The United Kingdom is one of the most sought-after destinations amongst students due to its high quality of education and thriving career opportunities the country has to offer. Pursuing a PhD is a significant academic and financial commitment, and for many students, securing funding can be a challenging task. Fortunately, PhD scholarships UK are available to support aspiring PhD scholars from around the world. Many leading institutions in the UK have endowments exceeding 1 billion GBP every year. In this guide, we will explore the top 10 UK scholarships for PhD students, the eligibility criteria, application processes, tips to successfully apply to these scholarships and more.
| Top 10 UK Scholarships For PhD Students Overview | ||
| Scholarship Name | Key Benefits | Target Audience |
| The Gates Cambridge Scholarship | Covers full tuition, living allowance, airfare, and visa expenses. | International students at the University of Cambridge |
| Carnegie PhD Scholarship | Provides tuition, living allowance, and research expenses. | Students with exceptional abilities pursuing a PhD at a Scottish university. |
| Scotland’s Saltire Scholarship | Covers tuition fees and living allowance for one year of PhD study in Scotland. | Students from Canada, India, China, Japan, Pakistan, and the United States. |
| The Marshall Scholarship | Funds the full cost of postgraduate studies in any field at any UK university. | U.S. citizens with a minimum GPA of 3.7. |
| Commonwealth Scholarships for Developing Commonwealth Countries | Offers financial assistance to students from developing Commonwealth countries. | Citizens/permanent residents of Commonwealth countries with financial need. |
| Imperial College London President’s PhD Scholarship | Covers tuition and other expenses for outstanding full-time and part-time PhD students. | International students with a postgraduate degree with distinction. |
| Oxford University- Clarendon Scholarship | Provides full tuition and a living stipend. | Applicants to PhD programmes at Oxford University (automatic consideration). |
| University of Cambridge: Harding Distinguished Postgraduate Scholars Programme | Offers a comprehensive financial package to exceptional PhD candidates. | Diverse students with a first-class or upper second-class honours degree and a master’s degree. |
| University of Exeter- PhD Scholarship | Provides a stipend, teaching allowance, and potential research funding. | Students with an upper second-class honours degree and a master’s degree (Merit or equivalent). |
| Aston University College of Business and Social Sciences PhD Scholarship | Offers full tuition and a maintenance grant for three years. | Students with a master’s degree and a first-class or upper second-class honours degree. |
PhD Scholarships For International Students In the UK–
The United Kingdom is a popular choice for students planning to study abroad due to the presence of leading universities, a global study environment and abundant career prospects. However, finances can be a potential roadblock in pursuing education in the UK. These PhD scholarships for international students in the UK are worth taking note of to help you take your career to the next level.
1. The Gates Cambridge Scholarship:
If you are an international student aspiring to pursue a full-time PhD, one-year postgraduate, MSc, or MLitt programme at the University of Cambridge, the prestigious Gates Cambridge Scholarship presents an exceptional opportunity.
- This highly regarded scholarship not only covers the full cost of tuition but also provides a living allowance of £17,500 per annum for up to four years, along with additional benefits such as airfare, visa expenses, and immigration health surcharge.
- The selection process includes evaluating candidates based on their outstanding academic achievements, motivation for their chosen course, leadership skills, and commitment to improving the lives of others.
Eligibility Criteria:
- Non-UK citizenship
- Application to pursue a full-time PhD, MPhil/MLitt, or one-year postgraduate course at the University of Cambridge
2. Carnegie PhD Scholarship:
Another noteworthy scholarship to go for fully funded PhD programmes UK is the Carnegie PhD Scholarship which is offered by the Carnegie Trust for Universities in Scotland. This scholarship is highly competitive and aimed at students demonstrating exceptional academic abilities who plan to pursue a PhD at a Scottish university.
- The Carnegie PhD Scholarship provides substantial support, covering tuition costs, living allowances of £17,904, and research expenses.
- The scholarship can be renewed for up to three years of full-time study or six years of part-time education.
- Additionally, successful applicants can apply for an extension of up to 42 months which is subject to approval, ensuring long-term financial support throughout their doctoral journey.
Eligibility Criteria:
- Holding a First Class Honours undergraduate degree from a Scottish university in a relevant field to the planned doctorate study.
- Current final-year undergraduate students expected to graduate with a First Class Honours degree can also apply for the scholarship.
3. Scotland’s Saltire Scholarship:
Pursuing an abroad education from the UK is a dream of multiple students across the globe. If funding is the issue and if you are looking for funded PhD programmes UK, Scotland’s Saltire Scholarship is popularly known. It is a prestigious PhD scholarship in the UK, offered by the Scottish government in collaboration with Scottish educational institutions.
- This scholarship is designed to support full-time PhD students from Canada, India, China, Japan, Pakistan, and the United States, promoting Scotland as a destination for academic excellence and encouraging cultural exchange between Scotland and these countries.
- The Saltire Scholarship covers tuition fees for one academic year of full-time PhD study, with up to 50 scholarships available each year.
- Students who can successfully apply for this scholarship receive a living allowance of £8,000 for their year of study in Scotland.
- Students in departments such as science, healthcare, technology, arts, and renewable energy are eligible to apply for this scholarship.
Eligibility Criteria
To be eligible for the Saltire Scholarship, you must:
- Be a resident of one of the following countries: India, China, Canada, USA, Pakistan, or Japan.
- Hold an official offer letter from a recognised Scottish university.
- Demonstrate the ability to meet living expenses in Scotland.
- Not have previously studied in Scotland.
- Meet the language requirements set by the university.
- Not have previously received the benefits of the Saltire Scholarship.
4. The Marshall Scholarship:
The Marshall Scholarship is one of the most prestigious PhD scholarships UK that covers the entire cost of postgraduate studies across any field at any university in the United Kingdom.
- Each year, approximately 100 Marshall Scholarships are awarded to provide funding for either one or two years of study, depending on the chosen programme.
- Successful recipients of the Marshall Scholarship enjoy an annual stipend of £27,000, offering substantial financial support throughout their academic journey in the UK.
Eligibility Criteria
To be eligible for the Marshall Scholarship, applicants must:
- Hold United States citizenship at the time of application.
- Achieve a minimum grade point average of 3.7 on their undergraduate degree at the time of application (rounded GPAs are not accepted).
5. Commonwealth Scholarships for Developing Commonwealth Countries:
The Commonwealth Scholarship initiative is a brilliant opportunity for students from developing Commonwealth countries to pursue their academic aspirations in the United Kingdom.
- With a commitment to promoting global development, the Commonwealth strives to provide financial assistance to deserving individuals who hold the potential to make a positive impact on their respective communities.
- Each year, approximately 800 students from Commonwealth countries are granted the chance to be selected for this prestigious scholarship programme, enabling them to pursue their desired academic course at one of the esteemed institutions in the UK.
- This scholarship undoubtedly ranks among the best PhD scholarships in the United Kingdom.
Eligibility Criteria
To be eligible for the Commonwealth Scholarship for Developing Commonwealth Countries, applicants must:
- Be a citizen or permanent resident of a Commonwealth country.
- Hold an undergraduate degree with an upper second-class classification or higher.
- Possess a relevant master’s degree.
- Demonstrate financial need, proving their inability to fund their higher education in the UK without assistance.
6. Imperial College London President’s PhD Scholarship:
The Imperial College London President’s PhD Scholarship is a great opportunity for talented individuals to go for their doctoral studies at one of the most prestigious universities in the UK.
- This generous scholarship programme covers tuition fees and other expenses for 50 outstanding students, both full-time and part-time, providing them with the necessary financial support to take their research to the next level.
- If you aim to advance your academic journey and immerse yourself in cutting-edge research within your chosen field, the Imperial College London President’s PhD Scholarship presents a brilliant opportunity.
Eligibility Criteria
To be eligible for the Imperial College London President’s PhD Scholarship, applicants must:
- Have completed a postgraduate degree with distinction.
- Be a new applicant to Imperial College London, as the scholarship is not available to current students already enrolled in a course.
- There are no nationality restrictions, making this scholarship open to international students from around the world.
7. Oxford University- Clarendon Scholarship:
The Clarendon Scholarship at the University of Oxford is one of the highly prestigious PhD scholarships UK. When applying for a PhD programme at Oxford University, candidates are automatically considered for this esteemed scholarship, eliminating the need for a separate application form.
- The application deadline for the Clarendon Scholarship may vary depending on the PhD programme chosen but normally falls in January each year.
- Successful applicants of this scholarship will benefit from comprehensive financial support, including full tuition coverage and a living stipend of £15,609 per year.
Eligibility Criteria
To be eligible for the Clarendon Scholarship at Oxford University, applicants must meet the following criteria:
- Maintain a minimum grade point average (GPA) of 3.7 out of 4 or equivalent.
- Outstanding academic achievement at the master’s level.
- Provide official transcripts from previous academic institutions.
- Present proof of any university prizes, awards, or other academic honours received.
8. University of Cambridge: Harding Distinguished Postgraduate Scholars Programme:
The University of Cambridge seeks 25 exceptional PhD candidates from diverse backgrounds and areas of expertise to join the prestigious Harding Distinguished Postgraduate Scholars Programme
- The majority of the selected scholars will be affiliated with St Catharine’s College, while the remaining scholars will be placed in other colleges within the University of Cambridge.
- It’s important to note that the application deadline for this PhD scholarship in the UK varies across departments, so prospective applicants should carefully check the specific deadlines for their chosen programmes.
- Successful recipients of the Harding Distinguished Postgraduate Scholars Programme will benefit from a comprehensive financial package designed to support their academic pursuits.
- This package includes coverage of the university composition fee, a generous personal allowance of £6,000 throughout their studies, an annual stipend of £18,000, and even coverage of student visa costs.
Eligibility Criteria
To be eligible for the Harding Distinguished Postgraduate Scholars Programme at the University of Cambridge, applicants must:
- Demonstrate exceptional academic merit
- Hold a first-class or upper second-class honours degree in addition to a master’s degree.
8. University of Exeter- PhD Scholarship:
The University of Exeter is one of those exceptional PhD Scholarships UK. This comprehensive funding initiative consists of two distinct components: a research master’s in Economics and a PhD programme in either Finance or Economics.
- As part of this prestigious PhD scholarship in the UK, recipients will be required to contribute to the academic community by working as teaching or research assistants for approximately 180 hours which is equivalent to around 23 days per year.
- This hands-on experience is designed to enhance the scholars’ research and educational skills, providing a valuable opportunity for professional development.
- The financial support provided by this scholarship is substantial, with recipients receiving a combined stipend and teaching allowance of £19,000 per year to cover the 180 hours of assistantship.
- Additionally, students can apply for additional funding to cover expenses related to research, professional development, and conference travel, further supporting their academic journey.
Eligibility Criteria
To be eligible for the University of Exeter’s PhD Scholarship, applicants must meet the following criteria:
- Hold an upper second-class honours degree or equivalent in a relevant subject area.
- Possess a master’s degree with a Merit level or equivalent in a relevant subject area (some programmes may require a Distinction level).
- Meet the English language requirements for the programme to which they are applying.
- Provide references that demonstrate their academic and research potential.
- Submit a well-developed research proposal that aligns with the university’s research priorities.
- Meet any additional course-specific requirements, such as relevant work experience or knowledge of a specific subject area.
9. Aston University College of Business and Social Sciences:
Aston University’s College of Business and Social Sciences offers an outstanding opportunity for aspiring PhD students through its fully-funded PhD programme. Multiple students seeking admission to any of these programmes within the college are automatically eligible to apply for up to six fully-funded PhD studentships.
- If successful in securing one of these prestigious PhD scholarships in the UK, students can benefit from comprehensive financial support.
- This includes full tuition fee coverage and an annual maintenance grant of £15,580 for the duration of their three-year programme.
Eligibility Criteria
To be eligible for the Aston University College of Business and Social Sciences PhD Scholarship, applicants must meet the following criteria:
- Demonstrate exceptional academic merit by holding a master’s degree and either a first-class or upper second-class honours degree.
- Meet the English language requirements for the specific programme to which they are applying.
- Provide references that showcase their academic and research potential.
Tips to Apply for PhD Scholarships:
Securing a PhD scholarship can be a transformative opportunity, but it requires careful planning and a strategic approach. When applying for PhD scholarships in the UK, it’s essential to keep the following tips in mind:
1. Conduct Thorough Research:
The array of scholarship opportunities available can be overwhelming. Before beginning your search, maintain a dedicated notebook or diary to record the scholarships that are currently open for applications and those with upcoming deadlines. Additionally, visit the British Council website, where you can filter scholarships according to your country and desired course of study.
2. Stay Mindful of Deadlines:
Keeping track of each scholarship’s deadline is crucial, as missing a deadline may result in waiting an entire year for the next application cycle. Create an organised system to record deadlines not only for scholarship applications but also for course applications and visa requirements.
3. Understand Scholarship Requirements:
Carefully review the eligibility criteria for each scholarship you plan to apply for. Foreign universities have strict requirements, and failing to meet these criteria may lead to an automatic rejection of your application.
4. Craft Your Application with Care:
Thousands of students may be applying for the same scholarship, which often has limited slots available. To make your application stand out, read and understand each requirement thoroughly. Craft your responses thoughtfully and creatively, showcasing your unique qualities and potential.
List Of Documents Needed For UK Scholarships:
The documents that you will be required to present while applying for UK scholarships are highlighted in the table below:
| Document | Description |
| Academic Transcripts | Official transcripts from all universities/colleges attended, including the grading scale |
| Degree Certificates | Copies of degree certificates (Bachelor’s, Master’s, etc.) |
| Standardized Test Scores | Scores for tests like GRE, GMAT, IELTS, or TOEFL (if required) |
| Statement of Purpose (SOP) | A well-written essay explaining your academic interests, goals, and motivations |
| Letters of Recommendation | 2-3 recommendation letters from professors or employers |
| Research Proposal | A detailed proposal outlining your intended research topic and methodology (for research programs) |
| Curriculum Vitae (CV) | An up-to-date CV highlighting your academic achievements, work experience, and publications (if any) |
| Proof of English Proficiency | Test scores or other evidence of English language proficiency, if required |
| Financial Documents | Bank statements, sponsor letters, or other proof of funds to cover expenses not covered by the scholarship |
| Passport/ID Documents | Copies of your passport or national ID card |
| Application Fee Payment | Receipt or proof of payment for the application fee, if applicable |
How To Apply To UK Scholarships?
The basic process and the procedures that you need to keep in mind while applying for UK scholarships are highlighted below:
1. Identify Suitable Scholarships:
It is advisable to research on various UK scholarship opportunities that align with your academic background, interests, and career goals. Check eligibility criteria carefully for each scholarship, such as academic requirements, nationality, and programme of study. Keep track of scholarships you are eligible for, along with their deadlines and application requirements.
2. Preparing a Strong Application:
Gather all required documents, such as academic transcripts, recommendation letters, English proficiency scores, and research proposals (if applicable). Draft a compelling personal statement or statement of purpose that highlights your achievements, motivations, and future aspirations.
3. Meeting the Deadlines:
Note down the application deadlines for each scholarship and set reminders to ensure timely submission. Allow ample time to gather all necessary documents and prepare a well-crafted application. Submit your application materials before the deadline, as late submissions may not be accepted.
4. Acing the Interview:
Some scholarships may require an interview process, either in-person or online. Research common interview questions and practice your responses to stay well-prepared.
5. Following Up and Acceptance:
After submitting your application, follow up with the scholarship committee if you have any questions or need clarification. If accepted, express your gratitude and follow any instructions provided by the scholarship committee. If rejected, request feedback to improve your application for future scholarship opportunities.
Thus, pursuing a PhD is a significant investment of time, effort, and resources. However, these top UK scholarships provide promising opportunities for exceptional students to achieve their academic aspirations.
FAQs
1. How can Indian students get funding for PhD in the UK?
UK Commonwealth Scholarship is a prestigious and famous scholarship in the UK through which Indian students can get funding for a PhD in the UK.
2. What is the living allowance provided by the Gates Cambridge Scholarship?
The Gates Cambridge Scholarship provides a living allowance of £17,500 per annum for up to four years.
3. How many scholarships are available through the Saltire Scholarship programme?
The Saltire Scholarship offers up to 50 scholarships each year for full-time PhD study.
Is the Imperial College London President’s PhD Scholarship open to international students?
Yes, international students can also apply for the Imperial College London President’s PhD Scholarship.
4. How many fully-funded PhD studentships are available at Aston University’s College of Business and Social Sciences?
Up to 6 fully-funded PhD studentships are offered.
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