HOW TO APPLY FOR POSTGRADUATE IN RESEARCH

Step 1: Determine a suitable course

Embark on a journey to find the program that sparks your curiosity and fuels your ambitions!

To be eligible to pursue postgraduate research study, you will need previous research experience and a high academic record.

You need to have undertaken a significant research project or thesis in your previous university-level studies.

This could be the equivalent of:

• a bachelor honours degree
• a master’s by research degree
• a master’s by coursework

YOUR SELECTED PROGRAM

(Choose one program that best piques your interest)

Step 2: Develop your research proposal

Kickstart your academic journey by crafting a research proposal that aligns with your passion and field of study.

How to write a research proposal

Carefully consider the subject of your research project and start to develop a research proposal to provide to potential academic supervisors. Your initial proposal will likely evolve, however, it is important to clearly explain your ideas about your research, show why your research is noteworthy and how it aligns with your proposed supervisor’s own research.

Notes: 2
The research proposal format (for Master’s by research or PhD degree application only):
Title:
Chapter 1 Introduction
o Background of the problem
o Statement of the problem
o Objectives of the study
o Scope of the study
o Significance of the study
Chapter 2 Literature Review
o Review relevant research to provide rationale for your work
o Present unanswered questions, untried method etc. your work addresses
o Findings of others you are challenging or extending
Chapter 3 Research Methodology
o Research Design & Procedure
o Operational Framework
o Subjects or data sources
o Instrumentation & Data Analysis
o Assumptions & Limitations
o Research Planning & Schedule
Chapter 4 Expected Findings and Summary
List of References

Source: School of Graduate Studies
Universiti Teknologi Malaysia

Step 3: Find a supervisor

Choose a supervisor who is passionate about your field, and together, make your research journey truly impactful!

Before you submit your application, you must first secure a supervisor.

You can search for supervisors’ contact details via their academic profile, or you can search for supervisor through SUPERVISOR FINDER by discipline, keywords, and research themes.

To support your enquiry, send an email describing your academic background and research experience, the topic you’d like to research and how your research project aligns with the work of your proposed supervisor. You must include your resume/CV, academic transcripts for all degrees and your initial research proposal.

YOUR SELECTED SUPERVISOR

(Select your preferred supervisor. You may propose either ONE (1) supervisor or up to to THREE (3) supervisors. We will forward your proposed supervisors to the faculty, who will select the most suitable supervisor from your choices. If none of your proposed supervisors are deemed suitable, leave the proposed supervisor field blank and, the faculty will suggest an alternative supervisor)

Step 4: Submit official application online 

Seize the opportunity! Apply now and be a part of UTM’s legacy of excellence!

Postgraduate research degree applications are open for February and September intake. We recommend applying as early as possible prior to your intended start date, and you will also need to discuss your start date with your supervisor.

Documentation to include in your application

LOCAL STUDENTS

• Bachelor/Master Qualifications.
• Bachelor/Master Academic Transcripts.
• Sponsor Letter (if applicable).
• Referees statement(s) (if applicable).
• Research proposal (for research mode).
• Mykad-sized photograph.
• Proof of Working Experience (if applicable).
• Copy of Mykad (with photo and personal details).
• Proof of Processing Fees.

INTERNATIONAL STUDENTS

• Bachelor/Master Qualifications.
• Bachelor/Master Academic Transcripts.
• English language certificate (IELTS/ TOFEL/ TOFEL IBT/ ELS CIEP/ TEEP).
• Sponsor Letter (if applicable).
• Referees statement(s) (if applicable).
• Research proposal (for research mode).
• Passport-sized photograph.
• Proof of Working Experience (if applicable).
• Copy of Passport (with photo and personal details.)
• Proof of Processing Fees.

Scholarships to support your research degree

We have one of the largest research scholarship schemes in Malaysia. Scholarships can be a big help in funding your research or helping you with living costs while you do your research. Some scholarships are specific to a research project or discipline, and many are assessed on academic merit and research potential.

Scholarships for Local/Malaysia Applicants

Scholarships for International Applicants