If you’re dreaming of pursuing a PhD in the UK, you’re not alone—but like many prospective researchers, you might be wondering how to fund it. With tuition fees, research costs, and living expenses all adding up, the financial commitment can be significant. Fortunately, there’s good news: PhD funding in the UK is extensive, varied, and—when approached strategically—within reach for many students, including those from overseas.
From government-backed studentships and research council grants to charitable fellowships and university scholarships, there are many PhD funding opportunities across disciplines. But knowing how PhD funding works in the UK, how to apply, and which options you’re eligible for can sometimes feel like a full-time job.
This guide walks you through the UK PhD funding landscape, breaking down major schemes, how to apply, typical stipends, and what you need to know as a home or international applicant.
How Does PhD Funding Work in the UK?
In the UK, PhD funding typically comes in two forms:
Fully Funded Studentships
These are the most desirable, covering full tuition fees and providing a PhD stipend (a tax-free maintenance grant) to support living costs. Many of these are awarded through UKRI (UK Research and Innovation) and its associated research councils or university partnerships.
Partial Funding or Scholarships
Some schemes cover only tuition or only living expenses. While still valuable, they may require top-up support from external scholarships, self-funding via personal savings, or a part-time job.
Funding can be tied to specific projects (especially in STEM), broad thematic areas (like ESRC for social sciences), or structured Doctoral Training Partnerships (DTPs), such as the South, West and Wales Doctoral Training Partnership (SWWDTP). In some cases, you’ll apply for the PhD and funding together; in others, you’ll need to secure an offer first before applying for funding separately.
Major PhD Funding Bodies and Programmes in the UK
Let’s explore the most prominent funders offering PhD studentships in the UK, including details on eligibility, application processes, and what they typically fund.
UKRI PhD Funding
UK Research and Innovation (UKRI) is the UK’s largest public funder of doctoral research. As an umbrella organisation made up of nine individual research councils, it funds thousands of PhD students every year across a broad range of disciplines.
Rather than offering direct scholarships to students, UKRI PhD funding is typically administered through institutions via Doctoral Training Partnerships (DTPs) or Centres for Doctoral Training (CDTs). These are collaborative training structures involving one or more universities, often with links to industry or non-academic partners. Studentships include full tuition fee coverage and a UKRI PhD stipend—a tax-free maintenance grant to support living costs.
Main UKRI Research Councils Offering PhD Funding
Here’s an overview of the seven UKRI research councils, with examples of what they fund:
Economic and Social Research Council (ESRC)
- Supports research in social sciences: sociology, economics, political science, psychology, human geography, and education.
- Funds PhDs via ESRC-accredited DTPs across the UK.
- Interdisciplinary and policy-focused themes are often prioritised.
- Funding includes methods training and opportunities for placements or international fieldwork.
Arts and Humanities Research Council (AHRC)
- Funds doctoral research in literature, languages, history, art history, philosophy, media, and cultural studies.
- Delivered through AHRC-accredited DTPs such as SWWDTP, LAHP or CHASE.
- Emphasises cross-institutional collaboration, archival work, and cultural partnerships.
Engineering and Physical Sciences Research Council (EPSRC)
- Covers engineering, chemistry, physics, mathematics, computer science, and materials.
- Funding often distributed through CDTs that provide cohort-based training and advanced technical support.
Medical Research Council (MRC)
- Supports biomedical and health-related research at the PhD level.
- PhD programmes often come with structured training in clinical or translational research.
- May include placements with the NHS, biotech firms, or public health organisations.
Natural Environment Research Council (NERC)
- Focuses on environmental science, ecology, climate change, and Earth systems.
- CDTs or DTPs are often tied to specialist research centres and interdisciplinary environmental networks.
Science and Technology Facilities Council (STFC)
- Funds astrophysics, particle physics, nuclear physics, and astronomy, often in collaboration with international labs and observatories.
Biotechnology and Biological Sciences Research Council (BBSRC)
- Supports research in biosciences, including molecular biology, agriculture, food science, and biotechnology.
- CDTs sometimes involve industrial partners, giving students access to cutting-edge lab facilities and sector-specific placements.
Each of these councils has its own application timetable and preferred thematic areas, so it’s crucial to align your proposal accordingly.
Applying Through Doctoral Training Partnerships (DTPs) and Centres for Doctoral Training (CDTs)
Almost all UKRI-funded PhD studentships are available only through university-led partnerships, not by applying directly to UKRI. There are two main models, DTPs and CDTs.
What are PhD DTPs (Doctoral Training Partnerships)?
These typically fund students across a broad range of disciplines. DTPs often span several universities and may include optional training modules, placements, and interdisciplinary opportunities.
What are PhD CDTs (Centres for Doctoral Training)?
CDTs are usually more structured and science-based, often including taught components in the first year and specific thematic cohorts.
To apply, you’ll need to:
- Identify a DTP or CDT aligned with your research area.
- Apply via one of the participating universities.
- Tailor your research proposal to the thematic areas and institutional priorities of the DTP/CDT.
- Work with a supervisor to refine your application before the funding deadline.
Wellcome Trust PhD Funding
The Wellcome Trust supports health-related PhDs, particularly those bridging science, medicine, humanities, and social science.
What’s Offered:
- Four-year fully funded studentships
- Tuition fees, generous stipends, and research expenses
- Access to world-class training, mentorship, and international networking
These awards are highly competitive and target projects with significant impact on health, society, or science communication.
NIHR PhD Funding
The National Institute for Health and Care Research (NIHR) offers PhD funding in the UK for applied health and care research.
The award opens twice a year in April and October. It lasts 3 years full-time, and there are part-time options available.
Cambridge and Oxford PhD Funding
Cambridge PhD Funding
Funding at Cambridge is centralised and highly competitive. Options include:
- Gates Cambridge Scholarships: Open to international students with leadership potential.
- Cambridge Trust and departmental scholarships
- AHRC/ESRC-funded DTPs for eligible disciplines
All major funding schemes require early application—often by early December.
Oxford PhD Funding
Main Oxford PhD funding includes:
- Clarendon Scholarships: a fully-funded scholarship program awarded by Oxford University to outstanding graduate students.
- Department-specific studentships and UKRI-supported DTPs.
- College and subject-based bursaries.
Like Cambridge, the deadlines are early and the competition intense, but awards are generous and comprehensive.
PhD Funding in Scotland
Scottish universities offer diverse funding routes, including:
- Scottish Graduate School of Social Science (SGSSS) – For ESRC PhD funding in disciplines like sociology and economics.
- Scottish Graduate School for Arts and Humanities (SGSAH) – For AHRC funding in subjects like history, philosophy, and language studies.
Additionally, PhD funding in Scotland may be supported by SAAS for Scottish-domiciled students.
PhD Funding for International Students
Although some funding schemes prioritise UK-domiciled applicants, there are still excellent opportunities for international students. Securing PhD funding as an international student in the UK can be competitive, but there are a wide range of opportunities available through government schemes, universities, and external organisations.
Key Funding Sources
International PhD students in the UK may be eligible for funding from:
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UK Research and Innovation (UKRI) studentships
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Government-backed schemes such as Commonwealth and Chevening Scholarships
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University-specific scholarships and grants
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Charitable foundations and private trusts
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Field-specific or country-specific awards
While some funding schemes prioritise UK-domiciled applicants, many are open to candidates from all nationalities, and some are specifically targeted at international students.
Major UK PhD Scholarships for International Students
Notable programmes for potential international PhD students include:
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Commonwealth PhD Scholarships – For students from eligible Commonwealth countries
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Newton Fund PhD Scholarships – Supports collaborations with 18 partner countries
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Wellcome Trust Doctoral Studentships: As explained above it’s for research in biomedical science
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Gen Foundation Grants: Supports students in science and technology and it’s open to students of all nationalities
Funded PhD Projects
Many UK PhD programmes—particularly in STEM fields—come with funding already attached. These projects are often advertised on university websites or PhD search platforms and usually include:
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Tuition fee waivers
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A tax-free stipend
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Research and training expenses
Some Arts, Humanities, and Social Science projects are also fully funded, particularly through doctoral training partnerships (DTPs).
EU/EEA Student Funding
Since 2021, students from the EU/EEA are classified as international students for funding and fee purposes in the UK. If you do not hold settled or pre-settled status, you:
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May be required to pay international tuition fees
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May not be eligible for UK Government Doctoral Loans
However, you can still apply for UKRI-funded studentships, which typically provide:
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A fee waiver (up to the UK home rate)
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A maintenance stipend for living expenses
Country-Specific Funding Opportunities
Many countries offer scholarships for their citizens to undertake PhD study abroad. These may take the form of:
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Government-sponsored exchange programmes
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Overseas study schemes for future academics
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Charitable or philanthropic grants for international research experience
Examples include:
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DAAD scholarships (Germany)
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Fulbright Programme (USA)
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China Scholarship Council (CSC) programmes
Get Expert Help with Funding and Proposal Writing
👉 Before applying for PhD funding in the UK you should have a clear idea of where to apply, know how to craft a compelling proposal, and demonstrate your research potential. Our 9-step PhD application service is built to support students through this exact process. We offer tailored advice on institutional and national scholarships and sponsorships and our academics will also assist with refining your research proposal, personal statement and CV to meet funder expectations. Don’t risk missing out on full funding. Let us help you apply with confidence.
How to Apply for PhD Funding in the UK
Understanding how to apply for PhD funding in the UK is just as important as identifying the right scheme. Applications often require simultaneous attention to academic admissions, research proposals, and detailed funding statements. Here’s a breakdown of each step in the process:
1. Choose a University and Supervisor Aligned with Your Interests
Your choice of university and academic supervisor is critical. Funding bodies—especially those like UKRI—prefer strong alignment between your proposed project and the department’s expertise. Start by researching potential supervisors within your field. Read their recent publications, explore their department’s research priorities, and look into any current PhD studentship UK listings.
Reach out to your supervisor with a well-crafted email introducing your proposed topic, your academic background, and why you’re interested in working with them. A positive response can make a significant difference to your application—many supervisors only support strong candidates with well-aligned ideas.
2. Research DTP or Departmental Funding Schemes Relevant to Your Field
After identifying your preferred institution(s), investigate what PhD funding opportunities they offer. Many top universities in the UK are members of Doctoral Training Partnerships (DTPs) or Centres for Doctoral Training (CDTs) funded by UKRI, ESRC, or AHRC.
Each DTP or CDT may have unique research themes, eligibility criteria, and application timelines. For example, the SWWDTP (South, West and Wales Doctoral Training Partnership) supports humanities PhDs across institutions including Bath and Bristol. These partnerships often include training, cohort activities, and interdisciplinary research opportunities.
3. Draft a Research Proposal Tailored to Your Chosen Area
Your research proposal is the cornerstone of your PhD application. It should be original, well-structured, and clearly demonstrate your project’s significance and feasibility.
Tailor the proposal to your chosen funding body’s themes and priorities. For example, if applying for ESRC PhD funding, ensure your topic fits within recognised social science domains and adheres to ethical and methodological guidelines.
Be sure to include:
- A clear research question or hypothesis
- The context and rationale behind your study
- A brief literature review
- Your proposed methodology
- A timeline or plan of work
- Expected contributions to the field
Funders are looking for evidence that your project is academically rigorous and achievable within the usual timeframe (3–4 years for full-time PhDs).
4. Contact the Potential Supervisor Early to Seek Feedback and Backing
Once your draft proposal is ready, contact your prospective supervisor again. Ask for detailed feedback on your proposal and whether they would be willing to support your application.
Most PhD funding UK schemes—especially those tied to DTPs or studentships—require confirmation that a supervisor is committed to working with you. In many cases, they also provide a written supporting statement or help finalise your proposal before submission.
This collaboration is not only important for your funding application but will form the basis of your working relationship for the next several years.
5. Prepare Supporting Documents (CV, References, Academic Transcripts)
You’ll typically need to submit several documents alongside your application:
- A current academic CV
- Degree transcripts and certificates
- Two (or sometimes three) academic references
- Personal statement (especially for institutional funding)
If English is not your first language, you’ll also need to meet the university’s English language requirements and take IELTS or TOEFL tests.
6. Submit Your PhD Application and Funding Form (Often Simultaneously)
Many UK universities allow you to apply for both the PhD place and funding in one combined application—but not always. Sometimes you’ll need to:
- Apply for a place first (usually via the university’s postgraduate portal)
- Then separately complete a funding form or nominate yourself for a PhD studentship UK or DTP
Pay close attention to funding application forms—they often require detailed personal statements, financial declarations, or project summaries. You may need to indicate your preferred supervisor and explain how your project fits the department or funding theme.
7. Interview or Submit Written Assessments, If Required
Shortlisted candidates may be invited to a PhD interview—either by the university or funding consortium. These interviews assess your:
- Understanding of your proposed project
- Fit with your supervisor and department
- Motivation and potential for doctoral research
In some cases, you may be asked to revise your proposal or submit additional materials. Be prepared to discuss your methodology, theoretical framework, and how you plan to disseminate your research.
8. Plan for Early Deadlines (Often in December or January)
A crucial point: PhD funding deadlines in the UK are usually far earlier than admission deadlines. Most DTPs and UKRI-related funding schemes close in December or January for programmes beginning the following September or October.
This means you need to begin researching and preparing your application materials as early as the summer before your intended start date. Rushed applications are rarely successful.
How to Get Funding for a PhD in the UK: Pro Tips
Wondering how to get funding for a PhD in the UK? Here’s what your should do:
- Start early: Some universities close funding applications 9–12 months in advance.
- Tailor your proposal to the funder’s themes or institutional research strengths.
- Build a relationship with your supervisor: They often write a supporting statement and provide assistance with your research proposal.
- Get professional feedback on your application documents.
- Apply widely if possible—don’t rely on one option.
Secure Your PhD Future with Confidence
Navigating PhD funding in the UK can seem overwhelming, especially with so many institutions, schemes, and deadlines to consider. But with the right research idea, a strategic approach, and guidance from people who understand the system, a fully funded PhD place is absolutely within reach. Whether you’re a home or international student, success depends not just on academic excellence—but on knowing where to look, how to position your project, and how to make your application stand out.
Ready to make your PhD plans a reality?
Explore our 9-step PhD application service and get tailored support from real academics and get expert, one-to-one support from real academics who know what universities are looking for. Get in touch with our team of academic consultants and take the first confident step towards securing your PhD future.
FAQs about UK PhD Funding and Studentships
What is a PhD studentship?
A PhD studentship is a funded PhD position that covers tuition and usually provides a stipend for living expenses. It may be project-specific or open for applicant-designed proposals.
What is a PhD stipend?
A PhD stipend is a monthly, tax-free payment that supports doctoral researchers while they study. It’s part of many fully funded studentships in the UK.
How much is a PhD stipend?
For the 2025–26 academic year, UKRI-funded PhD students will receive:
- A minimum of £5,006 to cover tuition fees. While universities may set higher fee levels, they are not permitted to charge UK students more than this if they hold a UKRI studentship.
- A minimum stipend of £20,780 per year to support living expenses. This amount is tax-free and paid in regular instalments throughout the year.
Is a PhD stipend taxable UK?
No, the PhD stipend in the UK is not taxable. It is considered a grant, not earned income, and is exempt from income tax and National Insurance.
