You want a fully funded master’s or PhD in Asia with real research support and a peaceful study environment. The University of Brunei Darussalam (UBD) delivers exactly that. The UBD Scholarship is a powerful opportunity for high-achieving international students to study in a safe, English-friendly country with strong academic mentorship and a fast-growing research profile.
The 2026/2027 cycle is open to talented applicants worldwide. If you are aiming to cut your tuition to zero, secure a monthly stipend, and focus on impactful research, this is your moment. Brunei’s low crime rate, clean environment, and diverse campus community make it a smart, stress-free base for your postgraduate journey.
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Read on for funding details, who qualifies, what to prepare, and how to submit a winning application. Apply early. Competition is strong and places are limited.
Why this scholarship stands out
The UBD Scholarship is designed to let you focus on study and research without financial stress. It is fully funded and welcomes outstanding international candidates for master’s and PhD programs in key disciplines aligned with Brunei’s development and global research priorities.
Fully Funded: Tuition fees waived plus living support so you can study without debt pressure.
Research-Driven: Strong supervision and access to institutes and labs that support high-impact projects.
English-Friendly: Many programs are taught in English, making it accessible for global applicants.
Safe and Calm: Brunei offers a secure, welcoming environment for focused study.
International Community: Foreign students are encouraged to apply and are supported on arrival.
What the scholarship covers
This is a fully funded award for the 2026/2027 academic cycle. The exact entitlements are confirmed on the official UBD page each year, but typically include:
Full tuition fee waiver for the duration of the degree.
Monthly stipend to support living costs.
On-campus accommodation support, subject to university housing availability.
One return air ticket to and from Brunei at the start and end of the program, as specified by UBD.
Research and thesis support such as consumables or thesis allowances, where applicable.
Note: Benefits are subject to the official scholarship terms each cycle. Always verify the current package on UBD’s admissions pages before you submit.
Available study fields
UBD offers a broad portfolio of postgraduate programs. Fields typically include:
Arts & Social Sciences
Business & Economics
Science, Technology & Engineering
Health Sciences
Education
Islamic Studies
Asian Studies and Public Policy
Environmental and Biodiversity Studies
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Program availability can change each intake. Check the current list of master’s and PhD programs on the UBD website for 2026/2027.
Duration of the scholarship
Master’s: typically 1 to 2 years, depending on program structure and research requirements.
PhD: typically 3 to 4 years, depending on research progress and faculty policies.
The final duration is set by your program and stated in your offer letter.
Who can apply: eligibility
The UBD Scholarship is merit-based and competitive. Strong academic records and a clear research direction significantly improve your chances.
Eligibility Criteria
What UBD Looks For
Citizenship
International applicants are welcome. Bruneian applicants may also be eligible under specific tracks.
Academic Record
Excellent bachelor’s degree for master’s applicants; strong master’s or equivalent for PhD. High GPA/class standing preferred.
Research Proposal
Clear, feasible proposal aligned with UBD’s expertise and national or global priorities.
English Proficiency
Valid proof of English ability if required by the program. Check specific program language requirements.
Referees
Strong academic references speaking to your research potential and integrity.
Supervisor Fit
Good alignment with potential supervisors’ interests. Some programs may require prior contact or acceptance in principle.
Publications/Experience
Research output, conference activity, or relevant professional experience can strengthen your case.
Additional or program-specific conditions may apply. Always review the program page for precise entry standards for 2026/2027.
Required documents
Valid passport bio page
Degree certificates and complete transcripts
Curriculum Vitae with research achievements
Research proposal for research-based programs
English proficiency test results if required
Two or more academic reference letters
Personal statement or statement of purpose
Any program-specific documents requested by UBD
How to apply
Review programs and supervisors: explore current master’s and PhD offerings and identify potential supervisors whose interests match your topic.
Prepare documents: assemble transcripts, certificates, proposal, CV, test scores, and references in the required format.
Create an online account: access the UBD online application portal via the Admissions section of the official website.
Complete your application: select your program and choose the UBD Scholarship option for the 2026/2027 cycle where available.
Upload all files and submit: ensure every field is complete and your proposal is polished and specific.
Track your status: monitor your email and portal for shortlisting, interview invitations, or additional requests.
If awarded: follow instructions for acceptance, student pass arrangements, medical checks, and travel planning.
Official website: https://ubd.edu.bn. If a direct scholarship link changes, go to Admissions and look for Graduate Scholarships for 2026/2027.
Timeline and deadline
UBD typically runs multiple intakes each year. For the 2026/2027 scholarship cycle, deadlines can vary by program and intake.
Start preparing several months before your target intake to secure references and supervisor interest.
Strong applications are usually submitted early to maximize chances.
Deadline: Visit the official website for the current deadline.
Selection process: what to expect
Document screening: academic merit, research fit, and completeness are checked first.
Shortlisting: competitive profiles are moved forward based on program capacity and supervisor availability.
Interview: expect questions on your proposal, methods, timeline, and motivation.
Final decision: offers are made to the strongest candidates and will state scholarship terms for 2026/2027.
Student pass and arrival support
International awardees receive guidance on securing a Brunei student pass after accepting an offer. UBD provides instructions and supporting documents for immigration processes. Prepare to show proof of award, medical clearance if required, and comply with any entry rules that apply in 2026/2027.
Tips to win this fully funded award
Lead with impact: frame your proposal around a clear problem, method, and outcomes that matter.
Show supervisor fit: cite UBD faculty whose work aligns with your topic and explain the synergy.
Be evidence-first: highlight publications, projects, datasets, or tools you have built or used.
Polish references: choose referees who know your research and can speak to rigor and independence.
Proofread like a pro: clean structure, precise language, and realistic timelines set you apart.
Frequently asked questions
Is the UBD Scholarship open to international students?
Yes. International applicants are encouraged to apply for 2026/2027. The award is competitive and based on merit.
What costs are covered?
It is fully funded. Typical coverage includes full tuition, a monthly stipend, on-campus housing support, and a return air ticket, plus research-related support as defined each cycle. Confirm the exact entitlements on the official page.
Do I need to contact a supervisor first?
It is strongly recommended. A good supervisor match can be decisive, and some programs may require acceptance in principle before an offer.
What English test scores do I need?
Requirements vary by program. Check the specific program page for accepted tests and minimum scores for 2026/2027.
When are the deadlines?
Deadlines vary by intake and program. Visit the official website for the current deadline and apply early.
Ready to apply?
If you want a fully funded master’s or PhD in a safe, research-focused environment, the University of Brunei Darussalam Scholarship is a smart move. Shortlist your program, refine your research proposal, and apply now via the official UBD portal. Strong applications are submitted early. Do not wait.
