Prospective research students

Applying for a Research Degree

Step 1: Please contact our Programme Director with your topic ideas.

Step 2: Agree on a topic.

Step 3: Write your proposal/statement of research interest, and receive the support of the potential supervisor (if the supervisor has responded and has agreed to supervise you please attach their response to your application).

A statement of research interest should be developed in conjunction with one of the academic staff of the Faculty whom you might wish to be your research supervisor. The goal of this statement is to determine whether your research interests are aligned with the research interests of the Faculty, and to help ascertain your background experience in research.

The statement of research interest should be around 1500 to 2,000 words (preferably in conjunction with an academic staff member), and should include your proposed topic area, some indication of what research has already been done in that area, what specific research questions you might propose to pursue, and a brief idea of how you might propose to research them. If admitted, you will work with your supervisor, an associate supervisor and other members of staff to develop a full research proposal during your first year of candidature.

Step 4: Attach any examples of relevant papers or other evidence of research ability.

Step 5: Complete and submit an application form. Please note that international applicants who receive an offer are automatically considered for available Scholarships within the University of Sydney. Local students submit a separate application. See our research scholarships website for additional information.

Step 6: Include with your application details of your tertiary qualification/s including ALL of the following:

• A complete original or certified academic transcript in original language of issue.
• A certified translation of your academic transcript (if original is not in English)
• A testamur or other proof of completion stating degree awarded
• A certified translation of your testamur or proof of completion stating degree awarded (if original is not in English)
• Proof of Australian citizenship or permanent residency (if you are a local student) - must be certified.
• For international students: a non-refundable application processing fee of A$100 must be paid with each application form submitted.
• For International students an original or certified copy of your English Language test results.

Important Note

If you have completed your course of study but have not been awarded your testamur, you should include official documentation from your institution stating the name of the degree you have completed and the date of completion.