phd scholarship england

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• Education and learning
• Student finance

Postgraduate scholarships for international students

You can apply for a postgraduate scholarship from the UK government to cover things like course fees and the cost of living when you study in the UK.

International students from the EU aren’t eligible for these scholarships. If you’re from Malta or Cyprus you can still apply for Commonwealth Scholarships.

There are also undergraduate scholarships available if you’re from the Falkland Islands, St Helena or the Seychelles.

Apply for a scholarship to do a one-year taught masters

Check if your country is eligible for a Chevening Scholarship.

You can apply for a Chevening Scholarship if all of the following apply:

you have an undergraduate degree

you have at least 2 years’ eligible work experience

you meet the Chevening English language requirements

Check when you can apply for this scholarship.

If you’re from a Commonwealth country

If you’re from a developing Commonwealth country you can apply for funding for:

• a split-site PhD

If you’re from a developed Commonwealth country you can only apply for funding for a PhD or a split-site PhD.

Check the eligibility for the different Commonwealth Scholarship schemes.

If you’re from the USA

You can apply for a Marshall Scholarship to do a masters or a PhD if all the following apply:

• you graduated from a 4-year undergraduate course in the USA in the last 3 years
• you got a GPA of 3.7 or more in your degree
• you haven’t studied for a UK degree before

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10 PhD scholarships in the UK for international students 2022

With a strong research culture on top of encouraging interdisciplinary research, the UK is a great choice if one wants to pursue a PhD scholarship in an exciting and stimulating environment with many research links. The UK is one of the most popular destinations for many international students with many top-ranked and world-class universities and a welcoming culture as well.

Being a research powerhouse means more access to cutting-edge research facilities, which can go a long way in conducting research during your PhD studies. The UK, however, as a developed Western country, has higher living costs, with some major cities and programmes bearing notoriously expensive price tags.

This can be a heavy burden for international students seeking a UK PhD degree. Fortunately, the UK has a great list of university PhD scholarships that may help you realise your dream.

The UK is a research powerhouse. Source: Christine Bird/Shutterstock.

Leeds University Business School: International Business Department Scholarship

The International Business Department of the Leeds University Business School is offering up to two PhD scholarships for international applicants; the deadline is Apr. 1, 2022. One of the world’s leading units for international business and among a handful of triple-accredited business schools in the world, this department is well-known for their exceptional research and teaching.

The award is for three years; the last two years are renewable subject to academic performance. The successful recipient will get a maintenance grant worth 15,609 pounds (standard UKRI rate for Session 2021/22).

University of Cambridge: Harding Distinguished Postgraduate Scholars Programme

Awarded to a select group of 25 brilliant University of Cambridge PhD students of all disciplines and nationalities, this programme aims to produce graduates who can make a tangible difference to the academic community with their excellent research. The majority will be affiliated with St Catharine’s College; the rest will be distributed among the other colleges. 

Depending on your chosen department, the last deadline is Jan. 6, 2022. The PhD scholarship winners will receive a generous package including the University Composition Fee and a 6,000 pounds personal allowance throughout their studies, an annual stipend of 18,000 pounds and student visa costs.

SOAS University of London CHASE

SOAS University of London is among the world’s top 50 for Arts and Humanities (QS rankings 2021) and is a top 20 UK institution for these same subjects (THE rankings). As part of the Consortium of the Humanities and the Arts South-East England (CHASE) funded by the Arts and Humanities Research Council, this Doctoral Training Partnership offers up to 56 Arts and Humanities studentships; a limited number is available for international applicants. 

You should first apply to SOAS by Jan. 10, 2022 so that you can work with your proposed supervisor(s) on the CHASE application to submit by Jan. 28, 2022. You can expect to receive a training grant and a stipend as well.

Aston University College of Business and Social Sciences

As a multidisciplinary college in Aston University, Birmingham, the College of Business and Social Sciences is home to researchers from Aston Business School, Aston Law School and the School of Social Sciences and Humanities. Up to six fully-funded PhD studentships are available for application to any of these schools’ programmes – the deadline is Feb. 28, 2022.

You will get full tuition coverage at the international rate plus an annual maintenance grant of 15,840 pounds (2022-23 rate) throughout your three years. You should have obtained a merit for your master’s dissertation besides a first class or second upper class honours degree.

University of St Andrews: Doctoral Scholarship in Biology and Statistics

St Leonard’s Postgraduate College at the University of St Andrews is offering a doctoral scholarship to a suitably qualified student to take up research on developing novel methods for estimating the abundance of breeding grey seals. You will have three co-supervisors, and can choose to matriculate in either Biology or Statistics.

The PhD scholarship covers full tuition fees for up to three and a half years on top of an annual maintenance stipend (the 2021-22 annual rate is 15,609 pounds). You will have access to the free GRADskills training programme as well. 

University of Liverpool: Accounting and Finance Subject Group

This PhD scholarship takes on a slightly different form as a  Graduate Teaching Fellowship (GTF) – the deadline is Jan. 7, 2022. If you have a first or upper second class honours degree plus a distinction for your master’s degree besides being committed to research, this GTF allows you to collect teaching experience together with your PhD studies.

Under the Accounting and Finance Subject Group, you will have the opportunity to complete a teacher training programme offered by the University of Liverpool . A living stipend of 15,609 pounds plus a fee waiver will be awarded to exceptional applicants.

Swansea University: the UKRI CDT in Artificial Intelligence, Machine Learning and Advanced Computing

At Swansea University , you can apply for the four-year fully funded opportunity to research upon these broad areas of particle physics and astronomy, biological and health, and mathematical and computer sciences. You will be trained in artificial intelligence, high-performance computing and high-performance data analytics.

After training in the first year, you will have several short-term work placements in the second and third years. Besides full tuition fees, you will enjoy a stipend of  15,921 poundsand other allowances; the closing date is Feb. 11, 2022.

University of Exeter – PhD Scholarship

The University of Exeter’s generous funding scheme consists of two funding parts funding – one Research Masters in Economics and then a PhD programme in either Finance or Economics – both at the Business School; you have to apply by Jan. 21, 2022. As part of the scholarship, students have to work as teaching or research assistants for about 180 hours (23 days) a year, which can help enhance your research and education skills.

The funding includes a combined stipend and teaching allowance for 180 hours of 19,000 poundsper year. Students can also apply for additional funding for research, development and conference travel expenses. 

Imperial College London: Chemical Engineering PhD Scholarship

One of the best universities in the UK, Imperial College London has up to 10 fully-funded Chemical Engineering PhD scholarships via the Chemical Engineering Department . You should have a First Class Honours Degree at master’s level in chemical engineering or a related engineering/science field. This scholarship is tenable for 42 months, covering both tuition fees and 21,400 pounds for maintenance.

You should apply by Jan. 31, 2022. If you are successful, you would be asked to select two projects; depending on your supervisor’s agreement, you can be given either your first choice or second one.  

Oxford University – Clarendon Scholarship

The Clarendon Scholarship is one of the most famous PhD scholarships. You do not need to submit a separate application form for this scholarship; when you apply for a Oxford University PhD programme, you automatically qualify to apply for the Clarendon Scholarship.

Your preferred programme at Oxford may have different deadlines but generally, January is the last application deadline to be eligible for this scholarship. This particular PhD scholarship covers full tuition fees and a living stipend of 15,609 pounds (2021-22 rate).

All in all, if you have been planning to pursue your PhD studies in the UK but are short on funds, these scholarships are great choices, and will definitely help you achieve your dream!

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Find studentships and doctoral training

Get a studentship to fund your doctorate.

UK Research and Innovation (UKRI) provides UK universities with grants, awarded through a competitive process, to cover the fees and living costs of postgraduate students. Each place a university offers as a result of this funding is called a studentship.

You will need to apply for a studentship through the research organisation, normally a university, where you want to study. UKRI-funded studentships are offered by many research organisations in the UK.

UKRI does not provide doctoral funding directly to students.

What you can get

UKRI studentships offer funding for doctoral research. They also offer you access to training, networking and development opportunities to help you build a research and innovation career.

You could get:

• a minimum ‘stipend’ of £18,622 per year for your living costs, which is paid to you in regular instalments
• support for your tuition fees (minimum £4,712 per year)

The stipend is usually non-taxable and does not need to be paid back. Some research organisations may offer more if you study in London, or they or one of their collaborators might decide to top up the payment. This will be outlined in the studentship advert from the research organisation.

We normally pay the support for tuition fees directly to your research organisation.

The levels given here are for the academic year 2023 to 2024. UKRI’s approach to doctoral stipend and fee levels will be reviewed through the  new deal for postgraduate research .

Additional support for your doctoral studies

As a UKRI-funded doctoral student, you may be able to access additional funding to cover the cost of other related training and development opportunities.

This could include:

• conference attendance
• language training
• overseas research visits
• internships or placements with a non-academic partner

The availability of support will depend on the research organisation and the training grants they have on offer. You should contact the research organisation you are interested in applying to, to find out what you could get.

Extra support if you have a disability

If you have a disability, you may be entitled to a Disabled Students’ Allowance (DSA) on top of your studentship.

You should speak to your research organisation’s disability advisor to assess your needs. They can help put the right support in place, including a DSA application if necessary. You cannot claim DSA directly from UKRI.

DSA helps to cover the cost of any additional support that a person studying for a doctorate might need as a result of a disability, mental health problem or specific learning difficulty.

The allowance covers:

• non-medical personal assistance
• specialist equipment
• extra travel costs
• general expenses

Find out more about DSA in our framework .

If you are a research organisation you can download claim forms and guidance for DSA .

Who can apply

Any prospective doctoral student wishing to study at a UK research organisation, including prospective international students, can apply for a UKRI studentship.

All UKRI-funded doctoral students will be eligible for the full award, both the stipend to support living costs, and home-level fees at the UK research organisation rate.

How to find opportunities

Many UK research organisations offer some form of studentship funding from UKRI. These opportunities will depend on the subject you want to study and will normally be advertised by the research organisations.

Research organisations may have additional opportunities that do not involve UKRI. UKRI supports around 20% of all UK-based postgraduate researchers. You should speak to the research organisation you are interested in to find out what studentships are available.

You could also consider using a specialist website like   FindaPhD  to look for opportunities.

When to apply

Research organisations set their own deadlines for applications.

Many open for applications early in the academic year and close in January or February. This is not a hard and fast rule. It is important that you check the deadlines for the research organisation where you want to study.

How to apply

You cannot apply to UKRI for a studentship. You must contact the research organisation you are interested in studying with and use their application process.

For doctoral students who are already studying with a studentship, there are opportunities to get additional funding to support placements that are separate from your doctorate.  Find training and development opportunities .

Last updated: 11 August 2023

This is the website for UKRI: our seven research councils, Research England and Innovate UK. Let us know if you have feedback .

Scholarships and funding

Would you like to turn your dream of studying in the uk into a reality.

Deciding to study in the UK is an investment in your future. A prestigious degree from the UK is a valuable and transformative experience and will take your education - and your employability - to the next level.

There are many funding options available for international students who want to study in the UK. They range from part-funding, for example paying part of your fees, to full-funding which covers programme fees, living expenses, and return flights to the UK.

You can search for the right scholarship for you on the course and scholarships finder below.

Postgraduate funding

The UK government runs a variety of scholarship programmes to financially support international students who are looking for help funding their studies in the UK.

The three main UK government scholarships on offer are:

GREAT Scholarships

GREAT Scholarships are scholarships to UK universities across a variety of subjects, for students from 14 countries. Applications for 2023-24 are open.

Chevening Scholarships

Chevening Scholarships offers fully funded master's degrees in the UK. Learn more about one of the UK's most prestigious scholarships.

Commonwealth Scholarships

Commonwealth Scholarships are UK university scholarships given to talented individuals with the potential to make a positive impact on the global stage.

Wider UK government funding

The UK government offers hundreds of scholarships, bursaries and additional financial support to students from a large number of countries.

You can visit the UK Council for International Student Affairs (UKCISA) website to find out more about the funding available if you are studying in the UK as a postgraduate student, including whether or not you are eligible to apply for a scholarship. Just scroll down to the relevant section of the webpage.

UKCISA is the UK’s national advisory body serving the interests of international students and those who work with them.

Hear from international scholars What's involved in receiving a UK scholarship?

Tips for choosing a scholarship, international scholars in the uk.

Thinking of applying for a scholarship? Here are some top tips from international students who have received a scholarship to study in the UK.

GREAT scholarships

Nadine, university of kent.

What are GREAT scholarships and who is eligible? Watch as Nadine, a GREAT scholar, and Maria from the University of Kent explain everything you need to know.

Commonwealth scholarships

Commonwealth scholars.

Are you a high-achieving student living in the Commonwealth? Watch as scholars Suahib and Hamna explain all you need to know about Commonwealth scholarships.

Chevening scholarships

Chevening scholars.

If you have a vision to make the world a better place, the Chevening scholarships might be for you. Watch to learn more about the programme.

Being a GREAT scholar

Ismet, university of essex.

Ismet tells us about receiving his GREAT Scholarship for Sustainable Futures, and why he chose the University of Essex.

Being a Commonwealth scholar

Olaoluwa, nigeria.

Olaoluwa has received a Commonwealth shared scholarship. See her impressions on studying in the UK and receiving this life-changing scholarship.

Postgraduate studentships

Many universities offer fully-funded postgraduate studentships for PhD programmes. Find out more .

Institution-specific scholarships

Many UK higher-education institutions offer their own scholarship programmes.

These are offered based on a number of factors, which can be broadly split out into the following categories:

• Academic, merit and excellence scholarships - These are usually awarded to students with a strong academic background, including achieving strong grades in their school exams. 
• Performance-based scholarships - These are usually awarded to those who have exceptional ability in an extracurricular activity such as sports, music or performing arts like drama or dance.
• Subject-specific scholarships - These are often offered by individual departments for students studying a particular course or subject.
• Equal access or sanctuary scholarships - These scholarships can take the form of a tuition fee reduction or waiver or maintenance award and are offered to refugees and asylum seekers who have fled persecution from their home countries.
• Disability scholarships - These scholarships support international students with a disability, long-term mental health condition, learning difficulty or other special needs. 

Always check out different institutions’ websites to discover what is available, and take a look at specialist websites like Postgraduate Studentships and Prospects for curated information that covers different institutions.

Application advice Six top tips on applying for a scholarship

Read our essential advice on how to apply for a scholarship, from eligibility criteria to tailoring your application.

Global scholarships

A.S. Hornby Trust Scholarship

Scholarships for English language teachers to develop their English language skills

Selected countries - see website >

Commonwealth Scholarship and Fellowship Plan

Master's and doctoral courses (for study in the UK and distance learning), plus academic, professional and medical fellowships

Commonwealth countries >

Scholarships for one-year master's courses across a range of subjects at a variety of UK universities.

British Council scholarships for women in STEM

Scholarships for women undertaking master's degrees in a science, technology, engineering or mathematics course at one of 19 UK universities.

Americas, South Asia and South East Asia >

Global Wales Scholarships for International Students

Global Wales offers a variety of scholarship opportunities for international students.

USA; India; Vietnam and EU countries >

Country-specific scholarships

Young Cell Scheme

Postgraduate master's studies in the EU

Kosovo - see website >

Charles Wallace Pakistan Trust Scholarships

Doctoral studies, research, visiting fellows and Scottish summer school

Pakistan - see website >

Marshall Scholarship

Master's and doctoral courses at any university in the UK

USA - see website >

Science and research funding

Marshall Sherfield Fellowships

Post-doctoral research in science and engineering at any university in the UK

Euraxess UK

Research placements in the UK

Global - see website >

Royal Society grants

Postdoctoral science research

Undergraduate funding

While undergraduate scholarships and bursaries for EU and international students studying in the UK are less common than they are for postgraduate studies, they do exist. You just need to know where to look for them.

Funding for EU and international undergraduate students in the UK can generally be split into two categories: those offered by UK universities themselves and those offered by third parties - usually governments or organisations in your home country.

You can visit the UK Council for International Student Affairs (UKCISA) website to find out more about the funding available if you are studying in the UK as an undergraduate student, including whether or not you are eligible to apply for a scholarship. Just scroll down to the relevant section of the webpage.

You can also visit the Universities and Colleges Admissions Service in the UK (UCAS)’s page about scholarships, grants, and bursaries: EU and international students for more detailed information on what to look out for and where.

Cost of studying in the UK

Studying in the UK is good value for money. Find out how much you can expect to pay to study and live in the UK, and how to make the most of your budget.

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PhD studentships

If you're looking to get PhD funding for a specific research project or field of study, Doctoral studentships can provide you with either a partially or fully-funded PhD

Who awards PhD studentships?

PhD studentships are most commonly awarded by the UK's seven Research Councils in the form of Research Council grants , with research funding overseen by UK Research and Innovation (UKRI) .

Individual UK universities also offer scholarships and bursaries to PhD students, while many professional bodies fund Doctoral research in collaboration with these academic institutions.

For instance, research awards are offered by the following engineering organisations:

• Institution of Civil Engineers (ICE) - QUEST scholarships
• Institution of Mechanical Engineers (IMechE)
• The Institution of Engineering and Technology (IET)

Additionally, Cooperative Awards in Science and Engineering (CASE) can be part-funded by any non-academic body. These four-year PhDs require the student to work at the organisation for at least three months.

You can also apply for funded PhD opportunities through many charities, foundations and trusts, including:

• Action Medical Research
• Alzheimer's Society
• British Federation of Women Graduates (BFWG)
• British Heart Foundation (BHF)
• Cancer Research UK
• Diabetes UK
• Rosetrees Trust - PhD Plus
• The Leverhulme Trust
• Wellcome Trust

Before you start applying for a funded PhD, it's always a good idea to discuss this with a prospective supervisor first, as they're often able to provide tips on maximising the likelihood of receiving financial support.

How much can I receive?

Many PhD studentships, including those offered by universities, professional bodies, or charities, foundations and trusts, provide three years' funding paid at a similar rate to the Research Council grant:

• Fees-only studentship - These cover a student's tuition fees, plus any associated project and training costs.
• Full studentship - These add a non-repayable, tax-free maintenance grant known as a 'stipend'. In 2022/23, this is worth a minimum of £17,668 and it can be used towards living costs - see UKRI - Find studentships and Doctoral training .

For example, a University of Manchester School of Social Sciences PhD studentship includes tuition fees for three-and-a-half years and a maintenance grant of £16,062 (2022/23 rate) per year for living expenses, plus associated research costs - such as fieldwork and attending conferences - from the Research Training Support Grant.

However, you should be aware that some PhD studentship recipients are required to teach undergraduates. While this provides an excellent opportunity to gain vital employability skills, it can also be hugely time-consuming. You must be satisfied that tutoring won't negatively affect the quality of your research before accepting your place.

Is my programme eligible for a PhD studentship?

PhD studentships can start at any time of the year, but most begin in September, October or January.

Certain types of PhD, for example professional Doctorates, may not be eligible for a PhD studentship. The same applies to part-time or distance learning options.

Am I eligible?

PhD studentships typically demand that applicants have a Bachelors degree at 2:1 or above, plus a relevant Masters degree or professional experience at that level of study.

Those who already possess a PhD are often ineligible, while some PhD studentships are limited to students fitting certain criteria - for example, those from a disadvantaged background, from a certain country or of a certain ethnicity.

If you're a European Union (EU) national, you'll need to have settled or pre-settled status under the government's EU Settlement Scheme to be eligible for student finance in this country - and this includes PhD studentships.

How do I apply for a PhD studentship?

The application process can be lengthy, and competition is fierce.

Some PhD students will be automatically considered for financial support once they've been accepted by an institution, but many are required to make separate PhD funding applications. These are usually made directly to the university - even for those studentships from Research Councils, professional bodies, or charities, foundations and trusts.

You'll typically be asked for your PhD application form, a research proposal , a cover letter and your references. After the institution has reviewed your application, you may be invited to interview.

Throughout this process, the university will scrutinise what you'll bring to the institution. Applicants at Liverpool John Moores University (LJMU), for example, are judged on:

• the quality of their research project and how it connects with research currently being undertaken at the institution
• how appropriate the supervisory team is
• their calibre, academic qualifications and academic/research experience
• whether the research can contribute towards the Research Excellence Framework (REF), meaning that interdisciplinary research will be preferred.

How do I increase my chances of getting a PhD studentship?

You can improve your chances of success by:

• asking a friend or family member to proofread your application
• carefully choosing your referees, ensuring that they'll speak positively of you
• discussing your draft application with a relevant academic
• explaining how your work will be unique and innovative
• following the funding body's guidance regarding word counts and formatting.

What other PhD funding is available?

If you're unsuccessful with your PhD studentship application, you could consider:

• crowdfunding
• employer sponsorship
• PhD loans .

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Imperial College London Imperial College London

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• Fees and funding
• Postgraduate doctoral
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President's PhD scholarships

• What the scholarship covers

Check if you're eligible

How to apply, review and selection, when you'll hear, current scholar or imperial staff member.

If you have a question about our President's PhD Scholarships, please email the Student Financial Support team:  [email protected]

If you are a high performing undergraduate or Master's student and have a strong desire to undertake a PhD programme at a world-class research institution, a President's PhD Scholarship could provide you with the outstanding opportunity to receive full funding for tuition fees and a generous stipend for a 3.5 year PhD place at Imperial College London.

The President’s PhD Scholarships allow students to undertake a research project of their choosing with the support of an excellent supervisor, alongside cohort-building opportunities with other President's PhD Scholars.

For 2023–24, candidates applying to the President's PhD Scholarships will also be considered for the  Sir Michael Uren Engineering Scholarship and the Sir Michael Uren Medicine Scholarship , which supports interdisciplinary research across medicine and engineering. These scholarships provide the same support package as the President's PhD Scholarships. 

Meet our scholars

Read stories of Imperial students who have received a President's PhD Scholarship.

What the scholarship covers

Each of the 50 scholarships available provides the following support during the 3.5 years of study:

• Full funding for tuition fees
• A stipend of £24,420 (2023-24 rate) per annum to assist with living costs 
• A consumables fund of £2,000 per annum for the first 3 years of study
• A programme of bespoke opportunities and events delivered by the Graduate School

You will also have access to the  full range of support available to postgraduates at Imperial, including tailored support for disabled and international students, and the wider Graduate School programme of professional skills courses .

This competitive scheme has higher than usual eligibility requirements, attracting candidates that show excellent academic performance and promising research potential. 

We accept applications from talented candidates from Imperial College London, the UK and worldwide. There are no restrictions on nationality.

The scholarship applies to both full- and part-time study.

We encourage applications from people from all backgrounds, as we recognise that diversity not only benefits Imperial but also helps the sector to better represent the communities that we serve.

Academic criteria

• Candidates must be in receipt of, or due to receive, a  first class or equivalent  in an undergraduate or integrated Masterss degree;  and/or 
• Candidates with a standalone Master’s qualification must have achieved a  distinction  or, where this has yet to have been achieved, be able to provide evidence of high performance that will lead to a distinction.  

This allows candidates who have demonstrated excellence at Master's level, but not achieved a first class undergraduate degree, to be able to apply to the scheme.

Candidates with only a single undergraduate degree or integrated Master’s must still must be in receipt of, or due to receive, a first class or equivalent.

Other criteria

• Applications are accepted from talented candidates from Imperial College London, the UK and worldwide. There are no restrictions on nationality, although some departments may be unable to support international candidates.
• The scheme is only open to new PhD applications. Current registered Imperial PhD students are  not eligible  to be considered for a President's PhD Scholarship.

Read our scholarships terms and conditions .

Applications for this scholarship scheme will be considered at three points throughout the academic year – see 'When you'll hear' below.

Before you apply

• You must have made contact with a supervisor in an academic department at Imperial College London who has agreed to supervise your research project.
• Supervisors are limited to supervise one scholar at any time. Please review the  President's PhD Scholarships - Unavailable Supervisors page for more information.

Application process

• There isn't specific scholarship application form. 
• You should submit your application for admission to study at Imperial through our  online admissions system  and your department will put you forward for the scholarship based on academic merit and potential.

Scholarship-specific instructions for the admissions process are below; you must also meet any additional application requirements stated by your department of choice.

Additional admissions instructions

• For the 2023–24 academic year, the earliest start date for funded places is 1 August 2023, the latest start date is 1 November 2023.
• the first page should be a personal statement (motivations for applying to Imperial and the scholarship, and any other supporting information not included elsewhere on the form that you feel will enhance your application)
• the second page should be your research proposal. You may submit updated versions of this statement if required following application submission if your department shortlists you for the scholarship. You are encouraged to write in the first person. 
• When prompted for the names of  two academic referees , these should be people who can provide an academic reference in support of your application (e.g. your personal tutor or yopur thesis supervisor). You should not include your proposed PhD supervisor. You are encouraged to share  this guidance  with your two referees, noting, in particular, the recommendation to use ‘they/them’ language (rather than gender pronouns).
• To be considered for the President's PhD Scholarship scheme, you must select this option in the funding section of the additional questions tab within the online application form.

50 scholarship places are available. Applications will be reviewed by a two-stage process:

• Candidates meeting or predicted to meet the eligibility criteria will be reviewed by the Department to which they have applied. Departments will select a shortlist of candidates to present to the College Selection Panel for consideration. 
• A Faculty allocation stage will score and rank candidates in Departmental shortlists, making initial offers to the most promising candidates. Faculty Vice Deans present these candidates with justification for offers at the College Selection Panel.
• The College Selection Panel makes additional offers from a ring-fenced allocation to candidates that meet widening participation or other strategic alignment goals. 

Assessment criteria

Candidates are assessed by the Faculties and College Selection Panel against the following criteria:

• past academic results
• transcripts
• relative class position
• distinctions
• the candidate’s research experience to date
• their interest in discovery
• the research plan and its potential contribution as described in their research proposal
• the departmental statement, which also reflects on performance at interview

Successful candidates will receive written confirmation of their scholarship. Any offer of a PhD place will be conditional on the candidate receiving the predicted qualifications.

Applicants not selected for the scholarship will automatically be considered for a standard PhD.

Successful candidates will receive written confirmation of their scholarship. Any offer of a PhD place will be conditional on the candidate receiving the predicted qualifications.

• Applicants who apply by 23:59 (UK time)  4 November 2022  and are awarded a scholarship will be notified by  23 January 2023. 
• Applicants who apply by 23:59 (UK time)  6 January 2023  and are awarded a scholarship will be notified by  20 March 2023.
• Applicants who apply by 23:59 (UK time)  3 March 2023  and are awarded a scholarship will be notified by  22 May 2023.

If you're a current Imperial President's PhD Scholar or Imperial staff member, please find information for you at the following links:

• information for current scholars
• information for Imperial staff

How to apply for a PhD in the UK

Applying for a phd is not quite as daunting as you might think. a postgraduate student recruitment officer from the university of sussex shares his tips for putting together a phd application.

Ben Osborne

There are many different reasons for wanting to pursue a PhD – to move into an academic role at a university, to continue studying a subject you are passionate about or to further your career. 

Whatever your motivation, many students are now choosing to pursue a PhD abroad. This guide will help you understand how to apply for a PhD at a UK university and answer any questions you might have around doing PhDs.

How to apply for a PhD

Application rules and methods vary for each university. The number of courses that you can apply for in a year will vary. For example, at the University of Sussex , you can apply for up to three postgraduate courses per year using the postgraduate application system.

If you are applying for more than one degree, you must submit a research proposal/statement specific to each area of study you apply for.

You can also apply to different universities to improve your chances of being accepted to a PhD course of your choosing. 

What qualifications do I need?

Each PhD will have specific entry requirements and you will also need to meet a university’s general entry requirements.  This may be an upper second-class undergraduate honours degree (2:1) or an equivalent international qualification. For some PhDs you may need a master’s qualification, and you may be asked to attend an interview.

International students may also be required to prove language proficiency. This will vary across institutions so do check what level universities expect before starting your application. 

Applicants should always check the specific entry requirements in a university’s online prospectus before making an application.

When should I start applying?

This will depend on when your term start date is. Most research degrees will start in September but some courses offer additional entry points in January or May.

You can apply all year round for research degrees starting in September, January and May, and the deadlines for applying are usually one month before the course start date for UK applicants, and three months before for international applicants.

If you’re applying for funding from an external organisation you’ll need to be aware that they may have different deadlines for the funding application. So give yourself plenty of time to research your funding options, and ensure you know how long the application process takes. 

Many universities offer a number of funded PhD opportunities and PhD scholarships for UK and international students, and it’s always worth investigating funding routes such as research councils and other organisations, both in the UK and overseas.

In some cases, it may be possible to study a PhD by distance which means you’ll be able to learn online and have virtual meetings with your supervisor.

If this is something you would be interested in doing you should check before applying whether your university can accommodate this option. 

Nine things to know before doing a PhD Starting a PhD during the pandemic Studying for a part-time PhD: the challenges and the benefits Is it possible to do a three-year PhD as an international student?

How should I look for a supervisor?

Usually if you are applying for a funded project, or to a research centre or group, you will normally be asked to provide a statement explaining your suitability for working in that area, and if successful you will be allocated a supervisor.

If you wish to propose your own area of research, you need to decide on a research topic, and you will be expected to write a research proposal. In some cases you may only be required to provide a summary of academic interests and this can be used to match you to a researcher that suits you.

If you are proposing your own research topic, there may be a research database at your university that you can search, or your university will match you with a supervisor during the assessment of your application. It may be possible to request supervision by a particular member of faculty – this will be considered but not all requests can be accommodated.

If you do find a potential supervisor who matches your research area, check their online profile for indications of their doctoral supervision capacity. If they are open to doctoral applications, you can contact them directly to check their availability for supervising you.

It is a good idea to draw up a shortlist of two to three potential supervisors, and take an in-depth look into their research history. You can also find out more about your potential supervisors by looking in the reference sections of academic textbooks and searching for articles in research databases and academic blogs.

When you contact your potential supervisor, it is important to tell them something interesting about yourself, and explain your research interests and how you feel your research proposal matches their expertise.

How do I write a research proposal?

If you are proposing your own research you will need to write a strong proposal that formulates a precise, interesting research question, and establishes the relevance and value of the proposed research question in the context of current academic thinking.

You’ll need to make sure your proposal describes the data or source material your research requires, and outlines a clear and practical methodology that enables you to answer the research question and that states clearly what you hope to discover at the end of your research, and what new areas it might open up.

The precise content and structure of your research proposal will depend on your subject area, and the University of Sussex has some helpful resources on our website to guide you through the process.

How long does the application process take?

Completing an application and writing a research proposal may take some time and should not be left until just before the application deadline.

It’s not easy to give a definite idea of how long it takes to hear if your application has been successful, as it will depend on when the application is made and the nature of the specific PhD, and you would need to meet any conditions contained within the offer before you can start the PhD.

What are the associated costs?

There won’t typically be an application fee for PhDs but there are tuition fees. If a university does charge application fees they will usually be between £50-£100.

The tuition fees for students studying in the UK are set by UK Research and Innovation . Fees for international students are £18,975 for non-lab-based subjects, and £22,975 for lab-based subjects per year.

You’ll also need to factor in living costs, but there are a number of funding routes you can apply for to help with this. As well as PhD scholarships and funded research projects there are research council awards, PhD loans for those eligible, and various organisations to which international students can apply for funding, such as The Gen Foundation and Open Society Foundations.

It’s important to be aware of the costs involved, but it’s also worth remembering that the educational, career and personal benefits of PhD study can be worth it.

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Commonwealth PhD Scholarships

by Alumni Team | Aug 2, 2022

COMMONWEALTH PHD SCHOLARSHIPS

How to apply, supporting documentation, advice for applicants, choosing a university/course, applicant eligibility.

• Eligible countries

Completing the application form

• Selection process

Tenure and placement

Financial assistance, general conditions, faqs and enquiries.

Commonwealth PhD Scholarships are for applicants from least developed countries and fragile States, as classified by the OECD Development Assistance Committee (DAC), in the Commonwealth,  for full-time doctoral study at a UK university.

The Commonwealth Scholarship Commission in the UK (CSC) provides the UK government scholarship scheme led by international development objectives. It operates within the framework of the Commonwealth Scholarship and Fellowship Plan (CSFP) and offers a vivid demonstration of the UK’s enduring commitment to the Commonwealth. By attracting individuals with outstanding talent and identifiable potential from all backgrounds and supporting them to become leaders and innovators on returning to their home countries, the CSC’s work combines sustainable development with the UK national interest and provides opportunities for international partnerships and collaboration.

Purpose: Funded by the UK Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) , Commonwealth PhD scholarships contribute to the development needs of Commonwealth countries by supporting research that will have a developmental impact. They also enhance individual teaching and research capacity leading to increase institutional capacity in academic and other sectors in Commonwealth countries, and will contribute to UK higher education and research by attracting high-calibre international applicants and encouraging links and collaboration, and are aimed at those who could not otherwise afford to study in the UK.

Intended beneficiaries: Commonwealth PhD scholarships are for high-quality graduates who have the potential to undertake world-class research of a developmental nature and to become influential leaders, teachers, or researchers in their home countries.

These scholarships are offered under the six  CSC Development themes .

Applications for Commonwealth PhD Scholarships for the 2023/24 academic year open on 5 September. The deadline for submitting an application is 16:00 hours BST (15:00 GMT) on 17 October 2023. The scholarships are for study in the UK beginning in September/October 2024.

Applications to the CSC must be made using the CSC’s online application system.

The CSC is unable to accept any applications or documentation not submitted via the online application system .

Applicants are advised to complete and submit applications as early as possible, as the online application system will be very busy in the days leading up to the application deadline.

As well as applying to the CSC, applicants must apply to a nominating agency .

There are three types of nominating agency for PhD Scholarships:

• National nominating agencies – this is the main route of application
• Selected universities/university bodies – which can nominate their own academic staff
• Selected non-governmental organisations and charitable bodies

Nominating agencies put forward scholarship candidates to the CSC for consideration. The CSC does not accept direct applications for these scholarships.

Each nominating agency oversees its own selection process and may have additional eligibility criteria.  Applicants must check with the nominating agency for their specific advice and rules for applying, and their own eligibility criteria.

Nominating agencies may set their own closing dates for applications.

Agencies will nominate scholarship candidates to the CSC by December 2023.

Applicants can expect to hear the outcome by July 2024. We will contact all applicants by email and they should ensure all folders of their email accounts are monitored, including junk mail and spam folders. A scholarship offer may be withdrawn if a scholarship candidate is emailed but does not respond within a specified time.

Applications must include supporting documentation to be eligible.

Please note that applicants are required to collect references and supporting statements, on institution letterhead or an email clearly showing the sender’s details, from referees and proposed supervisors in the UK and then upload them in PDF format to the application system with their other supporting documentation.

The references and supporting statements must be uploaded to the application system by the deadline for applications and we are unable to accept references and supporting statements any other way or after this date.

Applicants must upload the following documents with the application:

• Proof that they are a citizen or have refugee status in an eligible Commonwealth country: a copy of a valid passport (or national ID card) showing a photograph, date of birth, and country of citizenship.
• Full transcripts detailing all higher education qualifications, including to-date transcripts for any courses currently being studied, with certified translations if not in English. Where any transcripts are missing or do not include all pages, the application will be considered ineligible.
• References from at least two individuals, in PDF format, signed and on institutional letterhead or an email clearly showing the sender’s details.
• A supporting statement, in PDF format, signed and on institutional letterhead or an email clearly showing the sender’s details, from a proposed supervisor in the UK from at least one of the institutions named on the application form.

Applications will be considered ineligible if any of the required documentation is not included by the closing date.

The CSC will not accept supporting documentation submitted outside the online application system.

When completing the references, referees should be asked to comment as fully as possible on the applicant, keeping in mind the following points for inclusion, as appropriate:

• How long, and in what capacity, the referee has known the applicant.
• The referee’s views on the applicant’s suitability for the proposed Scholarship and the need for the particular subject of study in the UK.
• Information on how, and to what extent, the applicant has shown ability in terms of capability to grasp concepts and reason analytically; capacity for original thought; and motivation and perseverance in achieving objectives.
• Assessment of the applicant’s particular strengths and weaknesses.
• The applicant’s potential to impact development in their home country.
• Any other general qualities which the referee considers would make the applicant a good recipient of a Scholarship.

Please note that the CSC does not charge apply for any of its scholarships or fellowships through its online application system.

When completing supporting statements, proposed supervisors should be asked to confirm that they are, in principle, prepared to have the applicant working with them and that they have the facilities to undertake the research. They should also be asked how the applicant’s plan of study fits with the expertise of their department and to indicate how much of the applicant’s plan of study, if any, they wrote. Any additional comments they make will be appreciated by the Commission.

Applicants can find general information about applying for a Commonwealth Scholarship on our advice for applicants page

Applicants may find the following resources useful when researching their choices of institution and course of study in the UK:

• Study UK – British Council website, with guidance for international students and a course and institution search
• Steps to Postgraduate Study – a guide to asking the right questions about taught postgraduate study in the UK
• Postgrad.com  – information for postgraduate students, with a course search
• Prospects – information on postgraduate study in the UK
• Research Excellent Framework 2021 results – results of a system for assessing the quality of research in UK higher education institutions
• UCAS Postgraduate – guidance on how to find and apply for a postgraduate course
• Discover Uni – the official website for comparing UK higher education course data
• UKCISA (UK Council for International Student Affairs) – advice for international students on choosing a course of study

The CSC is not responsible for the content of external sites.

Applicants can also discover how Commonwealth Alumni are making an impact and leading change across critical development issues by visiting our development impact stories page .

To apply for this scholarship, applicants must:

• Be a citizen of or have been granted refugee status by an eligible Commonwealth country.
• Be permanently resident in an eligible Commonwealth country.
• Be available to start academic studies in the UK by the start of the UK academic year in September 2024.
• By September 2024, hold a first degree of at least upper second-class (2:1) honours standard, or a lower second-class degree and a relevant postgraduate qualification (usually a Master’s degree)*.
• Not be registered for a PhD, or an MPhil leading to a PhD, at a UK university or in their home country before September/October 2024.
• Be unable to afford to study in the UK without this scholarship.
• Have provided all supporting documentation in the required format.

*The CSC recognises that disabled people have often faced and overcome challenges or barriers in their education journey which have prevented them achieving the academic requirement for a Commonwealth Scholarship. Disabled applicants who can demonstrate their potential to contribute to international development but who do not hold a 2:1 Undergraduate degree may be considered for a contextualised nomination through the Commonwealth Disabled People’s Forum (CDPF) nominator. For more information, please contact CDPF directly using the details on our NGOs and charitable body nominators page .

The CSC aims to identify talented individuals who have the potential to make change. We are committed to a policy of equal opportunity and non-discrimination and encourage applications from a diverse range of applicants. For further information on the support available to scholars who share that they have a disability, see the  CSC disability support statement .

There is no age limit for CSC applications. Applicants are advised to confirm with their employers any age restrictions on leave entitlement they may have in place.

Eligible Countries

Please note that only applicants from the eligible countries listed below can apply for Commonwealth PhD Scholarships (for least developed countries and fragile states, as classified by the OECD Development Assistance Committee (DAC), in 2023/24.

Bangladesh Cameroon Kenya Kiribati Lesotho Malawi Mozambique Nigeria Pakistan Rwanda Sierra Leone Solomon Islands Tanzania The Gambia Togo Tuvalu Uganda Zambia

In the application form, applicants are asked to:

• List all undergraduate and postgraduate university qualifications obtained.
• List up to 10 publications and prizes.
• Provide details of employment history and explain how the experience gained supports and is relevant to the programme to be undertaken in the UK.
• List names and positions of three referees who are qualified to comment on both their capacity to benefit from the proposed Scholarship in the UK and their ability to deliver development impact afterwards. One of the referees must be a current employer (if applicable) and at least two references must be included with the application.
• Provide a Development Impact statement in four parts.

In the first part applicants should explain how the proposed scholarship relates to:

• Development issues at the global, national, and local level
• Development issues connected to the chosen CSC development theme and the wider sector

The second part should explain how they intend to apply their new skills once the Scholarship ends.

The third part should outline what they expect will change in development terms following the Scholarship, including:

• The outcomes that they aim to achieve
• The timeframe for their implementation
• Who the beneficiaries will be

In the fourth part applicants should write about how the impact of their work could be best measured and evidenced.

Applicants are also asked to:

• Confirm what their award objectives are and how each of them will be met by the Scholarship programme.
• Confirm what their career plans are for the 5 years following the Scholarship.
• Confirm their long-term career plans.
• Provide a detailed plan of study.
• Provide a personal statement to summarise the ways in which their personal background has encouraged them to want to make an impact in their home country. Applicants may wish to highlight any areas where they have already made significant contributions, including overcoming personal or community barriers in accessing higher education or within their field.
• Summarise the ways in which they have engaged in voluntary activities and the opportunities they have had to demonstrate leadership.

Selection Process

Applications will be considered according to the following selection criteria:

• Academic merit
• Quality of research proposal
• Potential impact on the development of the candidate’s come country

For further details, see the Commonwealth Scholarships selection criteria .

Applicants should note the criteria carefully and link their answers in the application form to each point listed.

Scholarships are tenable at any approved UK university or higher education institution with which the CSC has a part-funding agreement for a specific programme of research for 36 months of full-time study only. For the full list, see here: cscuk.fcdo.gov.uk/uk-universities

Scholarships are to obtain one degree; funding will not be extended to enable candidates to complete a qualification in addition to or higher than that for which the selection was made.

Scholarships are made in respect of full-time study only and no other course of study may be undertaken at the same time.

The CSC does not provide new direct financial or promotional support for the fossil fuel energy sector overseas, defined as the extraction, production, transportation, refining and marketing of crude oil, natural gas or thermal coal, as well as any fossil-fuel fired power plants.

Applicants must make clear in the application which qualification they are applying for. This will enable the CSC to consider the application in the correct category. Applications which do not make this clear may be considered ineligible.

Applicants are advised to list three universities and supervisors that they think are the most appropriate for their study, in order of preference, and to explain their reasons. This is important because the CSC will not change the university or supervisor (or the order of preference) of a provisionally selected candidate after the point of selection, unless exceptional information becomes available that could not have been foreseen at the time of application.

Applicants may propose to study at one university for a four-year PhD, but this must be based in a recognised Doctoral Training Centre. They must research this option thoroughly and justify its added value compared with a three-year PhD. As the CSC will fund only a limited number of four-year PhDs, applicants are strongly advised to also propose at least one three-year PhD choice.

The CSC will make the final decision on institution of study, and reserves the right to overrule any preferences indicated by the candidate. The CSC will consider the suitability of the course and its value for money when deciding on any overrule.

Applicants must take the necessary steps to apply for admission to their preferred universities in advance of their scholarship application. Many courses have strict admission deadlines and candidates should check admission requirements carefully when applying. If an applicant is selected for a scholarship and has not applied and been accepted for a course, it may not be possible to proceed with the scholarship.

Applicants must provide a supporting statement for a named supervisor from at least one of the UK universities to which they are applying. Details of what the supporting statement should include are outlined in the supporting documentation section. Applicants are strongly advised to provide a supporting statement from a supervisor at the first choice university. If not, the CSC reserves the right to select for placement at another university for which a statement is provided.

Each scholarship provides:

• Approved airfare from the Scholar’s home country to the UK and return at the end of the award (the CSC will not reimburse the cost of fares for dependants, nor the cost of journeys made before the award is confirmed).
• Approved tuition fees: full fees are covered by agreement between the CSC and the UK university, and Scholars are not liable to pay for any part of the tuition fee.
• Stipend (living allowance) at the rate of £1,347 per month, or £1,652 per month for those at universities in the London metropolitan area (rates quoted at current levels).
• Warm clothing allowance, where applicable.
• Study travel grant towards the cost of study-related travel within the UK or overseas.
• Provision towards the cost of fieldwork undertaken overseas (the cost of one economy class return airfare to the fieldwork location), where approved.
• Paid mid-term visit (airfare) to the Scholar’s home country, unless they have claimed or intend to claim spouse and/or child allowances during their scholarship or have received a return airfare to their home country for fieldwork.
• If a Scholar is accompanied by their spouse but no children: spouse allowance of £290 per month for a maximum period of nine months, if they and their spouse are living together at the same address in the UK (unless the spouse is also in receipt of a scholarship; other conditions also apply).
• If a Scholar is accompanied by their spouse and children: spouse allowance of £290 per month and child allowance of £290 per month for the first child, and £143 per month for the second and third child under the age of 16, if their spouse and children are living with them at the same address in the UK (unless their spouse is also in receipt of a scholarship; other conditions also apply).
• If a Scholar is accompanied by their children but no spouse: child allowance of £576.61 per month for the first child, and £143 per month for the second and third child under the age of 16, if their children are living with them at the same address in the UK.

If a Scholar shares that they have a disability, a full assessment of their needs and eligibility for additional financial support will be offered by the CSC.

The CSC’s family allowances are intended to be only a contribution towards the cost of maintaining a Scholar’s family in the UK. The true costs are likely to be considerably higher, and Scholars must be able to supplement these allowances to support any family members who accompany them to the UK.

For more information, see the current Handbook for Commonwealth Scholars .

Please note that the conditions outlined in the Handbook are subject to change.

A Commonwealth Scholarship covers fees, approved fares, and personal maintenance. Other scholarships, awards, or bursaries that cover the same costs may not be held concurrently.

For the CSC to administer the application effectively and efficiently after submission, it will be necessary to create a record in the applicant’s name. If they apply for an award to the CSC, their details will be kept on file. Basic anonymised demographic data for all applicants will be kept for analytical research. The CSC is committed to protecting personal information and to being transparent about the information we are collecting about applicants and what we do with it. To find out more, see our privacy notice .

Applicant’s personal information will be used to conduct necessary due diligence checks to CSC’s satisfaction, before CSC proceeds with any type of formal agreement or contractual relationship. In most cases, the due diligence checks will be straightforward, however further information may be requested, so we ask for full co-operation to speed up the process.

If an applicant does not agree to personal data being used for the purpose of conducting due diligence, unfortunately CSC will not be able to proceed further with the application process.

If an application is successful, the CSC will notify the applicant that they have been provisionally selected (selected for an award subject to the CSC agreeing terms of admission to the university) at which point they will be a provisional scholarship candidate.

The CSC does not require any applicants to take an IELTS (English language) test.

The CSC will not be able to offer a scholarship if it would contravene the terms and conditions of another scholarship previously held.

When terms of admission to the university have been agreed, the CSC will provide a Notification of Award (formal offer of a scholarship).

When all conditions of the Notification of Award have been met, the CSC will provide a formal Confirmation of Award.

Candidates will be required to submit a Health and Disability Form  before the Confirmation of Award can be issued.

Candidates will be required to sign an undertaking to return to their home country as soon as possible after the end of the award.

Candidates are expected to start the award on the date stated in the Notification of Award.

If a candidate requires a Student visa to come to the UK to study, they must meet all relevant immigration requirements set by UK Visas and Immigration. They should check the GOV.UK website for updated information.

All UK immigration regulations are set by UK Visas and Immigration and are subject to change. The CSC has no control over these regulations.

Candidates will be selected for an award based on the plan of study outlined on the application form, which is not expected to change significantly during the award. Any such changes must be agreed by the CSC.

Throughout their award, Scholars are expected to reside in the UK, and must seek approval from the CSC in advance of any overseas travel.

Scholars must not undertake paid employment during the award without approval from the CSC in advance.

Collaboration is a feature of doctoral research. The CSC expects that participants in collaborative projects will develop a collaborative agreement to clarify the contributions and rights of each partner. The CSC will not get involved in negotiating an exploitation agreement but will need to be assured that an arrangement acceptable to all parties exists. Arrangements should be made to identify, protect, and value any arising intellectual property and to secure a suitable return to the institution and the investigators through exploitation. The CSC considers the intellectual property ownership to lie initially with the student; however, many universities have their own locally applicable policy. In many cases, it is in the best interest of a student for ownership to be vested with the university, which will have greater negotiating powers and will be likely to be able to seek the best returns in any exploitation agreement. Award holders are expected to notify the CSC when CSC-funded intellectual property is exploited.

The CSC will consider a request to extend a Scholar’s leave to remain in the UK after their award only if they wish to move from Master’s to PhD study. Strict conditions will apply.

The CSC cannot provide a letter of support or permission for Scholars to remain in or return to the UK after the award to enable them to work or undertake postdoctoral study.

The following are not eligible to apply for a Commonwealth Scholarship or Fellowship; an employee, a former employee, or relative of an employee of the Government of the United Kingdom; or a staff member of the Association of Commonwealth Universities or the British Council; or a Commonwealth Scholarship Commissioner, former Commonwealth Scholarship Commissioner or a relative of a Commonwealth Scholarship Commissioner. Former employees of the organisations listed above are eligible to apply three years after ceasing their employment with them.

In line with the UK Bribery Act 2010, any applicant convicted of bribery will be banned from reapplying for a Commonwealth Scholarship or Fellowship for a period of up to five years.

Applicants are expected to adhere to the CSC’s Code of Conduct for award holders and the Disciplinary Policy and Procedure .

An award may be terminated at any time for reasons of unsatisfactory conduct, progress, or attendance, or if registration is suspended or terminated by the university for any reason.

The CSC is committed to administering and managing its scholarships and fellowships in a fair and transparent manner. For more information, see the CSC Anti-Fraud Policy and Procedure at and the FCDO guidance on reporting fraud .

The CSC is committed proactively to safeguard and promote the welfare of our beneficiaries, and to protect its staff, Commissioners, beneficiaries and all those with whom the CSC comes into contact. The CSC requires staff, members of the Commission, applicants for and recipients of CSC awards and suppliers to act consistently with its requirements for safeguarding. Applicants should note the  CSC Safeguarding Policy which sets out the obligation for staff, members of the Commission, applicants for and recipients of CSC awards and suppliers to act consistently with its requirements for safeguarding.  Any safeguarding concerns should be reported to the Commission at:   [email protected]

All conditions of award are subject to UK local law and practices and are subject to change by the CSC.

For more information, see the current Handbook for Commonwealth Scholars . Please note that the conditions outlined in the Handbook are subject to change.

For general information about applying for Commonwealth Scholarships or Fellowships, please see our FAQs page.

For queries not covered on the website, please use the contact us form .

Ph.D scholarships in United Kingdom for International students 2023-2024

Find Ph.D scholarships for international students to study in United Kingdom 2023-2024.

Cambridge Trust 2024 International Scholarships and Vice-Chancellor’s Awards, UK

• The Cambridge Trust is pleased to offer Cambridge International Scholarships - for applicants who are from countries other than the United Kingdom or Ireland Vice-Chancellor's Awards - for UK and Irish nationals who are required to pay fees at the home rate to applica
• Deadline: January 4, 2024
• Posted: August 27, 2023

ACU 2023 Routledge/Round Table Commonwealth Studentships for International Students

• The PhD studentships provide support for research projects on Commonwealth related themes. Two studentships are available each year, one for UK-registered students and one for Commonwealth students in other countries. Proposed research must fulfil at least one of the below criteria: Relate
• Deadline: July 28, 2023
• Posted: June 7, 2023

University of Cambridge 2023 International Students Scholarships, UK

• Every year, Newnham offers scholarships for students about to register for an M.Phil or Ph.D. These scholarships are normally match-funded with other bodies, including the Cambridge Trust and Faculty funding, to make up the full scholarship. The University of Cambridge Newnham College schola
• Deadline: Not Specified
• Posted: May 25, 2023

King’s College London 2023-2024 Africa Studentships: African Fashion

• King’s College London Africa Studentships: African Fashion. will focus on generating new data on fashion economies relevant to industry and pursue concept-building on lead firms in the global South. King’s College London envisage the researcher using mixed-methods case study research,
• Deadline: June 30, 2023
• Posted: May 2, 2023

University Of Kent 2023 DICE Scholarship: Conservation Implications Of The Hunting, Consumption And Trade Of Wildlife In Sub-Saharan Africa

• In many tropical counties, wildlife is hunted for meat (i.e., ‘wild meat’) and other body parts, supporting the diets, customs, and livelihoods of millions of people. However, unsustainable hunting is one of the most urgent threats to wildlife and ecosystems worldwide and has serious imp
• Deadline: May 11, 2023
• Posted: April 19, 2023

Imperial College London 2023-2024 Scholarship Program to Support PhD Students from Sub-Saharan Africa, UK

• The Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering is pleased to offer a number of scholarships to support PhD study in any of its areas of research. If you would like to be considered for a scholarship, you are expected to have obtained (or be heading for) a First Class degree at both
• Deadline: May 26, 2023
• Posted: March 25, 2023

Imperial College London 2023 Shawki Saad PhD Scholarship for African Students

• Imperial has launched a new scholarship programme to support PhD students from sub-Saharan Africa. The scholarship will be for students joining the Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering and is supported by an endowed gift from the late Professor Shawki Saad, a Professor
• Posted: March 22, 2023

University of Nottingham 2023 Fully-funded PhD studentship in the School of Geography, UK

• The School of Geography at the University of Nottingham (UK) invites applications from suitably qualified students for a three-year PhD studentship beginning in autumn 2023.
• Deadline: April 14, 2023
• Posted: March 8, 2023

University of Kent 2023 EPSRC Doctoral Scholarship for International Students

• These scholarships include a doctoral stipend (equivalent to the Research Councils UK National Minimum Doctoral Stipend, £17,668 2022/23 rate, 2023/24 to be announced) for 3.5 years, tuition fees at the home rate and access to further research support funding. If you are applying as an interna
• Deadline: March 5, 2023
• Posted: February 8, 2023

University of Kent 2023-2024 Engineering and Physical Sciences Research Council EPSRC Doctorial Scholarship, UK

• University of Kent 2023-2024 Engineering and Physical Sciences Research Council EPSRC Doctorial Scholarship applications is ON for interested and qualified applicants The EPSRC scholarship opportunity is available to both domestic and international students. The studentships are open to Home
• Posted: February 6, 2023

University of Manchester 2023 Dean’s Doctoral Scholarship Awards for International Students

• These scholarships are open to all nationalities and across all research areas, and will be of interest to students of the highest calibre who have the commitment and desire to work on challenging research projects in a world leading research environment. This funding is available to students und
• Deadline: March 30, 2023
• Posted: February 2, 2023

Queen Mary University 2023 Principal and EPSRC-DTP PhD Studentships in Electronic Engineering and Computer Science

• The school of Electronic Engineering and Computer Science of the Queen Mary University of London is inviting applications for up to 9 PhD Studentships in specific areas in Electronic Engineering and Computer Science. The PhD studentships will cover tuition fees and offer a London stipend of &po
• Deadline: January 31, 2023
• Posted: January 27, 2023

Coventry University (CU) 2023 fully-funded PhD studentship in Stability and Transition in Compressible Shear Flows, UK

• Coventry University (CU) is inviting applications from suitably-qualified graduates for a fully-funded PhD studentship. Project details Laminar-turbulent transition, the process of how laminar flows become turbulent, is critical in many engineering applications. For example, the onset of turbu
• Deadline: April 15, 2023
• Posted: January 26, 2023

Universities of Edinburgh 2023 MRC Doctoral Training Program (DTP) in Precision Medicine, Uk

• This is an MRC Doctoral Training Programme (DTP) in Precision Medicine and a collaboration between the Universities of Edinburgh and Glasgow. Precision medicine is a transformational approach to disease treatment and prevention, focusing on identifying which strategy will be effective for which p
• Deadline: March 31, 2023

Commonwealth Scholarships 2023-2024 Commonwealth Split-Site PhD Scholarships

• Funded by the UK Foreign Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO), Commonwealth Split-site Scholarships enable talented and motivated individuals to gain the knowledge and skills required for sustainable development, and are aimed at those who could not otherwise afford to study in the UK. They of
• Deadline: March 2, 2023

International Centre for Tax and Development (ICTD) 2023 PhD Scholarships

• The International Centre for Tax and Development (ICTD) is a research centre aiming to improve tax policy and administration in lower-income countries through collaborative research and engagement. The ICTD’s primary base is the Institute of Development Studies (IDS), at the Uni
• Deadline: March 15, 2023
• Posted: January 24, 2023

Swansea University 2023 ESRC Wales Doctoral Training Partnership in Criminology, UK

• Criminology: ESRC Wales Doctoral Training Partnership – Collaborative Studentship 2023: Combatting Online Extremism: Algorithmic Amplification of Counter-Speech Since the so-called ‘Golden Age’ of Islamic State on Twitter, much progress has been made in the identification and re
• Deadline: February 3, 2023
• Posted: January 17, 2023

Swansea University 2023 Medical and Healthcare Studies: Fully Funded EPSRC PHD Scholarship, UK

• The Swansea University School of Medicine hosts a world-leading research programme in drug discovery and medicinal chemistry. Medicinal chemistry plays a pivotal role in a wide range of aspects of the drug discovery and development research field, offering many opportunities for interdisciplinary re
• Deadline: March 1, 2023
• Posted: January 16, 2023
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PhD students

Funding opportunities for PhD candidates in the School of Literatures, Languages and Cultures.

Postgraduate study can be expensive, and the funding available is highly competitive.

Some scholarship schemes are open to candidates on PhDs in any subject in the School of Literatures, Languages and Cultures. Others are only open to candidates in specific subjects. See individual scholarship listings for details.

The academic year for scholarships runs from August of one year to July of the next. Application processes and deadlines vary from scholarship to scholarship and you should carefully check the Terms and Conditions of any funding sources.

Generally speaking:

• the scholarships we have listed on this page are for applicants starting in September 2024 and January 2025.
• if you want to begin your programme earlier than August of a given academic year, then you are not eligible to apply for the scholarship relating to that year. For example, an applicant commencing their studies in January 2024 is not eligible for a 2024 to 2025 scholarship.
• to increase your chances of being eligible for a range of scholarships and other awards, you are strongly encouraged to apply for your PhD by early December the year before you wish to start your PhD.

Where a deadline has passed, we have indicated this in our listings and tried to give you an idea of when the next application window will open. We have also indicated where a link to further information takes you to an external website, or to a different part of the University's website.

What's available?

Northern scholars scheme phd scholarship.

As part of the University’s Northern Scholars scheme, this award is for a PhD on the broad theme of ‘Cultural responses to climate change past, present, and future in the Nordic and Baltic world’. It is open to students of all fee statuses; Home and International. The successful recipient will commence their PhD studies at the University of Edinburgh in either January 2024 or September 2024. The award will cover full-time PhD fees and an annual stipend for up to 42 months depending on start date.

This scholarship is currently open for application. The deadline is 4pm  BST on 29 September 2023. You must apply for your PhD before applying for the scholarship.

Find out more about the Northern Scholars Scheme PhD scholarship and apply [University website]

Korean Studies scholarships

For entry in January or September 2024, we are offering one incoming PhD student paying home (Scotland/UK) rates a scholarship covering full tuition fees for three years of study.

There are also scholarships for up to four students (PhD and MSc) covering £3,000 of tuition fees in the first year of study – home and international/EU rates.

These scholarships have been made possible by the Academy of Korean Studies (AKS).

You do not need to apply for a scholarship – all eligible candidates who apply for the programme will be considered for them and contacted if successful.

Find out more about the PhD in Korean Studies

SGSAH (AHRC) PhD studentships

The University of Edinburgh is part of a consortium of Scottish institutions awarded funding from the Arts and Humanities Research Council (AHRC) via the Scottish Graduate School for Arts and Humanities (SGSAH) to support postgraduate studentships and training in the Arts and Humanities in Scotland. The award on offer is a fully-funded PhD with stipend, a robust three-and-a-half year training programme, and access to Scotland's resources through SGSAH’s strong links and national networks.

The next application window is for 2024 entry. It is likely to open in September 2023 and close in early December 2023.

Find out more about SGSAH (AHRC) PhD studentships

Economic & Social Research Council (ESRC) Scottish Doctoral Training Programme

We're part of the Scottish Graduate School of Social Science (SGSSS), a consortium of 16 universities funded by the ESRC to support postgraduate studentships and training in the Social Sciences in Scotland. PhD studentships are typically available for candidates on our Islamic and Middle Eastern Studies PhD and Chinese PhD programmes within the SGSSS Language Based Area Studies and International Development Pathway . 

Applicants can reach out to  Kevin Donovan, the SGSSS Pathway Rep, for advice.

Email Kevin Donovan

The next application window is for 2024 entry. It is likely to open in October 2023 and close in early December 2023.

Find out more about ESRC PhD studentships [SGSSS website]

Carnegie/Caledonian PhD Scholarships

The Carnegie Trust offers a number of scholarships to academically outstanding candidates who are intending to study on a PhD programme in any subject area at any university in Scotland. The scholarships cover tuition fees, a maintenance allowance and a research expenses allowance. 

The next application window is for 2024 entry. It is likely to open in December 2023 and close in late January 2024.

Find out more about Carnegie/Caledonian PhD Scholarships [University website]

College Research Student Awards at the University of Edinburgh

This scheme funds a limited, and highly competitive, number of awards in Literatures, Languages and Cultures covering full tuition fees with an annual stipend (set to the UKRI level) for a maximum of three years.

The next application window is for 2024 entry. It is likely to open in December 2023 and close in early February 2024.

Find out more about College Research Student Awards [University website]

Edinburgh Doctoral College Scholarships

Awarded by the University of Edinburgh, these scholarships are for UK and overseas candidates applying to start their first year of on-campus PhD study. The scholarship covers tuition fees and provides a stipend for between three and four years as agreed by the School/Deanery (or pro-rata for part time).

Find out more about Edinburgh Doctoral College Scholarships [University website]

The Sasakawa Japanese Studies Postgraduate Studentship Programme

Designed to support the development of Japanese Studies in the UK, this scheme annually provides postgraduate studentships worth £10,000 each. Applicants to the PhD programme in Japanese Studies will automatically be considered for this scholarship, and candidates wishing to enrol on our East Asian Studies PhD (who have a research focus on Japan) are also welcome to ask to be considered.

The next application window is for 2024 entry. It is likely to close in late March 2024.

Find out more about the Sasakawa Studentship Programme [University website]

John Orr Research Award (Romance languages)

This award of £2,300 per annum is for PhD research in any Romance literature, language or dialect. Candidates must be a student or graduate of the University of Edinburgh.  Preference may be given to those working in language studies:  we can typically supervise research in French, Spanish, Portuguese, Catalan, and Italian.

The next application window is for 2024 entry. It is likely to open in January 2024 and close in early May 2024.

Find out more about the John Orr Research Award [University website]

Take me to more information about PhDs in literatures, languages and cultures

What else is out there?

The University publishes details of other funding sources that may be of interest, including UK Government Loans and studentships sponsored by external organisations.

Find out about UK Government loans and other funding sources on the University's webpages

Related links

Take me to an A-Z list of prospective student awards on the University of Edinburgh's funding webpages

Take me to a list of awards by region on the University of Edinburgh's funding webpages

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Top 10 UK Scholarships For PhD Students

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It's raining Scholarships

Are you thinking of pursuing a PhD in the UK, but the financial burden worries you? Look no further; The UK offers a range of scholarships specifically tailored to support PhD students, whether they are UK nationals or international students. In this blog, we will uncover different types of PhD scholarships for international students in the UK and their eligibility. So sit tight and explore scholarships in the UK!

Top 10 PhD scholarships in the UK

The United Kingdom is a famous choice for students planning on studying abroad thanks to its well-established education. Still, sometimes the fees seem like a burden holding you back from applying. But we bring you solutions for this problem! These PhD scholarships for international students will help you reach your dreams. The following are the top 10 PhD scholarships in the UK you should keep in your scholarship list. 

Download our free guide: Top 20+ UK scholarships for international students

Eligibility criteria and deadlines are included

1. The Gates Cambridge Scholarship

If you are a non-UK citizen and planning to pursue a full-time program at the University of Cambridge, you can apply for the Gates Cambridge Scholarship, as it is one of the best PhD scholarships in the UK. The Scholarship covers PhD, one-year postgraduate, MSc, or MLitt courses and is also available for current students who wish to pursue another degree. The selection process evaluates candidates based on their academic achievements, motivation for choosing the course, leadership potential and commitment to improving the lives of others. The students who tick all these boxes receive full funding for their studies, including a maintenance allowance of £17,500 per pay for up to 4 years, two-way economy class airfare, visa expenses and immigration health surcharge. 

Eligibility Criteria To be eligible for this UK scholarship, you must:

• Citizenship of any country outside the UK.
• Application to pursue one of these full-time courses:
• MPhil/MLitt
• Any one-year postgraduate course

2. Carnegie PhD Scholarship

This is yet another PhD scholarship in the UK that students get competitive for. Suppose you demonstrate exceptional academic abilities and plan to pursue a PhD at a university in Scotland. In that case, you can apply for scholarships from the Carnegie Trust for Universities in Scotland. These scholarships of £17,904 cover tuition costs, living allowances and research expenses and can be renewed for up to 3 years of study and up to 6 years of part-time education. You can also apply for an extension of up to 42 months by submitting a case for such an extension at the time of nomination, which will be considered part of the award. The Trust aims to award 12-15 scholarships for doctoral studies across all Scottish Universities in the 2022-2023 academic year.  

• Applicants must have a First Class Honours undergraduate degree from a Scottish university to qualify for the scholarships. 
• This First-Class Honours degree must be in an area relevant to the planned doctorate study. 
• Students in their last year of an undergraduate degree who are anticipated to graduate with a First-Class Honours degree may also apply. 

3. Scotland's Saltire Scholarship

This is yet another PhD scholarship in the UK the Scottish government offers in collaboration with Schottish educational institutions. These scholarships are designed to support students from Canada, India, China, Japan, Pakistan and the US to study full-time PhD students. The Saltire Scholarship aims to promote Scotland as a destination for academic excellence and to encourage cultural exchange between Scotland and other countries. This UK PhD scholarship tuition fee is for one academic year of full-time study, with up to 50 available scholarships each year. If you're one of the lucky few, you will receive a living allowance of £8000 for a year of study in Scotland. Students pursuing disciplines such as science, healthcare, technology, arts, and renewable energy can apply for this Scholarship.

Eligibility Criteria   To be eligible for this UK scholarship, you must:

• You must be a resident of any of the following countries: India, China, Canada, USA, Pakistan and Japan.
• You must have an official call letter from a recognized Scottish University.
• You must be able to demonstrate that they can meet the living expenses in Scotland.
• You should not have studied previously in Scotland.
• You must meet the language requirements.
• You should not have received the benefits of the Saltire scholarship previously.

4. The Marshall Scholarship

The Marshall Scholarship is a comprehensive PhD scholarship in the UK that covers the entire cost of postgraduate studies in any field at any UK university. Students who are from diverse backgrounds and disciplines and who show exceptional intelligence and personal potential may be one of the few that are qualified for the Marshall Scholarship. Around 100 scholarships are awarded yearly, which cover one or two years of study, depending on the program you've chosen. Moreover, if you get selected for the Marshal Scholarship, you'll receive an annual stipend of £27,000. Now doesn't that sound like a sweet deal?

• Be a United States of America citizen at the time of application.
• Pass your first undergraduate degree from an accredited four-year college in the United States by September 2023.
• Achieve a grade point average of 3.7 on their undergraduate degree at the time of application. Rounded GPAs are not accepted.
• Graduate from their first undergraduate college or university after April 2020.
• Not have studied for, or hold a degree or degree-equivalent qualification from a British University, or have taken GCSE or A Levels at school in the UK.

5. Commonwealth Scholarships for Developing Commonwealth Countries

The Commonwealth strives to provide financial aid to exceptional students from all over the world who possess the potential to make a positive impact on global development. Every year, approximately 800 students from commonwealth countries are granted the chance to be selected and pursue their desired academic program at one of the esteemed institutions in the United Kingdom. Without a doubt makes, this is one of the best PhD scholarships in the UK.

• A citizen or permanent resident of any one of the commonwealth countries
• The applicant must have an undergraduate degree in the upper second class
• The candidate should also have a relevant master's degree.
• The applicant must be financially incapable of pursuing higher studies in the UK

6. Imperial College London President's PhD Scholarship 

The Imperial College London President's PhD scholarships in the UK are an amazing program that covers tuition fees and other expenses for 50 talented students to study at a prestigious university like Imperial College London. And guess what? It's not just for full-time students, but part-timers can apply too! So if you aim to take your research game to the next level and pursue a PhD in your chosen field, this is the opportunity for you!

• The applicant must have completed the postgraduate degree with distinction.
• Only fresh applicants, not those already enrolled in the course, are eligible to apply for the Scholarship.
• No nationality restriction

7. Oxford University- Clarendon Scholarship

The Clarendon scholarship is a well-known PhD scholarship in the UK that does not require a separate application form. If you apply for an Oxford University PhD programme, you are automatically eligible to apply for this Scholarship. The application deadline may vary depending on your preference programme but typically falls in January. If awarded this Scholarship, you'll receive full tuition coverage and a living stipend of £15,609.

• GPA score of at least 3.7 if the mark is out of 4
• Outstanding academic achievement at the Master's level
• Previous transcript
• Proof of previous university prizes and awards.

8. University of Cambridge: Harding Distinguished Postgraduate Scholars Programme

The University of Cambridge is looking for 25 exceptional PhD students from all walks of life and areas of expertise who have to make a real contribution to the academic world with their top-tier research programs. Most students will be affiliated with St Catharine's College, while the rest will be placed in other colleges. The deadline to apply for this PhD scholarship in the UK varies from department to department but for most programmes. The successful students will receive a comprehensive package that includes coverage of the university, including coverage of the university composition fee, a personal allowance of £6,000 throughout their studies, an annual stipend of £18,000 and even coverage of student visa costs. 

• Have merit in your Master's degree in addition to holding a first-class or second-upper-class honours degree

9. University of Exeter- PhD Scholarship 

The University of Exeter is offering two parts of funding for students: 1) research master's in Economics and a PhD program in either Finance or Economics. As a part of this PhD scholarship in the UK, you will be required to work as a teaching or research assistant for around 180 hours, about 23 days per year. But don't worry; this can be beneficial in enhancing your research and educational skills. The funding includes a combined stipend and teaching allowance of £19,000 per year for those 180 hours. Plus, students can apply for additional funding to cover research, development and conference travel expenses. 

• An upper second-class honours degree or equivalent in a relevant subject area.
• A Master's degree at a Merit level or equivalent in a relevant subject area (some programmes may require a Distinction level).
• Meet the English language requirements for the programme they are applying to. 
• Provide references that support their academic and research potential.
• Submit a well-developed research proposal that aligns with the research priorities 
• Meet any additional programme-specific requirements, such as relevant work experience or knowledge of a specific subject area.

10. Aston University College of Business and Social Sciences

If you apply for this PhD scholarship in the UK, you'll study at the College of Business and Social Sciences and Humanities. Multiple students seeking admission to any of these school programmes are automatically eligible to apply for up to 6 fully-funded PhD studentships. Suppose you're successful in receiving these PhD scholarships in the UK; in that case, you'll be receiving full coverage at the international rate and an annual maintenance grant of £15,580 pounds for the duration of your three-year program. 

• Have merit in your Master's degree and a first-class or second-upper-class honours degree.

So if you are considering a PhD scholarship in the UK but are worried about the cost, it is worth exploring the various UK scholarship PhD options available. These scholarships can support you in pursuing your academic goals and making your dreams a reality! You can also check out the amber scholarships that aim to help students from all over the world who possess the required qualifications and win a scholarship of up to £10,000. Seize this excellent opportunity and submit your application for the amber scholarship now and reach your goals 2X faster!

Frequently Asked Questions

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Full Degree Scholarships January 2023

The Warm Welcome Full Degree Scholarship programme provides financial assistance to eligible scholars in the UK with links to Afghanistan starting a full-time undergraduate, taught master's or PhD programme in the January 2023 semester.

There will be one further round of scholarships for a January/February 2023 intake. The scholarships are only available for this academic year and there will not be a further application round for September 2023.

The application was closed on 30 October 2022. 

Warm Welcome Full Degree Scholarships January/February 2023 overview

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Sign up to receive email updates on the Warm Welcome Scholarship Scheme to receive programme updates.

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We advise all potential applicants to familiarise themselves with the information on this website and sign up to receive our email updates.

This will ensure that you receive all the latest information on the programme. If you still can't find the information that you're looking for, please email [email protected]

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30+ Fully Funded PhD Scholarships in UK for International Students 2020/2021

After School Africa

July 24, 2023

Looking for fully funded PhD scholarships in UK   for international students  to study in the United Kingdom? You’ve found it. We’ve put together a comprehensive list of PhD/doctoral scholarships to study in UK. A good number are fully funded scholarships in UK, while the others are partial fee or tuition fee scholarships.

Skip to the list

Before we get to it, here are basic things you need to know about applying too study for PhD degree in UK.

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Table of Contents

How to apply for a PhD degree in the UK

Studying for a PhD is a big decision. A traditional PhD, also referred to as a doctorate, is a postgraduate research degree which involves writing a thesis based on a substantial, original piece of research. The length of a PhD is usually 3 years but may be extended to 4 years.

There are two options for PhD studies:

Students are required to have successfully completed an undergraduate degree and a masters degree from a recognized university in order to apply for a PhD. Each university and course has different entry requirements. You will need to check the specific entry requirements for the course you are interested in. As an international student, in most cases, you will be required to meet the English language requirements which usually range between IELTS 6.0 and 7.0.

Many universities in UK strongly advise students to contact a potential supervisor before making a formal application for PhD. You may wish to provide the supervisor with a copy of your Curriculum Vitae and indicate what your proposed topic of study is or which project you are interested in.

Some universities require you to submit a full research proposal as part of the application. In this case, it is important to speak to your potential supervisor first to ensure the topic will be acceptable.

30+ PhD Scholarships in UK for International Students (+Fully Funded)

Many universities and organizations offer UK scholarships for international students to study for PhD. We have put together a compressive list to help you navigate the available funding opportunities for PhD. Be sure to come back to this page often because we will be updating this page from time to time.

Watch Top 10 Fully Funded UK Scholarships for International Students

Be sure to watch this video to the end, because you will learn a lot about scholarships in UK.

Subscribe to our YouTube Channel for more videos like this.

1.     University of Cambridge Graduate Scholarships for International Students 

The University of Cambridge opens application for all scholarships that require you to apply to the University of Cambridge via the normal online application form, and most scholarships that require you to apply by the relevant deadline.

Application Deadlines: 

• Undergraduate: 15th October
• Graduate: 6th December

Number of Awards:  Not specified

Value of Award:  Full-funded

Duration of Program:  Duration of candidates program

2.     University of Strathclyde Faculty of Engineering Excellence Scholarship (FEES) for International students  

The University of Strathclyde Faculty of Engineering Excellence Scholarship (FEES) offers a number of scholarships for self-funded, international (non-EU) fee-paying students with excellent academic qualifications.

Application Deadline:  10th August

Eligibility:  All self-funded, international (non-EU) fee paying students holding an offer and looking to start their full-time undergraduate, postgraduate taught or postgraduate research course at Strathclyde.

• Undergraduate: You must achieve an average of 75% + (or equivalent) in your high school grades to be considered.
• Postgraduate Taught: You must hold a minimum of a 2:1 (or equivalent) in your undergraduate degree to be considered.

Number of Awardees:  Not specified

Value of Scholarship:  Up to £3,750

Duration of Scholarship:  One year

3.     Commonwealth Scholarships for Developing Countries

Each year, Commonwealth Scholarships for Master’s and PhD study in the UK are offered for citizens of developing Commonwealth countries. These scholarships are funded by the UK Department for International Development (DFID), with the aim of contributing to the UK’s international development aims and wider overseas interests, supporting excellence in UK higher education, and sustaining the principles of the Commonwealth.

Application Deadline: 22nd February

Number of Scholarships:  Approximately 300 scholarships are awarded each year. There are no quotas for scholarships for any individual country.

Duration of Scholarships: 12 months for Masters and up to 36 months for PhD

Value of Scholarships:  Each scholarship provides:

• Approved airfare from your home country to the UK and return at the end of your award
• Approved tuition and examination fees
• Stipend (living allowance)
• Thesis grant towards the cost of preparing a thesis or dissertation, where applicable
• Warm clothing allowance, where applicable
• Study travel grant towards the costs of study-related travel within the UK or overseas
• For PhD Scholars, fieldwork grant
• For PhD Scholars, paid mid-term visit (airfare) to your home country
• If your scholarship is at least 18 months long, family allowances

4.     University of Oxford Dulverton Scholarships

Up to two full scholarships are available for applicants to full-time master’s or DPhil courses in any subject at the University of Oxford.

Application Deadline:  8th or 19th January

Number of Awardees: 2

Value of Scholarship:  The scholarship covers course fees, college fees and a grant for living costs of at least £14,553.

Duration of Scholarship:  Awards are made for the full duration of your fee liability for the agreed course.

5.     Windle Trust Postgraduate Scholarships for Africans

Windle Trust International is a registered UK charity located in the University city of Oxford, with offices also in Sudan, and sister organizations in Uganda, Kenya and Ethiopia. The Trust’s work is funded by a wide range of donors and supported by universities and colleges in Britain and Africa.Windle Trust International awards Undergraduate and Postgraduate scholarships to youths and refugees in Sudan, South Sudan, Uganda and Kenya and other African countries to study in Africa or UK.

Application Deadline:  31st March

Field of Study:  Preference is given to subjects that offer a high probability of future employment and are of direct value to development.

Value of Award:

• Return airfare to and from the United Kingdom
• Pre-university orientation on arrival in Oxford on issues such as adapting to life in the UK and dealing with culture shock, managing finances, study methods and accessing health care in the UK as well as practical scholarship arrangements
• Fully paid/waived overseas student tuition fees
• Maintenance (upkeep) stipend for the entire period (12 months) of study
• Leadership training and coaching programme
• Themed Conference and Workshop in January and July respectively on issues relevant to students and the challenges they face on return such as CV writing, job searching and interview skills
• Visits and pastoral support during the course of the studies

Duration of Scholarship: Priority is given to applicants for postgraduate programmes up to one year in length.

6.     Richard Stapley Educational Trust Scholarships

The Sir Richard Stapley Educational Trust supports the work of mature students of proven academic merit, and in financial need, who are pursuing further degree qualifications at an institution in the UK. Open to students from all countries, applicants must be resident in the UK at the time of applying, as well as during their course of study. Applications are welcome from students beginning their first year of study, as well as from those already embarked on their degree course.

Application Deadline:  31st March

Number of Awardees:  300

Value of the Program:  Grants are normally from £400 to £1,200 in value. They are intended to cover the shortfall incurred by educational and subsistence expenses upon payment of tuition fees.

Duration of Scholarship:  All grants are awarded for a full year of academic study and for one year only.

7.     Felix Scholarships at University of Reading for Developing Countries

Under the prestigious Felix Scholarships scheme, four Felix Scholarships will be available to well qualified students from developing countries to pursue postgraduate study at the University. These scholarships are available for pursuing full-time MPhil/PhD programme or Taught Masters programme

Application Deadline:  30th January

Number of Awardees:  5

Value of Scholarship: These scholarships cover tuition fees at the international rate and provide a stipend (maintenance grant) to cover living expenses (the current level of which is £14,005). They also provide generous allowances for clothes, books and a return flight home.

Duration of Scholarship:  The awards are available (depending on eligibility) for up to 3 years.

8.     Mo Ibrahim Foundation University of London Scholarships for African Student

The Centre of African Studies at SOAS, University of London, offers the extension of the Governance for Development in Africa Initiative, funded by the Mo Ibrahim Foundation, for another three years, until 2021. The Mo Ibrahim Foundation has generously provided SOAS with two PhD scholarships every year for African students undertaking a full‐time PhD and Masters programme in the field of Governance for Development in Africa.

Application Deadline: 31st March.

Fields of Study:  The eligible PhD are only those within the following departments:

• Development Studies
• International Relations/Politics
• CISD (Centre for International Studies and Diplomacy)
• DEFIMS (Department for Financial and Management Studies )
• Distance Learning: CEFIMS(Centre for Financial and Management Studies), DEFIMS

Number of Awardees:  2

Value of Scholarship: 

• The scholarship provides for fees for three years. However, accommodation and living cost are covered for the first year only. The scholarship will also cover in total 2 return flights. In year 2 and year 3, the successful candidate will also receive an annual stipend of £5,000. Covers visa cost, provided receipts are submitted to the Centre of African Studies office.

Duration of Scholarship:  3 years

9.     University of Oxford Centre for Islamic Studies Scholarships  

The Oxford Centre for Islamic Studies is a Recognized Independent Centre of the University of Oxford. It was established in 1985 to encourage the scholarly study of Islam and the Islamic world. The Centre provides a meeting point for the Western and Islamic worlds of learning. At Oxford, it contributes to the multi-disciplinary and cross-disciplinary study of the Islamic world. Beyond Oxford, its role is strengthened by an international network of academic contacts.

Application Deadline: 8th or 19th January, depending on your course

Number of Awardees:  Up to 5

Value of Scholarship:  The scholarship will cover 100% of University and college fees and a grant for living costs (of at least £14,553).

10.                        ORID Rhodes Postgraduate Scholarship for West Africa at University of Oxford

The Rhodes scholarship is administered by the Rhodes Trust, Oxford and is a postgraduate award that seeks to support exceptional students from around the world to study at the University of Oxford. Scholars may pursue any full time postgraduate degree offered by the University of Oxford for a duration of two years with an option of a third year.

Application Deadline:  14th October

Value of Award:  Full tuition, a maintenance stipend (covering accommodation, feeding, and incidentals) and one economy class airfare to and from Oxford at the beginning and end of tenure.

Duration of Program:  two years with an option of a third year.

11.                        University of Buckingham Postgraduate Scholarship for International Students

The University of Buckingham is making a first class scholarship available to both home and international students undertaking a taught postgraduate degree at the University. The University of Buckingham would like to encourage students to come to Buckingham regardless of their financial circumstances. The bursaries and scholarships being offered are awarded on merit and/or on financial need.

Application Timeline:  3rd November

Value of Scholarship:  The scholarship will reduce tuition fees by 33%.

Duration of Scholarship:  Duration of course

12.                        Clarendon Fund Scholarships for International Students at University of Oxford

The Clarendon Fund offers around 140 full scholarships every year to academically excellent graduate students from all around the world. Clarendon Scholarships are awarded on the basis of academic excellence and potential across all degree-bearing subjects at graduate level at the University of Oxford.

Application Deadline: 8th or 19th January

Number of Awards: Several

Value of Award:  All Clarendon Scholarships cover tuition and college fees in full and a generous grant for living expenses.

Duration of Program:  Clarendon Scholarships are offered for the full period that you are liable to pay tuition fees to the University, which is usually the same as the length of your course

13.                        Gates Cambridge Scholarships for International Students

Gates Cambridge Trust offers full fee postgraduate (Masters and PhD) Scholarships for outstanding International students to study any course at the University of Cambridge, UK. They are awarded to outstanding applicants from countries outside the UK to pursue a full-time postgraduate degree in any subject available at the University of Cambridge. The programme aims to build a global network of future leaders committed to improving the lives of others.

Application Deadline: Opens 4th September closes in January

Number of Scholarship: Several

Value of Scholarship

• Scholarship will cover the full cost of study
• the University Composition Fee and College fees at the appropriate rate
• a maintenance allowance for a single student
• one economy single airfare at both the beginning and end of the course

Duration of Scholarship: For the duration of the programme

14.                        African Palliative Care Scholarships for Africa-Based Healthcare Professionals

The African Palliative Care Scholarships will allow students to gain essential qualifications, skills and experience that can be applied to local healthcare settings and to meet palliative care needs in Africa. The MSc and PhD in Palliative Care have made a global impact on the volume of high quality research used to inform clinical care and palliative care policy. The MSc has a total 741 outputs from its alumni so far, which includes research in scientific journals and academic textbooks such as the British Medical Journal and the Oxford Textbook of Palliative Medicine.

Application Deadline: 14th September

Number of Awardees: Two (2)

Value of Scholarship: Each African Palliative Care Scholarships will fund tuition fees, travel, accommodation and living expenses. Additional research costs are available for the PhD student.

Duration of Scholarship: For MSc: one year; PhD: three years

15.                        IE Centenary Doctoral Scholarships for Developing Countries at University College, London

The Institute of Education (IOE), University College, London is partnering with the International Students House (ISH) to offer doctoral students from developing countries full scholarship.

Application Deadline:  8th April

Value of Scholarship:  ISH provides accommodation, while the IOE covers tuition fees. The scholarship does not cover subsistence in London or travel.

Duration of Scholarship:  3 years

16.                        Newcastle University Overseas Research Scholarship (ORS)

Newcastle University is committed to offering support to the very best international students hoping to pursue a programme of research. The university is pleased to offer a small number of University funded NUORS awards for outstanding international students who apply to commence PhD studies in any subject.

Application Deadline: 27th April

Number of Scholarships:  15

Value of Scholarship:  This award covers the difference between home and overseas fee rates (value approximately £10,800 to £16,200 per annum)

Duration of Scholarship: for the period of the programme

17.                        Loughborough University Graduate School Development Trust Africa Scholarships

Every year, Loughborough University UK offers its full-fee scholarships for international full-time taught postgraduate students who are currently domiciled (permanently living) in Africa. The Loughborough University Graduate School Development Trust Africa Scholarships covers 100% of the course fees for your chosen postgraduate taught course for one year (replacing any Departmental or Loughborough University scholarships or bursaries you may already have been awarded).

Application Deadline:  30th April

Number of Scholarships: The University will award a limited number of scholarships

Value of the Program:  The scholarship will cover 100% of the course fees. Students will be expected to fund their travel and maintenance costs through other sources.

Duration of Program:  Financial award will last for the full duration of the postgraduate taught degree programme

18.                        University of Manchester President’s Doctoral Scholar (PDS) in Law  

The University of Manchester offers the President’s Doctoral Scholar (PDS) for meritorious students. The awards are allocated to the most outstanding applicants seeking PhD training opportunities.

Application Deadline:  2nd March

Number of Awards:  1

Value of Award:  The PDS award will include full Home or Overseas tuition fees and an annual stipend of at least RCUK minimum stipend rate (£14,764) + £1,000.

Duration of Program:  3 years

19.                        Commonwealth Split-site PhD Scholarship for Developing Countries

The Commonwealth Scholarship and Fellowship Plan is one of the largest and most prestigious scholarships schemes for international study in the world. Commonwealth Split-site Scholarships support one year’s study at a UK university as part of a PhD being undertaken in a candidate’s home country, under the joint supervision of a home country and UK supervisor.

Application Deadline: 15th February

Number of Scholarships: Several

Value of Scholarship: Each scholarship provides:

• Approved tuition fees
• Study travel grant towards the cost of study-related travel within the UK or overseas
• If you are widowed, divorced, or a single parent, child allowance of £458 per month for the first child, and £112 per month for the second and third child under the age of 16, if you are accompanied by your children and they are living with you at the same address in the UK.

Duration of Scholarship: One year

20.                        University of Nottingham Engineering Scholarship for International Students

University of Nottingham Engineering Research PhD scholarship is awarded to recognize and reward applications from outstanding international students registering on Engineering research degree programmes

Application Deadline: 9th March

Number of Awardees:  12

Value of Scholarship:  Full tuition fee scholarships plus a stipend of £1,015 per month

Duration of Scholarship:  Three-year full-time PhD research degree programme

21.                        University of Nottingham Research Scholarship for International Students

Vice-Chancellor’s Scholarships for Research Excellence aim to recognize and reward applications from outstanding international students from the Faculties of Arts, Medicine and Health Sciences, Science and Social Sciences. Applications from suitable candidates are welcome but would particularly be valued from strong candidates wishing to work within the research priority areas of each faculty.

Application Deadline:  9th March

Number of Awardees: 50

Value of Scholarship:  Full-tuition

Duration of Scholarship:  up to 3 years of a research programme, subject to satisfactory progress.

22.                        University of Manchester President’s Doctoral Scholar Awards

The University of Manchester has recently launched £2.5m investment in PhD training with the President’s Doctoral Scholar (PDS) Awards. Alliance Manchester Business School provides a thriving research environment, and the opportunity to work with the top international scholars in the full range of business and management disciplines, accounting and finance, and information systems. The University normally has a range of scholarships, studentships and bursaries available for students commencing their doctoral studies.

Application Deadline: 15th December

Value of Scholarship: In addition to standard awards which include tuition fee and stipend, successful PDS Award candidates are entitled to an additional £1,000 p.a. enhancement to their funded stipend/living allowance plus more.

23.                        Imperial College PhD Scholarship for International Students

If you are a high performing undergraduate or Master’s student and have a strong desire to undertake a PhD programme at a world class research institution, you could be selected to receive full tuition fees and a generous stipend for a PhD place at Imperial College London. The President’s PhD Scholarships aims to provide up to 50 research students with great potential the opportunity to work within their chosen research field with the support of an excellent supervisor.

Application Deadlines:  10th November and 23rd March

Number of Awardees:  up to 50

• Full funding for tuition fees
• A stipend of £21,000 per annum to assist with living costs
• A consumables fund of £2,000 per annum for the first 3 years of study
• A programme of bespoke opportunities and events delivered by the Graduate School

Duration of Scholarship:  up to 3.5 years

24.                        University of Oxford-Linacre African Graduate Scholarship

One full scholarship is available for applicants who are ordinarily resident in Sub-Saharan African countries eligible for Rhodes Scholarships who are applying to a full-time DPhil course at the University. The scholarship is jointly funded by the University, Linacre College and the Rhodes Trust.

Application Deadline: 19th January

Number of Awardees:  1

25.                        Cambridge Trust International Scholarships for PhD Students

The University of Cambridge, via the Cambridge Trusts, offers approximately 250 Cambridge International Scholarships to Overseas Students who embark on a research course in the next academic year. The awards will be made on a competitive basis to those applicants considered by their departments to be the most outstanding.

Application Deadline: 6th December

Number of Scholarships: 250

Value of Scholarship: Each award will underwrite the full cost of fees and maintenance for the duration of the course.

Duration of Scholarship: The award has a maximumduration of three years and is available to all students who will be registered for a three year research programme, leading to the PhD (including CPGS), that starts in the next academic year.

26.                        University of Sussex Chancellors International Research Scholarship

The Sussex Chancellors Scholarship is a merit-based award recognizing, and rewarding, PhD students who want to undertake PhD research at the University. The University of Sussex welcomes applications from outstanding international applicants across the arts and humanities for 10 fully funded Research Scholarships.

Application Deadline:  2nd February

Number of Awardees:  10

Value of Scholarship:  Fees and stipend plus a Research Training Support Grant (RTSG)

Duration of Scholarship:  Scholarships are tenable for one year in the first instance, renewable annually for a maximum of 3 years.

27.                        Boustany Foundation Astronomy Scholarship for International Students at University of Cambridge

With history dating back to 1823, the Institute of Astronomy at Cambridge University is globally acknowledged as one of the world’s foremost institutes. Scholarship recipients become members of Pembroke College, the third oldest and one of the most highly regarded colleges. The Boustany Astronomy PhD Scholarship is granted once every three years, for a PhD course at The Institute of Astronomy, Cambridge University. Successful scholars are expected to complete a two-month unpaid internship with the Foundation.

Application Deadline:  28th February.

Value of Award:  The Scholarship offers the following:

• All tuition and college fees
• Travel and accommodation expenses related to the internship.
• Travel and accommodation expenses related to the internship are covered by the Foundation.

28.                        University of Warwick Chancellor’s International Scholarships

The University of Warwick offers the Chancellor’s International Scholarships for overseas Postgraduate research applications for entry in October. The University Scholarship will offer full fees support and maintenance award to international doctoral students of the highest caliber. The University will offer scholarship to approximately 17 of the most outstanding international PhD applicants. Applicants may be from any discipline at Warwick, and be from any nationality.

Number of Awards:  25 Scholarships will be awarded

Value of Award: 

• The full payment of overseas tuition fees (worth up to £20,730 at 17/18 rates)
• A maintenance stipend in line with RCUK rates (provisional £14,800)

Duration of Program:  3.5 years unless you are already in your first year of study when you apply then the length of funding will be reduced accordingly

29.                        Allan & Nesta Ferguson Postgraduate PhD Final Year Scholarship

The Allan & Nesta Trust awards grants to postgraduate PhD students, whether from overseas or from the UK, to help meet tuition costs, but only in respect of the last year of their course. The Allan and Nesta Ferguson Charitable Trust was set up in 1979 by their son and daughter in law, John and Elnora. Its objectives have closely followed the interests of the Ferguson family in their commitment to education, peace and development in the Third World. Over the last 15 years, more than £30 million has been distributed to a range of charities working in the UK and overseas.

Application Deadline:  31st December

Value of Program:  £4,000 GBP

Duration of Program:  Final Year of PhD Course

30.                        London School of Economics and Political Science PhD Studentships

London School of Economics and Political Science offers full scholarships for new PhD students. They are available for Home UK/EU  and Overseas students undertaking full time research in any LSE discipline, with annual renewal subject to satisfactory academic performance at the School. 

Application Deadline:  There will be three rounds of studentship selection

• 13th December (Department of Economics only)
• 8th January (including consideration for ESRC funding)

Number of Awardees:  100

Duration of Program: LSE PhD Studentships are tenable for four years

Value of the Program:  LSE PhD Studentships cover full fees and an annual stipend of £18,000.

31.                        University of Oxford ORISHA DPhil Scholarship African Humanities Research Fund

The African Studies Committee invites applications for the ORISHA Studentship for research in the Humanities in Africa from persons who will be registered as graduate students of the University.

Application Deadline:  January

Field of Study: Students may be registered in any of the following disciplines: African Studies, Social and Cultural Anthropology, Archaeology, Development Studies, History, Human Geography, Literature, Politics and International Relations, Religious Studies. Proposals must include a major focus on Africa.

Number of Scholarships: Not Specified

Value of the Program: The scholarship will cover college and university fees and a maintenance allowance.

Duration of Program: The award is available for three-year doctoral degrees. Renewal for two and three year periods is subject to satisfactory progress.

32.                        University of Manchester President’s Doctoral Scholar Awards for International Students

The University of Manchester is committed to supporting postgraduate research students. Each year the University invests substantially in doctoral funding. In addition to these internal funds, the University is highly successful in attracting sponsorship for research students, in particular from the research councils, industry, trusts and charities. The University of Manchester is offering its President’s Doctoral Scholar Awards (PDS Award) for September entry to all nationalities and research areas.

Application Deadline:  5 th December

Field of Study:  Within the Faculty of Science and Engineering,

Number of Awardees:  At least 40 scholarships

Value of Scholarship:  PDS Awards status will entitle successful candidates to a further £1,000 enhancement to their funded stipend/living allowance. They will also benefit from (see link for details)

Duration of Scholarship: Duration of research

33.                        University of Edinburgh Global Research Scholarship for International Students

The University of Edinburgh offers Edinburgh Global Research Scholarship for international students to study for PhD. These awards are designed to attract high quality overseas research students to the University of Edinburgh.

Application Deadline:  1st February

Number of Scholarships: 30

Value of the Program:  Each award covers the difference between the tuition fee for a UK/EU graduate student and that chargeable to an overseas graduate student.

Duration:  Subject to satisfactory progress, the awards are tenable for up to three years.

34.                        Principals Career Development Scholarships at University of Edinburgh

This scholarship scheme provides a valuable opportunity for postgraduate research students to undertake a package of training and development which will help them to develop the necessary skills required to meet their career choices and offer them a breadth of development opportunities in areas such as teaching, public engagement, entrepreneurship, and research.

Application Deadline: 1st February

Field of Study: Scholars will usually focus on one career development area. These include:

• Public Engagement
• Entrepreneurship
• Data Science

Number of Scholarships:  up to45

Scholarship Benefits: Each scholarship covers the UK/EU rate of tuition fee as well as a stipend of £15,000.

Duration of Program: Subject to satisfactory progress, the scholarships are awarded for three years.

35.                        Oak Foundation Clinical Medicine Scholarships for Zimbabwean and Kenyan Students

Up to two full scholarships are available for applicants who are ordinarily resident in Zimbabwe or Vietnam and who are applying to the full-time DPhil in Clinical Medicine, specializing in Tropical Medicine and Global Health. The scholarship is jointly funded by the University and the Oak Foundation, which aims to fund the brightest future scientists and make a significant impact on infectious disease research around the world.

Application Deadline:  by January

Fields of Study: DPhil in Clinical Medicine, specializing in Tropical Medicine and Global Health.

Number of Awardees:  two

36.                        University of Manchester Doctoral Prize Fellowships for International Research Students

The EPSRC Doctoral Prize is a prestigious scheme aimed at developing the very best EPSRC funded students beyond the end of their PhD and help them launch a successful career in research as potential future research leaders. Successful applicants will be expected to take their research to the next level and undertake significant new research; the Prize must not be viewed merely as an opportunity to continue/complete PhD work although continuation of specific work from the applicants’ PhD that will result in publications may be permitted.

Application Deadline:  14th August

Number of Awardees: Not specified

• The University will provide Fellows with excellent research and training environments including a first class and challenging career development training programme.
• In addition to a Project Sponsor, recipients of a Prize will also have access to an academic mentor who will offer advice and support regarding the mentee’s research and career development throughout the duration of the award.
• Successful applicants will be awarded a tax-free living allowance of £24,370 per annum (pro rata).

Duration of Scholarship:  12 months

See more  scholarships in UK here

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PHD SCHOLARSHIPS IN THE UK 2023-2024 FULLY FUNDED

Supreme School President’s PhD Grants are tolerating applications from understudies all around the globe. PhD grant in the UK is a fascination for scholastically great and skilled global understudies to concentrate on in the UK on grant. This completely supported grant in the UK gives researchers a fantastic chance to seek after their exploration and concentrates under the mentorship of first class bosses. Royal School London Grant means to advance variety by bringing PhD researchers overall into a solitary room and assisting them with showing their abilities. Besides, these examination grants in UK permit remarkable understudies to turn into a piece of the best organizations in UK with no stresses over their monetary circumstances. For sure, Supreme School London imagines an ever-evolving society with no separation.

For satisfying its central goal of cultivating correspondence and variety, Royal School London has brought this serious PhD Grant Program. The President’s PhD Grant invites PhD researchers with a decent scholarly record and potential examination work to seek after their PhD in the UK. Additionally, Royal School London urges understudies with inability to approach and work with assorted personalities. So, the Magnificent School London works for 2 causes, for example 1) to help society, and 2) to raise its status while advancing correspondence and variety.

Through doctoral certificate grants, Royal School London empowers understudies to concentrate on in the UK in a moderate and steady biological system. It gives its understudy present day offices, learning apparatuses, and online courses. Moreover, worldwide understudies will have the full help of the Majestic School London for their help and prosperity.

Supreme School Ph.D. Grants are a decent chance for potential and persuaded understudies to learn at quite possibly of the best foundation in the UK, which has made its name by getting different honors, including A Handicap Sure Pioneer, Athena Silver Swan Grant Victor, An Individual from Harmony Fairness Contract, and Stall Variety Champion. These lofty UK grants are allowed to the 50 best exploration researchers in view of their magnificent and solid scholastic achievements in their Lord’s and Four year college educations. Since there is high contest for Ph.D. grants in London, the qualification rules for this program are stricter than different grants in the UK for worldwide understudies.

Eligibility Criteria :

Following are the eligibility criteria for President’s PhD Scholarships 2023-24:

• Applicants from all around the world can apply.
• Students having a master’s degree must have a distinction in their relevant program.
• Applicants must possess a first-class Master’s or Bachelor’s UK degree or its equivalent.
• Students must have contacted the supervisor and have confirmation of their support in research work.
• Applicants having multiple Master’s Degree must have a distinction in one of them and is relevant to the proposed PhD program.
• Students already studying PhD at Imperial College London are ineligible.

Imperial College President’s PhD Scholarships provide the following benefits:

• Full tuition fee.
• A stipend of 22,900 pounds annually for meeting the living cost.
• Consumable funds of 2,000 pounds annually for the first three years of their PhD program.
• Tailored support, e.g., visa assistance for international students, support for disabled students, etc.
• Access to free English Language Courses and various communities and clubs at the Imperial College London.
• Opportunity to study in the UK without worrying about expenses.

Requirements for Imperial College President’s PhD Scholarships:

• Academic certificates or degrees
• Proof of distinction
• Reference Letters
• Research Proposal

Application Process:

• There is no need to apply for admission and scholarship separately.
• Applicants must apply for admission through Imperial College London’s Online Admission System.
• When writing the personal statement, highlight your personal interests on the first page, and the second page must include the research proposal.
• Your statement must be in the first person.
• The applicant must opt for the funding section from the additional questions tab for the scholarship.
• Each department possesses distinct requirements. So ensure that you fulfil the requirements of the department with utmost care.

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5 PhD Scholarships in UK: Cambridge, Oxford, Edinburg, Warwick & Rhodes

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If you’re a big fan of tea and scones, football, and Sherlock Holmes, the United Kingdom is the right country for you! The UK is hot spot filled with some of the most prestigious universities in the world. Keen on pursuing your future PhD degree in the birthplace of Shakespeare? Check out these PhD scholarships in UK below!

The United Kingdom is also well-known for its education. How could we not talk about the United Kingdom without mentioning its countless prestigious universities? Oxford University, Cambridge University, King’s College London, Imperial College London, University of Edinburgh, the list never stops. Not only are these universities the dream schools of the United Kingdom society, but most students all over the world have at least one of these universities as their ultimate dream school.

Student life in the United Kingdom is nothing short of exciting. Getting a degree in the United Kingdom will increase your chances in getting opportunities since your degree will by mostly-acknowledged by most parts of the world. Besides the high quality of their degrees, studying in the United Kingdom is the perfect example of “study hard, play hard.” You’ll find that campus culture in the United Kingdom is loaded with fun things to do when you’re studying, like going on an urban adventure in Manchester, enjoying the night scene in London, or even have a road trip to Wales.

If you’re an international student who would like to continue your PhD degree in the United Kingdom, we’ve got you covered! Here are a list of PhD scholarships in the UK that you can apply for.

PhD Scholarships in UK: Gates Cambridge

The Gates Cambridge Scholarship is a program that was founded in the year 2000 by none other than Bill Gates, the man behind Microsoft Corporation. Together with his wife Melinda Gates, the Gates Cambridge Scholarship program offers around 25 full-time scholarships students from the United States, and 55 full-time scholarships to students of international nationalities at the University of Cambridge.

The courses that are catered by the Gates Cambridge Scholarship program are up to the candidate’s choice. However, there are a list of courses that the program does not accommodate to. Courses that are not eligible for this program are Undergraduate degrees, Master of Business, Master of Finance, PGCE, MBBChir Clinical Studies, MD Doctor of Medicine degree, Graduate Course in Medicine, Part-time degrees, and non-degree courses.

Criteria:  in order to apply for this scholarship, future candidates must be hold a nationality of any other country that is not the United Kingdom, and they must pursue either a PhD, MSc/MLitt, or one year postgraduate course at the University of Cambridge. To check whether you are eligible to apply for the scholarship, you can try out the scholarships eligibility checker here .

Benefits:  successful candidates of the Gates Cambridge Scholarship will be granted a University Composition Fee, an allowance at approximates £17,500, travel expenses from and to the candidate’s home country, and Visa expenses. Additional benefits are also included depending on the recipients individual needs.

How to apply:  if you are interested in the Gates Cambridge Scholarship, visit the official Gates Cambridge Scholarship website .

Warwick Chancellor’s International Scholarships

The Warwick Chancellor’s offers PhD scholarships in UK by the University of Warwick, a public university located in England. This scholarship is offered to candidates who are of foreign nationalities (a citizen outside the United Kingdom.)

The scholarship is offered to 25 of the most astounding PhD candidates who come from all over the globe. In addition, the scholarship caters to students coming from the course or discipline of their own choice in the University of Warwick.

Criteria : students who are interested in registering for this scholarship must apply for a PhD degree at the University of Warwick, must hold a nationality outside of the United Kingdom, and must not back out from the scholarship once accepted.

Benefits : successful candidates of the Warwick Chancellor’s International Scholarships will be granted full payment of their tuition expenses worth up to £22,860 and a maintenance fee worth up to £15,009 throughout the 3.5 years of your PhD degree.

How to Apply:  applications for the Warwick Chancellor’s International Scholarships are currently closed for this year. However, if you are interested in this scholarship, visit the official Warwick Chancellor’s International Scholarships website for more information regarding this scholarship.

Edinburgh Global Research Scholarships

The Edinburgh Global Research Scholarships is a grant offered by the University of Edinburgh, a world-class institution located in Edinburgh. This scholarship is given to 30 students who hold international nationalities and are planning to pursue their PhD degrees at the university.

This scholarship caters to any future PhD scholar from all types of research areas, whether it’s humanities, science and technology, economics, arts, and etc. However, this scholarship can only cater to courses provided by the University of Edinburgh.

Criteria : future candidates who are interested in trying out for this scholarship must hold a nationality outside of the United Kingdom, must have applied as a full-time PhD course with the program of their choice, and are able to pay for their tuition fees within the overseas rate.

Benefits : successful candidates of the Edinburgh Global Research Scholarships will receive funds to cover the fee difference between the tuition rates for overseas students and UK students. Should the student have an outstanding academic progress, he or she will be eligible enough to have this award for up to three years.

How to Apply:  applications for the Edinburgh Global Research Scholarships are currently closed for this year. However, if you are interested in this scholarship, visit the official Edinburgh Global Research Scholarships website for more information regarding this scholarship.

Clarendon Fund Scholarships at University of Oxford

The Clarendon Fund Scholarships is a grant offered by the University of Oxford, one of the world’s most competitive universities located in England. This scholarship is offered for international students who are planning to pursue a full-time PhD degree.

This grant is offered to future PhD students from any fields of research, so long as the course is provided by the University of Oxford. In addition, candidates who apply for this scholarship will automatically be considered for application at the University of Oxford, so there is no need for a separate application.

Criteria: future candidates who are planning to register for this scholarship must obtain a satisfactory academic record (with a GPA of minimum 3.7 out of 4, history of university awards, publications, etc.), future academic potential (references, research proposals, etc.), and the student’s motivation (evidence of commitment towards the course through reports.)

Benefits: successful candidates of the Clarendon Funds Scholarships will be entitled to all-expenses paid tuition and college fees, and large grant to cover living expenses.

How to Apply:  if you are interested in applying for the Clarendon Funds Scholarships, visit the official Clarendon Funds Scholarship website for more information regarding the scholarship. Deadline: every January.

PhD Scholarships in UK: Rhodes Global Scholarship

The Rhodes Global Scholarship is a scholarship that was first established by the Will of Cecil John Rhodes and is also offered by the University of Oxford. This scholarship is offered to students of all nationalities.

This scholarship caters to individuals who are planning to pursue a PhD degree at any course provided by the University of Oxford. The duration of this scholarship is two years, but a PhD degree will take up three years.

Criteria:  future applicants who are interested in giving this scholarship a try must hold a nationality outside of the United Kingdom, must be between the ages of 19-25, have a fantastic academic record (minimum GPA of 3.7), and must have proven fluency in written and spoken English.

Benefits:  chosen candidates will have all of their university and college fees paid for by the scholarship, an allowance of £15,144 per annum to cover their living costs and flight tickets from and to their home country.

How to Apply: applications for the Rhodes Global Scholarship are currently closed for this year. However, if you are interested in this scholarship, visit the official Rhodes Global Scholarship website for more information regarding this scholarship.

Studying in the United Kingdom has its perks. Besides obtaining a degree at one of its many highly-esteemed universities, you’ll also have the chance to enrich yourself with its timeless culture. Studying in the United Kingdom not only means learning in its classrooms, but it also means you get to learn about British surroundings everywhere you go to. As how the Brits would say it – cheerio!

Still need more information? Not to fret! we’ll make sure we give you the latest information about PhD Scholarships in UK. Stay tuned to our future articles at www.scholarshipstory.com.

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11 thoughts on “ 5 phd scholarships in uk: cambridge, oxford, edinburg, warwick & rhodes ”.

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Scholarship Positions 2023 2024

Home » International Scholarships for Students » AZ Funded Non-Clinical PhD International Studentships in UK 

AZ Funded Non-Clinical PhD International Studentships in UK 

Applicants are invited to apply for the AZ funded Non-clinical PhD Studentship in a research project “Investigate the mechanistic link between chronic kidney disease and cardiac dysfunction at the University of Cambridge for the session 2023/2024.

The studentship programme is available for the most talented UK and overseas students commencing in the PhD degree coursework at the university.

• Application Process
• Clarity of Information

Wonderful opportunity for overseas students in the UK.

User Review

Established in the year 1209, the University of Cambridge stands as the fourth-oldest surviving university globally and the second-oldest in the English-speaking sphere. It garners widespread recognition as a prestigious hub for education and research, drawing thousands of students from across the globe every year.

Why study at the  University of Cambridge ? Studying at the University of Cambridge offers an unparalleled opportunity for academic excellence and personal growth. With a rich history dating back to 1209, it ranks among the world’s top educational institutions, fostering a culture of innovation and intellectual exploration. Its distinguished faculty, cutting-edge research facilities, and vibrant international community provide a dynamic learning environment.

Application Deadline : 1 October, 2023

Brief Description

• University or Organization : University of Cambridge
• Department : N/A
• Course Level : PhD
• Awards : Full funding
• Access Mode : Online
• Number of Awards : Not Known
• Nationality : International and UK students
• The award can be taken in the  UK

Eligibility

• Eligible Countries : All nationalities
• Acceptable Course or Subjects : PhD degree programme in a research project Investigate the mechanistic link between chronic kidney disease and cardiac dysfunction
• Admissible Criteria : To be eligible, applicants should have or shortly expect to obtain a first or upper second-class degree from a UK university, or an equivalent standard from an overseas university, in a relevant subject such as Biological Science and Medical Science. These positions are open to UK citizens or overseas students who meet the UK residency requirements (home fees) or are able to augment the funds to cover the extra costs associated with international student fees through scholarships or funding schemes (e.g. Gates Cambridge or Cambridge Trust).

How to Apply

• How to Apply:  To be considered for the opportunity, applicants first have to take admission in a PhD degree programme at the University of Cambridge. After that, all applications need to be made using the University  Applicant Portal .
• Supporting Documents:  Must submit two academic references, transcript, CV/resume, and statement of interest (2500 characters).
• Admission Requirements:  For taking admission, students must have to check the  entry requirements  of their chosen program.
• Language Requirement:  If English is not your first language, you should provide evidence of English language ability: IELTS, TOEFL, or other acceptable proof. Please see the  English Language Requirements  section for more details.

The University of Cambridge will provide full funding covering Maintenance fees at £21,500 per annum and the University Composition Fee (at home fee level) is provided for the studentship, with effect from 1 October 2024.

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F31: Individual Fellowships for PhD Students Award from NIA

NIA supports three F31 awards, one open to all PhD Students conducting aging research ( PA-21-051 ), one open to students from underrepresented backgrounds conducting aging research ( PA-21-052 ), and one specifically for students from underrepresented backgrounds conducting research on Alzheimer’s Disease and related dementias ( PAR-21-218 ). All F31 recipients must be U.S. citizens or permanent residents at the time of award. View other NIA fellowships available to graduate students .

NIA F31 at a Glance

• Eligibility: PhD student. Research lab chosen.
• Maximum Award Duration: 5 years
• Yearly Due Dates: April 8, August 8, December 8
• Award Budget: $27,144 Stipend, $16,000 Tuition

Questions about F31 awards for aging or dementia research? Contact [email protected] .

Important Dates

NIH NRSA fellowships are awarded in three cycles every year, as described below.

Award Duration

The F31 awards supported by NIA can support up to five years of predoctoral research training for PhD students. This includes any time spent on an institutional T32 training grant. Speak to your graduate program director to determine whether you have been funded on a T32. Since the F31 (PA-21-051) and the F31 – Diversity (AD/ADRD) (PA-21-218) require students to be at the dissertation phase of their PhD, they typically only fund 2-3 years.

How to Apply

Find information on applying .

To choose a study section to indicate on your Assignment Request Form, consult the list of NIH Fellowship study sections .

NIA F31 Stipend and Funding Levels

Yearly award budgets are composed of stipends, tuition and fees, and institutional allowance, as described below. Updated information on budget levels can be found in NOT-OD-22-132 .

Tuition and fees paid can be 60% of total institutional tuition, or $16,000, whichever is less.

Institutional Allowance may be used to cover expenses such as health insurance, research supplies, equipment, books, and travel to scientific meetings.

Childcare Costs

Additionally, each fellow may request $2,500 per year to defray childcare costs from a licensed provider. Learn more in the Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) on Childcare Costs .

Components of an Individual Fellowship Application

Each fellowship application requires many parts; you should begin preparing your application well before the deadline. Below find the major components of an application and their length limits:

*A Biosketch is a document containing a curriculum vitae (CV), personal statement, and description of past research experience.

Detailed instructions for each application part can be found in the SF424 (R&R) Application Guide .

Sample F31 applications are available from the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases.

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