The UBD Graduate Research Scholarship (UGRS) 2025 is a fully funded PhD opportunity at the Universiti Brunei Darussalam (UBD), the top-ranking university in Brunei. UBD offers an enriching academic environment with 10 faculties and 7 research institutes, and ranks among Asia’s best universities in both Times Higher Education and QS Rankings.
The UGRS aims to attract talented PhD candidates from around the world to engage in impactful research aligned with UBD’s strategic priorities, such as energy, climate change, biodiversity, herbal medicine, and data analytics. This scholarship is ideal for those who are passionate about research, committed to academic excellence, and ready to contribute to global innovation.
With English as the medium of instruction and a strong focus on international collaboration, UBD provides scholars a welcoming, well-resourced environment in the peaceful and nature-rich setting of Brunei.
Quick Overview of UBD Graduate Research Scholarship (UGRS) 2024
- Host Country: Brunei Darussalam
- Host University: Universiti Brunei Darussalam (UBD)
- Program Level: Doctor of Philosophy (PhD)
- Deadline (January 2026 Intake): June–July 2025
- Duration: 36 months full-time
- Instruction Language: English
- Funding Type: Fully Funded
- Eligible Degrees: Master’s with Upper Second or First-Class Bachelor’s Degree
Perks of the Fully Funded PhD Scholarships in Brunei 2024
- Full tuition waiver, including registration and acceptance fees
- Monthly stipend of BND 2,200 for 3 years
- Free on-campus accommodation
- Round-trip airfare (to and from home country)
- Research or conference grant (up to BND 3,000)
- Visa fees covered
- Opportunity to work in a global research environment
- Priority for high-impact research in areas like:
- Climate Change
- Bioinspiration
- Sensor Technology
- Asian and Islamic Studies
- Herbal Medicine
Benefits of the University Brunei Darussalam Scholarships 2024
- Join world-class researchers in cutting-edge projects
- Collaborate internationally while living in a peaceful, multicultural country
- Build a strong foundation for research, academia, or industry
- Focus on your research without worrying about tuition or living expenses
- Participate in UBD’s vibrant academic and cultural ecosystem
Exclusions of Doctoral Scholarships for International Students 2025
- Applicants older than 30 are generally not eligible (exceptions apply case-by-case)
- The degree must be awarded within 5 years of the academic semester start date
- TOEFL-ITP is not accepted as proof of English proficiency
- The scholarship is only for PhD students, not master’s programs
- Incomplete applications will not be considered
Eligibility Criteria UBD Graduate Research Scholarship
- Be under 30 years old at the time of application (exceptions possible)
- Hold a Master’s degree with Upper Second Class (or) a First Class Bachelor’s degree from a recognized top university
- Submit a high-impact research proposal aligned with UBD’s research thrusts
- Meet UBD’s English proficiency requirements:
- IELTS 6.0, TOEFL PBT 550, or equivalent
- C6 in GCE O-Level English or Band B2 in UBD-EPT
- Fulfill UBD’s general entry requirements for PhD programs
- The degree must be awarded within the last 5 years
- Must apply online through the official UBD admission system
Important Dates for the Fully Funded Doctoral Scholarships
- January 2026 Intake: Application open June–July 2025
- Program Start Dates: 1 August or 1 January annually
How to Apply to the PhD Scholarships for International Students 2025
- Visit the official application portal at https://apply.ubd.edu.bn/orbeon/uis-welcome/
- Create an account and start your application
- Fill in all required information: personal details, academic history, research background
- Upload required documents (see below)
- Submit a detailed research proposal aligned with UBD’s priority areas
- Ensure your application is complete before the intake deadline
Required Documents for the UBD Graduate Research Scholarship
- Certified academic transcripts
- Degree certificates (Bachelor’s and Master’s)
- Updated CV
- English language proficiency certificate
- Research proposal
- Letters of recommendation (if applicable)
- Passport copy
- Any other supporting documents relevant to your field
Country-Specific Criteria for the PhD Research Scholarships
There are no nationality restrictions — applicants from all countries are welcome. However, candidates must meet all academic and English requirements set by UBD.
Apply Now for the UBD Graduate Research Scholarship (UGRS) 2025
