3MT Competition
Present your research in just three minutes with one slide.
In 2026, the Three Minute Thesis (3MT) competition is back!
What is 3MT
The Three Minute Thesis (3MT), created by the University of Queensland, challenges you to turn complex research into a clear, compelling story anyone can understand.
With one static slide, three minutes, and a non‑specialist audience, 3MT is your chance to show how powerful your research can be when communicated with impact.
How it works
In 2026, the Faculty of Graduate Research will take the lead in coordinating the Three Minute Thesis (3MT) competition, and it’s your turn to step into the spotlight.
Each Faculty organises its own 3MT heats, with the winner and runner-up from each heat advancing to the university-wide final hosted by the Faculty of Graduate Research. The top presenter from that final will go on to represent Victoria University of Wellington at the Asia-Pacific 3MT competition
Want to take part? You will receive an email from your school or faculty with details on how to apply.
For more information, see the details below:
Who can enter
Open to active PhD and Professional Doctorate candidates who have successfully passed their confirmation milestone. Graduates are not eligible.
Calendar
See below for the full calendar of activities to help you plan and prepare for the competition.
| Date | Event |
|---|---|
| 30 March - 15 May | Applications open — you can submit your application anytime during this period |
| 5 May | Training session: 'Pitch perfect: Presentation skills for maximum impact' (optional, but will help you prepare for the competition) Register |
| 12 May | Discussion session: 'Strengthening your 3MT Presentation' (optional, but will help you prepare for the competition) Register |
| 15 June - 31 July | Faculty/school heats are held |
| 3 August - 21 August | Rehearsal sessions (on‑demand practice with constructive feedback for those progressing to the University Grand Final) |
| 27 August | University grand final |
| 10 September - 14 October | 10-11 Sept: FGR submits University winner recording to the Asia-Pacific 3MT Queensland University Team 21 Sept: Asia-Pacific 3MT Semi-Final Showcase 2 Oct: Asia-Pacific 3MT Final Showcase 14 Oct: Asia-Pacific 3MT Final |
Prize
University Grand Final
- Winner: $2000
- Runner-up: $1000
- People's Choice: $100
Faculty/School heats
- Winner: $200
- Runner-up: $50
Training
FGR offers optional 3MT training, but we highly recommend attending as it will help you prepare effectively for the competition.
| Date | Topic | Action |
|---|---|---|
| 5 May | Training session: 'Pitch perfect: Presentation skills for maximum impact' | Register |
| 12 May | Discussion session: 'Strengthening your 3MT Presentation' (optional, but will help you prepare for the competition) | Register |
| On demand | Rehearsal sessions (Practice with constructive feedback for those progressing to the University Grand Final) | -- |