Studying a research degree doesn’t have to be financially overwhelming. Australian and New Zealand students will have their tuition fees covered by government programs, and there are scholarships available to make your research journey easier.

Tuition fees

Australian and New Zealand students

If you're an Australian citizen or permanent visa holder, or a New Zealand citizen, you won't need to pay tuition fees for your research degree, as long as you complete your degree within:

  • a maximum of 4 years full-time (or equivalent) for doctoral students (PhD and professional doctorate)
  • a maximum 2 years full-time (or equivalent) for research masters students.

Within this period, your fees are automatically covered by the Research Training Program (RTP) Fees Offset. This program covers tuition fees only, and you must pay any other study-related costs.

I'm transferring after starting my degree at another university

If you're transferring from another university, you can only transfer your Research Training Program (RTP) Fees Offset funding entitlement if:

  • your former university supports the transfer and QUT agrees to continue your RTP Fees Offset
  • we receive information from your former university about how much of your RTP Fees Offset you've used, and the dates of your milestones.

Changing universities isn't sufficient grounds to apply for an extension on your RTP Fees Offset.

International students

You may be able to apply for scholarships that cover tuition fees for all or part of your course. If you receive a QUT-funded scholarship you won't need to pay tuition fees for your research degree, if you complete your degree within:

  • a maximum of 4 years full-time (or equivalent) for doctoral students (PhD and professional doctorate)
  • a maximum 2 years full-time (or equivalent) for research masters students.

If you don't receive a scholarship that covers your tuition fees, you must pay your fees directly to QUT before the start of each semester.

In 2023, the fee range for international full-fee paying students is $31,000 to $37,600 annually (AUD) for research degrees. To find more details check the costs in the course information.

We review fees annually.

Other study-related costs and living expenses

Your research degree may take a number of years to complete, so you need to consider your living expenses while you're studying.

When you're close to finishing your research, you may also need to pay for thesis proofreading and editing.

Centrelink payments

If you're an Australian citizen or permanent visa holder and intend to apply for Centrelink payments while you study, it is important to check your eligibility first, as this will depend on your individual circumstances.

You must declare any scholarship income you receive to Centrelink as it may affect your payments.

Make sure you read Service Australia's information for students in higher education.

International students

If you're an international student, you will also need to cover costs related to your:

  • visa
  • travel
  • arrival in Australia
  • health cover
  • accommodation.

You should check your visa for details on how much you can work while you're studying in Australia.

Find more information for international students coming to study at QUT.