How to apply

At ACU, your curiosity and ambition can shape meaningful change. Follow our simple application process and take the next step in your research journey.

ACU future research students

Domestic applicants

If you’re an Australian citizen, permanent resident, humanitarian visa holder or a New Zealand citizen, this guide will walk you through how to apply for a research degree at ACU.

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International applicants

Are you based overseas and planning to study in Australia? This guide will help you navigate the process of applying for a research degree at ACU as an international applicant.

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Follow these instructions if you want to apply for one of the following research degrees:

You are a domestic applicant if you are one of the following: 

  • Australian citizen
  • Australian permanent resident
  • Australian permanent humanitarian visa holder 
  • New Zealand citizen.  

You are an international applicant if you will need a temporary student visa to study in Australia.

A research degree is a master’s or doctorate focused primarily on independent research and the production of a single thesis.

ACU also offers postgraduate coursework degrees, which are structured around units and classes rather than a thesis.

If you’re planning to apply for a postgraduate coursework degree—such as a graduate certificate, graduate diploma or master’s by coursework—you should follow the application process for postgraduate coursework students.

Learn how to apply for a postgraduate coursework degree

Yes, there are a number of pathway programs available that provide the required research training to enable students who have not completed honours degrees or master’s by research to qualify to apply for a higher degree by research program.

Yes. You can apply for a range of scholarships that support you while you study, including help with living costs, tuition fees and other expenses, allowing you to focus on your research and access the resources you need to progress with confidence.

Browse research scholarships

Admission pathways

Every research journey is unique, shaped by diverse backgrounds, experiences and ambitions. Wherever you're starting from, and wherever you want to go, ACU offers flexible admission pathways designed to guide you toward your research goals.

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Why research at ACU

Discover what sets ACU apart, from our mission‑driven research to our global reputation as Australia’s leading university for research quality and one of the world’s top Catholic universities.

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Scholarships

Discover a variety of scholarships designed to support you throughout your studies, open doors to industry connections, and fuel your growth as a future leader in your field.

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Supervisors

Work closely with experienced supervisors who are leaders in their fields, guiding and supporting you at every stage of your research journey.

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Graduate Research School

General enquiries

Get in touch to learn more about graduate research at ACU

Email: grad.research@acu.edu.au

Industry partnerships

Contact us to explore how you could collaborate with our graduate researchers.

Email: grs.partnerships@acu.edu.au