
The University of Brunei Darussalam Scholarship 2026 is a fully funded opportunity for international students pursuing Research, Master’s or Doctoral degrees. Over the past decade, the Brunei government has provided thousands of scholarships to both local and international students to study at Universiti Brunei Darussalam. UBD offers this prestigious award to support outstanding individuals committed to research and innovation.
With world-class faculty and cutting-edge research centers, UBD opens doors to academic and personal growth in the heart of Southeast Asia. The University of Brunei Darussalam Scholarship cover tuition fees, accommodation, books, food, personal expenses, and basic medical treatment at government hospitals. Additionally, travel arrangements are handled by the nearest Brunei Darussalam Foreign Mission in the scholar’s home country. Application Deadline: 10 August 2025.
University/Institution Details
- Name: University of Brunei Darussalam (UBD)
- Location: Bandar Seri Begawan, Brunei Darussalam
- Global Ranking: Top 400 in QS World University Rankings (2025)
- Programs Offered: Research, Master’s and PhD (by research or coursework)
- Duration:
- Master by Coursework: 12-18 Month
- Master by Research: 24 Month
- PhD: 36-60 Month
Available Programs at UBD
Faculty of Science
- PhD: Biodiversity, Biology, Biotechnology, Chemistry, Computer Science, Geoscience, Mathematics, Applied Physics
- Master by Coursework: Petroleum Geosciences
- Master by Research: Same as PhD fields above
Faculty of Arts & Social Sciences
- PhD: Anthropology, Linguistics, English Lit, Environmental Studies, Geography, History, Malay Language/Lit, Sociology, Art, Communication
- Master by Research: Same as PhD fields
School of Business & Economics
- PhD: Management, Economics, Finance
- Master by Coursework: Business Admin, Management, Logistics, Applied Economics, Islamic Finance
- Master by Research: Same as PhD fields
Institute of Health Sciences
- PhD: Public Health, Biomedical Sciences, Clinical Sciences, Nursing, Midwifery
- Master by Coursework: Public Health, Medicine*, Nursing* (*Part-time only)
- Master by Research: Same as PhD fields
Academy of Brunei Studies
- PhD: Brunei Studies
- Master by Research: Brunei Studies
Institute of Education
- PhD: Education
- Master by Coursework: Counseling, Education, Teaching
- Master by Research: Education
Centre for Islamic Studies
- PhD & Master by Research: Islamic Civilisation and Contemporary Issues
Institute of Asian Studies
- PhD & Master by Research: Asian Studies
Faculty of Integrated Technologies
- PhD: Systems Engineering, Chemical Engineering
- Master by Research: Same fields
Centre for Advanced Materials and Energy Studies
- PhD & Master by Research: Material Science, Energy Studies
Institute of Policy Studies
- PhD: Islamic Governance, Public Policy
- Master by Coursework: Public Policy and Management
- Master by Research: Islamic Governance
University of Brunei Darussalam Scholarship Options
1. Brunei Government Scholarship (BDGS-IS) (for international students)
- Fully funded for undergrad and postgrad
- Offered by the Brunei Ministry of Education
2. UBD Graduate Research Scholarship
- Competitive scholarship for PhD students
- Supports research-intensive study in any field
3. UBD Bursary
- For local PhD applicants
- Aims to develop future academics
University of Brunei Darussalam Scholarship Benefits
- Full tuition fee waiver (including registration and acceptance fees)
- Monthly allowance: BND 2200 for up to 36 months
- Free on-campus accommodation
- One round-trip economy air ticket
- Field research allowance:
- BND 1000 (Arts & Humanities)
- BND 2000 (Science fields)
Benefits Not Included
- Visa and immigration processing costs
- Personal and recreational expenses
- Dependent family support
- Health insurance (partially covered; supplemental may be needed)

Eligibilities for University of Brunei Darussalam Scholarship
- Open to international applicants from any country
- Must have a Bachelor’s degree (for Master’s) or Master’s degree (for PhD)
- Minimum GPA of 3.0 (on a 4.0 scale) or equivalent
- Strong research proposal aligned with UBD’s priorities
- Proficiency in English (IELTS 6.0 or TOEFL 550 / equivalent)
- Not currently receiving another government-funded scholarship
- Must meet UBD program requirements
- For BDGS (local): Brunei citizenship, age limits apply (≤30 for postgrad), unemployed
Required Documents
- Academic transcripts and certificates
- English language proficiency test score
- Updated CV or Resume
- Statement of Purpose
- Detailed Research Proposal
- Two letters of recommendation
- Passport copy (valid at least 6 months)
- Recent passport-sized photo
Brunei Darussalam Government Scholarship 2025: Brunei
University of Brunei Darussalam Scholarship Application Process
- Visit the UBD online application portal.
- Create an account and complete the application form.
- Upload all required documents in PDF format.
- Submit your research proposal and select potential supervisors.
- Wait for review and shortlisting.
- Attend an interview (if required).
- Receive official offer and scholarship confirmation.
Tips for a Successful Application
- Start your application early and double-check deadlines
- Tailor your research proposal to UBD’s faculty expertise
- Write a compelling statement of purpose showing your motivation and fit
- Reach out to potential supervisors before submitting
- Proofread all documents for clarity and professionalism
- Keep scanned copies of all originals in high quality
Monthly Living Expenses for International Students
On average, living costs in Brunei are affordable compared to other developed nations.
- Food and groceries: BND 150–250
- Transportation: BND 50–100
- Mobile/Internet: BND 30–50
- Personal expenses: BND 50–100
- Total estimated monthly cost: BND 300–500
Why Should You Choose This Opportunity?
This scholarship is your gateway to Southeast Asia’s most progressive and peaceful nation. UBD offers world-class education with personalized faculty mentorship and a strong research culture. Studying here provides a unique blend of academic rigor, cultural richness, and environmental sustainability. The fully funded nature of the scholarship removes financial burdens, allowing you to focus entirely on your research and professional development. Additionally, Brunei’s strategic location and high quality of life make it an ideal destination for academic and personal growth.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1: Can I apply without IELTS?
A: Yes, but you must submit proof of English proficiency through other accepted means or be from an English-speaking country.
Q2: Is there an age limit for applicants?
A: There is no strict age limit, but preference is often given to early-career researchers.
Q3: Do I need to find a supervisor before applying?
A: It is recommended but not mandatory. However, naming a potential supervisor improves your chances.
Q4: How competitive is the UBD scholarship?
A: It is highly competitive; only outstanding academic records and proposals are considered.
Q5: When will the results be announced?
A: Typically within 8–12 weeks after the application deadline.
Official Link for More Details and Application
🔗 https://ubd.edu.bn/admission/scholarships/ubd-graduate-scholarship/