Doctor of Philosophy, Research School of Biology (CRICOS course code 070535M) is a Doctoral Degree delivered by Australian National University over 4 years. This PhD program is designed for international students and domestic students alike, focusing on advanced research in the field of biological sciences (010999). As a CRICOS-registered course (070535M) at one of Australia’s leading Group of Eight universities, it offers a pathway to a career in academia, research, or industry. The program is delivered on campus at the ANU Acton campus in Canberra, Australia’s capital city, which is home to over 50,000 students and numerous research institutions. All listed providers on HeadStart Academy are CRICOS-registered with the Australian Government, data sourced directly from the official CRICOS register (April 2026). This free resource helps you compare 26,433 courses across all study levels and states. ESOS Act protections apply to every CRICOS-registered course, ensuring international students' rights are safeguarded.
This Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in the Research School of Biology falls under the broad field of Natural and Physical Sciences (01), specifically Biological Sciences (0109). At AQF Level 10, a doctoral degree requires original research that contributes significantly to knowledge. Graduates are expected to demonstrate advanced critical thinking, independent research skills, and the ability to develop and test hypotheses. The program typically involves a substantial thesis project, often with laboratory work and fieldwork. While specific syllabi vary, students can expect to engage with cutting-edge topics in molecular biology, ecology, genetics, or bioinformatics, depending on their supervisor and research focus. The Australian National University is a research-intensive institution, so students benefit from access to world-class facilities and collaboration with leading scientists.
According to the CRICOS register, this Doctor of Philosophy program has a duration of 4 years, equivalent to 208 weeks. The language of instruction is English. It is a single qualification (no dual award). There is no foundation studies component; students are expected to meet entry requirements directly. The course is offered full-time on campus. As a research degree, the duration may vary depending on progress, but the CRICOS-registered duration serves as a benchmark for student visa purposes.
Tuition fees for Doctor of Philosophy, Research School of Biology at Australian National University are indicative only and sourced from the CRICOS register as at April 2026. The tuition fee is A$234,100. Non-tuition fees (such as administration, materials, and services) are estimated at A$1,492, bringing the estimated total to A$235,592. Please note that these fees do not include Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living costs, or the student visa application charge. Living costs in Canberra are typically higher than the national average, with indicative weekly rent for a single person ranging from A$500 to A$700, groceries around A$150, and public transport about A$45. Always confirm current fees directly with the provider via their website: http://www.anu.edu.au/. Fees are subject to change.
Entry requirements for a Doctoral Degree at ANU generally include a strong academic background, typically a bachelor’s degree with honours (AQF Level 8) or a master’s degree in a relevant field. For this PhD in Biological Sciences, prior qualifications in biology, biochemistry, or related disciplines are expected. English language proficiency is required; ANU typically accepts IELTS overall 6.5-7.0, with no band less than 6.0. Other tests like TOEFL or PTE are also accepted. Applicants may need to submit a research proposal and identify a potential supervisor. Foundation or pathway options are not applicable at this level — refer to the provider for specific prerequisites. HeadStart Academy is not a registered migration agent and does not provide immigration advice; consult ANU’s international admissions office for detailed requirements.
No work component. This course does not include a mandatory work component. However, PhD students often engage in teaching or research assistant roles on a casual basis, but these are not part of the CRICOS-registered course requirements.
This course is delivered at Australian National University — Canberra City West, ACT. Canberra is the capital of Australia, known for its high concentration of government and research institutions. The ANU Acton campus is located near the city centre, accessible by public transport (buses and light rail). The city has a student population of over 50,000, with many international students. Living costs are moderate to high, but the city offers a safe and study-friendly environment.
International students enrolled in this CRICOS-registered course are eligible to apply for a Student visa (Subclass 500). This visa allows you to study full-time in Australia. As a doctoral student, you may have work rights: 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks, subject to visa conditions. You must maintain Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) for the duration of your stay. The Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) criterion applies — you must demonstrate a genuine intention to stay temporarily for study. Financial capacity is also required; you need to show sufficient funds for tuition fees, living costs (at least A$21,041 per year), OSHC, and travel. For visa application guidance, consult the Department of Home Affairs or a registered migration agent (MARA).
Choosing to study a PhD in Biological Sciences in Canberra means joining a city that hosts the Australian National University, one of the world's top research universities. Canberra has a vibrant student community with over 50,000 students across its institutions. The city's rent is higher than the national average (indicative weekly rent $500-$700), but it offers excellent public transport, low crime rates, and proximity to natural attractions. There are 1,556 CRICOS-registered providers offering 26,433 courses across Australia, and Canberra alone has several universities and colleges. Consider your research interests and lifestyle preferences — Canberra provides a focused, academic environment ideal for doctoral studies.
Follow these 3 steps to apply for Doctor of Philosophy, Research School of Biology at Australian National University:
1. **Research CRICOS-registered providers**: Use HeadStart Academy to filter by course level, field, and city. Ensure the provider and course are CRICOS-registered. Australian National University is CRICOS 00120C.
2. **Apply directly to your chosen institution**: Visit ANU’s website (http://www.anu.edu.au/) to check entry requirements, English test scores, and application deadlines. PhD applicants typically need to contact a potential supervisor and submit a research proposal. Submit your application online or through ANU’s admissions office.
3. **Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa (Subclass 500)**: Once accepted, ANU will issue a CoE. Then apply for a student visa via the Department of Home Affairs. Ensure you have OSHC and meet GTE and financial requirements.
Ready to start your doctoral journey? Explore more PhD courses or contact Australian National University directly for application details.
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Doctor of Philosophy, Research School of Biology is a CRICOS-registered programme at Australian National University. Use this register extract [CRICOS register, Apr 2026] to cross-check codes, duration and indicative fees before you apply.
This page is general information only and not migration advice. Confirm Student visa (Subclass 500) requirements with the Department of Home Affairs.