Forrest Research Foundation Scholarship in Australia Scholarship 2026

The Forrest Research Foundation 2026 PhD Scholarships offer an outstanding opportunity for talented researchers from around the world to pursue high-level doctoral studies in Western Australia. The Foundation is offering up to five prestigious scholarships for 2026 to support exceptional students who want to conduct innovative and paradigm-shifting research.

These scholarships are open to both domestic and international candidates and cover all academic disciplines. The aim is to attract brilliant minds who can contribute to research excellence and create a positive impact on society.

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About the Forrest Research Foundation

The Forrest Research Foundation was established in 2014 following one of the largest philanthropic donations in Australian history by Andrew and Nicola Forrest. The Foundation's mission is to strengthen research and innovation capacity in Western Australia. It achieves this by awarding scholarships and fellowships to outstanding young researchers from around the world. Over the years, the Foundation has built a strong reputation for supporting academic excellence and creating a community of future research leaders.

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Scholarship Overview

Program Feature Details Host Region Western Australia Partner Universities Edith Cowan University, The University of Western Australia, Curtin University, Murdoch University, The University of Notre Dame Australia (Fremantle Campus) Number of Scholarships Up to 5 Eligibility Domestic and international candidates Academic Disciplines All disciplines Scholarship Value Over AU$270,000 total package Application Opens 10 October 2025 Application Deadline 19 October 2025 (11:59 PM AWST)

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Scholarship Benefits

The value of the Forrest Research Foundation Scholarship is very generous. The total package is valued at over AU$270,000.

• Tuition Fees: Full coverage of all tuition fees through Research Training Program (RTP) Fees Offset or equivalent

• Stipend: Research Training Program Stipend or equivalent postgraduate scholarship stipend valued between AU$34,315 and AU$37,500 per year in 2026, indexed annually

• Accommodation: Luxury self-contained studio apartment at Forrest Hall with allowance valued at AU$25,740 in 2026, indexed annually

• Research and Travel Allowance: Up to AU$12,000 for conferences, fieldwork, or research-related activities

• Relocation Allowance: Economy airfare to Perth for the scholar and their immediate dependants

• International Students: Full international tuition fees and Overseas Student Health Cover

Living at Forrest Hall allows scholars to stay in a vibrant research community with other high-achieving researchers. This environment promotes collaboration, networking, and intellectual growth.

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Eligibility Criteria

To be eligible for the Forrest Research Foundation Scholarship, applicants must meet the following requirements.

Academic Excellence

• Forrest Scholars are usually among the top students in their undergraduate and postgraduate cohorts

• Most successful applicants have a Grade Point Average (GPA) of 3.80 or higher on a 4.0 scale

• Applicants will typically be in the top 5% of their graduating class

• Must have a bachelor's degree of First-Class Honours standard or equivalent (such as a Master of Research)

Supervisor Approval

• Before applying, candidates must identify a suitable PhD supervisor at their chosen university

• Contact the supervisor to discuss your research proposal

• Receive approval to include the supervisor's name in your application

• This step is essential because the Foundation wants to ensure proper academic support throughout your PhD journey

Other Requirements

• Meet the English language admission standards of your chosen university

• Apply for admission to a PhD program at one of the five partner universities

• Also apply for an RTP scholarship (international or domestic) at your chosen university

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Selection Criteria

The selection process focuses on several important criteria.

Academic Excellence and Achievement

• Previous achievements and strong academic record

• GPA is carefully evaluated, with most current scholars having GPAs between 3.95 and 4.00

Exceptional Ability, Resourcefulness and Resilience

• Key success factors in a research journey are resourcefulness and resilience

• The Foundation values "mistakability" – learning from failures and applying knowledge to broader work

Ability to Communicate Your Research

• Demonstrate deep curiosity about your chosen field

• Strong desire to communicate enthusiasm for knowledge and discovery

• Commitment to use research to have a positive impact

Originality and Significance of Proposed Research

• Proposed research should be innovative and exciting

• Must have discussed plans with proposed supervisor

• Research should have potential for meaningful contribution

Positive Impact on Western Australia

• Research must relate to the region

• Explain why research should be undertaken in Western Australia

• Describe how the state will benefit from your research

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Partner Universities

The scholarships are available for students who plan to undertake a PhD at one of the five Western Australian universities.

• Edith Cowan University

• The University of Western Australia

• Curtin University

• Murdoch University

• The University of Notre Dame Australia (Fremantle Campus)

Candidates must choose one of these partner universities as their research base. The program encourages applicants to carry out research that benefits Western Australia while also addressing global challenges.

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Required Documents

Prepare these documents for your Forrest Scholarship application:

• Completed application form – Available on the official website when applications open

• Curriculum vitae – Updated with academic and research experience

• Copies of all academic transcripts – From all previous university studies

• Contact details for three referees – At least two academic referees required, one personal optional

• Passport-sized photograph

• Research proposal – Developed with your potential supervisor

For the university PhD application, additional documents may include:

• English language proficiency proof

• Passport copy

• Any university-specific requirements

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Additional Development Opportunities

The scholarship program also includes a special "researcher's journey" development program. This program offers:

• Mentoring from experienced researchers

• Networking opportunities with peers and leaders

• Access to world-leading researchers and Australia's learned academies

• Professional growth as researchers and leaders

This additional support helps scholars grow not only as researchers but also as leaders in their fields.

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How to Apply: Step-by-Step Process

Step 1: Identify Your University and Supervisor

• Choose one of the five partner universities

• Identify a potential PhD supervisor whose research aligns with your interests

• Contact them to discuss your research proposal

• Obtain their approval to include their name in your application

Step 2: Review Requirements

• Carefully read the official scholarship conditions on the Forrest Research Foundation website

• Prepare a strong research proposal with your supervisor's guidance

• Ensure you meet all eligibility requirements

Step 3: Prepare Your Applications

• Download the Forrest Scholarship application form when available

• Prepare your university PhD application

• Gather all required documents

Step 4: Submit Your Forrest Scholarship Application

• All applications must be submitted through the official Forrest Research Foundation website

• The scholarship opens on 10 October 2025 and closes on 19 October 2025 at 11:59 PM AWST

Step 5: Apply for University Admission and RTP Scholarship

• Submit your application for the Doctor of Philosophy at your chosen university

• Also apply for an RTP scholarship (international or domestic)

• Check each university's specific deadlines

• For Edith Cowan University, the ECU Higher Degree by Research Scholarship deadline is 16 October 2025 at 11:59 PM AWST

Step 6: Complete and Submit

• Ensure all applications are complete before the deadlines

• Late applications will not be accepted

• Careful planning is essential

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Important Dates

• Forrest Scholarship Application Period: 10 October 2025 to 19 October 2025 (11:59 PM AWST)

• ECU Higher Degree by Research Scholarship Deadline: 16 October 2025 (11:59 PM AWST)

Applications close strictly at the deadlines. Interested candidates are strongly encouraged to begin preparations early.

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Why Choose the Forrest Research Foundation Scholarship?

• Generous Funding: Over AU$270,000 total package covering tuition, stipend, accommodation, and research expenses

• Luxury Accommodation: Live in a self-contained studio apartment at Forrest Hall with other high-achieving researchers

• All Disciplines Welcome: Open to research in any academic field

• Five Prestigious Universities: Choose from five leading Western Australian institutions

• International Community: Join scholars from around the world in a vibrant research environment

• Development Program: Access mentoring, networking, and leadership opportunities

• Research Impact: Conduct research that benefits Western Australia and addresses global challenges

• Philanthropic Legacy: Supported by one of Australia's largest philanthropic donations

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Tips for a Strong Application

• Start Early: Begin identifying potential supervisors and developing your research proposal well before October 2025

• Secure Supervisor Support: Contact your proposed supervisor early and obtain their approval before applying

• Excel Academically: Aim for a GPA of 3.8 or higher, as most successful applicants have exceptional academic records

• Demonstrate Resilience: Highlight examples of overcoming challenges and learning from setbacks

• Show Communication Skills: Emphasize your ability to communicate research to diverse audiences

• Connect to Western Australia: Clearly explain why your research should be conducted in WA and how it will benefit the region

• Prepare Strong References: Choose referees who can speak to your academic excellence and personal qualities

• Meet All Deadlines: Submit both your Forrest Scholarship application and university PhD application before their respective deadlines

• Read Conditions Carefully: Review the official Scholarship Conditions before applying

Final Thoughts

The Forrest Research Foundation 2026 PhD Scholarships provide an exceptional opportunity for ambitious researchers to study in Western Australia with full financial support and strong academic mentoring. With a generous package valued at over AU$270,000, luxury accommodation at Forrest Hall, and access to five prestigious universities, this is a life-changing opportunity for those passionate about research and committed to making a positive difference in the world.

The application process requires careful planning. You must identify a supervisor, develop a strong research proposal, and submit both your Forrest Scholarship application and university PhD application by their respective deadlines in October 2025.

For students who are among the top performers in their cohorts, with strong GPAs, research potential, and a desire to communicate and engage with the community, this scholarship should be at the top of your list. Begin preparing now, connect with potential supervisors, and take the first step toward joining a vibrant community of future research leaders in Western Australia.

Good luck with your application

Apply Now

For complete and official information, including access to the application portal when it opens, visit the official Forrest Research Foundation website:

Apply for Forrest Research Foundation PhD Scholarships 2026