To be eligible to enter the PhD program students normally are expected to have obtained excellent grades in their previous studies and their qualifications must be recognised by the college.
Students are not precluded from nominating the area in which they wish to pursue their studies, but this is often conditional upon the availability of materials, equipment and supervisors. Often a student is well advised to place the final choice of area in the hands of the Graduate School.
Prospective applicants are requested to apply in writing to the associate dean (graduate studies) in the year prior to their proposed commencement of studies. programs for the PhD degree normally commence in March of each year.
Each full-time student is eligible to apply for an Australian Postgraduate Award or a research scholarship offered through the college. The former awards are restricted to Australian citizens, or candidates with permanent resident status. The awards provide a scholarship of approximately $13,100 gross per annum.