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LSE PhD Studentships

It was a huge honour to receive funding from such a prestigious institution

For 2024 entry, LSE will be offering studentships to new PhD students, in 2023 this was 88, in the form of LSE PhD Studentships, LSE DTP  ESRC Studentships  and London Arts and Humanities Partnership (LAHP)  Studentships.

The awards are open to high calibre students of all nationalities studying across all research areas at the School.

Eligibility

LSE PhD Studentships are tenable for four years and cover full fees and an annual stipend, which for 2024 entry is £21,237. They are available for UK and international students undertaking research in any LSE discipline, with annual renewal subject to satisfactory academic performance.

These awards will be made solely on the basis of outstanding academic merit and research potential. This relates both to your past academic record and to an assessment of your likely aptitude to complete a PhD in your chosen topic in the time allocated.

How to apply

Academic departments nominate students for consideration by a School panel for all PhD funding opportunities they may be eligible for. There is no separate application for any of these studentships.

To be considered for this funding, you must submit your complete application for admission to LSE by a specific date. This date differs by academic department. Refer to the individual programme page for the relevant deadline information.  Find your graduate programme .

• deadline for the research programme in the Law School for 2024 entry: 1 December 2023
• deadline for the research programme in the Department of Economics for 2024 entry (including PhD Studentships and ESRC funding: 14 December 2023
• funding deadline for first round of PhD Studentships and for ESRC funding for 2024 entry: 15 January 2024
• London Arts and Humanities Partnership (LAHP) PhD Scholarships  deadline: 26 January 2024, 17:00 GMT
• funding deadline for second round of PhD Studentships deadline for 2024 entry (some departments only): 25 April 2024

Find out about ESRC Studentships .

More information on how to apply for a place on a PhD programme .

Student stories

"I received an LSE PhD Studentship, which covers both my tuition and living expenses. It was a huge honour to receive funding from such a prestigious institution and without this support it would have been impossible for me to pursue my PhD."

Katherine Furman East London, South Africa MPhil/PhD Philosophy LSE PhD Studentship

ESRC Studentships Scholarships for PhD study and master's linked to a PhD

How to apply The application process, UCAS and when to apply

Undergraduate fees and funding Details on available scholarships, bursaries, loans and tuition fees

Graduate fees and funding Details on available scholarships, bursaries, loans and tuition fees

Contact us Get in touch with the Financial Support Office

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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)
• Royal Academy of Engineering (RAEng)

Additionally, CASE studentships (formerly known as Cooperative Awards in Science and Engineering) can be part-funded by any non-academic body in partnership with the Natural Environment Research Council (NERC) . 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 (a minimum of £4,786 per year in 2024/25).
• Full studentship - These add a non-repayable, tax-free maintenance grant known as a 'stipend'. In 2024/25, this is worth a minimum of £19,237 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 £18,622 (2023/24 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 .

Find out more

• Explore 5 routes to getting a Doctorate .
• Read about 5 challenges faced by PhD students .
• Consider what to do next after completing a PhD .

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PhD opportunities

Fully funded phd studentships.

Our mission is to create lasting, meaningful change throughout the world, and your research can be a key part of us achieving that goal.

Doctoral research that encourages change and produces real-world impacts is more important than ever. A doctoral degree is more than just a thesis: it is an opportunity to realise your potential as a researcher, to develop your passion and knowledge in a community that values progress.

Finance shouldn’t be a barrier to delivering world-leading research. That’s why we run an annual fully funded studentship competition, to recruit talented researchers from across the world. Applications for our 2024 studentships have now closed. The scheme usually opens in October. Sign up for emails to be notified of the next release and to keep up to date with research funding.

Discover our PhD opportunities that drive innovation and delivers real-world impact. Browse our PhD projects, or submit your own proposal.

Professional Doctorates

Make an impact with world-leading and award-winning research at Nottingham Trent University.

PhD fees and funding

Find out more about the fees and funding options available for research study at Nottingham Trent University.

How to apply for a PhD

Everything you need to know about applying to study at the NTU Doctoral School.

Re:shaping re:search - why join NTU?

With world-class facilities, dedicated doctoral support, and a growing portfolio of interdisciplinary and collaborative research programmes — all delivered alongside our worldwide family of academic and industry partners — NTU is the place to truly re:alise your potential.

We offer a unique Doctoral Education, Training and Development programme to support the growth of all our doctoral candidates, in everything from academic writing and academic software to healthy research practices. We support our candidates throughout their doctoral journey, enabling them to reach their potential as experts in their field.

As a two-time recipient of the Queens Anniversary Prize — the most prestigious national award for research outputs — 86% of our work has been judged as ‘world-leading’or ‘internationally excellent.’* We want to continue building this reputation for research excellence by taking a themed approach to addressing the world’s most pressing problems — the key questions that span business, the arts, science, sustainability, healthcare, politics, and the environment. We’re calling this new approach Re:search Re:imagined

* Latest data, Research Excellence Framework 2021

A diverse community

"I chose to pursue a PhD because I've always been intellectually curious". Hear about Richards's doctoral experience.

We’re committed to removing barriers to doctoral education — an ambition reflected in the award of joint funding to improve access and participation for black, Asian and minority ethnic groups in PGR study. Our Doctoral School is a diverse and highly inclusive community; it enables its members to become confident, skilled researchers, regardless of their backgrounds.

Join us to help fulfil our boldest ambitions — to value ideas, create opportunities, embrace sustainability, empower people, enrich society, and connect on a global scale. We believe in applied, meaningful research that delivers better answers. Be part of a community that champions your voice and experience.

By breaking down the financial barriers to PhD study, our fully funded studentships ensure you’ll have the freedom and confidence to deliver the kind of research that truly matters.

Re:searchers Re:vealed

Here at NTU, our researchers come from a variety of backgrounds, and they all have a powerful story to tell. In this series, we share their stories.

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Funded PhD research programmes 2024 UK

The University of Brighton regularly invites applicants for fully-funded PhD studentships across all its disciplines. 

These allow motivated, high-calibre applicants for research degrees to join our thriving academic community and contribute to our rich and innovative research environment. 

Our deadline has passed for the October 2024 start for funded PhDs, but there will be further announcements shortly. Meanwhile, please visit our PhD funding advice pages . 

Visit our PhD disciplinary programme lists

What UK PhD studentships are available ?

Our academics at the University of Brighton regularly develop research projects in which they can offer outstanding support and which they are committed to developing and growing.

The studentships available will be given to candidates who best fulfil the promise outlined by these academic departments.

These funded PhD opportunities are generally open to home and international students. 

Please enable targeting cookies in order to view this video content on our website, or you can watch the video on YouTube .

Can you be a researcher? Professor Bhavik Patel reassures applicants of all backgrounds that they can study for a PhD and aim for a research career. 

How do I apply for a PhD studentship?

The application for our schemes will usually involve:  

• submitting a full application through the university's PhD application portal, accessible from the  PhD funded projects webpages . You will upload your research proposal as part of this process.
• The submission must include two letters of reference, academic qualifications, a proposed project approach, a personal statement and your CV (resumé).
• Please note, deadline for 2024 start on the most recent funding scheme was 29 February 2024 16:00 (UCT/GMT).
• Shortlisted applicants are likely to be invited for interview.

Details of application for fully funded PhD studentships

To apply for your studentship at the University of Brighton, you should first review the specific projects or project areas that our academics are offering to support. 

All eligible applications for the funded PhD will be reviewed, with shortlisted candidates entered for final decisions on the allocations of funding, which will rest with the university's central Doctoral College. 

What does PhD funding include?

The funding for the PhD usually cover the full fee and a stipend at the UKRI rate plus an allowance of £1,500 per year for researcher training for three years (or part-time equivalent). 

Successful candidates benefit from expert supervisory teams, a programme of postgraduate researcher development workshops and membership of specialist, interdisciplinary research centres and groups. There will be introductions to a network of relevant researchers, careers advice and opportunities for interaction within and beyond the university. Through this, our PhD students have the best start possible towards ambitious careers that make use of their research degrees.

The University of Brighton fosters research careers and will provide doctoral training, attentive and expert supervision and access to world-class laboratories and equipment. 

We are renowned as a leading applied university, with pioneer academics in disciplines from sport science to design history and applied science research that translates efficiently to the global challenge of worldwide health and wellbeing. Our strategy of 'practical wisdom' leads to real-world partnerships and beneficiaries across all disciplines while the development of community-university partnership practices have placed us among the best universities for many aspects of co-produced research and innovation.

We pride ourselves on the ways we work in partnership with those outside higher education, across the European Union and internationally. Through our research collaborations we work with a wide range of universities, both internationally and with universities in the UK. We are also founding members of two UKRI Doctoral Training Partnerships which, this year, are dealt with outside our University of Brighton studentship offer. We learn constantly from our involvement in these, and our rich resources are offered across all doctoral research programmes.

Recently the University of Brighton celebrated its performance in the Research Excellence Framework (REF2021) and the Knowledge and Exchange Framework (KEF2023). Over 87 per cent of our submitted impact case studies in REF2021 were rated as having 'outstanding' or 'very considerable' impact beyond academia. We are dedicated to developing this quality work with new students. Read more about the review of our research and knowledge exchange performance in REF2021 . Also, read more about our KEF2023 results, which placed Brighton in the top tier for economic and social benefits .

How will you build a relationship with your supervisor? Professor Annebella Pollen and Dr Tom Ainsworth are among those offering advice. This film was made by the University of Brighton for UKRI and also features academics from other institutions.

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

You must be able to show your suitability for a UK research degree if you wish to apply for fully-funded studentships.

This includes evidence either of a relevant and successful academic background or equivalent relevant professional/expert background in the applied subject area. Applicants from overseas will also have to fulfil any English language and visa requirements.

This will be true for studentships in the UK across most of the UK universities. It is usual for applicants either to have completed (or be about to complete) a masters degree, have an exceptional undergraduate record and references, or demonstrate the equivalent scholarly potential.  

Supervisory staff and research students at the University of Brighton consider how important diverse thinking and inclusive practice are to their doctoral studies.

Can I get PhD funding at the University of Brighton?

We have a long-standing annual programme of funded PhD opportunities across all our disciplines, including several rooted in research council (UKRI) partnerships.

The initiatives allow postgraduate study for UK-based students as well as study in the UK for international students (depending on the PhD programme). 

We are also keen to encourage students who might be able to self-fund their doctoral studies. Studying part-time, for example, is likely to prove more affordable and more easily balanced with professional life than you'd imagine. 

We are dedicated to providing a welcoming and supportive atmosphere and structure for your studies. Show us your own qualities and your suitability for these programmes. We look forward to receiving your application. Good luck!

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• Queen Mary University of London
• Postgraduate
• Research degrees
• Funding a PhD

Postgraduate Research Studentships

Each year we offer fully-funded research studentships to support the next generation of leading academics. funding is available across all research areas and it typically comprises three years of funding..

Self-funders or those with external funding sources are welcome to apply via our standard route at any time of year.

• Funding in the Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences
• Funding in the Faculty of Science and Engineering
• BAME Studentships
• Funding in the School of Medicine and Dentistry

Humanities and Social Sciences PhD Studentships

Eligible subject areas.

We are offering fully-funded PhD studentships in all areas that fall within the Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences for September 2024 entry. This includes the following eight Schools:

• School of Business and Management
• School of Economics and Finance
• School of English and Drama
• School of Languages, Linguistics and Film
• School of Geography
• School of History
• School of Law
• School of Politics and International Relations

Candidate Eligibility

All nationalities are eligible for these 3-year studentships which cover tuition fees and living expenses. Part-time applicants and current first-year students are also eligible to apply. 

There are additionally up to two awards for UK students who identify as BAME. Full details are within the below documents. 

There is an additional award funded alongside the Stuart Hall Foundation. See below for eligibility criteria.

How to Apply

Applications for 2024 entry are open now. The HSS Principal’s Doctoral Research Studentships for Academic Year 2024-25 closing on 26 th February 2024.

The studentships cover all tuition fees, and provide a grant for living expenses at UK Research Council rates for London (c. £20,622 p.a. full-time, c. £10,311 part-time).

001 - HSS studentships memo 2024 [PDF 163KB] - Procedures for the HSS Principal’s Doctoral Research Studentships competition (QMPS), timetable and paperwork, criteria for awards at Faculty level.

002 - HSS studentships 2023 general [DOC 35KB] - Studentship, application process, assessment. 003 - SNF 2022-23 [DOC 47KB] - Check list for schools, cover sheet, student nomination form. 004 - Specification for candidate suitability [PDF 87KB] - Minimum requirements for consideration for studentships. 005 - Guidance to applicants 2024-25 [PDF 134KB] -   Research proposal, statement of purpose, assessment. 006 - Stuart Hall Foundation (SHF)-QMUL HSS Principal's Studentship Explanatory Memo [PDF 144KB] General considerations, eligibility criteria, statement of purpose and assessment, benefits of applying.

Please note that these awards cannot be deferred .

NEW for 24/25 :

This year the Doctoral College (DC) will be offering up to 2 BAME studentships (UK/home fees only) to PGR applicants in HSS. The eligibility criteria for the Doctoral College BAME awards are the same as the HSS ones and candidates will be assessed in the same competition. Eligible candidates should indicate in their statement of purpose that they would like to be considered for the BAME awards, without further specification.

Science and Engineering PhD Studentships

Fully-funded studentships are available for September 2024 entry across this Faculty in five strategic research themes:

• Environment, biodiversity and genomics 
• Green energy
• Engineering better medicine
• Social interaction, health and wellbeing
• Data-centric engineering

In addition to our general studentship competition, we also offered two studentships for UK BAME applicants.

PhD programmes across all five schools within the Faculty are eligible for the funding. 

• School of Biological and Behavioural Sciences 
• School of Physical and Chemical Sciences
• School of Electronic Engineering and Computer Science
• School of Engineering and Materials Science
• School of Mathematical Sciences

S&E Doctoral Studentships for Underrepresented Groups in Research:

• UK students who identify as coming from a Black, Asian or Ethnic minority background. 
• The proposed research project fits within the broader range of research themes in science and engineering within our five Schools.

Queen Mary Research Studentships:

• All nationalities are eligible for some awards, Home only for others. Check with your department before applying.
• All subject areas are eligible but Schools will be posting updates about which projects they are funding on their pages. There is no guarantee of funding for a particular subject area as this is highly competitive.

Doctoral Training Studentships:

• Check the Doctoral Training Studentships page for the schemes available and how to apply.
• Some awards are for all nationalities, some are for Home applicants only.

Applications for 2024 entry are open now. The deadline for applications is Wednesday 31st January 2024.

Follow the step-by-step instructions on the How To Apply page before submitting your online application.

For most funding types there is one single application for admission and for funding. You should note the funding for which you would like to be considered on your application form.

Some Doctoral Training Programmes require an additional application to the funding partner. Please read the instructions on their website carefully and get in touch if you are unsure. 

BAME Studentships for Postgraduate Research Students

For 2023 entry, Queen Mary University of London will be offering four fully-funded doctoral studentships (tuition fees and stipend at the UKRI London rate) to UK applicants from a BAME background. 

School of Medicine and Dentistry PhD Studentships

This School is organised into seven distinct Institutes and each has their own funding sources. Typically this comes in three forms:

Research Council Grants: These will be advertised, as they become available, throughout the year. Check our list of live adverts now.

Doctoral Training Schemes: Details of each of these can be found on our doctoral training scheme page.

Charity or Industrial Funding:  These will be advertised, as they become available, throughout the year. 

Self-funders or those with external funding are welcome to submit a speculative application at any time of year. Prior contact with the proposed supervisor and discussion of the project is highly recommended in advance of submitting your application.

International PhD Funding Schemes

In addition to Queen Mary's studentships, we work with numerous international funding agencies to co-fund PhD studentships to support individual students from across the globe. Today, we are home to scholars from more than 50 different international sponsorship bodies.

More information about the scholarships available to you can be found on your individual  country page   or by using our   searchable scholarships database .

The main funding partners we work with for PhD funding are:

• Commonwealth Scholarships Commission  (low, middle and high-income country scholarship schemes)
• Islamic Development Bank
• China Scholarship Council
• COLFUTURO (Colombia)
• CONACyT (Mexico)
• Becas Chile
• Turkish Embassy
• Egyptian Embassy

Deadlines for PhD Studentships

Applications for  PhD funding for September 2023 entry are now closed. The deadlines for September 2024 entry are as follows:

• Law studentships: Wednesday 6th December 2023
• Humanities and Social Sciences Studentships: Wednesday 24th January 2024 (except Law)
• Science and Engineering Studentships: Wednesday 31st January 2024
• China Scholarship Council applicants for any subject area: Wednesday 31st January 2024
• MRes-PhD applicants for the School of Economics and Finance: Monday 5th February 2024
• Projects for the School of Medicine and Dentistry: various- check the advert for the project.
• Doctoral Training Partnerships: There may be an additional application and an earlier deadline. Please check their websites carefully.

If you have questions about any of the above, please contact us via the enquiry form or contact the relevant academic School directly. 

• PhD Studentships
• Funding a PhD
• Studentships are scholarships awarded to PhD students, with funding provided by either a Research Council , university , private body or research charity .
• Most studentships are linked to a specific research project or a field of study .
• Can either be partially funded (covering fees only) or fully funded (covering fees and providing an allowance for living costs – the stipend).
• Universities commonly require candidates to have a 2:1 or 1st class honours degree; a relevant Masters degree may be useful for a successful applicant but not essential.
• Most studentships don’t allow other sources of funding e.g. bursaries or PhD loans.

What Are PhD Studentships?

A studentship is a non-repayable scholarship available to PhD students to support their doctoral studies. At a minimum, all studentships will cover a student’s tuition fee, however they may also cover the student’s living expenses (referred to as a stipend or maintenance grant) depending on the specific type of studentship awarded.

Who Are They Awarded By?

The most common source of PhD funding is through a Research Council, in which a studentship is awarded in the form of a Research Council Grant . In the UK, there are seven Research Councils as listed below:

• Arts and Humanities Research Council (AHRC)
• Biotechnology and Biological Sciences Research Council (BBSRC)
• Engineering and Physical Sciences Research Council (EPSRC)
• Economic and Social Research Council (ESRC)
• Medical Research Council (MRC)
• Natural Environment Research Council (NERC)
• Science and Technology Facilities Council (STFC)

Collectively, these councils form part of a government body known as UK Research and Innovation (UKRI) which provide funding to PhD students to advance research. UKRI aims to provide the best environment for research and innovation to thrive by working in collaboration with universities, research organisations, companies, charities and governments.

The second most common source of studentships is directly from universities in the form of scholarships and bursaries . Although not always the case, studentships provided by universities are often linked to a specific project title or field of study and may also be linked at least in part to Research Council funding. This means that you must undertake a PhD project in a specific pre-determined subject area in order to meet the eligibility criteria for funding.

The other source of studentships is through professional bodies (e.g. Institution of Mechanical Engineers) and research charities (e.g. Wellcome Trust and Cancer Research UK). These studentships are known as Cooperative Awards in Science and Engineering (CASE). In nearly all cases, CASE studentships are also linked to a specific project title or field of study.

How Much Funding Can I Receive?

A successful applicant may receive two types of studentships: partially funded and fully funded . Partially funded studentships typically cover the cost of a student’s tuition fees and possibly any associated project costs. This can include aspects such as training courses and travelling for meetings and conferences, though the exact scope of what’s included differs for each studentship.

Although tuition fees vary depending on university, the indicative fee is £4,500/year as stated by the UKRI for UK students.

A fully funded studentship covers the same aspects of a partially funded studentship, however, in addition to this, it also provides a tax-free  maintenance grant to cover the student’s cost of living . This maintenance grant is more commonly referred to as an annual stipend  and looks to provide enough additional funding that the student need not look for part-time work to pay for their living costs whilst undertaking their PhD. It should be noted stipends provided by Research Councils will need to meet a nationally agreed minimum level; for 2021/22, this minimum level has been set as £15,609 . Living costs do of course vary between cities and it’s something you should factor in when planning your budget. Most universities do offer students the opportunity to earn a little extra money (e.g. by teaching undergraduates) to supplement your stipend.

Am I Eligible for a PhD Studentship?

The eligibility requirements differ between studentships, however, most will require the following in order to be eligible for financial support:

• A Bachelors degree with a 2:1 or above
• A relevant Masters degree

There may also be some restrictions which deem you non-eligible for a studentship. These are commonly:

• If you already hold a doctoral degree
• If you receive funding from another source e.g. a doctoral loan

As the requirements differ for each studentship, there may be some further requirements or restrictions in addition to the above. For example, some studentships restrict how many hours of paid employment you can undertake alongside your PhD and some are limited to students fitting certain criteria e.g. coming from a low-income household or being of a certain ethnicity.

Therefore, make sure you read the descriptions of any studentship carefully and in full before making any decisions.

Note: Being eligible for a PhD studentship does not guarantee you one. With exception to a few, all studentships are awarded based on ability, therefore, funding will be awarded to the best PhD applicants applying for the studentships.

UK PhD studentships are now typically only open to UK students , with fewer being available to EU and international students. One of the key reasons for this are the higher tuition fees that students outside the UK will need to pay. Some universities may offer EU/international students studentships if they are able to cover the additional fee costs themselves. However, even if you are an EU student, you still may be limited to only a partially funded studentship meaning only your fees will be covered, so it is important to be clear on what you’re eligible for and the deadline for applications. For further clarification, see the table below:

How Do I Apply for a PhD Studentship?

The application process can be initiated in one of two ways. First, some universities will automatically consider you for a studentship when they receive your application to undertake a PhD. For example, Nottingham Trent University specifies the below as their arrangements:

The NTU Doctoral School will treat your online form as an application form for a place to study for an MPhil/PhD doctoral research degree at Nottingham Trent University, as well as a funding application for the 2020 Nottingham Trent University PhD Studentship Scheme.

Second, some universities will require you to submit a separate funding application form. If you are required to submit a separate application, these are usually made directly to university regardless of the source of the funding body i.e. a Research Council or professional body. This is because although the studentship funding may be provided from a non-academic body, as the academic institute hosting the PhD project, the university will be responsible for assessing candidates and selecting the most suitable one. Be mindful that these may come with a strict application deadline.

If you are required to submit a separate application, you will typically be asked for:

• Your PhD application form
• A research proposal
• A cover letter
• Your references

Upon receiving your application, the PhD supervisor will likely have an informal discussion with you, either by email, over the phone or in person. In some cases, you may be invited in for a formal interview .

Regardless of which of the two situations occurs, the potential supervisor will use the discussion alongside your application to determine whether you should be awarded the PhD programme and studentship. Following their decision, they will get in touch with you to let you know the outcome.

It’s worth noting that in some cases, the potential supervisor may decide that you are suitable to undertake the PhD project but are not the strongest candidate who has applied across all PhDs within their department. If this is the case and the studentship is linked to a research topic as opposed to the specific project title you are applying for, you may be offered the PhD opportunity but not the studentship. If this occurs, you will need to consider your alternative PhD funding options, such as funding it yourself or obtaining a PhD loan, before making your decision.

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Studentships and funding

All postgraduate research students need to think about how to pay for fees and living expenses that they will incur while studying. Living expenses might include housing costs, utility bills, childcare, travel, food and entertainment. Funding can be obtained from a number of different sources, these are outlined in the following sections.

UK Research and Innovation funding

UK Research and Innovation (UKRI) distributes funding through various research councils in the form of ‘studentships’. These studentships are often as part of Doctoral Training Partnerships with other universities and organisations. The OU then recruit individual students to these studentships.

There is usually a high level of competition for these funded studentships. UKRI-funded students typically have their fees paid and receive a stipend to cover living costs. They also normally receive a Research Teaching Support Grant (RTSG) which can be used, subject to agreement with supervisors, to support the student’s research training. These funds can be used to support attendance at external workshops and conferences.

Some UKRI-funded students can also obtain additional support for overseas fieldwork from the Research Council, providing that the fieldwork was included in the original proposal.

Please see further information about the Doctoral Training Partnerships of which the OU is proud to be a part. Current studentships are advertised on the Studentship pages .

OU-funded research degrees

The OU offers funded studentships, either wholly or with an element of matched funding from an external partner in industry, government or a public body. Each faculty will have different funds available, and different criteria for eligibility. This varies from year to year. The studentships will have particular terms and conditions relating to Intellectual Property, registration periods, location of study and periods of leave.

Current studentships are advertised on the Studentship pages .

Sponsored employees

Some organisations sponsor their employees or other potential students because they want to develop future researchers and research-informed practitioners, along with accessing world-class research outputs. There are many advantages of sponsoring an OU research degree for organisations.

Funding, or co-funding, a PhD student provides an opportunity for bespoke research projects to be undertaken by a student linked to an issue of relevance and value to an organisation or research agenda.

Professional doctorate

Sponsoring a professional doctorate – either a professional doctorate in education (EdD) or in health and social care (DHSC) – provides an excellent opportunity for an employee to undertake research that develops their capability as a research-informed practitioner – and enables the organisation to benefit from the knowledge produced.

Other sources of funding

Other sources of funding include trusts and charities. Your eligibility to apply for funding may depend on your specific circumstances or on the nature of your research. This source of funding is usually attached to advertised projects.

The University subscribes to The Alternative Guide to Postgraduate Funding Online , which lists alternative funding bodies which can make awards to any student, regardless of subject or nationality. The Alternative Guide Online contains a huge database of funding opportunities, comprehensive guidance and numerous tools to help you prepare a winning grant application. The Open University has purchased a licence to the Guide, and so it’s free for all students and staff to use! If you are a prospective student who has applied to the University, please contact the Library Research Support Team  to get an access PIN.

Self-funding and Doctoral Student Loans

Some postgraduate research students pay their own fees.

In 2018, the UK government introduced new loans to help with the cost of study on doctoral programmes. The loan can help with course fees and living costs while you study a postgraduate doctoral course. More information on the loan and eligibility can be found on the on Gov.uk’s doctoral loans webpage.

Please note you are unable to apply until you have received an offer letter and you will need to ask the Graduate School for a Course Code in order to apply.

You will need to ask the Graduate School for a Course Code in order to apply.

Doctoral Loans are paid out after the course starts, so you need to pay in full before your start date using a different payment method to complete registration. You should contact the Graduate School if you plan to apply for a Doctoral Loan, to get a course code and to confirm your registration with Student Finance.

Please be aware that due to the structure of the Professional Doctorate courses, the Doctoral Loan is paid over 8 years and after the course starts. Unfortunately, Student Finance are unable to pay out the full amount of the loan in less than 8 years.

Your questions

For advice about applying for a research degree, or sponsoring a research student, email the Graduate School or call +44 (0)1908 653806.

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Home > Research > Research degrees > Funding > PhD Studentships 2024

PhD Studentships for October 2024 start

The application deadline for this competition has now passed.

Kingston University has established an international reputation for high quality, innovative research. Our research degree students are a core part of this.

We are again seeking to make a substantial investment in up to 20 new PhD studentships enrolling in late September 2024. These include targeted awards for Black, Asian and Minority Ethnic students and for Kingston alumni.

We are looking for students with expertise that matches our areas of research excellence. Application for these highly competitive research studentships is now open.

Deadline: Complete applications must be received by the end of day (GMT midnight), Wednesday 6 March 2024. 

More information on the research areas can be found by following the faculty links below:

Kingston School of Art

• Business and Social Sciences
• Engineering, Computing and the Environment

Faculty of Health, Science, Social Care and Education

Learn more about:

• the University's research.
• support available for students with disabilities .

Funding available

There are three different levels of funding available for new students: fully funded, partially funded, and fees only, all at the home fee rate.

• Full-time and Part-time applications are welcome : Funding for part-time study will be pro rata at 50% of the full-time rate.
• Overseas fee-paying candidates: These awards will cover Home fees only. If you are selected for interview you will need to demonstrate that you can fund the difference in fees for each year of your registration. This is currently £11,288 for the academic year 2023/24 and it should be noted that tuition fees increase slightly each year. You would therefore need to find at least £33,864 over the 3 years, plus the yearly increase.

Note that if you were shortlisted for the Techne 2024 funding competition but were unsuccessful you will automatically be considered for these awards.

Fully-funded studentships

Up to 15 awards are available.

Fees: Home tuition fees only for 3 years full-time or 6 years part-time. For 2023/24 this is £4,712 full-time or £2,356 part-time.

Stipend: 3 years full-time or 6 years part-time.

The full-time doctoral stipend for 2023/24 is £20,622 per year; levels are likely to rise slightly for the following years but have not yet been confirmed.

Applications for part-time study are welcomed and will receive pro-rata funding for both tuition fees and stipend.

Race Equality studentships

Fully-funded studentships for black, asian and minority ethnic applicants (home students only).

We encourage applications from Black, Asian and Minority Ethnic students and have set aside a number of the studentships listed above for applicants who identify as having these ethnic backgrounds. In addition to the funding, there will be a programme of support and mentoring available to you.

Successful applicants will be offered a place on our RISE Research Leadership Academy , which is designed to develop candidates' leadership skills within academia.

Note that these awards are open to Home fee-paying students only.  Read more about who is eligible for home fee status .

To apply, please follow the process listed below and state ‘Race Equality Studentship' at the top of your Studentship Application Statement.

Once we have confirmed the availability of a potential supervisory team, we will offer application and interview support through a faculty mentor who will be a member of academic staff. To access support in advance of submitting your application please email the relevant Research Student Coordinator (listed below) and ask to be put in touch with a mentor in your subject area.

We are also hoping to have current research students with Black, Asian and Minority Ethnic backgrounds available to discuss their experiences with you. If you would like to take up this opportunity, please email [email protected] to arrange an informal online meeting or phone call.

Note that a representative from the Kingston University People of Colour Staff Network will be part of the awarding panel.

Unsuccessful applicants who reach the interview stage will be offered a feedback meeting to assist with future applications.

Watch a video from one of our current award holders, Salema Foot, whose research focuses on the academic lived experiences of Black postgraduate students in the UK.

Read more about Kingston's approach to reducing the degree awarding gap .

Kingston Alumni studentships

At least one of the fully-funded PhD studentships listed above will be awarded to a Kingston Alumni who has completed an undergraduate and/or masters level degree course at Kingston University or its predecessor institutions. Please note 'KU Alumni application' on your Studentship Application Statement.

Partial studentships

Up to 5 awards are available.

Total contribution to fees and stipend: £11,000 per year for three years full-time or £5,500 per year for six years part-time. Payments will be made towards tuition fees and any remaining funds will be paid as a stipend.

Tuition Fees only studentships

Fees: UK Home tuition fees only for 3 years full-time or 6 years part-time.

Awards will cover UK Home tuition fees for three years of full-time study or the part-time equivalent. For 2023/24 this is £4,712 full-time or £2,356 part-time.

• How to apply

If you would like to apply for a Studentship at Kingston University, please follow the steps below.

Academic and administrative staff will be happy to help with queries but please note that they are available during working hours only and some staff work part time, so please give yourself plenty of time to complete the application.

Apply by: Wednesday 6 March 2024 (GMT midnight). Applications received after this time will not be considered.

Eligibility

To apply you must:

• have (or expect to have by 30 September 2024) a postgraduate masters degree or a first/upper second class honours degree (2:1) or equivalent in a subject relevant to the proposed research project. Equivalent professional experience may also be accepted.
• be intending to research in an area that is covered by Kingston University research expertise.
• if you are not from an English-speaking country or have not studied at a UK university before, you must provide proof of Internet-based IELTS at a minimum overall score of 6.5 or 7 (or equivalent qualification). The requirement varies by subject, so please see our English Language Requirements for further details. Note that the qualification must be dated no earlier than 30 September 2021.

Please note that:

• Incomplete applications will not be accepted.
• Current doctoral students are not eligible to apply.
• Tuition fees will be paid at Home level only for 3 years. Overseas fee-paying students may apply but, if short-listed, will be required to provide evidence of how the remaining part of their fees will be paid.
• You should allow plenty of time to apply. Academic and administrative staff will be happy to help but are not able to answer queries outside the working week; some staff also work part time.

Step 1 – Write a research proposal

You will need to write a research proposal to support your Studentship application. For guidance on how to put together a research proposal, please visit the faculty pages:

• Health, Science, Social Care and Education  (note this faculty accepts applications for projects devised by applicants themselves and specific  pre-approved projects ).
• Engineering, Computing and the Environment  (note this faculty only accepts applications for specific pre-approved projects ).

You may want to discuss your research proposal with potential supervisors before you submit your application.

Please explore our staff profiles to find information on University staff and their research interests.

Advertised projects

If you are applying to an advertised project in the Faculty of Engineering, Computing and the Environment  or the Faculty of Health, Science, Social Care and Education , when you submit your online application please include a separate document stating the advertised project title and name of supervisor. You do not need to include the full project proposal.

Step 2 – Write a Studentship Application Statement

You must write a Studentship Application Statement and submit it with your online application. The statement should cover the points listed below. Maximum 500 words. Note that you do not also need to include a personal statement, unless you wish to.

Please save your statement as ' KU Studentship Application Statement YOUR NAME ' and attach it to your online application at the point where you are asked to include a personal statement. You do not need to include an additional personal statement.

If you would like to apply for a Race Equality Studentship, or a KU Alumni Studentship, please note this clearly at the top of your statement.

In your Studentship Application Statement, please cover these points:

1. Why do you want to do a PhD?

Signing up for a PhD is a big undertaking. We need to know that you understand the commitment required for research and have a passion for your subject.

2. Why Kingston University?

What makes you keen to study with us at Kingston?

3. Why this subject area?

What is it about the area you have chosen that inspires you?

4. What will be the impact of your research and who will be reading it?

The impact of your research is how it will bring change to the wider society beyond academia (e.g. economy, society, culture, public policy, health, the environment and quality of life – both within the UK and overseas).

Who are the wider audiences for your research, perhaps in professional practice, policy-making, popular culture?

Who do you want to reach with your research?

How might you do so?

5. Your academic and/or professional background

How will your skills and expertise help you successfully complete your research project?

6. What personal qualities do you have that make you suited to PhD research?

For example: resilience and tenacity.

7. Assessment of personal development needs

A PhD is all about training to be a researcher. What knowledge and skills will you need to develop to conduct the proposed research?

How can we support your personal development?

Step 3 – Apply online

You should submit your application, research proposal and Studentship Application Statement online.

Please note , there are different application links for each faculty, so please make sure you use the correct apply link.

Make your application using our online portal

Include with your application:

• Your research proposal or information about your chosen advertised project (see Step 1).
• A KU Studentship Application Statement. Please follow our template and guidance outlined in Step 2. If you do not include this statement your application will not be considered for a studentship.
• Copies of your transcripts and/or degree certificates, or partial transcripts if you have not yet completed the degree (you will be required to provide the originals for verification at a later date).
• English language qualification, if applicable (see above).
• CV, including publications (if relevant).
• As part of the online application, under the Finance heading you will be asked to indicate how you will be paying your fees. Please select 'KU Studentship'.

If you have already applied to Kingston University for October 2024 and wish to be considered for a studentship, please email the appropriate faculty listed below with your application reference number and attach your Studentship Application Statement. Please also complete the Equal Opportunities Form .

Step 4 – Complete the equal opportunities form

Kingston University is committed to ensuring that students are selected on the basis of merit. Completion of the equal opportunities form will help us to ensure that our policies and procedures are effective in avoiding discrimination and promoting equal opportunities in awarding studentships.

Your answers will not affect your application in any way. The information will not be seen by your potential supervisors, your referees, or the reviewers assessing your application.

Complete the equal opportunities form . 

Step 5 – Provide references

References are not required with the application but will be required for shortlisted applicants and must be provided by the applicant before their interview .

Shortlisted applicants will be notified and must ensure references are submitted to the relevant Faculty by 19 April 2024.  The applicant is responsible for ensuring that references are submitted to the relevant Faculty.

Referees should be asked to complete the Reference Form .

Who can provide a reference?

References should be from professional or academic contacts and cannot be from family members or friends. At least one reference should be from someone who knows you from your most recent academic qualification.

Step 6 – Attend an interview

You may be invited to attend an interview as part of your Studentship application.

Applicants invited for interview will be informed as soon as possible after the closing date. If you have not heard from us by 6 April, your application has been unsuccessful.

Need more information?

Please read our Frequently Asked Questions – KU Doctoral Studentships 2024 (Doc) .

Read about our past and current research students and their research projects:

• Research student case studies
• Current research student profiles

For more information about research degree programmes at Kingston University .

For faculty-specific enquiries please contact the relevant Research Student Coordinator listed below.

Visit Kingston School of Art's research webpage for more information.

For enquiries please email the research student coordinator at  [email protected] .

Faculty of Business and Social Sciences

Visit the Faculty's research webpage for more information.

For enquiries please email the research student coordinator at  [email protected] .

Faculty of Engineering, Computing and the Environment

Please see the Faculty's research degree webpage for more information.

For enquiries please email the research student coordinator at  [email protected]

Please visit the Faculty's research degree webpage for more information.

For enquiries please email the research student coordinator at  [email protected] .

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Discover more about this subject area

PhD Education / Overview

Year of entry: 2024

• View full page
• Bachelor's (Honours) degree at 2:1 or above (or overseas equivalent); and
• Master's degree in a relevant subject - with an overall average of 60% or above, a minimum mark of 60% in your dissertation (or overseas equivalent)

Full entry requirements

Apply online

Please ensure you include all required supporting documents at the time of submission, as incomplete applications may not be considered.

Application Deadlines

For consideration in internal funding competitions, you must submit your completed application by 19 January 2024.

If you are applying for or have secured external funding (for example, from an employer or government) or are self-funding, you must submit your application before the below deadline to be considered. You will not be able to apply after this date has passed.

• For September 2024 entry: 30 June 2024

Programme options

Programme overview.

• 2nd in the UK for Education (Complete University Guide 2024).  
• The University of Manchester was ranked in the top 10 in the UK for Education research (overall GPA, REF2021).
• Learn with research-active experts in the field of education and work with highly diverse cohorts of students and staff.
• Contribute to improvements in the overall wellbeing of students, their families and communities throughout the world through research.

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The University holds regular open days, where you will have the opportunity to tour the campus and find out more about our facilities and programmes. On this day, you will find out more about the School of Environment, Education and Development (SEED) and meet academic and admissions staff who will be able to answer any questions you have.

For more information, see Open days.

We will be conducting our PGR virtual open week in October 2024. Find out about future events and postgraduate research sessions by signing up for our email alerts.

For entry in the academic year beginning September 2024, the tuition fees are as follows:

• PhD (full-time) UK students (per annum): £6,000 International, including EU, students (per annum): £21,500
• PhD (part-time) UK students (per annum): £3,000 International, including EU, students (per annum): £10,750

Further information for EU students can be found on our dedicated EU page.

Your fees will cover the cost of your study at the University, as well as charges for registration, tuition, supervision, examinations and graduation (excluding graduation robe hire).

Payment of tuition fees will also entitle you to membership of The University of Manchester library, the Students' Union and the Athletic Union.

Scholarships/sponsorships

There are a range of scholarships, studentships and awards to support both UK and overseas postgraduate researchers, details of which can be found via the links below.

To apply University of Manchester funding, you must indicate in your application the competitions for which you wish to be considered. The deadline for most internal competitions, including School of Environment, Education and Development studentships is 19 January 2024.

All external funding competitions have a specified deadline for submitting the funding application form and a separate (earlier) deadline for submitting the online programme application form, both of which will be stated in the funding competition details below.

For more information about funding, visit our funding page to browse for scholarships, studentships and awards you may be eligible for.

• ESRC North West Social Science Doctoral Training Partnership (NWSSDTP) PhD Studentships - Competition Closed for 2024 Entry
• School of Environment, Education and Development Postgraduate Research Studentships 2024 Entry - Competition Closed for 2024 Entry
• China Scholarship Council - The University of Manchester (CSC-UoM) Joint Scholarship Programme - Competition Closed for 2024 Entry
• Commonwealth PhD Scholarships (Least Developed Countries and Fragile States)
• President's Doctoral Scholar (PDS) Awards - Competition Closed for 2024 Entry
• Trudeau Doctoral Scholarships 2024 Entry
• Commonwealth PhD Scholarships (High Income Countries)
• School of Environment, Education and Development Enhancing Racial Equality (SERE) Studentship - Competition Closed for 2024 Entry
• Humanities Doctoral Academy Humanitarian Scholarship 2024 Entry

Contact details

Programmes in related subject areas.

Use the links below to view lists of programmes in related subject areas.

Regulated by the Office for Students

The University of Manchester is regulated by the Office for Students (OfS). The OfS aims to help students succeed in Higher Education by ensuring they receive excellent information and guidance, get high quality education that prepares them for the future and by protecting their interests. More information can be found at the OfS website .

You can find regulations and policies relating to student life at The University of Manchester, including our Degree Regulations and Complaints Procedure, on our regulations website .

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PhD studentships

Funding for PhD applicants is available from a range of sources on a competitive basis.

Follow the links in the table to find full details regarding eligibility, available finance, application methods and closing dates. Follow us on Twitter and Facebook to hear when we have added new studentship opportunities. 

Download our comprehensive guide to PhD study

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We offer a wide range of postgraduate research opportunities which are listed as soon as they become available. If you can't find what you are looking for please contact us . 

We welcome enquiries from students who already have their own funding, or are applying for funding in one of our research areas .  

Our Research, School and Graduate School pages contain a wealth of information for prospective postgraduate students and research activity at UEA. You can also search our Course Finder pages for taught postgraduate courses, including Master's by Research courses.

We welcome applications throughout the year - find out more about how to apply .

Latest PhD Opportunities and Studentships

Search all current PhD Opportunities

How to apply

Fees and funding, campus life, living in norwich and beyond, partnerships in doctoral training.

Funding for biomedical research and innovation

Phd studentships and doctoral fellowships.

A PhD is a postgraduate research degree, usually lasting three or four years, if undertaken full time. It involves independently conducting original and significant research in a specific field and is normally assessed by a written thesis and oral examination.

Funding options available

Alzheimer’s Research UK: PhD scholarships Funding to undertake a PhD involving biomedical research in Alzheimer’s disease and other dementias. Applications are made by the prospective supervisor. Funding: Stipend plus tuition fees and research/travel costs Duration: 36 months

Alzheimer’s Society: PhD studentships Funding to undertake a PhD involving biomedical research in Alzheimer’s disease and other dementias. Applications are made by the prospective supervisor. Funding: Up to £85,000 (£91,000 for London) Duration: Three years

British Heart Foundation: Non-clinical PhD studentships Funding to undertake a PhD in cardiovascular science. Applications are made by the prospective supervisor. Funding: Stipend, tuition fees, consumables Duration: Three years

British Heart Foundation: Four-year PhD programme Funding for research organisations to provide a PhD studentship programme in cardiovascular research. Career stage: Prospective students should apply to individual research institutions Funding: Student stipend, tuition fees, research consumables Duration: Four years

MRC: Studentships Find out more about how MRC funds and supports PhD students at universities and MRC units, institutes and centres.

National Centre for the Replacement Refinement & Reduction of Animals in Research: PhD studentships Funding to undertake a PhD studentship relevant to any area of medical, biological or veterinary research which supports the development and application of the 3Rs. Funding: Cash-limited award of £30,000 pa (£90,000 total over three years) Duration: 36 months

National Institute for Health Research: Doctoral fellowships Funding to undertake a PhD in an area of NIHR research. Funding: Fully funded including current salary Duration: 36 months with p/t options

Last updated: 6 July 2022

This is the website for UKRI: our seven research councils, Research England and Innovate UK. Let us know if you have feedback or would like to help improve our online products and services .

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 15 countries. Applications for 2024-25 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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Adr uk phd studentships cohort.

Categories: Research using linked data , ADR UK Partnership , Children & young people , Climate & sustainability , Crime & justice , Growing old , Health & wellbeing , Inequality & social inclusion , World of work

24 October 2023

ADR UK is supporting 22 PhD studentships hosted by supervisors at Economic and Social Research Council (ESRC) Doctoral Training Partnerships (DTPs) across the UK. These PhD studentships will use ADR UK’s new flagship datasets to answer policy-relevant research questions. 

ADR UK-supported PhD studentships cover  ADR UK research themes . The ADR UK PhD studentship cohort will promote the wider use of administrative data for research, leading to better informed policy decisions and more effective public services. In addition, these studentships will also support ESRC DTPs in developing their capacity in priority areas highlighted by the ESRC’s review of the PhD in the social sciences , including data skills and advanced quantitative methods training.  

Scroll down for more information on each student, their associated project and theme(s), and related datasets. The list is organised alphabetically by the students’ last names. 

Josephina Aha (University of Sheffield) 

Impact of early labour market experiences on wage progression and in-work poverty .

Primary Supervisor: Professor Peter Wright  

Related theme(s):  

World of work 

This project will use the following flagship datasets: 

Annual Survey of Hours and Earnings linked to 2011 Census – England & Wales

Zackary Allinson (London School of Economics) 

Assessing inequality in the criminal justice system .

Primary Supervisor: Dr Sara Geneletti Inchauste   

Crime and justice 

Inequality and social inclusion 

Data First: Cross-Justice System – England & Wales  

Data First: Ministry of Justice & Department for Education linked dataset - England 

Cassandra Bossman-Dampare (King’s College London) 

Impact of interventions on youth employment .

Primary Supervisor: Professor Michael Sanders   

Children and young people 

• Grading and Admissions Data for England 

Longitudinal Education Outcomes - England 

Ella Christoforou (Swansea University) 

Associations between air pollution and mental health in adolescents  .

Primary Supervisor: Dr Amy Mizen  

Health and wellbeing 

Climate and sustainability 

Welsh Environment Dataset 

Vanessa Cieplinska (University College London) 

School absenteeism among special educational needs (sen) children and risk factors .

Primary Supervisor: Dr Vasiliki Totsika   

Growing Up in England  

Christy Coles (King’s College London) 

Offending trajectories of females .

Primary Supervisor: Dr Hannah Dickson  

Yu Cui (University of Reading) 

Attainment and protective factors against social disadvantage for english as an additional language children .

Primary Supervisor: Professor Holly Joseph  

Longitudinal Education Outcomes - England

Giada Garofani (University of Liverpool) 

Liverpool city region education pathways and economic outcomes  .

Primary Supervisor: Professor Elisabetta Pietrostefani  

Inequality and social inclusion

Longitudinal Education Outcomes - England  

Annual Survey of Hours and Earnings linked to 2011 Census – England & Wales  

Yifan Ge (University of Southampton) 

Pension entitlements of women .

Primary Supervisor: Professor Athina Vlachantoni  

Growing old 

Tomiris Gilazh (University of Bristol) 

Analysing the relationship between student backgrounds and labour market outcomes .

Primary Supervisor: Professor George Leckie  

Linxuan He (University College London) 

How educational attainment shapes criminal activity .

Primary Supervisor: Professor Emla Fitzsimons  

Sabreena Hussain (University of Birmingham) 

Are apprenticeships a genuine alternative to university study .

Primary Supervisor: Dr Tarek Mostafa  

Louise Kay (University of Nottingham) 

Educational and employment outcomes of looked after and vulnerable children in boarding schools  .

Primary Supervisor: Professor David Murphy  

Bethany Lee-Shield (University of Edinburgh) 

Examining outcomes of care-experienced children  .

Primary Supervisor: Professor Susan McVie  

Looked After Children Longitudinal Dataset - Scotland 

Wenyue Li (University of Cambridge) 

Drug trafficking in england and wales .

Primary Supervisor: Dr Paolo Campana  

Data First: Cross-Justice System – England & Wales 

Amelia Nutting (University of Leicester) 

Examining rural working-class occupations and social composition .

Primary Supervisor: Professor Martin Phillips  

Annual Survey of Hours and Earnings linked to 2011 Census – England & Wales 

Richmond Opoku (Swansea University) 

Predicting outcomes of children in care  .

Primary Supervisor: Professor Sinéad Brophy  

Looked After Children Wales  

Looked After Children Longitudinal Dataset – Scotland 

Data First: Family Court linked to Cafcass & Census 2021 – England & Wales  

Ramakrishnan Radhakrishnan (Northumbria University) 

Employment journeys of people working in the community care sector .

Primary Supervisor: Professor Peter McMeekin  

Related theme(s): 

Annual Survey of Hours and Earnings linked to 2011 Census – England & Wales   

Marta Stryjniak (University of Cambridge) 

Higher education access in the uk .

Primary Supervisor: Dr Sonia Ilie  

Grading and Admissions Data for England  

Ella Watson (Cardiff University) 

Health and criminal justice outcomes for care experienced young people .

Primary Supervisor: Professor Donald Forrester  

Ziqing Ye (University of Exeter) 

Environmental predictors of educational outcomes for children with special educational needs and disabilities (send) .

Primary Supervisor: Professor Helen Dodd  

Growing Up in England 

Lijie Zeng (University of Edinburgh) 

Using linked administrative data to examine the impact of parental disability on child attainment .

Primary Supervisor: Dr Jasmin Wertz  

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We're committed to supporting the next generation of cancer researchers, and our community includes around 550 PhD students and 750 postdoctoral researchers. Our researchers benefit from support including networking groups and events, training, travel grants, and opportunities to begin developing their independent research careers.

Find a PhD or postdoc

Recruitment for PhD studentships and postdoc positions is usually managed independently by the institutes, centres and investigators that we fund around the UK. If you are interested in studying or working with us, we advise you to:

Browse our institutes and centres, and search for positions on their websites

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We want our research funding to be accessible for everyone. So we’ve developed guidance covering the support we offer grant applicants and grant holders who are disabled or have a long-term health condition.

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PhD student launches podcast in campaign for educational equality

Éireann Attridge reflects on the importance of speaking up in widening participation

• widening participation
• postgraduate research

In her PhD project, Éireann Attridge researches the role of higher education in understandings of social mobility and class. She recently launched a podcast with friend Abigail Agyemang, titled Sisters in Scholarship .

Tell me a bit about your social media channels. What gave you the confidence to share your experiences?

I run T he Student Journey channel on YouTube where I share the ups and downs of navigating a PhD (or other journeys in academia). I also recently launched the Sisters in Scholarship podcast with my good friend Abigail Agyemang where we talk about navigating academia.

Sharing that much of yourself online is scary - and scarier when you think of people you know seeing it. I am continuously trying to overcome that worry and just reminding myself that if I am being authentically me then there shouldn't be any hugely negative consequences, and if there are, that is also something to learn from. 

Overall, I think I have weirdly grown comfortable with public speaking. Initiatives such as the Wolfson Research Event are a brilliant introduction to public speaking in an academic setting. However, nothing has helped me develop this skill like working with young people. Working with young people and in school settings before starting my PhD meant I was put in a lot of last-minute situations or group settings where you have to command a crowd. 

I knew that I really honed the skill when, after delivering an assembly on the importance of growth after failure, a student told me, “Miss, in your assembly even my form tutor was smiling - and that's how you know you did good, 'cause he never smiles.”

Can you summarise your educational route to your Cambridge PhD? 

I first joined Cambridge at the age of eighteen from South London, as an undergraduate to study Education and English. I chose the course due to my inability to choose between Sociology and Psychology – subjects I started and really enjoyed at A level. Doing Education Studies enabled me to continue pursuing my interest in both. 

As someone who benefitted a lot from the outreach work conducted by universities local to me (King's College do incredible work in Lambeth) I understood the impact of poverty on access to education, but also the collaborative ways in which this could be addressed. 

Based on that experience, I volunteered frequently during my undergraduate degree and built up a set of skills to work in widening participation and admissions. I did this for a number of years for universities, charities, and schools, interrupting this briefly to do an MSc, and then eventually a PhD.

Tell me about some of your work surrounding educational access and equality. Why is being vocal in this sector so important to you?

There are many fantastic people working in the field of educational access and equality. All are well-meaning and dedicated, but not all have the lived experience to inform their approach – this is the case for a number of charities as can be seen in the Reclaim 'Missing Experts' report . 

Being put in situations where I share my experience with students from similar backgrounds really helped me develop my confidence in using my voice. I realised that the same skill and 'oversharing' of my experience can be directed up, to those with the power to enforce change at the policy level, as well as down. 

In terms of my methodology, I am very much learning as I go. However, compassion and non-judgement really have to be at the forefront for me. Instead of polishing the individual to make them fit in at the university, I want to ensure we are working to fit around the needs and experiences of the students themselves.

Can you tell me a bit about your own PhD project. Why is your project important to you ? 

My PhD project is a mixed-methods project on how we conceptualise and measure social class and social mobility and the role of higher education in understanding these ideas. It is not exactly what I proposed when I applied, but my supervisor acts as an incredible soundboard and helped me realise that what I was really wanting to look at was these bigger conceptual ideas rather than trends alone.

For my qualitative work within the project, I am using a narrative approach and am really excited to see the ways in which people make sense of their own class identity in relation to education. 

I am hoping to connect with and elevate the voices of my participants. As well as this, I hope I can comment critically on the relevance and importance of the current tools being used to measure or indicate one's class identity or affiliation. Even if I stay in the world of academia, I would really like to contribute something that can be used outside of it.

Have your experiences of the working world changed your approach to PhD life?

Working before a PhD has been an extremely grounding and useful experience. I applied to complete a PhD four years earlier and I was not granted funding. I think I would manage either way, but more work experience will only ever be beneficial. 

Being a programme manager especially means my organisational skills are strong - that isn't to say things don't get overwhelming. The freedom and flexibility of a PhD can sometimes mean you either do nothing or you do everything. I have been in the everything camp for longer than I would like to admit, and I am trying my best to put the boundaries in place to not overexert myself on things that don't serve my PhD, wellbeing, or values. 

What advice would you have for a student considering doing a PhD?

A wonderful staff member from the Accessibility and Disability Resource Centre (ADRC) said, “there's no prize for doing it the hard way,” and I try to remind myself of that every day. 

We joke a lot about the stress of being a graduate student, but if I ever feel that my PhD is hindering my life - that's the day I'll quit! None of this is to say that PhDs cannot be stressful, but it is important to remember that we have agency and can challenge toxic academic culture, as scary as that might be.

Why did you pick Wolfson and how have you found settling into Cambridge life? 

I chose Wolfson as I wanted to be around students of a similar age to me. I have found it challenging at times transitioning back into the role of student and often being assumed to be much younger than I am; I think this is also unique to someone who has been a staff member in most other parts of the university system, but becomes a student in this space. Despite this, I am really happy to be here surrounded by lovely friends and supportive staff. 

Outside my PhD, I am also a member of the University's Powerlifting society , which has been a wonderful group, but also an activity I can do indecently to gain focus and structure. I think as long as you are proactive and look out for these things, there is so much to do, no matter what course you are studying.

What are you most looking forward to for the remainder of your PhD? Do you have any idea where your PhD might take you?

Being able to really sit and mull over my data is something I am really excited about (and then being able to talk about it post viva)! 

Outside academia, I really want to continue to make the most of Cambridge - I have no clear idea where I will be next, so I have to assume my time here is limited. I would love to attend more musical performances across the University, as well as enjoy the access to nature and biodiversity that we are so lucky to have.

As for what's next, I feel that a mix of research and teaching would suit my desire to keep formulating and discussing the big ideas of my PhD project.

This article is part of the 2024 Postgraduate Student Profile Series.

MPhil Education student Grace Batley finds her authentic voice in academia

In April 2024, Éireann took over our Wolfson Instagram stories to show us a day in her PhD life . You can follow Éireann's experience via her own Instagram account @the_student_journeyy and watch her TEDx talk on supporting underrepresented students. 

You can also find out more about Éireann's work on her website and catch up with the first episode of her podcast .

Éireann speaks on overcoming class barriers

Éireann as organiser of WCSA's sports & societies awards

What's on

Graduation Ceremony

Graduation ceremonies are the culmination of students’ hard work and commitment, and a moment to celebrate the completion of their Cambridge degree.

Postgraduate Research Soirée

Join Wolfson postgraduate students as they talk about their research in an informal evening of interesting presentations and friendly discussion – complete with wine and cheese! 

Art Exhibition: Ceramics in the Bernard Leach Tradition

A display of works from the Bradshaw-Bubier studio pottery collection.

Lunchtime Concert: Student Musicians

Wolfson College Music Society invites you to a concert given by some of our talented student performers.

Varieties of Togetherness: Some Approaches to Feminist Art History

How might methods of feminist political organising offer transformative methods for art history? 

Wolfson Fellow elected as a Fellow of the Royal Society

Multi-faith prayer room opens in Chancellor's Centre

Meet Wolfson's newest Fellows

"A masterclass" on the diffusion of knowledge: Wolfson Research Event 2024

"The highlight of the gardening year" as Wolfson's young Judas Tree flowers

"I find the world endlessly interesting" - Sandi Toksvig OBE delivers this year's Lee Lecture

Institute of Archaeology

IoA PhD Student Conference 2024: Innovative Ideas, Methodologies, and Techniques

A one-day conference highlighting the latest research by PhD researchers of the UCL Institute of Archaeology will be held on 7 June.

Join us for a day filled with groundbreaking research and stimulating discussions. This free, in-person and digitally syndicated event is a fantastic opportunity where PhD students will showcase their work, exchange ideas, and network with fellow researchers.  

Book your place now

9:30 - Dr Gabriel Moshenska

9:35-10:00 - Keynote Speaker: Dr Miljana Radivojevic

Session 1 - 10:00-10:50

• A Long-Term Comparative Approach to Palatial Buildings in the Southern Levant and Mesopotamia: Insights from Space Syntax Analysis - Xosé L. Hermoso-Buxán
• Ferme Neuve of Les Douaires, Normandy: Digital Reconstruction of a French Youth Penal Colony - Elias Michaut

Session 2 - 11:10-12:25

• Modelling Site Location and Dynamic Occupation of Early Societies in the Lower Yangtze, China and the Netherlands: An Ecological Perspective on Neolithisation in Coastal Regions - Shenglun Du
• Integrating AI and Visual Methods for Enhanced Cranial Sex Estimation in Forensic Anthropology - Karina Andersson
• The chilihueques of Southern Chile: Archaeological Considerations in Relation to the Camelid Domestication in the Araucanía, Southern Chile - Ayelen Delgado Orellana

Session 3 - 13:30-14:45

• Assembly and Dispatch: A Multi-dimensional View of the Practice of Eating - Sian Therese
• Pierced Stones: Embodied Permeability on the Roman Frontiers - Blair Katherine Betik
• Interconnectivity between Ports in East China from 8th to 13th Centuries: A Case Study from Qinglong Town, Shanghai - Shiyu Yang

Session 4 - 15:05-16:20

• The Relationships between Land-users and Archaeologists in British Mandate Palestine and Their Impact on Archaeological Research - Stephen Porter
• Volunteers as Re-Narrators of Colonial Histories: T heir C ontribution to D ecolonisation of the British Cultural Institutions - Laurence Maidment-Blundell
• Decolonising conservation practices in Kenya - Oba K. Waiyaki

Session 5 - 16:40-17:30/17:55

• Material manipulation: Knowledge exchange between experienced practitioners and emerging conservators within the field of historic brick pointing - David Pope
• Sustainable Data Infrastructures for Heritage and Archaeology: Risks and Solutions? - Jinyue Zhang
• Drones, Artificial Intelligence, and Preventative Archaeology: Prospection of Subsurface Archaeological Remains using Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs) and Deep Learning Approaches - Louis Monntero

Don't miss out on the chance to be inspired by the latest developments in archaeology, cultural heritage, and museum studies and make valuable connections in the field.

We can't wait to see you there!

Please note : valid Staff/Student UCL ID will be required to gain access to the conference.

The Institute of Archaeology is one of the largest and highly regarded centres for archaeology, cultural heritage and museum studies in the world.

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International student deposits in UK dive after graduate visas tightened

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Peter Foster and Jim Pickard in London

Roula Khalaf, Editor of the FT, selects her favourite stories in this weekly newsletter.

The number of international students paying deposits to study at UK universities has “plummeted” after Prime Minister Rishi Sunak put restrictions on education visas, according to industry data given to the government’s independent adviser on migration.

Enroly, a web platform used by one in three international students for managing university enrolment, said deposits to a representative sample of 24 British universities had declined 57 per cent year on year as of May.

The data, shared directly with the Financial Times, will form part of a Migration Advisory Committee report set to be published on Tuesday into whether the government should continue to let international students stay and work in the UK for two years after graduation.

The study into the “graduate visa route” was commissioned in March by home secretary James Cleverly to investigate concerns that graduate visas were being used as a backdoor immigration route rather than “attracting and retaining the best and brightest students”.

Jeffrey Williams, Enroly’s chief executive, said the company’s analysis showed “international student deposits, a key indicator of future enrolments, have plummeted”.

“This steep decline signals a significant drop in the UK’s attractiveness as a study destination. With such a drastic year-on-year reduction, further restrictive policies could exacerbate an already critical situation,” he added.

The Enroly data for the September 2024 entry period includes postgraduate students who were hit by Sunak’s decision last year to heavily restrict visas that allowed them to bring their family members to the UK.

Ministers are expected to make a decision on whether to axe the graduate route as early as this week. Sunak is under pressure from the right of the Conservative party to abolish it ahead of the upcoming general election to show the Tories are serious about cutting legal net migration after it exceeded a record 640,000 in the year to June 2023.

Last week Robert Jenrick, former immigration minister who quit Sunak’s government in December, issued a report with the conservative Centre for Policy Studies think-tank calling for the graduate visa route to be abolished.

But in recent weeks Sunak and chancellor Jeremy Hunt have also been subjected to a barrage of lobbying from the education sector arguing that the graduate visa is vital for the UK’s ability to compete in the global market for talent.

University and industry leaders have argued that any move to further crimp education visas will inflict significant damage on a sector that relies on foreign fee income for more than a fifth of its revenues. Overseas students typically pay two or three times the fees paid by domestic students.

Student migration to the UK reached a record high in 2022, with about 484,000 sponsored study visas issued, a 38 per cent increase from 2021 when the graduate visa route was reintroduced. A previous version was abolished in 2012.

In 2021-22 there were 820,310 postgraduates studying in the UK, of which almost half, or 372,500 were from overseas — up from about one-third in 2017-18.

A letter last week co-signed by the heads of 17 local chambers of commerce warned that abolition of the graduate visa route and the resultant loss of income from international students would have “a serious impact” on R&D capacity in the UK.

Jane Harrington, vice-chancellor of the University of Greenwich and chair of University Alliance that co-ordinated the letter, said ending the route would be “an extraordinary economic own goal”.

Abolishing the graduate route could also have a significant impact on undergraduate applications, which have recently seen markedly slower annual growth but not yet a decline.

In January, data from the Universities and Colleges Admissions Service showed undergraduate international applications were 0.7 per cent higher than the previous year as of January. 

FT analysis of the data showed one-third of institutions had seen a decline in overseas applicants, indicating uneven impacts across the sector.

A survey last month of 75 universities by the British Universities’ International Liaison Association, which represents the international recruitment sector, found that almost nine out of 10 reported a year-on-year decrease in postgraduate applications from international students for the September 2024 intake.

For undergraduate applications, nearly two-thirds of those surveyed reported a reduction, according to the survey.

A senior government official said the government’s position on the graduate visa route had not been pre-determined. “We are waiting for the MAC report before we decide which direction to go. You can expect James Cleverly to read the MAC report and take a decision based on that,” the official added.

Labour, which is leading in the polls ahead of the upcoming general election, declined to set out its position before the MAC report is published.

The Home Office said: “We are fully focused on striking the right balance between acting decisively to tackle net migration and attracting the best and brightest students to study at our universities, recognising the significant contribution they make to the UK.”

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Ill Nigerian PhD student who complained faces losing UK visa

Home office notification of sue agazie highlights ‘weaponisation of immigration status’ by universities when students complain, say critics.

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Supporters of a Nigerian PhD student facing potential deportation after her doctoral studies were halted by illness and a breakdown in relations with her supervisor have claimed her plight highlights the precarity of international students who complain about their course.

Sue Agazie, a copywriter from Lagos, moved to the UK in January 2023 to begin a PhD in marketing at Newcastle University Business School on the understanding, she claimed, that she was likely to receive a full scholarship for her studies or would gain enough part-time academic work to cover her living costs.

However, funding and paid work did not materialise in the way suggested, said Ms Agazie, who added that she has run up huge debts to finance her PhD.

Amid a breakdown in relations with her primary supervisor over her money troubles, Ms Agazie was then diagnosed with kidney failure in September 2023.

With a formal complaint launched against Newcastle and her supervisor over allegedly misleading her over funding, Ms Agazie has now been informed that Newcastle has contacted the Home Office over her absence from supervisions – a move that could see her visa revoked.

That would mean her husband and young child, who travelled with Ms Agazie to north-east England, would also be forced to leave the country.

Her case is now being championed by Unis Resist Border Controls, a campaign group that raises awareness of how migrant university staff have  been affected by the UK’s hostile environment policies.  More than 250 people – including many PhD students and scholars – have signed a  petition  urging the Home Office to stop any visa curtailment.

Its spokeswoman Sanaz Raji, a visiting researcher at Northumbria University , said the notification of the Home Office was an example of the “weaponisation of her immigration status” in a disputes process.

In a statement, Newcastle said “complaints are investigated following the university’s standard procedures”. “Where a complaint has been made by a postgraduate student about their supervisor, our normal practice would be to investigate the matter and explore arrangements for an alternative supervisor if that becomes necessary,” it continued.

“We can’t discuss individual cases, but we offer a range of support to postgraduate students including advice on visa issues, hardship funding, and support to have a break in study where there is an illness or other circumstances.”

Under Home Office rules, higher education institutions must notify authorities if students fail to attend class or discontinue their course, although Ms Agazie said she intends to finish her studies.

The lack of support for a “critically ill” student  also indicated how “universities instrumentalise migrant students from the Global South as sources of income that they can afterwards dispose of”, said Ms Raji in a reference to the multimillion-pound revenues received by universities from international postgraduates.

According to official statistics, Nigeria is the UK’s third largest source of international students behind China and India with about  44,000 studying in 2021-22,  mostly at postgraduate level.

According to Ms Raji, Ms Agazie was led to believe that many PhD students in her situation had found plentiful paid work and obtained scholarships, but these apparent success stories did not stand up once they were investigated.

With the threat of visa revocation looming, students would, however, be reluctant to complain if things go wrong, said Ms Agazie. “Forcing an international student into immigration problems while a complaint is under way…is basically telling international students not to complain,” she said.

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