How to apply

All applications must be submitted via the Online Application Portal.

1. Check your eligibility for a Higher Degree by Research at JCU (HDR Requirements Clause 1.1).
2. You will need a research project and an Advisory Panel before submitting an application.  Please Search for Projects, and view the Register of Advisors to assist you with this.  Alternatively you could submit an expression of interest for a Higher Degree by Research.
3. Make contact with your preferred Advisors to confirm they agree to take on the role.  Simply approach them by email.  See 'How To Contact A Potential PhD Supervisor' for tips.
4. Once your prospective Advisors have agreed to take on the role, complete APP-FORM-01 Higher Degree by Research Application Form (.docx)(.pdf) and ensure that you have your other documents ready as listed below.
5. Select your course code from the Postgraduate Course page under "Doctorate-Research" or Masters-Research."
6. Go to the Online Application Portal and follow prompts for the online application process under 'My Course Applications.'
7. If you wish to be considered for a Postgraduate Research Scholarship, you will be asked to indicate this within the online application.  If you indicate that you wish to be considered for a scholarship, you will be considered for all the Postgraduate Research Scholarships for which you are eligible, starting from that of the highest value.  More information on scholarships is at Postgraduate Research Scholarships Page. (Note: If you are already enrolled in or have already applied for the course you wish to have a scholarship for, please indicate that by email to grs@jcu.edu.au and attach any updated documentation listed below.)
8. Send the link for submission of Referee Reports to your two nominated referees.  These should be referees who are able to provide information about you in an academic or professional context, such as previous research advisors/supervisors, lecturers, teachers or employers.

Required Documentation

• APP-FORM-01 Higher Degree by Research Application: Word or PDF
• Transcripts and testamurs for all qualifications completed or currently underway
• Proof of citizenship or residency in the form of a passport, birth certificate or visa
• Proof of English language proficiency
• Current curriculum vitae (CV)

Optional Documentation

• HDR Recognition of Prior Learning Application Form: PDF or Word
• JCU Scholarship Publication Table
• Professional Experience Form
• AIMS@JCU Application Coversheet
• Details of any cotutelle or external funding arrangements