u/Prize_Ad6139

Hi everyone, I am considering to pursue a MPhil/MRes focused in Computer Science (AI research). I am mostly interested in applying to Monash University, UTS, or the University of Sydney.

I will be emailing supervisors soon, but before that I just wanted a reality check of whether I am competitive enough to get into the program itself. Please be brutally honest and grill me as much as you want lol.

Some context about myself:

• I am an international student.
• Final semester Bachelor of Science student (non honours) at the University of Sydney, majoring in computer science and business information systems.
• 83.50 overall WAM and an 86.40 WAM in Computer science coursework.
• Recognised on the 2024 USYD Dean's List.
• Currently doing AI research at Monash University, with a first-author publication aimed at an A* level international conference. It started off as part of the Winter Vacation Research Scholarship but I was invited to pursue further work to publish the paper.
• Previously interned as an AI engineer in a large company, delivering an AI Agent system that was deployed to thousands of users.

My questions:

1. I believe HDR programs generally require demonstrated research capability, usually proven via an honours thesis. My degree is non-honours and I never did a thesis. Is a first-author publication plus ongoing research work generally accepted as equivalent evidence?
2. Is my profile competitive enough to be considered by a supervisor? My research proposal covers the gaps and limitations of my current work, so the scope is significant and well-defined. But I don't know how much that matters vs. if I am actually qualified.
3. My paper is currently in progress and has not been submitted yet. Would supervisors treat this as a publication, or does it only become real once it's accepted?
4. What are realistic odds for an international MPhil student like myself to be considered for a partial scholarship (not RTP - I am aware that RTP is basically impossible for Master students, let alone internationals)?

Thank you in advance :)