can apply for a six-month extension in accordance with the HDR Variations to Candidature Policy, however you will be charged for two three-month periods (2 × iOOT = $4000).

I have a scholarship, will it cover my iOOT?

Scholarships for international candidates funded by Macquarie University do not cover the iOOT fee. If you have an externally funded scholarship you will need to check with your provider or sponsor.

I don’t need three months; can I apply for less than a three-month extension and pay a lesser fee?

No, if you apply for an extension of EWS date you will be granted three months, for a flat rate of $2000. This is not pro-rata.

Can I submit before the end of my approved extension period?

Yes, you can submit before the end of your approved extension. If you submit your thesis within one month of your original EWS date after applying for a three month extension, the fee will be reversed and you will not have to pay.

When is the fee due?

The fee due date will be displayed in your eStudent account. It will be due one month from your original EWS date.

Will I have to pay the iOOT fee for my first extension if I have received a COVID-19 Extension Scholarship (not applicable to MRes)?

No, candidates who are eligible and who are approved for the COVID-19 Extension Scholarship Scheme will be granted up to three months’ stipend and tuition scholarship, and for this first extension will not be charged the iOOT. Subsequent extension will be subject to the $2000 flat rate fee for each three month extension of EWS date.

I haven’t submitted an extension of EWS date, will I be charged the fee?

You will only be charged the iOOT fee of $2000 when you apply for an extension of EWS date. If you do not submit your thesis and you have not obtained an EWS date extension your candidature may be ceased in accordance with the HDR Variations to candidature policy.

I withdrew from my program without applying for an extension and now I want to re-enrol to submit my thesis, will I be charged?

If you withdrew on or after your original course EWS date, yes, when you apply to re-enrol to submit your thesis you will be charged the iOOT $2000 fee and be given three months in which to finalise and submit your thesis. If you submit in the first month the fee will be reversed, and you will not have to pay.

I am a cotutelle candidate, will I have to pay?

Yes, cotutelle and joint PhD candidates who apply for an extension will be subject to the $2000 iOOT fee on application for a three-month extension of EWS date.

Will the fee apply when I am completing my thesis corrections?

No, if you are completing thesis corrections following an examination outcome of Award with Corrections you will not be charged tuition fees and you will not be required to pay the iOOT fee.

I have been asked to revise and resubmit my thesis, what fees will I have to pay?

You will not be required to pay full tuition fees for the period of enrolment for revision and resubmission of the thesis. However, you will be charged the iOOT fee for each three months of enrolment (4 × iOOT = $8000).

Funding opportunities

Opportunities are available for scholarship funding.

Master of Research

The University offers a limited number of scholarships to international MRes students through the competitive IRTP (International Research Training Program) scholarship round each year.

• Applicants for admission to PhD who are offered entry to MRes Year 2 and three-year PhD, and who rank competitively for IRTP scholarship, may be offered a scholarship to cover their MRes Year 2 tuition fees and a living stipend.
• PhD scholarships for MRes graduates progressing to a PhD are awarded through a competitive ranking process. The three-year PhD scholarship covers the tuition fee and a living stipend at the rate of the Research Training Program (RTP).

Learn more about scholarships for international MRes and progressing candidates.

Macquarie University has also partnered with specific overseas universities to provide co-funded scholarships to eligible international MRes applicants.

Candidates are encouraged to apply for advertised scholarships.

Scholarships for graduate research at Macquarie University are available for specific projects or in the general scholarship main rounds.

Learn more about scholarships for international PhD/MPhil candidates.

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PhD Degrees in Australia

A PhD is the highest degree awarded at global universities. PhD study is based on a substantial research project in an area of academic interest, typically up to 100,000 words in length, written as a thesis which must be defended in an oral examination at the end of the program. All PhD students are assigned a supervisor, and the duration of a PhD is typically three years full-time and six years part-time.

Very few research degrees feature taught modules, and as such a, student is expected to take more responsibility for their work and schedule. Universities in Australia are known for their academic excellence and state-of-the-art research infrastructure, along with their support for enterprise partnerships.  

PhD Entry Requirements

Australian institutions are free to admit anyone to a PhD program, with admission generally conditional on the prospective student having completed an undergraduate degree with at least upper second-class honours, as well as a master's degree . English language ability proof is a must, and a minimum IELTS score of 6.5 is generally required. There is usually a first-year assessment of the remaining study, and the thesis is submitted at the end of the completed program.

Once you have decided on an area of research and have looked into how you will fund your study, there are a number of documents required when submitting your application. They include:

• Academic transcripts
• Academic references
• Personal statement
• Research proposal

- PhD Research Proposal

A research proposal is required by all students when applying to study for a PhD. The proposal should address the research you wish to undertake, how you will do it, and why it is important. A panel of experts must accept the proposal before your program can begin.

How much does a PhD cost in Australia?

Funding and researching a PhD can be expensive. In Australia, candidates can expect to pay 40,000 AUD- 60,000 AUD. Dedicated scholarships can help support your PhD, and it is rare for a PhD student not to be supported by some form of bursary, grant or scholarship .

Study a PhD in Australia

If you are interested in studying for a research degree in Australia, arrange a free consultation with SI-Australia today.

Increase your chances of success when applying

SI-Australia specialises in selecting the right Australia university or college for international students by reviewing your academic background, discussing your career goals and helping you apply. Our application services can help you achieve your dream of studying in Australia.

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Doctor of Philosophy

A Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) is an internationally recognised graduate research program that will enable you to become an independent researcher. 

With the guidance of an advisory team, you'll undertake a research project, produce an 80,000-word thesis and complete an oral examination.

A PhD takes 3 to 4 years full-time. Under guidance, you'll develop advanced research skills and knowledge in your chosen field.

The thesis is a substantial document that makes an original contribution to your field of research. Your thesis may involve an alternate format .

You'll need a strong academic background and you may need to submit a research proposal and other documents to support your application. About 1,000 PhD candidates join UQ each year researching a wide range of topics.

Research at UQ

UQ is one of Australia’s top research-intensive universities. Our research makes an impact on the world's cultural, environmental, economic and social challenges.

Learn more about UQ's research

Program highlights

• Be inspired and challenged to explore new ideas and develop greater understanding of complex questions with leading researchers.
• Access premier resources including one of Australia’s largest libraries, with more than 2 million physical resources and 116,800+ journal subscriptions.
• Foster and improve your skills through the Career Development Framework, created with industry.
• Learn from researchers whose work addresses national and global cultural, environmental, economic and social challenges.

35 in the world

CWTS Leiden Ranking 2023

51 in the world

Academic Ranking of World Universities 2023

Supervision

You have to find and contact a thesis supervisor before you apply

This supervisor will support, guide and mentor you through your research, and can introduce you to professional networks that will start your career.

Find a supervisor

3-Minute Thesis

The showcase event for research candidates is the 3-Minute Thesis (3MT). 

3MT is held each spring.

Learn more about the 3MT

Career development

UQ offers a range of development opportunities via the Career Development Framework (CDF) to help you develop portable skills for any career or industry.

Learn more about the CDF

Studying at UQ gave me the flexibility to expand my knowledge across different areas of science outside of my chosen specialty. Keeping my scientific and translational skills broad has allowed me to adapt to different environments and opportunities throughout my career.

Discover Postgraduate Bioinformatics

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Entry requirements, gpa equivalent.

Select where you studied and your qualification to see the GPA you need to be considered for this program.

Meeting the GPA requirement doesn’t guarantee admission.

Academic entry requirements

You have to prove you are prepared for PhD study. You do this by showing you:

• have completed some research experience
• have completed an approved university degree  and
• can meet the English language requirements.

Approved degrees

An approved degree needs to be:

• in an area relevant to your proposed PhD project and
• completed no more than 10 years ago.

You need one of the following approved degrees to apply for a PhD:

• Master of Philosophy (or another research master’s degree); or
• Bachelor’s degree from an approved university with at least honours class IIA or equivalent; or
• Coursework master’s degree with an overall grade point average of 5.65 on the 7-point UQ scale which includes relevant research experience, approved by the dean; or
• Postgraduate degree (at least one year full-time or equivalent) with an overall grade point average of 5 on the 7-point UQ scale, together with demonstrated research experience equivalent to honours class IIA will be considered on a case-by-case basis; or
• Bachelor’s degree plus at least 2 years of relevant research experience , including research publications.

Research experience

You'll meet the requirements for admission into a PhD in terms of 'research preparedness' if you can provide evidence that you've planned and executed project work and/or a body of research with some independence.

To demonstrate this, we'll ask you to provide one of the following:

• with completed courses that aim to develop research skills (minimum value of #1 unit e.g. 50 per cent of a #2 unit course), and/or
• the completion of a supervised research project that includes an individually graded written report with a combined minimum course volume equal to #4 units at UQ.
• Scholarly papers involving a substantial contribution as an author, appearing in recognised academic journals or in volumes published by recognised academic publishers.
• Research or technical reports prepared for industry, government or business, which adhere to the broad conventions of academic publishing (i.e. contain an up-to-date review of relevant literature, a description of relevant research methods and an evaluation of results, etc.) and which identify you as a significant contributor.
• A portfolio of published creative work together with published critical discussion of some or all of that work, or of a comparable body of work by others, and which demonstrates your development of a scholarly approach to creative work as research investigation.
• Demonstrable industry or work experience where you can demonstrate that you have planned and executed a project, working with a high level of independence.

Student visas

International students who are accepted into full-time study in the Doctor of Philosophy are eligible to apply for an Australian Student visa (subclass 500).

This program has two CRICOS codes:

• 0100213 – Architecture, creative arts, education, health, information technology, management and commerce, mathematical sciences, social and cultural studies
• 0100214 – Agriculture and environmental studies, dentistry, engineering, human movement, medical studies, natural and physical sciences, pharmacy, psychology, veterinary science

Discuss your proposed project with us to determine which CRICOS code is most relevant for your visa application.

There are a number of requirements you must satisfy before a visa is granted, including the genuine temporary entrant (GTE) requirement.

Learn more about student visas

Additional entry requirements

Many departments will have additional entry requirements and may request documents to support your application, such as a research proposal. You should discuss these additional requirements with your potential thesis supervisor.

Additional application information

Minimum English language proficiency requirements apply, please refer to the English proficiency policy .

English language requirements

There are a few ways you can meet our English language requirements. If you sit a test, the following scores are needed for PhD admission:

Read our English language requirements

Scholarships

There are several types of PhD scholarship:

• tuition fee scholarship : this covers the fees charged by UQ for PhD study
• living stipend scholarship: this is a   fortnightly payment (or stipend) to support your daily expenses
• top-up scholarship: may be provided by external organisations, supervisors, or philanthropic donations. When awarded, they provide an additional payment on top of a living stipend scholarship. They cannot be held without a living stipend scholarship.

Each year, we award more than 600 scholarships to attract and support the highest quality higher degree by research applicants.

View all postgraduate research scholarships

University scholarships

UQ scholarships include:

• Graduate School Scholarships
• Graduate School Tuition Fees Scholarship
• Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Scholarships
• Earmarked Scholarships
• The Graduate School Scholarship

Other scholarships

Throughout the year we advertise a range of other research scholarships, including top-up scholarships, travel grants and external scholarships, including:

• Westpac Future Leaders Scholarship

How to apply for a scholarship

You can apply for many scholarships using the same form as your PhD application. External scholarships might have different ways to apply. 

Our Scholarships website explains how to apply for each scholarship. If you are applying for a non-UQ scholarship, outcome dates may vary.

Fees and costs

Tuition fees.

Your fees will vary according to your academic field, study load and whether you study internally or remotely.

Learn more about postgraduate research fees

Research costs

The department you enrol with will meet all necessary costs for your project, including:

• resource and facility costs: at UQ, which may include other organisations in Australia or overseas
• travel costs: to complete fieldwork, collect data, or to visit libraries or other repositories
• coursework costs: for courses studied outside the department
• relevant training: in particular methodologies or techniques.

How to apply

Before you apply, 1. check your eligibility.

Check your eligibility by reviewing the entry requirements for UQ's Higher Degrees by Research. If applying for a scholarship, check the scholarship's eligibility and important dates.

2. Approach a potential supervisor or find a project

You'll either need to find:

• a supervisor in your field who will support your proposed project.  Identify a researcher .
• a project you can join that suits your interests.  See available projects .

If you're choosing a researcher, you'll need to find one with relevant expertise and get agreement to support your PhD and project.

Many departments will require additional information to make a decision around your motivation, understanding, commitment, and financial support required.

They may request documents to support your application, such as a research proposal. You should discuss these additional requirements with your potential thesis supervisor.

3. Gather your documents

You will need to compile the necessary documents. We will accept scanned copies of original documents, but you will have to keep all original documents for the duration of your studies.

Upload all documents as PDFs and name your files like this: LASTNAME_firstname_document-name.pdf

If any of your documents is in a language other than English, you will need to send both the original document and an official translation.

Send the following documents with your application:

An academic CV assists us to determine your readiness to commence a higher degree by research. For the purposes of this application, your academic CV should be current (i.e. no more than 6 months old) and include information under the following headings:

Personal details

• your full name
• your contact details (phone number, email address, city and country of residence)
• nationality
• languages spoken and proficiency level for each
• your ORCID ID or other research output identifier (such as Google Scholar) if you have one (see the ORCID ID and research identifiers information provided by UQ Library).

As the purpose of this academic CV is to determine your academic suitability for a higher degree by research program at UQ and your competitiveness against other applicants, we only require information that is of direct relevance to our decision-making processes. With this in mind, please do not include the following in your academic CV:

• photographs/head shot
• marital status
• driver’s license
• date of birth/age
• hobbies and interests.

Educational qualifications and academic awards

List each of your formal educational qualifications in reverse chronological order (i.e. with the most recent formal educational qualification listed first). For each qualification, include:

• the commencing and end dates (month and year) for the qualification
• the full title of the qualification (e.g. Bachelor of Arts instead of B.A.)
• the institution attended and the enrolling school/administrative unit
• the city and country where the institution is located
• your Grade Point Average (GPA) for the overall qualification
• any academic achievement awards (e.g. Dean’s awards, subject prizes, University medals, thesis prizes etc.) received for the qualification
• if a research thesis was part of the qualification, include the title and word length of your dissertation.

As part of your application, please submit academic transcripts and degree certificates for each educational qualification you list.

Please do not include:

• high school qualifications
• the individual subjects/courses undertaken throughout your qualifications or the grades awarded for these
• training courses/professional development activities not resulting in a formal qualification.

Professional affiliations and memberships

List any professional/disciplinary associations or committees that you a member of and include:

• the commencing and end date (in years) for the affiliation/membership
• the name of the professional association or committee
• your membership type (e.g. student member, affiliate member, full member etc.) or role (e.g. committee member, secretary, president etc.).

Employment history

List each of your previous employment roles in reverse chronological order (i.e. with the most recent/current employment listed first) and include:

• the commencing and end dates (month and year) for the employment
• the title of each position
• the name of the employing organisation, the city, and country where you were based
• your main duties or accountabilities in that role, providing detailed information on any research-related activities
• any achievements during that role that are relevant to your proposed field of research .

Other research experience

List any voluntary, unpaid, or extra-curricular research-related projects or experiences you have undertaken (e.g. summer research projects, internships etc.) and include:

• the commencing and end dates (month and year) of the experience
• the name of the organisation, the city, and country where you were based

Research outputs

In reverse chronological order (i.e. the most recent output first) list your research outputs,  including for example research published or accepted for publication, research reports, and research by creative practice.

If needed, use sub-headings to separate refereed journal articles, published conference proceedings, edited book chapters, books, creative works, industry reports, invited papers, patents, media commentary, conference presentations and posters, invited talks etc. If applicable, use additional sub-headings to indicate if outputs are published , accepted for publication (but not yet in print), or (submitted but) under review .

Do not include any outputs/publications that are ‘in preparation’ .

For all research outputs, include:

• the output/publication reference using an official bibliographical style (such as Turabian/Chicago, APA, Harvard), including listing all authors in the order that they appear in the work with your name in bold
• the Digital Object Identifier (DOI), PubMed Identifier (PMID), International Standard Book Number (ISBN) or URL where applicable
• the standing of the journal or conference and the impact of the work (e.g. impact factors, citations and other metrics indicators)
• relevant indicators of national or international significance
• rejection rates for the outlet etc.
• how much of the original research you were responsible for (i.e. what was your role in the conception and design of the project and how involved were you in the analysis and interpretation of the research data on which the publication is based?)
• the extent to which you authored the paper.

Research grants and relevant awards

Include only those research grants and relevant awards that you have received at the time of making your application (i.e. do not list grants or awards that you applied for and did not receive or are awaiting a decision on). For each research grant/award, include:

• the name of the granting/awarding body and the country in which they are based
• the name of the grant/award
• the year(s) in which the grant was active or the year in which the award was made
• the amount of the research grant/award
• if relevant (e.g. for research grants), the title of your application.

Applicants from creative and professional-based disciplines may also include non-research grants and awards related to their creative or professional practice.

Research achievements relative to opportunity (optional)

In recognition of the diverse personal and professional pathways that applicants have experienced, you are invited to provide information ( maximum 200 words ) to contextualise your research outputs and achievements, relative to the opportunities that you have had to participate in research-related activities.

This section of the CV is optional and should only be included if you believe there are factors relevant to your research achievements that you would like the selection panels to know. Examples of factors include (but are not limited to):

• study/career disruptions due to illness, caregiving, natural disasters etc.
• non-linear academic or career progression, or a change in career direction
• reduced ability to take up research-related opportunities (e.g. attend conferences) due to caregiving responsibilities.

Academic referees

Please provide us with two referees who can comment on your academic work. For each referee, include their:

• honorific and name
• employing organisation and the city and country where they are located
• contact details, including office address, telephone, fax and email (preferably an institutional, rather than private, email address)
• an indication of the capacity in which you know this person (e.g. were they a lecturer or thesis supervisor, an employer, how long you’ve known them etc.). 

If possible, please include at least one:

• senior person (preferably your supervisor or the head of your organisational unit) closely associated with your current work, and
• person who is not a member of your proposed advisory panel/supervisory team.

Formatting and document specifications

We recommend that you use the below formatting settings to improve the readability of your CV:

• margins of at least 1.5 centimetres
• single line spacing
• no smaller than 12 point Times New Roman font (or equivalent)
• left justify text (not full justify)
• include your name and page number on each page
• be consistent in your formatting and spelling throughout
• limit the use of bold, underline, italics, and multiple font types.

Please proofread your CV carefully before uploading it to your application.

Save as a PDF and name your file: LASTNAME_firstname_CV.pdf

There is no page limit to your academic CV – it can be as long as required to include the information requested here.

Please include in your CV all the headings listed above – if you do not have any content to add for a particular heading please list ‘None to date’ under that heading .

An academic CV for employment purposes within Australia would not include the information requested here outlining your three most significant publications or your research achievements relative to opportunity. It would, however, include information about professional and service activities undertaken and may include a summary of your relevant research/teaching interest areas and skill sets – this information is not required in the CV you submit here for application to an HDR program.

This should show all study you have undertaken since secondary school, whether complete or incomplete, including the institution grading scale. The grading scale is often found on the final page or the reverse page; be sure to include all pages.

An academic transcript can also be called an:

• academic record
• diploma supplement
• statement of learning
• record of achievement.

A degree certificate is a legal document, imprinted with a university seal. It should state the name of your qualification and areas of study.

Include all degree certificates (testamurs) for post-secondary study with your application. If you studied in China, you must provide a:

• award certificate and
• graduate statement/certificate.

All applicants have to prove they can meet English language requirements . Any test scores have to be valid at your proposed commencement date.

Include a copy of the information page (with your photo) in your passport. This will verify your identity and ensure we can make offers correctly.

Include the contact details of two referees who will support your application. These referees will need to provide insight into your research experience.

We will contact your referees for a report, but you will need to enter their details into the application form.

Other documentation, originals or certified copies, may be required depending on your individual circumstances, for example:

• evidence of change of name
• proof of citizenship, if you are not a citizen of Australia or New Zealand by birth
• evidence of your Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander status
• previous research program information .

If you don't provide us with all documents it will take us longer to process your application. Your start date might then be delayed, or you might miss an admission or scholarship deadline. 

4. Apply online

Once you have prepared your application and contacted a potential supervisor, use the online application form to apply. Your application can only be assessed once your referees have responded to us, and all outstanding documents and school/institute endorsements have been received.

Important dates

The academic year for research students is divided into four research quarters (RQ).

Candidates applying for a Student Visa or UQ scholarship may need to apply earlier. Make sure you check  scholarship round application deadlines  and outcome dates before applying.

The agreed start date will be included on your Confirmation of Enrolment.

Find out more about research quarter dates

The academic year for research students is divided into four research quarters (RQ). You can start a PhD in any quarter, as long as the Census Date hasn't passed.

Candidates applying for a UQ scholarship may need to apply earlier. Make sure you check scholarship round application deadlines and outcome dates before applying.

The agreed start date will be included on your offer of admission.

Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander applicants

For support with applying – or if you have any questions about university life – get in touch with our Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Studies Unit.

Contact the ATSIS Unit

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Postgraduate research degrees

Our research is driven by the big picture. The University of Sydney is home to leading researchers who are finding solutions to the world's most pressing issues by changing the way they look at them. 

We are home to 90 world‑renowned multidisciplinary research and teaching centres that tackle some of the world’s biggest challenges, such as health, climate change and food security. These centres include the Charles Perkins Centre, the Brain and Mind Centre ,  The University of Sydney Nano Institute , the Sydney Policy Lab , the Sydney Environment Institute , and the Sydney Southeast Asia Centre .

Our interdisciplinary approach means that students are part of a community of scholars that unites experts in fields as diverse as medicine, arts, social sciences, engineering, information technologies and science. 

As a researcher at Sydney, you'll work alongside some of the world's brightest and most accomplished academics. You can access high-calibre facilities and unique international partnerships with top-ranked institutions, including Stanford, UCLA, the University of Edinburgh, Utrecht University, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, and the University of Hong Kong.

Types of research degrees

Master's degree by research.

A master's degree by research at Sydney:

• is the second-highest qualification on the Australian Qualifications Framework
• can be a gateway to study at a PhD level
• is usually one to two years full-time or two to four years part-time*
• is awarded based on a supervised thesis, which makes a substantial contribution to the knowledge of the subject concerned.

*Part-time is not available to international student visa holders.

Doctor of Philosophy (PhD)

A PhD at Sydney:

• is our premier research award and the highest qualification on the Australian Qualifications Framework
• comprises of independent research and writing on an approved topic toward a thesis for examination
• may be undertaken in all faculties and divisions, or across disciplines
• is usually 3.5 years of full-time or seven years of part-time* study.

If you’re interested in a Joint PhD program, you need to follow the Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) application steps 1-3. In addition, your proposed supervisor will need to complete a proposal to negotiate a student agreement form. If accepted, you will also be required to sign an individual student agreement. After your student agreement is finalised, you will then be sent an application form for the Joint PhD program.

Please refer to the University's Dual and Joint Degree Policy for full policy details.

Download our  Joint PhD programs factsheet (pdf, 116KB)  to learn more.

Professional doctorate

A professional doctorate at Sydney:

• allows candidates to pursue rigorous scholarship alongside advancing their practice in many fields
• is usually three to four years of full-time or six to eight years of part-time* study.

Internship opportunities

Grow professionally and academically through a paid 3-6 month internship with an industry partner as you complete your degree.

The University of Sydney has partnered with  Australian Postgraduate Research Intern (APR.Intern)  to provide domestic and international HDR students with internship opportunities  in a range of sectors and disciplines.

A paid internship will allow you to:

• Develop competencies that will contribute to your research
• Gain industry experience, develop skills and build networks
• Enhance your employability
• Earn additional income

HDR coursework 

HDR coursework is mandatory for some of our research degrees. HDR coursework adds to your researcher toolkit so you can graduate with a robust set of skills, for a career in academia or industry.

Your faculty may elect to define certain units of study as mandatory for a given degree, or define any other studies as required by the progress evaluation panel of the research project. Refer to the relevant course in the  handbook .  

Frequently asked questions

Getting started, do i need prior research experience.

Yes, all HDR courses require prior research experience. This is because HDR courses are largely self-driven, requiring pre-requisite research, time and project management skills.

If I have no prior research experience how can I get started?

If you do not have any previous research experience, there are ways to gain what you need. Both the one-year honours and masters by coursework degrees containing substantial research components are great pathways into research. These courses will allow you to gain the research skills necessary to apply for the PhD.

What is the difference between a Master of Philosophy/Research and a PhD?

The PhD is our premier research award and the highest qualification on the Australian Qualifications Framework. The PhD is usually three years full-time or six years part-time.

The Master of Philosophy/Research is usually one to two years full-time or four years part-time (part-time is available to domestic students only). A PhD thesis is generally around 80,000 words while a master’s thesis is 50,000 words.

How do I find a supervisor?

To browse through the profiles of our researchers and learn about their current and past research, please refer to Find a Researcher . Here, you will also be able to access the publications lists and contact details of our researchers. 

My research idea crosses two disciplines – is this a problem?

No. Interdisciplinary research is highly regarded in the world of academia and working across disciplines can be very beneficial in developing and demonstrating different analytical skills. Working on research from two perspectives can also offer insight that you would not be able to achieve from one discipline perspective.

What are the English language requirements for a PhD?

Please check your  course page  for the requirements of each course. Generally, the English requirements are between 6.0 to 7.0 IELTS overall or equivalent in other accepted English proficiency tests.

How much do HDR courses cost?

There are no course fees for domestic students – fees are covered by the government Research Training Program (RTP) fee offset. However, fees apply to international students. Please refer to the  course page  for fee details.

What scholarships are available?

We have one of the largest research schemes in Australia. Opportunities include the Australian government-funded Research Training Program (RTP) stipend scholarships, and the University of Sydney and faculty-specific awards. Explore your options .

Degree progression

Do i have to undertake hdr coursework.

It depends on your degree. Your faculty may define certain units of study as mandatory for a given degree. Where this is not the case, you may still have the opportunity to complete units of study that you find useful to support your learning and research. 

Can I transfer from the Master of Philosophy into a PhD?

It is possible for students to move to the PhD after the first year of study, if you have made satisfactory progress and if the transfer is approved by your Faculty. It is important to inform your supervisor of your plans early so that you can work on a timeline together to achieve this goal.

Support during your studies

Am i able to work while studying my hdr course full-time.

Yes, you can work during your PhD. How many hours you take on is at your own discretion, and you must ensure that you still allow time for the completion of your research. International HDR students can generally work more hours than coursework students. Please check your individual visa for specific restrictions.

Will the university employ me during my PhD?

There are sometimes opportunities for PhD candidates to engage in paid employment at the University, but this is not guaranteed and is dependent on the Faculty/Department. If opportunities do arise, they may be in the form of teaching, marking, acting as a research assistant, or other roles.

What support services are available to research students?

There is extensive support for research students at Sydney, including 100+ multidisciplinary research and teaching centres.

Other services:

• Library workshops for research skills
• Academic Liasion Librarians
• Research Support Officers
• Careers Centre
• Sydney University Postgraduate Representative Association (SUPRA)
• Learning Hub

How to apply

Find a supervisor.

Search by keyword, location, topic or supervisor name

• 1800 SYD UNI ( 1800 793 864 )
• or +61 2 8627 1444

Student Centre, Level 3 Jane Foss Russell Building, Darlington Campus

Opening hours: 9am to 5pm, Monday to Friday

Prospective students

Facts & figures

Research at Sydney

• Top 20 Ranked one of the world's top universities*
• 100% of our research is ranked at world standard and above by the Australian Research Council
• 100+ multidisciplinary research and teaching centres
• * QS World University Rankings 2024

Research scholarships

Find the right scholarship for you

How to write a research proposal

A guide to preparing a strong research proposal

6 ways to finance your postgraduate study

Find out how to reduce the cost of your tuition fees

• The Cost of Studying in Australia

Written by Isabel Aberdeen

The Cost of Studying a PhD in Australia

If you’re thinking of studying in Australia, you might be wondering how expensive it is to study down under. This page will take you through the key costs students face when studying in one of the most popular study abroad destinations.

University tuition fees

The cost of your PhD in Australia can depend on whether you receive any funding support or whether you pay the tuition in full. The cost of tuition for an international student can be between AUD $20,000 and $50,000 per year (USD $13,168-32,280). It is possible you may not have to pay the full tuition fees as many projects come with funding attached or there are opportunities to obtain additional funding through awards and scholarships.

You may also need to consider the cost of admissions tests such as the GRE and GMAT , English language tests and any other study materials you may require.

Costs associated with the Australian Student Visa

As part of the Student Visa application, you will need to show that you have access to funds to support your studies in Australia. There are several ways to provide evidence of your finances, including money stored in a financial institution, official government evidence of your parents or partner’s annual income, loans and scholarships.

• Travel – The cost of your travel to and from Australia is considered in the visa application. If you are travelling from outside of Australia, anticipate needing a minimum of AUD $2,000 in addition to the living costs.
• Course tuition fees – You will have to demonstrate that you have paid or have the funds to pay for your tuition fees. If your course is 12 months or less, this is for the full course fees. For courses over 12 months, you can use one year of course fees minus any contributions you have already made.
• Cost of living funds – You will have to demonstrate that you have access to the living costs required for a 12 month stay in Australia. The current living costs requirement is now AUD $24,505. If your course is less than 12 months, you can calculate a pro rata value. Additional living costs are required if you are bringing a partner (AUD $8,574) or child (AUD $3,670 plus schooling costs) with you. The Australian government website notes that these costs are the minimum amount needed for your visa application, but the cost of living can vary across Australia so the actual amounts needed may differ.
• Health insurance – In most cases, you will need to have Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) from the time you arrive in Australia until you leave. There are some exceptions to this depending on your nationality. The length of stay awarded on your visa may include an additional one to three months after your course finishes, depending on the duration of your studies and if your OSHC also covers this additional time. You must commit to this additional time when purchasing the OSHC, as the visa end date is fixed once granted. This can cost upward of AUD $440 for a single individual for one year.
• Application fee – Once you have your documents sorted and funds arranged, the application charge for an Australian Student Visa is AUD $710. In some cases, you may be exempt from paying this fee. Reasons for an exemption can include students who receive their funding from the Commonwealth Government of Australia, students who experience an education provider default and are reapplying for a visa or family members of students enrolled on a postgraduate course. It is important to check whether you are eligible for an exemption before submitting your visa application.

How expensive is the cost of living in Australia?

The Australian government estimates that international students will need to budget AUD $2,042 (USD $1,338) per month – though this will vary according to your location, choice of accommodation and lifestyle.

We’ve put together some typical costs for international students in Australia and compared this to the average costs of living in the USA.

Accommodation: university owned or private

The price of accommodation can vary depending on whether you are in university owned or private accommodation. University accommodation in Australia is typically between AUD$346 (uncatered) to $484 (catered) per week (USD $237-332), and this often includes utilities.

In private accommodation, a room in a flat (shared house) could be upward of AUD $140 to $293 per week (USD $96-201), as a rough estimate. An apartment can cost much more than this and include utilities, as shown in the table above.

Additional living costs for international students in Australia

Once you have sorted your accommodation, you’ll want to make sure you budget for other essential costs. The average cost of a grocery shop for one person is approximately AUD $100 (USD $67.08). To stay connected with family and friends, new and old, you will probably want to sort a mobile phone and internet connection. For 10GB of data, a monthly mobile plan could cost about AUD $44 (USD $29) or about AUD $86 (USD $56) a month for the internet. Outside of your studies, you may want to enjoy the Australian weather and stay active. The average cost of a fitness club per month is AUD $83 (USD $55) or a tennis court for one hour on the weekend is approximately AUD $28 (USD $18.50).

Getting around Australian cities is easy on public transport. In some cities there are even free routes, and others have a weekly maximum fare no matter how often you travel. Having a car can be a more convenient option for your daily commute and open up options for travelling further afield. It’s possible for international students to drive in Australia using their home driving licence and convert it to a local licence within the first few months of your stay. But the costs of having a car can add up to more than AUD $100 per week accounting for the cost of fuel, insurance, parking, and maintenance.

What financial support is available?

There are many ways to get financial support during your PhD in Australia. As a PhD student, it is possible to work during your studies for 40 hours a fortnight during term. There are also scholarships for international students available. Check out our full guide on PhD funding in Australia to learn more about funding options and scholarships. The Austudy scheme is also an option for students over the age of 25 on a full-time PhD to be paid to study in Australia.

But if you do experience financial hardship during your studies, then reach out to your institution’s international student support services to see what help may be available.

Find a PhD in Australia

Use our course search engine to find the latest PhD opportunities in Australia

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HDR Fees and costs

All HDR Candidates

International candidates, bringing family to australia, domestic candidates, example of costs, self-funded candidates.

There are costs that all UNSW students need to pay, and these are outlined on the  UNSW Fees page .

HDR candidates may have additional incidental costs associated with their degree. We have highlighted some of the key costs below but they will vary on a case by case basis.

Living costs: estimated minimum costs $37,684 per year, with $3,000 to cover set up costs. Yearly cost.

When undertaking a higher degree research program, it's important to consider the living costs associated with residing in Sydney including the cost of rent, groceries, transport and utilities.

See this page  for more details.

Student Services and Amenities Fees (SSAF): 2023 cost $87.75 per term ($351/year). Yearly cost.

The SSAF is charged each term a candidate is enrolled and contributes to the provision of amenities and non-academic services for students. These services include counselling, employment, orientation, career advice, childcare, financial advice, health services, food services, sporting and recreational activities, student advocacy and legal services.

For further information, visit  UNSW SSAF . 

Field Work: varies 

Candidates may be required to participate in field work during their degree. Costs will vary based on type of field work, location, duration, resources required and the level of funding provided by School/Faculty.

Conference attendance: varies 

Candidates may attend conferences as part of their research training during their degree. Costs will vary based on type of attendance and presentation, location, duration, resources required, and the level of funding provided by School/Faculty. 

Note: PhD candidates may apply for the DRTG funding to contribute to their conference funding. 

Thesis submission related costs: varies

There are no costs related to thesis submission unless your Faculty, School or Supervisor, require you to have your thesis professionally edited or proof read prior to submission – contact your Faculty for more information. 

An example of one quote for 100,000 words (average PhD):

Thesis editing: $4,400

Thesis proofreading: $2,500

Further incidental fees can be found here .

Tuition Fees Quarterly cost

If you are an International candidate, you are required to pay  Tuition Fees  for the duration of your candidature unless you have been granted a scholarship or sponsorship that covers these fees. You are required to pay a tuition fee deposit before your initial enrolment. Once you are enrolled, you will receive a fee statement each term.

If you enrol in approved coursework as part of your HDR program, you will not be charged any additional tuition fees.

For further information relating to fee payment and policy, please refer to the  Student Fee Policy and Procedure .

Other costs

In addition to tuition fees, there are some of additional costs associated with your candidature. 

Overseas Student Health Cover One off cost

As an International candidate, it is a condition of your student visa that you have Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) for the entire duration of your stay in Australia. You need to purchase your OSHC up front before you can enrol in your program, unless you have been granted a scholarship or sponsorship that covers this cost.

OSHC insurance cannot be paid in monthly or yearly instalments. You need to purchase a policy that covers the entire period of your student visa so that you can provide the DHA with a valid OSHC certificate when you lodge your student visa application.

If the insurance premium exceeds your credit card limit, you can make separate payments as long as you use the correct payment details.

The University's preferred provider is Medibank, however you can choose an alternate OSHC provider if you wish to do so. If you do decide to obtain your OSHC with Medibank, the University may receive a commission - this is used to improve services to students.

Visa Processing Fee 2023 cost $650. One off cost

You may need to pay a processing fee to the Australian Government Department of Home Affairs when you apply for your student visa.

If your family plans to relocate to Australia with you, there will be additional costs including Overseas Health Cover (OSHC), visa processing, relocation and living costs for your family members. Some estimated costs are outlined in the table below.

Note: UNSW Research Scholarships aim to support candidates through their UNSW study and are not intended to be used to support dependents. 

Information to support you and your family is provided in the  UNSW Bringing Family Guide . 

Tuition Fees

Domestic HDR candidates at UNSW may be offered an Australian Government Research Training Program (RTP) Fees Offset Scholarship for four years for a Doctorate, and two years for a masters.

The RTP Fees Offset is paid to the University by the Australian Government on your behalf and is used by the University to offset your tuition fees so that you may receive free research training.

From 2024 the value of the Australian Government's support is in the range of $40,000 - $50,000 annually (subject to variation in later years based on actual HDR expenditure). UNSW bears any additional cost of tuition for the duration of the RTP.

For information on how to apply for the Domestic RTP Fee Offset, please refer to the HDR Scholarship Guidelines . For further information on UNSW tuition fees, please refer to the  Student Fee Policy and Procedure .

No Coursework Fees

If you are required to enrol in approved coursework subjects as part of your HDR program at UNSW, you will not be charged any additional tuition fees. 

The purpose of this table is to provide an example of the costs for HDR candidates.

The fees and costs provided below are  estimates  only, are not exhaustive, and will vary on a case by case basis.

Please note that the University reserves the right to vary student fees during enrolment in line with relevant legislation.

NOTE: Amounts are based on 2023 rates. Currency used in Australian Dollars (AUD).

*See table 'Additional Costs for Dependents' under Bringing Family to Australia

DISCLAIMER:   (1) Required amounts displayed are flat rates based on 2023 fees only.

(2) Please be aware that tuition fees increase each year by approximately 5% and actual fees and costs charged may exceed the indicative figures listed.

(3) Fees shown are indicative only and subject to change without notice. Fees are reviewed annually and approved fees for the following year are published on the Fees and Payment site in August/September each year. 

Further Resources

• UNSW Student Fees
• UNSW International Student Fees
• UNSW Student Services and Amenities Fee
• Australian Government Research Training Program
• Australian Government Student Visa Pricing
• Medibank Overseas Health Cover (OSHC)

If you plan to fund your studies yourself, you need to provide some additional information to support your application for admission. 

If you plan to fund your fees and living expenses yourself, please attach the following documents to your application for admission:

• Bank statements showing that you have accumulated enough funds over the past 6 months to cover all of your expenses for the duration of your degree. If you are applying for an Engineering degree, you need to show that you have enough funds for 2 years of study (Masters), or 4 years (PhD). For all other Faculties, you need to have enough funds for 1.5 years (Masters) or 3 years (PhD).
• Completed UNSW Financial Declaration form .

Please refer to the “Combined Costs and Tuition Fees” table in the "Example of Costs" tab for a summary of the costs you will need to show that you can cover. 

If the bank statement you have provided is for a bank account that is not in your name, the account holder must declare that the funds will be used for your studies fees and costs on the  UNSW Financial Declaration form .

Please outline your financial capacity to fund your studies in section 3 of the UNSW Financial Declaration form . This outline should be no more than 1-2 sentences in length.

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A Guide to Doing Your PhD in Australia

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If you’re an international student who has completed higher education studies, you might now be considering studying a doctorate degree, also known as a PhD. In Australia, this is the highest level of study and, once completed, can unlock doors to better employment, higher wages, and industry recognition.

Here’s a handy guide on how to apply, what to expect, and where to find further information for your exciting next step.

What is the difference between honours, a master ’s and a PhD?

An honours  is an extra year of study in Australia. To qualify you need to have completed your undergraduate degree, otherwise known as a bachelor’s degree, to a high standard. This is often considered a stepping stone to further postgraduate study.

Graduates with a bachelor’s degree might consider a graduate certificate, which usually takes one semester of full-time study and can help you specialise in your chosen career path. One step up from a certificate is a graduate diploma. This type of study takes one year of full-time study and can often be continued on from the graduate certificate.

A master’s by coursework is similar to a graduate diploma but takes a little longer and is regarded as a higher qualification. In most cases, you need a relevant bachelor’s degree; however, in certain circumstances, extensive relevant work experience might be accepted instead. This type of course typically takes 18 months to complete. A master’s by research takes two years of full-time study and is based on a research project supervised by a university academic.

A doctorate by research or a PhD is the highest level of study offered in Australia. A PhD requires submission of a thesis that is assessed by examiners who determine whether the research is worthy of the qualification. A PhD student must show through their thesis that they have made a significant contribution to their field. Once graduated, the candidate may use the title of Doctor.

How does a PhD work in Australia?

A PhD in Australia is usually studied over the course of three years. While some students take a little longer, extensions are subject to funding, as well as other important factors. Domestic students may have the option to study part-time but as an international student, you must study full-time in order to be eligible for a student visa .

According to the Australian Government , fees to study a PhD range from A$19,000 to A$78,000 per year, depending on the education provider. There is a chance you may not have to pay the full amount if there is funding available, which is common in Australia. Most universities have funding for promising PhD students set aside. Get in touch with your chosen university directly to find out what scholarships are available to international students. The Australian Government also runs Destination Australia , which funds eligible education providers in regional areas to offer scholarships to both domestic and international students. The government also offers the Research Training Program for participating universities.

International students also need to consider the cost of living while abroad to qualify for their visa. You’ll need at least roughly A$21,041 for each year of your study in your bank account in order to be granted a visa.

Do I need honours to apply for a PhD?

In most cases you will need an undergraduate degree with a minimum of Second Class Honours (Division A) – also known as ‘upper second-class’ honours – to apply for your PhD to demonstrate you have significant research experience. However, many education providers offer research-based qualifications to give you this experience if you didn’t complete an honours degree originally.

What is the basic structure of a PhD?

PhDs in Australia are usually research-based and, while they may contain other aspects, the focus of your studies will be on working towards your doctoral thesis.

In general, a PhD begins with a literature review that collects, analyses and summarises the current research published on your chosen subject. This then provides the basis for designing, implementing and analysing your own research that you’ll write about for your thesis.

In Australia, you are not required to undergo a viva voca , which is an assessed oral exam in defence of your research topic, method and predicted results. Instead, you are assessed solely on your thesis.

How do I apply for a PhD?

To apply for an Australian PhD, the first step is to contact a university academic working as a supervisor for PhD projects. You contact them, usually about four months before you wish to commence your studies, with the research topic you would like to propose. The person you choose should be the lead researcher for the institution you wish to apply to, in the relevant field you wish to study.

Once you have what is known as an ‘expression of interest’ from a provisional supervisor, you can begin your formal application to the university. Most universities won’t consider an application without an expression of interest from a supervisor, so make sure you have this first.

What else do I need to know?

To study as an international student in Australia, you must have a student visa (subclass 500) from the Australian government. Unless you are exempt, the application fee for this visa is AUD$710. You can read more about student visas and their requirements here .

Australian PhDs are delivered in English and have language skill requirements. There are various tests you can take to verify your English language skills including the IELTS, CAE and PTE. The score you need is usually specified on the universities website and will depend on the test you take.

International students must have Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) in order to be granted their student visa. There are a variety of providers to choose from, including many universities, but the policy you choose must adhere to the Overseas Student Health Cover guides. Explore your options in greater detail here .

The new international student working limit of 48 hours every fortnight does not apply to international students who are pursuing a doctorate or a master’s degree through research. These students are not restricted in terms of the number of hours they can work. However, your actual work hours should align with your study requirements and also require approval from your academic supervisor. This is to ensure that your employment does not interfere with your primary objective of completing your academic research.

PhD study is an excellent way to enter the Australian workforce and graduate visas are available that can entitle you to stay in Australia for up to four years after you have finished your PhD. In other words, if you have dreams of both furthering your education and settling long-term in Australia, a PhD could be the perfect way to make those dreams a reality.

Sarah Price

Originally from the UK, Sarah has worked as a freelance writer for nearly 10 years, both at home and now in Perth where she lives. Once an international student in South West WA herself, she loves to help new students feel welcome, confident, and ready to make the most of their study abroad. Having lived in Perth and explored a lot of WA, Sarah knows just how wonderful it is to discover this beautiful state.

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Phd in australia: cost, scholarships, & admission requirements.

Are you considering pursuing a PhD in Australia? It can be a daunting process, but with the right information and preparation, it can also be a rewarding experience. Before you start your application, it’s important to understand what’s involved and what you need to do to make your application stand out. 

How Much Does PhD Cost in Australia?

The cost of pursuing a PhD in Australia varies depending on the university and the course. According to the Australian Government, fees to study a PhD in Australia range from AUD $18,000 to AUD $42,000 per year for international students.

Private universities are more expensive than public ones and might not provide access to the same financial aid programs such as grants and scholarships. The total course tuition fee for a PhD in Australia in top universities ranges from AUD $40,000 to AUD $60,000.

The cost of living in Australia varies depending on the location and lifestyle, but the Australian Government estimates that students will require at least AUD $21,041 (USD $14,400) for each year of their course.

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How Many Years is a PhD in Australia?

A full-time PhD in Australia usually takes three years, but some students may take longer depending on their registration and funding arrangements. Part-time PhDs in Australia can take up to six years, but this mode of study is not normally available to international students.

Who is Eligible for PhD in Australia? 

To be eligible for a PhD in Australia, applicants are required to meet certain requirements. These requirements may vary depending on the university and the course. Here are some general eligibility requirements for a PhD in Australia:

• A bachelor’s and master’s degree in a relevant subject are normally required to apply for a PhD in Australia.
• Applicants must have an excellent academic record, with a first-class undergraduate degree or a very high upper second class undergraduate degree.
• International students must have a high level of English language proficiency, which can be demonstrated through standardized tests such as IELTS or TOEFL.
• Applicants must have a research proposal that outlines their research topic, objectives, methodology, and expected outcomes.
• Applicants must have a proven experience in conducting research.
• Applicants must have reference letters, research proposal, synopsis, etc. for which, if accepted, they receive a confirmation of acceptance letter.

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Do you get paid to do a phd australia.

Yes, PhD students in Australia are usually paid a stipend to cover their living expenses. The amount of the stipend may vary depending on the university and the funding source, but it is typically around AUD $32,000 per year.

The stipend is tax-free and paid in fortnightly instalments. In addition to the stipend, some universities may also cover tuition fees and other research-related expenses.

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What is top 20 universities in australia.

• Australian National University
• University of Melbourne
• University of Sydney
• University of New South Wales
• University of Queensland
• Monash University
• University of Adelaide
• University of Western Australia
• RMIT University
• Queensland University of Technology
• Macquarie University
• Griffith University
• Curtin University
• University of Technology Sydney
• Deakin University
• University of Newcastle
• University of Wollongong
• La Trobe University
• University of Tasmania
• University of South Australia

Looking For Funded PhD Programs? Click Here

What is top 15 phd scholarships in australia.

• Deakin University, Australia Research Scholarships
• University of Sydney International Scholarships
• University of Melbourne Graduate Research Scholarship
• Australian Government Research Training Program (RTP) Scholarships
• University of Queensland Centenary Doctoral Scholarship
• University of Adelaide Global Academic Excellence Scholarship
• University of Western Australia International Postgraduate Research Scholarships
• Monash University Research Training Program Stipend Scholarship
• University of New South Wales Scientia PhD Scholarship Scheme
• University of Newcastle International Postgraduate Research Scholarships
• University of Tasmania Research Scholarship for International Students
• Australian National University PhD Scholarship
• University of Wollongong International Postgraduate Research Scholarships
• Griffith University International Postgraduate Research Scholarship
• University of Technology Sydney Chancellor’s Postdoctoral Research Fellowship

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How to apply for a phd in the australia.

To apply for a PhD in Australia, here are the general steps to follow:

1. Research the universities: Research the universities that offer PhD programs in your field of study. Look at their rankings, research output, and faculty profiles to get an idea of their strengths and areas of expertise.

2. Contact a potential supervisor: Contact a university academic working as a supervisor for PhD projects. You contact them, usually about four months before you wish to commence your studies, with the research topic you would like to propose.

3. Check the eligibility requirements: Check the eligibility requirements for the PhD program you are interested in. You’ll normally need a bachelor’s and master’s degree in a relevant subject to apply for a PhD in Australia. Universities may admit you based on your academic record.

4. Prepare your research proposal: Prepare a research proposal that outlines your research topic, objectives, methodology, and expected outcomes.

5. Apply for the program: Apply for the PhD program through the university’s online application system. Make sure to submit all the required documents, including your research proposal, academic transcripts, and English language proficiency test scores.

6. Wait for the response: Wait for the university’s response to your application. If you are accepted, you will receive a confirmation of acceptance letter.

7. Apply for a student visa: Apply for a student visa to study in Australia. You will need to provide proof of enrolment and financial support.

What is PhD Application materials in Australia?

When applying for a PhD in Australia, the following materials are typically required:

1. Academic transcripts: Applicants are required to submit their academic transcripts from their previous degrees.

2. English language proficiency test scores: International students are required to submit their English language proficiency test scores, such as IELTS or TOEFL.

3. Research proposal: Applicants must submit a research proposal that outlines their research topic, objectives, methodology, and expected outcomes.

4. Curriculum Vitae (CV): Applicants are required to submit their CV, which should include their academic and professional experience, publications, and other relevant information.

5. Reference letters: Applicants are required to submit reference letters from academic or professional referees who can attest to their research abilities and potential.

6. Confirmation of acceptance letter: Applicants must provide a confirmation of acceptance letter from a potential academic supervisor.

7. Student visa: International students are required to apply for a student visa to study in Australia.

Can I work while doing PhD in Australia?

Yes, PhD students in Australia are allowed to work while studying, but there are some restrictions. Here are some things to keep in mind:

1. Work hours: PhD students are allowed to work up to 40 hours per fortnight while studying in Australia This is to ensure that students can focus on their studies and not let work interfere with their academic performance.

2. Funding restrictions: If you are receiving a scholarship or funding for your PhD, there may be restrictions on the amount of work you can do. For example, if you are on an RTP scholarship, you may be limited to a maximum of 270 working hours per year.

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PhD in Australia – Your Complete Guide

Apart from providing a multi-cultural living experience and the highest living standards in the world, Australia provides one of the best research experiences for students pursuing a PhD degree. With world-recognized university reputation and highly advanced laboratories, Australia has one of the highest PhD completion rates, as well as a number of scholarship options for international students.

PhD degrees in Australia

A Doctorate degree in Australia is the highest qualification on the Australian Qualifications Framework. PhD can be undertaken across all disciplines in top universities of Australia. Also, there are many unique PhD programs in Australia, from Marine Biology at the Great Barrier Reef to Anthropology at Uluru.

PhDs in Australia are usually research-based and, while they may contain other aspects, the focus of the studies is on working towards your doctoral thesis.

In general, a PhD begins with a literature review that collects, analyses, and summarises the current research published on your chosen subject. This then provides the basis for designing, implementing, and analyzing your own research that you’ll write about for your thesis. Throughout, you’ll have the support of at least one expert supervisor.

Individual Doctoral Studies 

It is the most chosen study route by doctoral students. It is based on research carried out under the supervision of a professor and involves a thesis or dissertation that has to be produced at the end of the doctoral studies. You can complete this type of research at a university, a non-university research facility, or a company. In any case, a professor will supervise you and a thesis advisory committee may or may not be essential depending on the university norms.

Structured Ph.D. Programs

In this route, a doctoral student will be supervised by a professor and will attend courses, lectures, and seminars together with other doctoral students. In such PhD programs, a team of advisors in form of a thesis advisory committee offers regular and intense supervision to students. A structured interdisciplinary curriculum is to be followed which helps improving academic, scientific, and other soft skills.

Length of PhD in Australia

A full-time PhD in Australia usually takes three years. Some students might take longer, but this generally depends on their registration and funding arrangements.

Part-time PhDs in Australia can take up to six years, but this route isn’t available to international students.

Cost of PhD in Australia

According to the Australian Government, fees to study a PhD in Australia range from A$18,000 to A$42,000 per year. Besides, the cost of living in Australia varies depending on the location and lifestyle, but the Australian Government estimates that students will require at least AUD $21,041 (USD $14,400) for each year of their course. This is the amount (1 st year tuition fee + 1 year living cost) that students should show in their bank accounts in order to successfully apply for a student visa.

Assessment and examination for award of PhD degree

In Australia, students are required to submit a written thesis summarising their findings and the evidence at the end of their PhD. The Thesis document is around 100,000 words in length. Students are not required to undergo a viva voice in Australia, which is an assessed oral exam in defense of their research topic, method, and results. Instead, students are assessed solely on their thesis.

Application Process for PhD in Australia

Step 1: Check whether you meet minimum eligibility requirements

Check the Program & Course website to ensure that you meet the academic requirements for the institution where you wish to study a doctorate in Australia. All students, whether domestic or international, must also meet the minimum marks for exams required to study in Australia.

Step 2: Draft a Research Proposal

The research proposal, submitted along with the application, outlines your intended research or explains your ideas in detail. It is fine to change or drift away from your original ideas after you have enrolled in your program.

Step 3: Find a supervisor

Search potential supervisors and go through their research expertise, published works, and contact details.

Step 4: University pre-application requirements

Most universities will ask applicants to identify and secure the support of a potential supervisor before they proceed to apply. However, some universities may not ask for this and instead ask applicants to submit a short description of their proposed area of research.

Step 5: Joint or Dual/Cotutelle PhD Proposal

To commence the Joint or Dual Award PhD application process, you may need to complete a proposal, which you will submit to potential supervisors as part of the pre-application process.

Step 6: Apply

If you have secured the support of a potential supervisor, you may check deadlines for Australian universities and apply. You will need to nominate three referees to support your application.

Step 7: Receive an outcome

Applications usually take between 6-8 weeks to assess, or longer if you are applying for a scholarship. All communications, including application outcomes, are sent to your email account.

PhD Application deadlines in Australia

A PhD in Australia can start at any point in the academic year. This means that there isn’t normally a strict deadline for applications. Universities may prefer students to submit in time for the start of a term, but this isn’t always the case. Remember that, even if there isn’t a deadline, the application will still take time. As a general rule, you should apply at least five months before you hope to start your PhD.

PhD Funding in Australia

The Australian Government and the Australian Universities provide a large number of scholarships to international students. There’s a good chance that you won’t pay your full international fees as a PhD student in Australia. This is because funding is readily available from various sources, including Studentships from Australian Universities, Endeavour scholarships, and research training programs. Many of these are specifically designed to attract students.

Australian universities will often have their own studentships and funded PhD places available for excellent students. Some institutions may also have specific funding opportunities for international students.

Endeavor Scholarships are an international funding scheme run by the Australian Government. They provide up to AUD $272,500 for up to four years of PhD research, including support for fees, maintenance and travel.

Research training program funding is available for domestic and international PhD students in Australia. Places are awarded by participating universities according to eligibility criteria set by the Government.

Family visa norms in Australia

If you are coming to Australia to study, you are eligible to bring your family members with you. You can either include them on your original student visa application or you can apply for their visas once you have started your course in Australia so that they can join you. Spouses, partners, and unmarried children under the age of 18 are eligible for dependent visas. If the student is studying for a master’s degree (coursework or research) or a doctorate degree the partner will have full and unlimited work rights. The duration and validity of a dependent spouse visa will be usually the same as the student visa.

Can I work in Australia part-time during my studies?

Students can carry out paid work for up to 40 hours per fortnight whilst researching for a PhD in Australia. No restriction is applied to employment during holiday periods.

Can I stay and work in Australia after my PhD?

An Australian PhD can be a route into longer term employment and residency in Australia, provided you can find a job related to your skills and expertise. To help students with this Australia offers a Temporary Graduate Visa (subclass 485). This allows PhD graduates to remain in the country for up to four years, subject to certain conditions.

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20  Education PhDs in Australia

Education The Doctor of Education (Ed.D.) Degree at the University of New England Online is a 51-credit program designed... UNE Distance Courses Armidale, New South Wales, Australia

Education The Doctor of Philosophy in Education at the University of Wollongong is for teachers and educators with... University of Wollongong Wollongong, New South Wales, Australia

Doctor of Education The Doctor of Education at Queensland University of Technology  focuses on applied investigation and... Faculty of Education Brisbane, Queensland, Australia

Education This Education program from The University of Notre Dame Australia will be dependent on your ability to... The University of Notre Dame Australia Fremantle, Western Australia, Australia

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Domestic postgraduate research tuition fees

All domestic students enrolled in a postgraduate research program, such as a Doctor of Philosophy or Master of Philosophy, are awarded an Australian Government Research Training Program (AGRTP) Fee Offset Scholarship.

The AGRTP is funded by the Commonwealth government and provides support to students completing a research degree program.

The AGRTP Fee Offset Scholarship provides support for the research program up to a maximum of two years (full-time) for a Masters program, and up to four years for a PhD program (or part-time equivalent). This means that domestic students are exempt from paying tuition fees for this period of time.

If you enrol in additional subjects/courses during your enrolment you may incur tuition fees.

Research students are required to pay the services and amenities fee.

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On this page, the traditional phd (pure research), the new route phd, part-time phd, professional doctorate in business administration, dba, professional doctorate in education, edd.

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• 8 June 2024

A PhD is generally regarded as the highest degree that can be granted by institutions of higher education. Students are required to conduct original research and write a thesis, making a major contribution to their field of study, demonstrating that they possess the abilities expected of a PhD. The title used with this degree, duration of study and requirements for the doctorate vary by country. We provide PhD application services for the UK, USA, Australia, Ireland, Canada, and other countries. We have listed some common types of doctoral degrees below. 

The traditional PhD, focused on research, is the most common but is also often seen as quite daunting as one needs to find a suitable supervisor to ensure that you can successfully complete the programme. To do this, you need to write a proposal which will include a literature review, hypothesis, methodology and indicate what original contribution you believe this research will make. The proposal is hugely important as it will demonstrate your understanding of the field and will show if you are sufficiently prepared to take on a PhD programme. The traditional PhD usually takes around 3 years to complete but can take longer depending on your field of study and difficulty of research.

The most difficult parts of applying for a PhD programme are writing a research proposal and finding a university and supervising professor that suit your area of research. But don’t worry, IDP’s advisors have decades of experience in assisting with PhD applications, we can guide you through the process!

Established in 2001, this type of programme was designed to cater for overseas students that have not been exposed to the same level of research as their UK counterparts. The new route programme (or integrated PhD) is completed over 4 years where students will have in-depth tuition on their subject and will also be taught a variety of research techniques.

In some instances, students are allowed to go to the UK for the 1st year of their PhD and are then allowed to return to their home country to collect data. This is often done at the discretion of the professor and is determined by the nature of the data that needs to be collected. Students will need to return to the UK to analyse the data and write up their thesis under the guidance of the professor.

This programme is designed for people that have a lot of experience in the field of business and management and helps them to develop practical skills and ideas that can be applied to management theory. The programme is academically demanding but differs from the traditional PhD in that it does not prepare candidates to become research active or to lecture in the field of management.

This works in a similar way to the DBA in that it allows experienced individuals to examine and research issues in the field of education and allows them to develop new practical skills.

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If you're a gambler, getting an MBA is consistently a safe bet if you want to make more money. In 2022, the National Association of Colleges and Employers (NACE) found that an MBA boosts salaries by 50% pretty much out the gate.

And employers love a shiny new MBA: According to the Graduate Management Admission Council , nearly 90% of business school students were employed upon graduation in 2023.

Getting your MBA doesn't have to be a huge ordeal that upsets your whole life, either. We've rounded up some of the top fully online programs out there, which provide the training you need on a schedule that works for you.

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Programmatic Accreditation: Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business

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In-State | $1,425

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Credits to Graduate: 49

William & Mary's MBA program consists of 12 courses and one weekend residency. All courses can be completed online, but the weekend residency occurs in person on the Virginia campus. Weekend residencies include intensive business discussions, team-building exercises, and the opportunity to network with mentors. 

The program's curriculum is pre-set and can be completed within 24 months. Attendees can earn a foundations in business analytics certificate by taking three additional courses. According to self-reported data from alumni from 2019-2022, graduates earn an average annual salary of about $135,000.

University of Utah

• Salt Lake City, UT

In-State | $1,350

Out-of-State | $1,450

Credits to Graduate: 48

The University of Utah's online MBA program consists of core courses, electives, and an optional on-campus residency. Enrollees may choose to concurrently earn a graduate certificate or dual degree. 

Students can compile elective courses to earn a graduate certificate in various specializations, including business analytics, cybersecurity management, and information systems. Concurrent degree programs may take an additional 2-3 semesters to complete and include healthcare administration and finance. 

Enrollees can take advantage of career coaches who can provide advice regarding career advancement and job searches. Students reported an average salary increase of 36% by graduation. 

Clemson University

• Clemson, SC

In-State | $1,319

Out-of-State | $1,319

Clemson University's part-time online MBA was designed for working professionals and takes an estimated 30-36 months to complete. Courses offer flexibility with both live courses and recorded lectures online. Some classes may require live attendance. 

The program includes 12 elective credits, which may be used toward a certificate or area of emphasis. Certificates require 9-12 credits, and choices include business analytics, technology entrepreneurship, and reliability engineering. 

Auburn University

In-State | $950

Out-of-State | $950

Credits to Graduate: 39

The MBA program at Auburn University consists of nine core courses and four electives, which must be completed online within six years. The school recommends working students take two or fewer courses per semester. 

Enrollees can concurrently pursue a graduate certificate or dual degree. Graduate certificates require 3-4 courses, which may overlap with required MBA electives. Dual degrees require an additional 18-24 credit courses. Degree options include finance, information systems, and supply chain management. Students in dual degree programs may be asked to complete a final project or live case study. 

James Madison University

• Harrisonburg, VA

In-State | $600-1000

Out-of-State | $600-1000

Credits to Graduate: 42

James Madison University offers three MBA programs with concentrations in executive leadership, innovation, or information security. MBA programs at JMU require applicants to possess 2-5 years of working experience. 

The program price depends on the concentration a student chooses. Students take 21-28 months to graduate. Most classes are online, but enrollees must meet multiple times throughout the duration of the program at the Virginia campus. Enrollees may attend the optional residency course, which includes a 7-10-day trip abroad. Residency course costs, excluding airfare, are included in the tuition rate. 

University of Oklahoma, Norman Campus

In-State | $985

Out-of-State | $985

Credits to Graduate: 36

OU's Gene Rainbolt Graduate School of Business offers a flexible online MBA program for students working full-time, regardless of relevant work experience. While most courses are delivered synchronously in the evening and during the weekend, some courses are also delivered asynchronously through recorded lectures. 

With little difference in course offerings between in-person and online MBA programs, online students also have the option to earn a specialization in supply chain management. 

Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University

• Blacksburg, VA

In-State | $1,150

Out-of-State | $1,150

The Pamplin College of Business offers an online MBA program for working professionals. Students master business fundamentals, gain knowledge in core business functions, and diversify their working experience through elective course options. Virginia Tech offers four elective career tracks: cybersecurity, healthcare IT, and entrepreneurship. 

In addition to career development workshops and speaker seminars, a distinct feature of the program is its cohort-based model that allows students to build and expand their network and a capstone project experience for students to integrate their knowledge and skills learned during the course of the 24-month program. 

University of Maryland, College Park

• College Park, MD

In-State | $1,733

Out-of-State | $1,733

Credits to Graduate: 54-56

The University of Maryland provides an online MBA to help enrollees develop leadership, analytical, and communication skills. The curriculum includes core courses, electives, two residencies, and a choice of either a global studies or international business course. 

The first residency program lasts three days, occurs on campus, and introduces students to the school, faculty, and classmates. The second residency program, a capstone project, is an integrative business scenario. 

Students can choose an MBA specialization, such as marketing or finance. Specializations require students to take a specific set of electives but not additional courses.

University of Nevada, Reno

In-State | $833

Out-of-State | $833

The College of Business at the University of Reno-Nevada offers an executive online degree program for midcareer executives who want to leverage their business acumen and experience to solve the most complex problems facing the business world today. 

With a program format that follows a cohort model, students can expect a curriculum that balances core business subjects with elective courses that allow enrolled students to expand the breadth of their knowledge and expertise while completing their degree fully online.

Villanova University

• Villanova, PA

In-State | $1,263

Out-of-State | $1,263

Villanova University's professional MBA , named for the working professionals the school hopes to serve, may be completed on campus, online, or in a hybrid setting. Online students have one-hour live sessions every week, but all other courses are asynchronous. 

Attendees can choose among seven specializations, including business analytics, artificial intelligence, and strategic management. Each specialization is 7.5 elective credits. The curriculum includes 15 elective credits, allowing students to specialize in up to two topics. Students must also complete a combination of foundational, capstone, leadership, and future of work courses. 

How We Rank Schools

To create this ranking, BestColleges sourced the most recent data available from the National Center for Education Statistics and the U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard. We then ranked each school according to the top variables college students selected in our College Choice and Admissions Survey . To learn more, check out our full rankings methodology or read the summary below.

Ranking Methodology Summary

To qualify for our rankings lists, each school must be an accredited public or private, nonprofit institution. Each eligible school was then ranked based on a formula measuring:

• Affordability (30%)
• Student outcomes (30%)
• Reputation (20%)
• Diversity and social mobility (20%)

In addition, we only included colleges with graduation rates in the top third of all online colleges.

Why Should You Get Your MBA Online?

There are plenty of reasons to consider getting your degree online — flexibility chief among them. If you're not sure whether an online or in-person MBA is the best choice for you, this guide might help:

What You Can Expect From Online MBA Programs

Generally, the curriculum for online MBA programs is identical to what you'd expect from a traditional program. Some online programs offer accelerated tracks , which cover the same ground in less time. But at the normal pace, you can expect an MBA to take 2-3 years to earn.

There are a few things you should look for in a top-notch online MBA program:

• Check Circle Accreditation from a recognized accrediting body.
• Check Circle An excellent virtual learning environment that is user-friendly, encourages participation, and enhances your experience.
• Check Circle Engaging course content that leverages multimedia resources like video lectures, readings, simulations, and interactive discussion opportunities.
• Check Circle Access to faculty through email and online office hours, as well as support resources like tutoring, advising, counseling, tech help, and career guidance.
• Check Circle Asynchronous learning options that allow you to learn on your own terms and at your own pace.
• Check Circle Strong student outcomes like high graduation and employment rates.
• Check Circle Specializations or concentrations that will help you develop the specific professional skills you need to advance your career.

Common Online MBA Concentrations

Here's a quick look at popular MBA specializations , the roles they lead to, and average annual salaries based on Payscale data.

Prepare for roles in investment banking, corporate finance, or finance consulting.

• Investment Banker Average Salary (2024): $117,690

Prepare for roles in advertising, digital marketing, and brand management.

• Senior Brand Manager Average Salary (2024): $109,984

Management Consulting

Prepare for roles in organizational management, consulting, or executive leadership.

• Management Consultant Average Salary (2024): $95,544

Entrepreneurship

Prepare to manage your own business, launch a start-up, or drive new initiatives for an existing company.

• Chief Executive Officer Average Salary (2024): $164,880

Healthcare Administration

Prepare for in-demand roles in hospital administration or healthcare consulting.

• Hospital Administrator Average Salary (2024): $93,707

How to Pay for Your Online MBA?

The cost of earning an MBA is among students' top admission considerations. Many factors, such as reputation and location, affect the price of tuition for MBA candidates. The National Center for Education Statistics calculated that the average graduate tuition was $12,600 at public institutions and $28,020 at private institutions during the 2021-2022 academic year. Explore these resources to learn more about paying for your online MBA.

Common Questions About the Best Online MBAs

• Collapse All

Are online MBA programs respected?

Yes. A degree from an accredited online MBA program holds just as much weight as an on-campus degree. No employer is going to ask you during a job interview whether you attended online or in person.

How difficult is an online MBA program?

MBA programs are notoriously rigorous, and online programs are no different. Expect a challenging curriculum, demanding assignments, and a rich learning experience that will provide you with an in-depth understanding of the business world.

What are the disadvantages of an online MBA?

Some students struggle with the independent time management and study required to succeed in an online MBA program. Additionally, it may be more challenging to create meaningful relationships with faculty and other students remotely -- but well-designed programs will have many ways to help you connect and build strong networks.

What is the hardest online MBA program to get into?

Ivy League institutions like Harvard and Yale, as well as other competitive universities like Stanford, have some of the lowest admission rates for their business programs.

Explore More College Resources

Best online mba in information technology programs.

Compare Your School Options

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Business and MBA Degrees

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Georgetown University

Bachelor of Arts in Liberal Studies

University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign

Master of Business Administration (iMBA)

Master of science in accountancy (imsa), master of science in management (imsm).

University of Maryland Global Campus

Bachelor of Science in Cybersecurity Technology

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Bachelor of science in cybersecurity management and policy, why pursue a business degree or mba.

With a bachelor’s degree in business or a Master of Business Administration (MBA) , you can expect to take courses in finance, marketing, management, accounting, entrepreneurship, and business strategy, and build up expertise in one or more areas.

Beyond subject knowledge, both kinds of degrees are designed for you to strengthen key skills, including critical and creative thinking, problem-solving, and leadership. Together, your education and skills development can lead to diverse career paths . Learn more about whether a business degree is worth it .

In the U.S., the average starting salary for college graduates is around $59,000. However, according to the National Association of Colleges and Employers , computer science majors were projected to have the highest starting salaries for 2022, with an expected average over $75,000.

Benefits of getting a business degree on Coursera

Designed to fit your schedule.

All online degree programs are flexible, meaning you can complete coursework at your own pace while balancing your work and personal commitments.

Access world-class universities

Find affordable degree programs from an array of accredited universities. Learn from distinguished faculty and industry experts passionate about helping you achieve your goals.

Build in-demand job skills

Get job-ready with degree programs designed to develop real-world skills through hands-on learning experiences and industry partnerships.

Grow your network

Become part of a global learning community and establish strong relationships that can open new and unexpected opportunities throughout your career.

Browse by program level

Master's degrees, bachelor's degrees, postgraduate programs, what do business students have to say, find helpful articles related to business degrees, your guide to online business degrees.

You can earn your business degree online at almost every stage: associate, bachelor’s, and master’s.

Last updated on June 15, 2023

6 Business Majors For Your Goals: 2024 Guide

Learn more about common business majors and the associated career paths graduates may decide to pursue.

Last updated on January 24, 2024

8 Common and In-Demand MBA Concentrations

Learn how an MBA specialization can enhance your business education.

Last updated on November 29, 2023

Why Get an MBA? 6 Reasons to Consider an Advanced Business Degree

Taking the time to consider how well the typical MBA outcomes align with your personal and career goals can help you determine whether it's the right time to pursue the degree.

Last updated on February 2, 2024

Frequently asked questions

What is a bachelor’s degree in business.

A bachelor's degree in business is an undergraduate program that involves studying marketing, finance, accounting, management, economics, and entrepreneurship, among other subjects. It’s a well-rounded degree that emphasizes skills such as critical thinking, communication, innovation, and leadership, all of which can lead to versatile careers across many industries. Learn more about whether a business degree is worth it .

What is an MBA?

A Master of Business Administration (MBA) is a graduate program in business and management that emphasizes leadership and managerial skills. In an MBA program, you'll learn fundamentals such as finance, marketing, and organizational behavior, while building skills in communication, leadership, and strategic thinking, among other areas. Learn more about why getting an MBA can be a worthwhile endeavor.

How do I choose the best online business degree for my goals?

On Coursera, you’ll find online business degrees at both the undergraduate and graduate level. To figure out which one might be best for you, it helps to first understand why you want to earn a degree and what you hope to get out of your education.

Beyond your larger goals, consider what you’ll learn and how you’ll learn it, as those factors can be important when it comes to determining the best program for you. Take time to review the various business degree options on Coursera, paying particular attention to the “Academics” and “Student experience” sections for more information.

Will I earn a degree from an accredited university?

Yes, all online degree programs available on Coursera are directly conferred by accredited institutions. Accreditation is important because it shows that an institution meets rigorous academic standards, eases your ability to transfer credits, and helps employers validate the quality of education on your resume or application.

What is the experience of earning an online business degree through Coursera like?

Earning your business degree from a leading university on Coursera means experiencing greater flexibility than in-person degree programs, so you can learn at your pace around your other responsibilities.

Once enrolled in your program, you may find a range of learning options, including live video lectures that encourage you to collaborate and self-paced courses that give you greater independence. Moreover, throughout your learning journey, you'll have access to a dedicated support team, course facilitators, and a network of peers to help you achieve your academic goals. Learn more about the benefits of learning online .

Is an online business degree worth it?

Yes, both a bachelor’s and a master’s degree in business can be worth it—depending on your goals and your resources. Business degrees can lead to higher salaries , diverse career opportunities , advanced knowledge and skill sets, and exciting networking opportunities, among other benefits. Learn more about whether a business degree is worth it and whether an online MBA is worth it .

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The compensation we receive from advertisers does not influence the recommendations or advice our editorial team provides in our articles or otherwise impact any of the editorial content on Forbes Health. While we work hard to provide accurate and up-to-date information that we think you will find relevant, Forbes Health does not and cannot guarantee that any information provided is complete and makes no representations or warranties in connection thereto, nor to the accuracy or applicability thereof.

Best Life Coach Certification Programs Of 2024

Fact Checked

If you like the idea of helping people along on their life journey, life coaching may be a career path worth exploring.

Life coaching—and coaching in general—is a popular and growing profession. According to a 2020 survey conducted by the International Coaching Foundation (ICF), there were 71,000 coach practitioners globally in 2019, which is a 33% increase from 2015 [1] 2020 ICF Global Coaching Study: Executive Summary . International Coaching Federation. Accessed 3/8/2023. .

While life coaches are helpful to many people, the concept itself can feel broad––and selecting a certification program can be overwhelming. That’s why the Forbes Health editorial team evaluated over a dozen life coach certification programs, assigning star ratings based on price, the time it takes to complete the program, accreditation and more. Read on to discover our top picks for the best life coach certification programs.

Why You Can Trust Forbes Health

The Forbes Health editorial team prioritizes the accuracy and integrity of the data collected. Our ranking is based on quantitative data and is free from conflicts of interest. We carefully fact check the information featured in our ranking and are committed to producing rankings and supplemental content about life coaching that readers can trust. You can read more about our editorial guidelines for the rankings below.

• 10+ programs considered
• 15+ metrics analyzed
• 4 editors and researchers utilized
• Best Yoga Poses
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• Best CBD Oil
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• Best Online Therapy

• One of the first internationally recognized coach training programs to be ICF-accredited
• Full 9-month program includes 3 certifications, featuring a masters-level certification
• Shorter, 3-day certificate program available for $2,995
• Payment plans and tuition reductions available
• Join 25K+ other iPEC coaches

Best Life Coaching Certification Programs 2024

Health coach institute dual life and health coaching certification, coach training alliance, certified life coach institute life coach certification, institute for professional excellence in coaching, institute for life coach training professional certification, methodology: how we picked the best life coach certification programs of 2024, what is a life coach, what educational and professional background should a life coach have, how to become a life coach, cost of life coach training, how long does life coach training take, life coach vs. therapist: what is the difference, life coach benefits, summary: best life coach certification programs, our top life coach certification programs.

• Best for Dual Life and Health Coaching: Health Coach Institute Dual Life and Health Coaching Certification
• Best for Group Classes: Coach Training Alliance
• Best for Quick Completion: Certified Life Coach Institute Life Coach Certification
• Best for Support After Graduation: Institute for Professional Excellence in Coaching
• Best for Electives: Institute for Life Coach Training Professional Certification

• Program cost: One-time payment of $5,450 or $850 per month for seven months
• Program length: About six months, committing five to seven hours per week
• Self-paced or scheduled: Self-paced

With a dual Life and Health Coaching Certification, Health Coach Institute offers a unique program for users looking to help people in multiple areas of life. With new video lessons available each week over the course of six months, individuals can complete the course at their own pace. The program features one-on-one feedback from instructors who are health and life coaches themselves. The program is also accredited by the International Coach Federation (ICF), which is considered the industry standard, according to the company.

• Includes access to a private community group to connect with fellow students
• Offers an advanced 12-month mastery program to further your learning
• The only program in our ranking to provide a dual certification in health and life coaching
• Among the more expensive programs on our ranking
• Takes longer to complete than most others on our ranking

Health Coach Institute offers a six-week, self-paced stress management program for $497.

• Program cost: $4,339 payable in full or in three, seven or nine installments
• Program length: 22 weeks with 30 in-class hours and approximately two to five hours of homework per week
• Self-paced or scheduled: Scheduled

Coach Training Alliance puts users in a class with a maximum of 12 people and teaches the material in 60 to 90 minutes sessions each week for the duration of the program. With just 30 in-class hours, it is among the most brief programs of all we analyzed, and the cost is also one of the more reasonable on our ranking.

• Budget-friendly
• Accredited by the ICF
• Learn through a combination of live teleconferencing, online media and interactive software
• Offers brief coach training programs for wellness, couples, career and more
• Users cannot self-pace their learning
• Training is all completed in a group setting with no one-on-one instruction

In addition to training for individuals, Coach Training Alliance offers organizational coaching to help companies cultivate coaching skills in their employees.

• Program cost: $1,295 for Certified Life Coach (CLC), $2,595 to combine with the Master program
• Program length: 33 training hours for CLC, 37 training hours for Master program

Taught through Zoom video conferencing in three-day sessions, Certified Life Coach Institute is the most efficient program on our ranking in terms of how long it takes to complete. Its duration is six days if you’re working toward the Master program and is divided between Coaching 101 and Coaching 102, with three days per class. The completion of both makes the user a Master Certified Life Coach. The classes are taught on either a Friday, Saturday and Sunday schedule or Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday schedule, making it a convenient option even for people who work during the week.

• The most budget-friendly option on our ranking
• Offers financing with a non-refundable deposit of $295 for the Certified Life Coach program and $495 for the Master program
• Dedicating 33 hours over the course of three days could be difficult for some users’ schedules
• Start times for the courses are fixed in each time zone, so if that time is inconvenient, it may be an obstacle for some people

Certified Life Coach Institute provides a lot of support for students after completing its course, including the ability to retake the course for free. It also encourages students to contact them for help when starting their own life coaching practice after completing the course.

• Program cost: One-time payment of $13,395, $4,665 payable over three months or $1,083 payable over 12 months
• Program length: 320+ hours, with the two phases taking a total of about one year

With a variety of niche coaching programs available and an active community of fellow coaches to lean on both during the program and following completion, Institute for Professional Excellence in Coaching offers a comprehensive program featuring a mix of one-on-one training and group sessions as users work toward becoming a certified life coach. The program is accredited by the ICF and offers instructor feedback on assignments and the ability to self-pace training.

• One-on-one feedback with a dedicated mentor coach and user support provided
• Offers individual training sessions
• Tuition includes access to a resource library to assist users once they start their own coaching business
• The most expensive program on our ranking
• One of the lengthier programs on our ranking in terms of hours of training

The Institute for Professional Excellence in Coaching features life coaching, health and wellness coaching, executive coaching, leadership development and sports coaching.

• Program cost: $7,800 in full, or contact the school to establish a payment plan
• Program length: 130 hours, which includes 88 hours of required courses and 42 hours of electives
• Self-paced or scheduled: A combination of both self-paced and scheduled classes over the course of one and a half to two years, depending on your schedule and how fast you can complete the required courses

The Institute for Life Coach Training program is unique in that its program includes a number of elective courses in specific areas, allowing life coach students to hone in on topics that may be of particular interest to them. Though this course takes the longest to complete of all courses on our ranking, its specificity and completeness may appeal to those interested in becoming a professional life coach.

• Includes classes specific to wellness, grief, weight management, career and many other topics
• Along with required coursework, it allows flexibility for part of the program in choosing classes you are interested in
• Credits never expire, so students have the freedom to start and stop their certification
• Among the most expensive programs on our ranking
• Takes the longest to complete of all the programs we analyzed

To determine the best life coach certification programs of 2024, we considered several factors including:

• Program cost
• Program length
• Whether classes are self-paced or scheduled
• Type of instruction (virtual, in-person)
• Availability of one-on-one coaching
• Accreditation

Kickstart Your Coaching Journey In Just 3 Days

Inside iPEC’s Coaching Fundamentals you’ll gain 20+ coaching skills, 30 hours of ICF-accredited training, and a completion certificate in just 3 days for $2,995 USD. Payment plans available.

A life coach works with an individual to guide them in defining the ideal version of their life and help them work toward living it, often incorporating goals related to work-life balance, well-being, relationships and more.

“A life coach is a professional who works with people to help them achieve personal and professional goals, improve their quality of life and overcome challenges,” says Sophie van het Erve, an IFC-certified life coach and founder of The 1 Reset. “They do so by providing a mirror, helping spot blindspots and creating action plans to achieve their goals.”

There are no formal educational or professional background requirements for becoming a life coach, but a non-scientific survey conducted by Zippia, a company that provides online recruitment services, analyzed 5,835 life coach resumes and found that most coaches have completed some form of higher education: 55% of people held a bachelor’s degree, and 21% held a master’s degree. The most popular majors included psychology and business [2] Life Coach Education Requirements . Zippia. Accessed 3/8/2023. .

Anyone can call themselves a life coach, but having a certification from an ICF-accredited program is a good idea for a few reasons.

“I would highly recommend going through a coaching program and/or working one-on-one with a certified coach, to not only determine whether this is truly what you want, but also so you can ground yourself in the reasons why,” says van het Erve.

Ultimately, she says, becoming a life coach is a big investment of money and time. “The journey to become a life coach is invigorating but can be a rollercoaster as well,” advises van het Erve. “If you know you want to sign up for a program, I would talk to people who have gone through it recently and attend the free webinars that most schools provide. While the ICF-accredited programs uphold the same standards, their approaches differ, and it’s important to find the right fit.”

The cost of life coach training varies widely. Because you don’t officially need a certification to be a life coach, becoming a life coach is technically free. But if you’re going a more formal route, you can expect life coach training to cost between $2,500 and $12,000 [3] How to Become a Certified Life Coach . Become. Accessed 3/8/2023. . The programs on our ranking range from $995 to $7,800.

The amount of time it takes to complete a life coach certification program varies depending on which program you choose. Some programs offer intensive training over the course of a few days, while others require a few hours of classes per week over several months, or even a few years.

The difference between a life coach and a therapist is an important distinction. Therapists need a bachelor’s degree and typically, a master’s degree in order to practice, while a life coach doesn’t technically need a certification or any formal education to call themselves a life coach.

Additionally, life coaches and therapists have different goals in working with clients. “The way I often explain it is that a therapist is a mental health professional who is trained to diagnose and treat mental health conditions, such as anxiety, depression and trauma,” says van het Erve. “A therapist helps you heal. A life coach helps you build for the future and supports you through developing strategies to achieve goals in a way that is aligned with your dreams, your values and how you want to live your life.”

There are plenty of benefits to becoming a life coach, says van het Erve. They include:

• The ability to work with individuals to help them make more conscious choices
• Helping people transform their lives with small changes
• It can bring a sense of joy and contentment to your career and life

Additionally, life coaching is a growing field that can be lucrative: According to data collected from Glass Door, life coaches can make around $61,000 per year [4] How Much Does a Life Coach Make? . Glass Door. Accessed 4/20/2023. .

Above all, van het Erve says, being a life coach is fulfilling. “[As a life coach], you see that one step at a time, we can change our end destination with purpose, passion and energy,” she says. “And it absolutely fills me with joy and creates a fulfillment in and contentment with my life that I had not yet experienced before.”

Become a Certified Coach and Create Your Dream Career

Whether you choose the full 7-month program with 320+ training hours and 3 certifications, or you start with 3 days of high-impact Coaching Fundamentals training, there's a path for you at iPEC to kickstart your coaching journey.

On iPEC's Website

• 2020 ICF Global Coaching Study: Executive Summary. International Coaching Federation. Accessed 3/8/2023.
• Life Coach Education Requirements. Zippia. Accessed 3/8/2023.
• How to Become a Certified Life Coach. Become. Accessed 3/8/2023.
• How Much Does a Life Coach Make?. Glass Door. Accessed 4/20/2023.
• Certified Life Coach: What It Means to Become One. Coursera. Accessed 3/8/2023.
• What Degree Do You Need to Be a Therapist?. Point Loma Nazarene University. Accessed 3/8/2023.

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Information provided on Forbes Health is for educational purposes only. Your health and wellness is unique to you, and the products and services we review may not be right for your circumstances. We do not offer individual medical advice, diagnosis or treatment plans. For personal advice, please consult with a medical professional.

Forbes Health adheres to strict editorial integrity standards. To the best of our knowledge, all content is accurate as of the date posted, though offers contained herein may no longer be available. The opinions expressed are the author’s alone and have not been provided, approved or otherwise endorsed by our advertisers.

Leigh Weingus is a New York-based freelance writer and former senior editor at HuffPost, Elite Daily and Mindbodygreen. Her work has been featured in Well+Good, Glamour, Parade, Bustle, NBC News and more. When she's not writing, Leigh can be found taking a (virtual) yoga class, running in Central Park or whipping up her latest smoothie creation.

Valerie is a seasoned writer and editor who has spent her career creating content in the parenting and women's wellness spaces. Before joining Forbes Health, Valerie was the trending news editor at Scary Mommy. When she's not helping women and families live their best and healthiest lives, she's spending time with her family, walking her dogs, reading or exercising.