Our Role
The University of Queensland Association of Postgraduate Students (UQAPS) is the representative body for all postgraduate students that attend The University of Queensland.
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ABOUT US
We exist for one reason: to make postgraduate life better.
Postgraduate study is different. It is more independent, more complex, and often more isolating than undergraduate life.
Whether you are undertaking a PhD, MPhil, Masters by Research, Coursework Masters, Graduate Diploma or Graduate Certificate, you are navigating milestones, tight deadlines, funding pressures, supervision relationships, employment responsibilities, and everything else life throws at you. UQAPS is here to represent you, support you, and strengthen your experience at UQ.
What We Do
Representation
We advocate for postgraduate students, at UQ and across the sector.
UQAPS representatives sit on key committees and boards to ensure postgraduate voices shape decisions that affect:
- Teaching and supervision standards
- Research training and milestones
- Student wellbeing and support services
- University policy and governance
We also contribute to national advocacy, bringing UQ postgraduate voices into broader conversations on policy, funding, and student outcomes. Our focus is simple: representation that reflects the full postgraduate community — research and coursework, domestic and international.
Community
Postgraduate study should not feel isolating.
We deliver large-scale flagship events such as GradFest Carnival, cultural celebrations including Holi, Navratri and Moon Festival, food festivals, campus mixers, coffee catch-ups, and faculty-based networking events across St Lucia, Gatton, Herston and Dutton Park.
Our events are designed to build connection, professional networks, and a genuine sense of belonging within the postgraduate community.
Wellbeing & Growth
We provide practical, tangible support through initiatives such as:
- Academic editing services
- Conference bursaries
- Parent welfare assistance
- Peer programs including Postgrad Buddies
- Professional development and networking opportunities
Our focus is on real support that makes a measurable difference to your academic and personal journey.
Our Approach
UQAPS is student-led and independent. Our funding comes from the Student Services and Amenities Fee (SSAF), and we are accountable to postgraduate students for how those funds are used. We prioritise transparency, good governance, and impact. Every initiative is designed to deliver clear value to postgraduate students.
Community
Building connection and belonging
Growth
Supporting academic, professional development
Wellbeing
Prioritising mental, social and practical support
Who We Represent
All postgraduate students at UQ — domestic and international, research and coursework, full-time and part-time — across all campuses.
If you are enrolled in a postgraduate program at UQ, you are part of UQAPS.
Latest News
It Looks Like Representation, But It Isn’t
Wendy’s Postgrad Journey
Get Involved
UQAPS is more than events and services. It is a platform for postgraduate leadership.
You can nominate for a representative role, join committees, volunteer at events, or contribute to policy discussions that shape the future of postgraduate education at UQ.
Postgraduate study can be intense. It can also be transformative.
UQAPS exists to ensure you do not navigate it alone.
Contact
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Our Key Collaborators
Get Support
Project Funding
APS funds student projects, covering costs for events, workshops, and community engagement.
Bursaries
APS bursaries provide financial support for conference travel and placements.
Rent Relief
Support available for postgrads doing it tough. One-time payment covering up to 1 week of rent (max $350).
Club Funding
APS offers funding of up to $1,000 to support initiatives led by UQ clubs.
Academic Editing
Academic editing for HDR students, supporting theses, articles, and proposals to meet scholarly standards.
HDR Coffee Catch-Ups
Monthly drink and finger food from Patina at Alumni Court. A relaxed environment to share ideas and chat about research.
