The application is now open for the University of Brunei Darussalam (UBD) Graduate Research Scholarship (UGRS) for the academic years 2025-2026. This fully-funded scholarship is designed for outstanding students from any country who wish to pursue their graduate studies and research at the prestigious University of Brunei Darussalam (UBD).

The UBD Graduate Research Scholarship is a highly competitive award, targeting exceptional PhD candidates with a strong commitment to conducting research in a competitive, international research-intensive environment. UBD’s vision is to provide these scholars with the platform to collaborate with leading researchers, enrich their academic journey, and gain the skills necessary to excel while increasing the university’s global visibility.

In addition, applicants may explore other opportunities such as the Brunei Darussalam Government Scholarship 2025/2026 (Fully Funded).

Brief Details

• Deadline for August 2025 Intake: February 28, 2025
• Application Period for January 2026 Intake: June–July 2025
• Scholarship Duration: 3 Years
• Eligible Countries: All
• Eligible Gender: Male/Female
• Study Level: Research (PhD)
• Host Institution: University of Brunei Darussalam (UBD)
• Host Country: Brunei
• Funding Type: Fully Funded

UBD Graduate Research Scholarship Coverage

The UBD Graduate Research Scholarship provides the following benefits:

1. Waived Tuition Fees: Covers registration and acceptance fees at UBD.
2. Monthly Subsistence Allowance: Recipients receive BND 2,200.00 per month for 36 months.
3. Free On-Campus Accommodation: Accommodation is provided (excluding administrative fees) by UBD Corp.
4. Airfare Support: Includes one incoming and one outgoing economy-class air ticket for candidates not residing in Brunei Darussalam. This covers travel for accepting the scholarship and returning home upon completion of the program.
5. Overseas Research Support: Funding of up to BND 3,000.00 is available for conference presentations or research conducted abroad.
6. Visa Fees: These are included for candidates awarded the scholarship.

Qualification and Requirements

To qualify for the UBD Graduate Research Scholarship 2025-2026, candidates must meet the following criteria:admission requirements

1. Age Limit: Applicants should be under 30 years old at the time of application. Exceptions may be considered on a case-by-case basis.
2. Academic Qualifications:
   • Hold a Master’s Degree with at least an Upper Second-Class Degree in a relevant field from a globally recognized university, OR
   • Hold a First-Class Degree in a relevant field from a globally recognized top university.
3. English Language Proficiency:
   • Meet UBD’s English admission requirements, which include:
     • IELTS Academic: Minimum score of 6.0
     • TOEFL PBT: Minimum score of 550
     • UBD English Proficiency Test (UBD-EPT): Minimum Band B2
4. Research Proposal: Submit a high-quality and impactful research proposal.
5. Recent Academic Qualifications: Candidates should have earned their degrees within five years of the relevant academic semester start date (i.e., August 1 or January 1).

Research Fields

The scholarship prioritizes research areas that align with UBD’s current research focus and Brunei’s developmental priorities. These areas include, but are not limited to:

• Energy
• Material Science
• Biodiversity
• Data Analytics
• Asian and Islamic Studies
• Bioinspiration
• Climate Change
• Herbal Medicine
• Sensor Technology and Catalysis

Required Documents for the UBD Graduate Research Scholarship

Applicants must prepare the following documents when applying for the scholarship:

1. Passport-Sized Photo: JPEG format (maximum size: 10 MB).
2. Research and Publications: Include if applicable.
3. Research Proposal: A minimum of 1,000 words.
4. Two Referees’ Details: Provide accurate information.
5. Valid Passport: A scanned copy.
6. Academic Degree Certificates and Transcripts: Attach relevant documents in PDF format.
7. Security Clearance Letter: As required.
8. Employer Permission Letter: If applicable.
9. English Proficiency Document: Submit the necessary language proficiency certificates.
10. Essay: Write an essay of up to 1,000 words describing:
    • Why you are applying to UBD.
    • Your eligibility and reasons you deserve the scholarship.
    • How you plan to contribute to Brunei Darussalam after your studies.

Ensure that all educational documents are clear and submitted in PDF format.

How to Apply for the UBD Graduate Research Scholarship?

The application process is entirely online. Applicants are encouraged to visit the official website and follow the application procedures carefully.

• Start Your Application Here: Apply Now

For more detailed information, visit the University of Brunei Darussalam’s official website or the scholarship’s dedicated page to understand the full requirements and processes.