UBD Graduate Research Scholarship 2026 Offers Fully Funded Opportunities in Brunei

The University of Brunei Darussalam (UBD), the nation's flagship university, is now accepting applications for the UBD Graduate Research Scholarship 2026. This fully funded scholarship is available to both international and Brunei students seeking to pursue Master's or PhD programs within a vibrant academic environment. With no application fee, this scholarship provides a pathway to higher education in a strategically important and economically diverse nation. The deadline for applications is August 10, 2025, for the January 2026 intake.

Financial Support and Program Details

The UBD Graduate Research Scholarship offers comprehensive financial support, designed to alleviate the burdens typically associated with postgraduate studies. The benefits include:

Return economy class air ticket Full tuition fee coverage Registration fee coverage Monthly allowance to cover living expenses Free on-campus accommodation Funding for research activities Visa fees coverage

The scholarship supports a wide array of graduate programs across various faculties and research centers, including:

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 for Applicants

The UBD Graduate Research Scholarship aims to attract high-caliber candidates from around the globe. To be eligible, applicants must meet the following criteria:

Open to all nationalities. Applicants must be no more than 30 years old at the time of application. For PhD programs: A Master's degree in a relevant field from a recognized institution is typically required. For Master's programs: A Bachelor's degree with Honors (Second Class or above) or equivalent from a recognized institution is generally required. Applicants must meet the English Language Requirements (IELTS, TOEFL, etc.). 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

A complete application package is essential for consideration. Applicants are advised to prepare the following documents:

Applicant's Identity (Passport or National ID). 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 Application Process

The application process is conducted entirely online through the UBD Online application system. Applicants must upload all required documents and answer all questions accurately. The link to the official application portal is available on the UBD website.

Historical Context and the Importance of Scholarships

Scholarships play a vital role in democratizing access to higher education, particularly for students from developing nations. Historically, scholarship programs have been instrumental in fostering international collaboration and knowledge exchange. Dr. Emily Carter, a professor of Higher Education at the University of Oxford, notes, "Scholarships like the UBD Graduate Research Scholarship not only provide financial assistance but also create opportunities for cross-cultural understanding and the development of global leaders."

Expert Perspective on Brunei's Educational Investments

Brunei's investment in higher education, particularly through scholarships, reflects the nation's commitment to diversifying its economy and building a knowledge-based society. According to Dr. Ahmad Hassan, an economist specializing in Southeast Asian development, "Brunei recognizes the crucial role of human capital in achieving sustainable economic growth. By attracting talented individuals from around the world, UBD contributes to the country's research capacity and innovation ecosystem." This scholarship, therefore, is not just an individual opportunity but a strategic investment in Brunei's future.

The Future of Education in Brunei

The UBD Graduate Research Scholarship 2026 represents a significant opportunity for aspiring scholars to pursue advanced studies in a thriving academic environment. By providing fully funded support, UBD is committed to fostering the next generation of researchers and leaders. Applicants are encouraged to visit the UBD website for detailed information and to begin the application process before the deadline on August 10, 2025.