How to apply for a Higher Degree by Research

Choose your course or project

Research is an independent, supervised journey. Choose a research degree or a defined project, and consider whether the topic and supervision match your interests and experience.

If you have a research idea of your own, you can outline it in a proposal. You may also explore projects led by LIT research teams or courses that combine research with structured coursework.

Check the course information for study options, project availability and any requirements that apply to your preferred research area.

Check your eligibility

To be considered for a postgraduate research degree, you need to show adequate research preparation and meet any course-specific admission requirements. Your previous study and experience may be considered together.

Research preparation

Prepare evidence of relevant research training, such as a research-based qualification, a substantial research project or other relevant experience. Requirements vary by course, so check the course information before applying.

• A completed research-based qualification or substantial research project.
• Relevant experience that demonstrates research skills and preparation.

English language competency

Provide evidence using an accepted qualification or test. If you are unsure whether your results meet the requirement, ask LIT Admissions before submitting your application.

Find a supervisor

Supervisors advise, guide and provide constructive feedback throughout your research degree. Look for a close match between your supervisor's expertise and your research project.

Before contacting a potential supervisor, prepare your academic transcript and a brief outline of your research proposal. Include the topic you want to investigate and why it is a good fit with their work.

When you make contact, explain your research interests and ask whether they are available to supervise a project in this area.

Apply online

Most HDR applications can be submitted throughout the year, although some courses and scholarships have specific deadlines. Review the course information and any scholarship conditions before applying.

Prepare your academic transcripts, evidence of English language competency and a research proposal outlining:

• The background and context for your proposed topic.
• The aims and significance of the research.
• The methodology you plan to use.
• A brief reference list and relevant supporting material.

Supporting documents

Also check whether the course requests an academic CV, referee details or additional evidence of previous research experience.

• Use clear copies of official academic records.
• Include any documents specifically requested by the course.

Once you have confirmed a supervisor and prepared the required information, submit your application through LIT Apply. This website preview does not include a live application form.

Accept your offer

Check your offer for its acceptance expiry date and any conditions you need to meet. If you do not respond by the date shown, your offer may lapse.

Follow the instructions in your offer to accept and contact LIT Admissions if you need clarification before the response deadline.

If your offer includes scholarship information, review its terms and any separate response date before confirming your place.

Enrol

After formally accepting your offer, follow the enrolment instructions sent to you. Start dates and enrolment availability depend on your course.

Some programs have scheduled start dates or coursework requirements. Check the information in your offer, complete the enrolment steps by the stated deadline and contact LIT if you need help preparing to start.

Before commencing, review any orientation or induction information provided for your research area.

Confirm your start date and enrolment plan before your research begins.