When Should I Apply for and Commence a Higher Degree by Research?

It is possible to apply for higher degree by research candidature at any time of the year. However, the University's preferred start dates are January for students intending to start in Semester 1 (2 January - 30 June) and July for students intending to start in Semester 2 (1 July - 31 December).

Commencement at other times will only be permitted, with the approval of the Dean of Graduate studies, where a sound academic reason exists.

Note that the core component of the structured program (CCSP), the Integrated Bridging Program—Research (IBP-R) and coursework (including the core Master of Philosophy courses for international students) are normally delivered on a semester basis. Consequently, by commencing at the beginning of a semester, you will receive the best possible structured introduction to your PhD or Master of Philosophy degree.

Further information about what the induction, CCSP, IBP-R and other 'milestones' entail, is provided in the 'Candidature section' of this Handbook.

Scholarship Applicants

The closing date for the major round of scholarship applications for domestic students (including Australian Postgraduate Awards and the majority of University scholarships) is 31 October each year.

The closing date for the mid year round of scholarships for domestic students is early June each year.

Domestic scholarship recipients awarded a scholarship in the major round are generally required to commence study by 31 March of the year for which the scholarship is awarded.

However, under special circumstances, an award holder may be permitted to commence study after 31 March but not later than 30 June.

Domestic scholarship recipients awarded a scholarship in the mid year round are required to commence study by 30 November of the year for which the scholarship is awarded.

Further information regarding domestic scholarships is available from the Senior Scholarships and Finance Officers in the Adelaide Graduate Centre.

International Students

The closing date for the major round of international scholarships (IPRS and ASI) is 31 August each year.

The closing date for the major round of AGRS scholarships is 31 October each year.

The closing date for the mid year round of international scholarships (ASI and AGRS) is 1 May each year.

International scholarship recipients are generally required to commence their study in February or July of the year for which the scholarship is awarded.

International scholarship recipients awarded a scholarship in the major round are required to commence study by 31 August or the year for which the scholarship is awarded. International scholarship recipients awarded a scholarship in the mid year round are required to commence study by 30 November of the year for which the scholarship is awarded. Scholarship awards may not be deferred until a later year.

Further information regarding international scholarships is available from the International Research Scholarships Officer in the Graduate Centre.