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 doctoral studies at Brunei's premier institution. The scholarship offers a comprehensive package, including tuition fees, a generous monthly stipend, accommodation, and travel allowances, making it a highly competitive opportunity for aspiring researchers.

Universiti Brunei Darussalam: A Hub for Research and Innovation

Universiti Brunei Darussalam, located in the north of Borneo, boasts a strong academic reputation, particularly within the ASEAN region. Ranked #3 in ASEAN by Times Higher Education, UBD comprises 10 academic faculties and 7 research centers. The university is known for its commitment to fostering a global research environment and providing students with opportunities to collaborate with leading researchers. Courses are taught in English, further enhancing its appeal to international students.

Scholarship Details and Benefits

The UBD Graduate Research Scholarship (UGRS) is a fully funded program intended for candidates seeking a rigorous and globally competitive research environment. The scholarship aims to provide talented students with the resources needed to realize their full potential and contribute to UBD's growing international profile.

The scholarship covers the following:

Full tuition fees, registration, and acceptance fees. 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.

Priority Research Areas

The scholarship prioritizes high-impact research fields, including:

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

Expert Perspective: The Importance of Focused Research

Dr. Aminah Hussain, a professor of Environmental Science at a leading Malaysian university, emphasizes the strategic importance of UBD's research priorities. "Focusing on areas like biodiversity and climate change is crucial for Southeast Asia, given its vulnerability to environmental shifts. The UBD scholarship offers a valuable platform for researchers to contribute meaningfully to these critical fields," she notes. Dr. Hussain also highlights the significance of research into Asian and Islamic Studies, noting its potential to promote cross-cultural understanding and address contemporary challenges from a regional perspective.

Eligibility Criteria

Applicants for the UBD Graduate Research Scholarship 2026 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 general admission requirements, including English proficiency. Submit a high-quality research proposal. Have received their Master's degree within 5 years of the scholarship start date.

Application Process

The application process is entirely online. Applicants must:

Access the online application portal (link available on the official UBD website). Complete all required personal details. Upload all necessary documents, including academic transcripts, certificates, and English proficiency test scores. Answer all mandatory questions. Provide employment details and work experience (if applicable). Enter details of two referees. Review and submit the application form. An application code will be sent to the applicant's email address upon successful submission.

Required Documents

Applicants must submit the following documents:

Copy of Brunei national ID card or international passport. Copies of academic certificates, university degrees, and transcripts. English proficiency test scores (e.g., TOEFL, IELTS). A letter of security clearance from the applicant's home country. A permission letter from the employer (if currently employed). Brunei Government employees must submit printed forms through their respective ministries.

Historical Context and Current Relevance

The UBD Graduate Research Scholarship builds upon Brunei's long-standing commitment to education and human capital development. Historically, Brunei has invested heavily in sending its citizens abroad for higher education. This scholarship program represents a strategic shift towards attracting international talent to contribute to Brunei's research ecosystem and diversify its economy. According to Dr. Isham Ismail, an education policy analyst, "Scholarships like the UBD Graduate Research Scholarship are vital for attracting top-tier researchers and fostering innovation within Brunei. This investment in research aligns with the nation's broader economic diversification goals."

Important Dates

The application deadline for the January 2026 intake is typically between June and July 2025. Prospective applicants are strongly encouraged to visit the official UBD website for the most up-to-date information and deadlines.

Don't miss this exceptional opportunity to pursue your doctoral studies at Universiti Brunei Darussalam with full financial support. Apply now and embark on a transformative research journey.