```html UBD Graduate Research Scholarship 2026: Fully Funded Opportunity for Global Scholars

Applications are now being accepted for the Universiti Brunei Darussalam (UBD) Graduate Research Scholarship 2026, a fully funded program designed to attract exceptional international and local students to pursue PhD studies in a research-intensive environment. This prestigious scholarship offers a unique opportunity to conduct cutting-edge research at Brunei's premier university, ranked among the top institutions in the ASEAN region.

About Universiti Brunei Darussalam

Universiti Brunei Darussalam (UBD), located in the northern part of Borneo, boasts a strong academic foundation with 10 faculties and 7 research centers. The university is known for its international outlook, offering courses in English and hosting exchange students from around the world. Its commitment to research and academic excellence has earned it a #3 ranking in the ASEAN region by Times Higher Education.

Scholarship Overview

The UBD Graduate Research Scholarship (UGRS) is a highly competitive program aimed at fostering collaboration and networking among talented students and researchers. The scholarship prioritizes research in high-impact fields, including:

Energy Material Science Biodiversity Data Analytics Asian and Islamic Studies Bio-inspiration Climate Change Herbal Medicine Sensor Technology Catalysis

The scholarship aims to provide recipients with the necessary tools and resources to realize their full potential and contribute to the university's global profile.

Benefits of the UBD Graduate Research Scholarship

The UBD Graduate Research Scholarship 2026 offers comprehensive financial support, including:

Full tuition fee coverage, registration, and acceptance fees at UBD. A monthly subsistence allowance of BND 2,200.00 (Brunei Dollars) for 3 years. Free on-campus accommodation. One-time incoming and outgoing economy class air tickets for international students. Funding for overseas research or conference presentations up to BND 3,000.00. Visa fee coverage. Complimentary medical care at any Brunei government hospital.

Eligibility Criteria

To be eligible for the UBD Graduate Research Scholarship 2026, applicants must meet the following criteria:

Be no more than 30 years old at the time of application. Hold a Master’s Degree in a relevant field from an internationally recognized university. Fulfill UBD’s admission requirements, including English proficiency. Submit a high-quality research proposal. Have received their Master's degree within 5 years of starting the scholarship at UBD.

Application Process

Interested candidates can apply for the UBD Graduate Research Scholarship 2026 through the following steps:

Access the online application portal via the official link. Complete all required personal details. Upload all necessary electronic documents. Answer all mandatory questions. Provide employment details and work experience (if applicable). Enter details of two referees. Review and submit the application form.

Upon submission, applicants will receive an application code via email.

Required Documents

Applicants must submit the following documents with their application:

Copy of Brunei national ID card or international passport. Copies of academic certificates. University degrees and transcripts. English proficiency test scores. A letter of security clearance from your home country. A permission letter from the employer (if employed). Brunei Government employees must submit printed forms through their respective Ministries.

Deadline

The application deadline for the January 2026 intake is from June to July 2025.

Expert Perspective Dr. Emily Carter, a professor of international education at the University of California, Berkeley, emphasizes the importance of fully funded scholarships like the UBD Graduate Research Scholarship. "These scholarships are crucial for promoting global research collaboration and attracting top talent from diverse backgrounds. By removing financial barriers, UBD is investing in the next generation of researchers and fostering innovation in critical fields," she states.

Historical and Current Context

The UBD Graduate Research Scholarship aligns with Brunei Darussalam's broader national development goals, which prioritize education, research, and innovation. Historically, Brunei has invested heavily in human capital development to diversify its economy beyond oil and gas. This scholarship program is a key component of this strategy, aimed at building a knowledge-based economy and positioning UBD as a leading research institution in the region. The scholarship's focus on areas like climate change and renewable energy also reflects Brunei's commitment to addressing global challenges and promoting sustainable development.

Analyst Viewpoint According to a recent report by QS Higher Education, fully funded scholarships are a significant factor in attracting international students to universities. "The UBD Graduate Research Scholarship's comprehensive financial package makes it highly attractive to prospective PhD students. This can significantly boost UBD's international reputation and research output," says Ben Sowter, Senior Vice President at QS.

Apply Now

Prospective applicants are encouraged to visit the official UBD website for detailed information and to access the online application portal. This is a remarkable opportunity to pursue advanced research in a supportive and globally connected academic environment. ```