Are you searching for a fully funded PhD scholarship in Asia? The Universiti Brunei Darussalam Graduate Research Scholarship (UGRS) 2026 offers a life-changing opportunity for talented international and local students to pursue doctoral studies in a vibrant, research-intensive environment.
Universiti Brunei Darussalam (UBD), the top university in Brunei, is located in northern Borneo and offers English-taught programs through 10 faculties and 7 research institutes. Recognized in both THE and QS global rankings, UBD actively supports international student exchanges. Its Graduate Research Scholarship (UGRS) is a competitive award for outstanding PhD students, providing opportunities to work in a research-driven, global environment while enhancing the university’s international profile.
Basic Information about the Universiti Brunei Darussalam Scholarship (UGRS) 2026
- Scholarship Name: UBD Graduate Research Scholarship (UGRS) 2026
- Host University: Universiti Brunei Darussalam (UBD)
- Location: Bandar Seri Begawan, Brunei Darussalam
- Level: PhD (Doctoral)
- Duration: 3 years
- Application Period: June to July 2025 (for January 2026 intake)
- Application Deadline: July 31, 2025 (for January 2026 intake)
- Language of Instruction: English
University/Institution Details
Universiti Brunei Darussalam (UBD) is Brunei’s premier university, located on the north coast of Borneo. UBD is recognized for its strong research output, international collaborations, and English-taught programs. The university features:
- 10 academic faculties and 7 research institutes
- Courses taught in English
- High international rankings: #125 in Asia (THE), #72 in Asia and #387 globally (QS)
- A diverse, welcoming campus with a proven track record of supporting international students
Study Areas (Available PhD Programs)
The UGRS prioritizes high-impact research fields, including but not limited to:
- Energy
- Material Science
- Biodiversity
- Data Analytics
- Asian and Islamic Studies
- Bioinspiration
- Climate Change
- Herbal Medicine
- Sensor Technology
- Catalysis
Other available fields:
- Health Sciences
- Brunei Studies
- Arts & Social Sciences
- Business & Economics
- Science
- Asian Studies
- Integrated Technologies
- Advanced Materials and Energy Studies
- Education
- Islamic Studies
- Policy Studies
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Scholarship Benefits
The UBD Graduate Research Scholarship 2026 is a fully funded PhD scholarship offering:
- Full tuition fee waiver (including registration and acceptance fees)
- Monthly stipend: BND 2,200 (approx. USD 1,600) for 36 months
- Free on-campus accommodation for 3 years
- One-time round-trip economy airfare for international students
- Research funding: Up to BND 3,000 (approx. USD 2,200) for overseas research or conference presentations
- Field research allowance: BND 1,000 (Arts & Humanities) or BND 2,000 (Science)
- Visa fees covered by UBD
- Complimentary medical care at Brunei government hospitals
- Personal spending, books, and food covered through the stipend
Benefits Not Included
While the UGRS is comprehensive, some expenses are not covered:
- Pre-arrival costs (e.g., document certification, translations)
- Personal expenses beyond the monthly stipend
- Travel insurance (recommended but not included)
- Family/dependent support (scholarship is for the recipient only)
- Accommodation outside campus (if you choose to live off-campus)
Eligibility Criteria for the UBD Graduate Research Scholarship
To be eligible for the UGRS 2026, applicants must:
- Be under 30 years old at the time of application
- Hold a Master’s degree in a relevant field from a recognized university
- Have completed their most recent degree within 5 years of starting at UBD
- Submit a high-quality, impactful research proposal
- Meet UBD’s English language requirements:
- Be fit to pursue studies in the chosen area
- For international applicants: provide a security clearance letter from their home country
Required Documents for the Application
Prepare the following documents in PDF format:
- Completed online application form
- Passport copy (or Brunei national ID card)
- Academic certificates and transcripts (Bachelor’s and Master’s)
- English language proficiency certificate (IELTS, TOEFL, etc.)
- Research proposal
- Curriculum Vitae (CV)/Resume
- Security clearance letter (for international applicants)
- Employer’s permission letter (if currently employed)
- Certified English translations for documents not in English
Scholarship Application Process (Step-by-Step Guide)
1: Research Your Program
- Explore available PhD fields and research supervisors at UBD Research
2: Prepare Your Documents
3: Draft a High-Impact Research Proposal
4: Apply Online
- Access the UBD Online Admission System (OASys): apply.ubd.edu.bn
- Complete the application form and upload all documents
5: Submit and Track Your Application
- Double-check for completeness; incomplete applications will not be considered
- Submit before the deadline (July 31, 2025)
- Await your application code and further communication from UBD
6: Interview (if required)
- Some candidates may be invited for an interview
Tips for a Successful Application
- Start early: Gather documents and draft your proposal well before the deadline
- Tailor your research proposal: Highlight originality, feasibility, and alignment with UBD’s research priorities
- Showcase academic excellence: Emphasize publications, awards, and relevant experience
- Meet English requirements: Take the IELTS/TOEFL early if needed
- Provide clear, certified documents: Incomplete or unclear submissions are rejected
- Seek strong references: Letters from academic or professional supervisors strengthen your application
- Proofread everything: Ensure your application is error-free and professional
Monthly Living Expenses for International Students in Brunei (in USD)
Brunei is known for its affordable cost of living compared to other study-abroad destinations. Here’s a breakdown:
| Expense Category | Estimated Monthly Cost (USD) |
|---|---|
| Accommodation | Free (on-campus, covered) |
| Food | $150 – $250 |
| Local Transportation | $30 – $50 |
| Books/Supplies | $20 – $50 |
| Personal Expenses | $50 – $100 |
| Health Care | Free (government hospitals) |
| Total | $250 – $400 |
Note: The monthly stipend (approx. $1,600) is more than sufficient for living comfortably in Brunei.
Why Choose the UBD Graduate Research Scholarship? (Top 5 Reasons)
- Fully Funded Excellence: All tuition, accommodation, and living costs are covered, allowing you to focus on your research.
- Prestigious University: UBD is a top-ranked Asian university with a global reputation for research and innovation.
- Research-Intensive Environment: Collaborate with leading experts in high-impact fields and access cutting-edge facilities.
- International Community: Join a diverse cohort of scholars from around the world and build a global professional network.
- Career Opportunities: A UBD PhD opens doors to academic, research, and industry positions worldwide.
- Cultural Experience: Live in a peaceful, multicultural country with a high quality of life and English as the language of instruction.
- Generous Stipend: Enjoy a comfortable lifestyle with a stipend that exceeds typical living costs in Brunei.
Frequently Asked Questions about the UBD Scholarship
Q: Who can apply for the UBD Graduate Research Scholarship?
A: Applicants from all countries who meet the academic and language requirements can apply.
Q: Is the scholarship only for PhD studies?
A: The UGRS is specifically for PhD (doctoral) programs. UBD offers other scholarships for undergraduate and master’s levels.
Q: Can I bring my family?
A: The scholarship covers only the recipient. Family support is not included.
Q: Is there an age limit?
A: Yes, applicants should be under 30 years old at the time of application.
Q: What is the application deadline?
A: For the January 2026 intake, the deadline is July 31, 2025.
Q: What if my documents are not in English?
A: You must provide certified English translations for all documents not originally in English.
Q: How competitive is the scholarship?
A: Highly competitive. Only applicants with strong academic records and research proposals are selected.
Conclusion
The Universiti Brunei Darussalam Graduate Research Scholarship (UGRS) 2026 is one of Asia’s most generous and prestigious PhD scholarships. With world-class research opportunities, a fully funded package, and a supportive international environment, UBD is the ideal destination for ambitious scholars. Start preparing your application today and take the next step toward a global research career in Brunei!
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