How to apply for a research degree or PhD
While undertaking HDR study is a rewarding experience, we understand the application process can be overwhelming. To apply for a Deakin research degree or PhD, follow the six steps outlined below.
Check the key dates
You can apply to study a research degree or PhD at Deakin at any time. Before you apply, check the intake dates, as well as any relevant closing dates for scholarships.
Read the entry requirements
Before starting your application, read through the research degree entry requirements. Examples of entry requirements include demonstrating your research ability, minimum entry requirements, English language requirements and more.
Prepare your proposal
You will also need to provide a brief outline of your proposed research topic. This will be used to assess whether Deakin has appropriate supervision expertise available. If you've already been in contact with a potential supervisor, you may work with them to develop your research proposal.
Find a supervisor
Find an ideal, dedicated research supervisor in your field and get in touch to discuss your research interests and supervision opportunities. Search our directory of experts by name, faculty, institute, research topic or keyword to find an expert in your area of research interest. You can then click on an expert's profile to learn more about them and scroll down to check if they are available for supervision.
Prepare relevant documents and information
Check what supporting documentation you’ll need to prepare, including academic transcripts, a resume, previous research degree, proof of identification and more.
Find out what documents you need to support your application
Apply online
Answer all questions thoroughly in your online application and attach all requested documents. If information is missing it may affect your chances of being accepted.
What happens after you apply?
You will receive a system-generated confirmation email once you have submitted your application. We’ll usually notify you of the application outcome via email within 8 weeks of your complete application being submitted.
Learn from world-leading researchers
At Deakin, our researchers rank among the top 1% in the world. Develop superior research expertise when you learn from and work alongside globally recognised experts in their field.
Research degree key dates
We have a number of different study periods at Deakin. The intake dates for research students in 2025 are:
- Intake 1: 26 February 2025
- Intake 2: 1 May 2025
*If you are an international student undertaking a research degree or PhD with the Faculty of Arts and Education, you can’t commence in intake 1.
*If you are applying for a research degree or PhD with the Faculty of Business and Law, you can’t commence in intake 2.
If you're not sure what faculty or institute you'll be undertaking your research degree with, check the faculty or institute listed on your supervisor's profile.
HDR scholarship application and commencement dates
Are you looking to apply for a research scholarship? The closing dates for the Research Training Program (RTP) scholarship or the Deakin University Postgraduate Research Scholarship (DUPR) for 2025 are listed below:
- Closing date for intakes 1 and 2: 6 October 2024
Footnotes
Contact us
Don't miss out on this opportunity to make an impact and unlock groundbreaking solutions to global challenges. Contact us with any questions about studying a research degree or PhD at Deakin today.
Domestic HDR candidates
International HDR students
Email the international HDR team