UBD Graduate Research Scholarship 2026 Opens Doors to Brunei for International Students

The University of Brunei Darussalam (UBD), Brunei's flagship university, is now accepting applications for the UBD Graduate Research Scholarship 2026. This fully funded scholarship provides an exceptional opportunity for both international and Brunei students to pursue Master's or PhD degrees, fostering research and academic excellence in a nation with a thriving economy.

The scholarship, aimed at the January 2026 intake, covers a wide range of disciplines and offers comprehensive financial support, making higher education accessible to talented individuals worldwide. There is no application fee, further encouraging prospective scholars to apply.

Key Scholarship Details

Host Country: Brunei University: University of Brunei Darussalam (UBD) Degree Level: Master's, PhD Financial Benefits: Fully Funded Deadline: August 10th, 2025

Comprehensive Financial Support

The UBD Graduate Research Scholarship is designed to alleviate financial burdens, allowing students to focus entirely on their academic pursuits. The scholarship covers:

Return economy class air ticket Full tuition fee Registration fee Monthly allowance Free on-campus accommodation Funding for research Visa fees

Diverse Graduate Programs Available

UBD offers a broad spectrum of graduate programs across various faculties and institutes, catering to diverse academic interests. These include:

Sultan Hassanal Bolkiah Institute of Education (SHBIE) Faculty of Arts and Social Sciences (FASS) Faculty of Science (FOS) UBD School of Business and Economics (UBDSBE) PAPRSB Institute of Health Science (IHS) Faculty of Integrated Technologies (FIT) Academy of Brunei Studies (APB) Centre for Advanced Material and Energy Sciences (CAMES) Institute of Policy Studies (IPS) Institute of Asian Studies Sultan Omar Ali Saifuddien Centre for Islamic Studies

Eligibility Criteria

To be eligible for the UBD Graduate Research Scholarship, applicants must meet the following criteria:

Open to all nationalities. Applicants must be no more than 30 years old at the time of application. PhD Programs: Require a Master's degree in a relevant field from a recognized institution. Master's Programs: Require a relevant Bachelor's degree with Honors (Second Class or above) or equivalent from a recognized institution. Applicants must meet the English Language Requirements. A research proposal is required for submission. Applicants must have received their most recent degree within 5 years of the scholarship's start date at UBD.

Required Documents for Application

Applicants are required to submit the following documents as part of their application:

Applicant's Identity. Academic certificates (O Level, A Level, HND, etc.) University transcripts English proficiency qualification (IELTS, TOEFL, BEC, etc.) Security clearance letter (for international applicants) Letter of permission from employer (for in-service applicants from private/government sectors, excluding MOE & MRA) Certified English translation of non-English documents.

The Significance of Scholarships in Global Education

Scholarships play a vital role in promoting global education and fostering international collaboration. Dr. Emily Carter, an education policy analyst at the Institute for Higher Education Research, emphasizes the importance of such initiatives. "Scholarships like the UBD Graduate Research Scholarship not only provide opportunities for individual students but also contribute to the development of a global knowledge base. By supporting talented individuals from diverse backgrounds, these programs enrich research and innovation worldwide."

Historically, scholarships have been instrumental in shaping the landscape of higher education. From the Rhodes Scholarship, established in 1902, to the Fulbright Program, initiated in 1946, these initiatives have facilitated academic exchange and promoted cross-cultural understanding. The UBD Graduate Research Scholarship continues this tradition by providing a platform for international students to contribute to Brunei's academic community and gain valuable research experience.

How to Apply

The application process for the UBD Graduate Research Scholarship 2026 is conducted online through the UBD Online application system.

Visit the UBD Online Application System. Upload the required documents. Answer all the questions in the application form.

For further details and to access the application portal, visit the official UBD website.

Brunei: A Hub for Emerging Opportunities

Brunei's strategic location and growing economy make it an attractive destination for international students. With significant investments in sectors like Oil and Gas, IT, Healthcare and Medicine, Construction, and Finance, the nation offers promising career prospects for graduates. The UBD Graduate Research Scholarship provides a pathway to not only academic excellence but also potential professional success in a dynamic environment.

Professor David Lee, an expert in Southeast Asian economics at the National University of Singapore, notes, "Brunei's commitment to diversifying its economy and investing in human capital makes it a compelling choice for students seeking both academic and career opportunities. Scholarships like the UBD Graduate Research Scholarship are crucial in attracting talent and driving innovation in the region."

The UBD Graduate Research Scholarship 2026 represents a significant opportunity for aspiring scholars to pursue their academic dreams in a supportive and vibrant environment. Interested applicants are encouraged to review the eligibility criteria and application guidelines carefully and submit their applications before the deadline of August 10th, 2025.