Top 10 UK PhD Scholarships for International Students

The UK remains one of the most powerful centres of research, drawing scholars who want to work with institutions consistently ranked among the world’s top 50. Every year, UKRI’s seven Research Councils invest more than £380 million in PhD studentships, which is an unmatched commitment, making them the country’s largest doctoral funding body. 

Alongside this, university-led and industry-supported awards give international students ample opportunities to pursue advanced research with exceptional scholars and facilities. With programmes typically lasting just 3–4 years, a UK PhD offers a focused and globally valued route for emerging researchers.

This blog highlights a list of the top 10 PhD scholarships in the UK for international students with all details to help you start your research journey with clarity.

List of PhD Scholarships in the UK: An Overview 

Top 10 UK PhD Scholarships: A Detailed Look  

Gates Cambridge Scholarship

The Gates Cambridge Scholarship is one of the most competitive UK PhD scholarships, created through a landmark USD210 million donation from the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation. 

Each year, around 80 full-cost awards are offered to exceptional international students pursuing postgraduate study at the University of Cambridge, with the majority allocated to PhD applicants. Scholars join a diverse cohort of over 50 nationalities and gain access to world-class research facilities, extensive financial support, and a global leadership community dedicated to social impact. 

For international PhD aspirants seeking comprehensive funding and a strong research ecosystem, Gates Cambridge stands among the UK’s most prestigious routes.

Scholarship Highlights

How to Apply for the Gates Cambridge Scholarship?

Applying for the Gates Cambridge Scholarship happens through the University of Cambridge’s Graduate Application Portal, but you must complete two layers of requirements:

– the course admission application 

– the Gates Cambridge funding application

Complete the University of Cambridge Application

You begin by selecting your course, filling in the online form, and uploading compulsory documents such as academic transcripts, CV, references, and any programme-specific requirements. The scholarship assessment only starts after your academic department nominates you.

Submit a Research Proposal

You must upload a 4,000-character research proposal. Most PhD courses require this for admission anyway, but if your specific course does not, Gates Cambridge still requires it. If you began your University application before 10 October 2025, use the temporary form provided by the Trust to submit the proposal. And for the US round, your Cambridge application is due 15 October 2025, but the proposal via the form can be submitted until 27 October 2025, 9:00 AM GMT.

Arrange the Gates Cambridge Reference

In addition to the two academic references required for admission, you must secure one dedicated Gates Cambridge reference. This reference must address:

• your intellectual strength
• your reasoning for the chosen course
• your commitment to improving lives
• your leadership potential

Complete the Gates Cambridge Statement

As part of the funding section of the application, you must submit a personal statement explaining:

• Why you chose Cambridge
• How your work aligns with improving the lives of others
• Your long-term ambitions and leadership approach

Submit All Materials Before the Round-Specific Deadline

All parts, course application, academic references, Gates reference, and funding documents, must be submitted before the deadline corresponding to whether you apply through the US round or the International round.

Tips to Apply for the Gates Cambridge Scholarship

• Build a Purpose-Driven Research Narrative

Show how your proposed PhD creates real-world impact. Gates Cambridge looks for applicants who use research to uplift communities, shape policy, or address urgent global challenges. Your statement should read like a reflection of your initiatives.

• Demonstrate Leadership Through Action, Not Titles

Highlight moments where you initiated change, like research projects, community interventions, policy work, or innovations. The committee values proof of initiative, resilience, and influence, not just positions on paper.

• Strengthen Academic Evidence Beyond Grades

Showcase publications, conference papers, impactful undergraduate or master’s dissertations, or any research experience that displays intellectual strength. Cambridge wants candidates who can thrive in a demanding academic environment from day one.

• Craft a Well-Justified Choice of Course & Supervisor

Explain why Cambridge is the only place where your research fits. Mention research clusters, labs, or supervisors closely aligned with your topic. Clear alignment is a major differentiator in competitive rounds.

• Elevate Your References With Context

Choose referees who can speak about your research potential, originality, and commitment to societal impact. Provide them with a concise brief so their letters echo the strengths Gates Cambridge prioritises.

Oxford-Richards Graduate Scholarships

The Oxford-Richards Graduate Scholarships are prestigious PhD scholarships for international students in the UK offered through Wadham College at the University of Oxford. Designed to support outstanding international and domestic students pursuing Master’s or DPhil programmes in the Faculty of History or the Department of Economics, this award covers full tuition. 

It provides a generous living-cost grant for the entire duration of fee liability. For international applicants looking for UK scholarships for international students, the Oxford-Richards Scholarships stand out because recipients are fully funded, automatically considered during admission, and transferred to Wadham College upon selection.

Scholarship Highlights

How to Apply for the Oxford-Richards Graduate Scholarships?

Choose an eligible programme

Apply for a full-time or part-time Master’s or DPhil in the Faculty of History or Department of Economics. Only applications to these departments are considered for the scholarship.

Submit your Oxford graduate application

Complete the standard Oxford postgraduate application form by the course deadline. All students are automatically considered for funding, so no separate scholarship form is required.

Indicate any Oxford college preference

You may list any college in your application. Even if you choose a different college, shortlisted candidates are transferred to Wadham College to take up the scholarship.

Upload all required documents

Ensure your academic transcripts, statement of purpose, samples of written work (if required), CV, and references are submitted in full. Incomplete applications are not eligible for scholarship consideration.

Await the funding decision

Selection takes place between April and June 2025. Successful applicants receive the scholarship offer alongside confirmation of transfer to Wadham College.

Tips to Apply for the Oxford-Richards Graduate Scholarships

• Align your research interests with Oxford’s History or Economics departments

Your statement of purpose should demonstrate clear alignment with faculty research strengths. This is crucial because only applicants within these academic areas are eligible.

• Highlight strong academic performance and research potential

As a competitive UK PhD scholarship, the committee prioritises applicants with exceptional grades, research experience, or published work. Make sure your academic profile stands out.

• Strengthen your references with specific detail

Choose referees who can speak to your analytical ability, research skills, and potential for postgraduate study. Detailed recommendations significantly strengthen scholarship suitability.

• Demonstrate readiness for graduate-level study in the UK

International students should show strong writing skills, clarity of academic goals, and readiness to contribute to Oxford’s research environment, which helps meet both academic and English-language expectations.

• Submit a complete and polished application early

Many documents require time references, writing samples, scores, etc. Submitting early reduces the risk of missing course deadlines, which automatically eliminates scholarship consideration.

Commonwealth PhD Scholarships (for Least Developed Countries & Fragile States)

This scholarship is among the most popular UK PhD scholarships for aspiring researchers from eligible Commonwealth nations. Funded by the UK’s Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) and administered by the Commonwealth Scholarship Commission (CSC), these fully funded awards support high-achieving graduates who aim to undertake doctoral research that contributes to long-term development in their home countries. 

This scholarship is especially valuable for international students who would not otherwise be able to access UK scholarships for international students, offering full financial coverage and a direct pathway to completing a world-class PhD at a UK university.

Scholarship Highlights

How to Apply for the Commonwealth PhD Scholarships (LDCs & Fragile States)?

Apply through CSC Central

All applicants must submit their scholarship application via CSC Central, the official online portal. Only applications submitted through this system are considered eligible.

Apply through your nominating agency

Alongside the CSC application, candidates must apply to their country’s national nominating agency or approved NGO. Each nominator sets its own rules, deadlines, and additional criteria.

Prepare all supporting documents in advance

Applicants must upload passports/ID, full academic transcripts, two academic references, and a supporting statement from a proposed UK supervisor. Missing documents make the application ineligible.

Finalise your research proposal and Development Impact statement 

The CSC places strong emphasis on development-focused research. Applicants must clearly explain how their PhD will support measurable social, economic, or institutional improvements in their home country.

Submit early to avoid technical delays

The CSC portal gets heavy traffic close to the deadline. Submitting early helps prevent login issues, 2FA problems, and accidental data loss.

Tips to Apply for the Commonwealth PhD Scholarships (LDCs & Fragile States)

• Demonstrate strong development relevance

Your proposal should clearly link to national development priorities or CSC themes (e.g., health, climate resilience, governance). Applications with weak development justification rarely progress.

• Secure a UK supervisor early

A strong supporting statement from a UK supervisor significantly strengthens your application. It shows feasibility, departmental fit, and the availability of research supervision.

• Emphasise academic excellence with evidence

List publications, awards, conference participation, and research experience. The CSC heavily prioritises applicants who demonstrate the capability for doctoral-level research.

• Craft a compelling Development Impact statement

Show realistic, measurable outcomes, who will benefit, what will change, and how impact will continue after your return home. This is one of the most heavily weighted sections.

• Ensure complete documentation and strong references

Incomplete applications are automatically rejected. Choose referees who can comment on your analytical ability, originality, perseverance, and leadership potential aligned with CSC criteria.

President’s PhD Scholarships at Imperial College London

The President’s PhD Scholarships at Imperial College London are among the most competitive and prestigious UK PhD scholarships available to international students. Designed for exceptional undergraduates or master’s students with outstanding academic records, the scheme offers full funding, a generous annual stipend, and research support for 3.5 years. 

Scholars have the freedom to pursue a research project of their choice under the supervision of leading faculty, while benefiting from a structured cohort experience, training, and personalised development support.

Scholarship Highlights

How to Apply for the President’s PhD Scholarships?

Secure a supervisor at Imperial

Before applying, you must contact a potential supervisor who formally agrees to support your research. Supervisors can only take on one funded scholar, so reaching out early is crucial.

Submit the standard PhD application via Imperial’s admissions portal

There is no separate application form for the scholarship. Your academic department will automatically consider you for the award based on your PhD application.

Select the scholarship in the funding section

In the “Additional Questions” tab of the online application, choose President’s PhD Scholarship to signal your interest.

Prepare a structured two-page personal statement

Page 1: Motivation for choosing Imperial + relevant experiences and achievements.
Page 2: A clear, well-defined research proposal aligned with Imperial’s research strengths.

Submit references from two academic referees

Provide referees who can speak powerfully about your research ability, academic distinction, and potential for doctoral work (not your proposed supervisor).

Complete any additional departmental requirements

Some departments may request an extended research proposal, portfolio, or interview before shortlisting.

Tips to Apply for the President’s PhD Scholarships

• Demonstrate elite academic performance with evidence

This scholarship targets the top-performing students globally. Highlight first-class grades, distinctions, class rank, awards, publications, or major research achievements clearly in your application.

• Build a strong connection with your proposed supervisor early

A supervisor’s support can significantly strengthen your chances. Tailor your research idea to their expertise, show familiarity with their work, and present a feasible proposal.

• Present a focused, impactful research proposal

Your proposal should demonstrate originality, feasibility, and alignment with Imperial’s research environment. Clear objectives, methodology, and expected impact help distinguish your application.

• Craft a compelling personal statement

Use the first page to show genuine motivation, readiness for doctoral study, and alignment with Imperial’s research culture. Avoid generic content and make your narrative deeply personal and evidence-based.

• Apply early and prepare for the selection stages

With only 50 places, competition intensifies near deadlines. Submitting early gives your department more time to review your documents, request revisions, or invite you for interviews.

Clarendon Scholarship (University of Oxford)

The Clarendon Scholarship at the University of Oxford is one of the most prestigious and competitive UK PhD scholarships available to international students. Each year, the Clarendon Fund offers over 200 fully funded scholarships to outstanding graduate applicants across all disciplines. The scholarship covers full fees and provides a generous living stipend, while also giving scholars access to Oxford’s vibrant, multidisciplinary research community.

Since all applicants to eligible DPhil programmes who apply by the December or January deadline are automatically considered, Clarendon is one of the most accessible yet academically selective UK scholarships for international students. 

Scholarship Highlights

How to Apply for the Clarendon Scholarship?

Apply to an Oxford DPhil programme by the correct deadline

Submit your graduate application by the December or January admissions deadline for your department. There is no separate scholarship form; automatic consideration is built into the course application.

Submit a strong academic and research-focused application

Departments review all applications for academic merit and suitability. Course tutors evaluate transcripts, writing samples, research proposals, and references.

Department nominates high-performing candidates

Each academic department selects its top applicants for Clarendon consideration and forwards their nominations to the relevant academic division.

Divisional panel ranks candidates

The four academic divisions (Humanities, MPLS, Social Sciences, Medical Sciences) review departmental nominations based on academic track record and research potential.

Shortlisted applicants receive Clarendon offers

Successful applicants receive a funding offer (CB1) from the Clarendon Fund Administrator, typically by the end of April. A detailed funding package (CB2) is issued once college placement and partnership awards are finalised.

Tips to Apply for the Clarendon Scholarship 

• Maintain an exceptional academic record

Clarendon scholars are typically at the top of their academic cohorts. First-class degrees, high GPAs (3.7+), distinctions, research prizes, and publications significantly strengthen your chances.

• Submit a focused, compelling research proposal

Your DPhil proposal should demonstrate originality, feasibility, and scholarly impact. Panels look for clarity of research aims and evidence of deep engagement with your field.

• Secure strong academic references

Oxford places heavy emphasis on referee reports. Choose referees who can comment on your analytical ability, research readiness, academic excellence, and potential to contribute to your discipline.

• Show clear motivation and long-term academic direction

Your personal statement and proposal should show why Oxford is the right environment for your research and how the DPhil aligns with your long-term academic or professional trajectory.

• Apply early and ensure your documents are complete

Departments begin reviewing applications immediately after deadlines. Strong early submissions with polished proposals, transcripts, writing samples, and references are far more competitive.

Also Read: Best Universities in the UK for International Students

Edinburgh Doctoral College Scholarship

The Edinburgh Doctoral College Scholarship is one of the University of Edinburgh’s flagship UK PhD scholarships designed to attract exceptional researchers from around the world. It supports new PhD applicants starting in 2026–27 with full tuition coverage and a UKRI-level stipend. 

As part of the university’s strong commitment to equality, diversity, and widening participation, the scholarship also aims to increase access for students from disadvantaged and underrepresented communities globally. With its focus on academic excellence, inclusion, and comprehensive doctoral training, it is a highly competitive choice for international students exploring top UK PhD scholarships.

Scholarship Highlights 

How to Apply for the Edinburgh Doctoral College Scholarship?

Submit Your PhD Application First

You must complete your application to a University of Edinburgh PhD programme (full-time/part-time, on-campus or distance). Without this, you cannot access the scholarship application portal.

Allow Time for System Access

After submitting the PhD application, it can take up to 5 working days to receive your University login credentials needed to access the scholarship form. Plan ahead to avoid last-minute delays.

Apply via the Online Scholarship System

Submit the scholarship application through the University’s EUCLID/MyEd portal. Only students with a confirmed University username/password can access the form.

Prepare a Strong Personal Statement

Your statement must clearly justify your need for the scholarship, demonstrate alignment with subject expertise, highlight your academic readiness, and show how you will contribute to the research community.

Upload All Required Documents

Ensure transcripts, references, research proposal, and English scores (if ready) are uploaded. You may apply before receiving your English test results, but you must upload them as soon as they are available.

Attend the Interview if Shortlisted

Shortlisted candidates will be invited to an online interview in early to mid-April 2026, with final results in late April.

Also Read: Student Guide to the University Of Edinburgh, Scotland 2026

Tips to Apply for the Edinburgh Doctoral College Scholarship

• Align Your Research Proposal With Edinburgh’s Expertise

Demonstrate clearly how your research fits the strengths of the chosen school or supervisor. Scholarships in the UK heavily value “research fit” in the selection process.

• Showcase Research Preparedness Through Evidence

Use your statement to highlight academic achievements, prior research, publications, presentations, or relevant professional experience. This directly supports the scheme’s focus on academic merit and research potential.

• Build a Compelling Case for Academic & Public Impact

Explain the academic relevance of your work and how it benefits society or industry, since the assessment includes knowledge exchange, impact and public engagement.

• Demonstrate Awareness of Training Requirements

Mention how Edinburgh’s training in teaching, entrepreneurship, data science, and public engagement aligns with your long-term career goals. This shows you can make full use of the scholarship’s development opportunities.

• Apply Early to Avoid Technical Delays

Because access to the scholarship portal is unlocked only after system checks, early submission of your PhD application is essential. Missing either deadline disqualifies applicants, so applying early is crucial for competitive UK scholarships for international students.

Also Read: The Ultimate Guide On Applying For Scholarships

Chancellor’s International Scholarships

These are among the University of Warwick’s most competitive UK PhD scholarships, providing full tuition support at the overseas rate, a UKRI-aligned stipend, and an additional research grant. Thus, it is one of the strongest UK scholarships for international students seeking a fully funded PhD opportunity.

For the 2026/27 entry round, the University has allocated over £5 million to this scholarship scheme, reflecting Warwick’s commitment to attracting high-calibre global researchers. Designed for applicants with outstanding academic potential and a clearly defined research direction, these awards offer a financially secure and academically rigorous pathway to undertake world-class doctoral training at Warwick.

Scholarship Highlights 

How to Apply for the Chancellor’s International Scholarships?

Apply for a Warwick PhD Programme

Submit your PhD application for October 2026 entry and ensure all required documents (proposal, transcripts, references) are uploaded. You cannot be considered for the scholarship without a valid course application.

Wait for Your Applicant ID

After submitting your course application, you will receive a 7-digit Warwick applicant ID via email. This may take up to 48 hours, so apply early to avoid delays.

Register Your ITS Applicant Account

Use your applicant ID to activate your ITS account. This account is required to access the scholarship application portal.

Complete the Scholarship Application

Submit your Chancellor’s International Scholarship application before the deadline. The form evaluates academic profile, research motivation, and alignment with Warwick’s doctoral strengths.

Upload All Supporting Documents

Ensure your references, transcripts, and other documents are submitted by the supporting-document deadline. Warwick does not accept late submissions under any circumstances.

Also Read: Did You Hear About These Postgraduate Scholarships In The UK ?

Tips to Apply for the Chancellor’s International Scholarships

• Start Early and Follow a Timeline

Warwick explicitly advises that the application cannot be completed in a short window. Begin preparing weeks in advance and submit your PhD application before the rush to avoid ID-generation delays that could block your scholarship submission.

• Build a Focused, High-Quality Research Proposal

Your research proposal is a major selection criterion. Keep it tightly structured, demonstrate originality, show feasibility within 3–4 years, and clearly connect it to Warwick’s research strengths.

• Secure Strong, Specific Academic References

Ask referees who can articulate your research capability, independence, and readiness for doctoral work. Generic references weaken your ranking in a highly competitive pool.

• Check Department-Specific Requirements Early

Some Warwick departments require pre-application contact with a supervisor, writing samples, or additional documents. Meeting these early signals of preparedness avoids last-minute rejection.

• Demonstrate Academic Excellence With Evidence

Showcase your strongest achievements: rankings, publications, awards, conference papers, or research projects. The award targets the “most outstanding” applicants, so clear evidence of excellence matters.

Research Excellence Scholarship (UCL-RES)

Designed to attract the world’s most promising researchers, the UCL Research Excellence Scholarship (UCL-RES) is one of University College London’s most prestigious UK PhD scholarships. Open to applicants from any country beginning their doctoral studies in October 2026, it provides full tuition coverage at the home or overseas rate, a UKRI-aligned stipend, and dedicated support for research and training expenses.

Available across all academic disciplines, this award is tailored for candidates with exceptional academic achievement and a clearly defined research proposal, making it one of the strongest UK scholarships for international students seeking a fully funded PhD opportunity at one of the world’s top-ranked universities.

Scholarship Highlights

How to Apply for the UCL Research Excellence Scholarship?

Submit Your PhD Admission Application

Apply to an eligible MPhil/PhD or EngD programme by 9 January 2026. You do not need an offer at this stage, but your admission application must be complete, including transcripts and a research proposal.

Notify Your Department About the Scholarship

Contact your academic department to confirm you want to be considered for the UCL-RES. Each department manages scholarship submissions internally, so early communication is essential.

Prepare and Send the Required Documents

Submit the following documents directly to your department:

• UCL Research Scholarships Cover Sheet
• Updated academic CV with publications and awards
• 200-word lay summary of your research proposal written in clear, discipline-neutral language
• All relevant academic transcripts

Your referees must send their recommendations directly to the department by the deadline.

Faculty & Central Review

Departments shortlist candidates for faculty review, and faculties further nominate candidates to UCL’s central panel. Final selections are made from a shortlist of 120 applicants across disciplines.

Await the Final Outcome

If selected, you will receive funding starting 1 October 2026, covering the full research period of your PhD/EngD.

Tips to Apply for the Research Excellence Scholarship (UCL-RES)

• Craft a Clear, Accessible Research Summary

The lay summary is a major evaluation point. Write it in simple, precise language understandable beyond your discipline. Show originality, feasibility, and relevance within 200 words.

• Demonstrate Strong Academic Evidence

The scholarship is awarded solely on academic merit, including rankings, distinctions, publications, research experience, or conference work to support your profile clearly.

• Align Your Proposal With UCL’s Research Strengths

Show how your project fits with UCL’s expertise and identify potential supervisors. An intense supervisory match increases your chances of being shortlisted.

• Prepare All Documents Early

Given the strict deadline and multi-step review, prepare admission materials, transcripts, and references well in advance. Incomplete or late submissions are automatically disqualified.

• Follow Department Instructions Precisely

Each department has its own submission process. Clarify where to send documents, carefully review timelines, and confirm receipt to avoid administrative errors.

President’s Doctoral Scholar (PDS) Award

The President’s Doctoral Scholar (PDS) Award represents the University of Manchester’s most distinguished route into fully funded UK PhD scholarships. For the 2026 intake, the scheme will support exceptional international applicants within the Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, including projects that align with Manchester’s strategic focus on Global South research priorities.

By securing a PDS Award, scholars gain access to Manchester’s leading supervisors, advanced research facilities, and interdisciplinary networks that shape some of the most influential research produced in the UK.

Scholarship Highlights

How to Apply for the President’s Doctoral Scholar (PDS) Award?

Secure a PhD Offer First

You must hold a conditional or unconditional offer for a PhD programme starting in September 2026 before being considered for the PDS Award. Applications are only processed once an offer is issued.

Identify a Project and Contact the Supervisor

Choose a suitable project or programme and reach out to the listed supervisor. Discuss your research interests and confirm they are willing to support your application.

Prepare All Required Documents

Compile the required materials: supporting statement, CV, academic transcripts, certificates, references, English-language test results, and any additional documents specified by the department.

Complete the University’s Online Application

Submit the PhD application via Manchester’s portal. Ensure you correctly enter the supervisor’s name and provisional project title in the required section.

Submit the PDS Award Application via Your Supervisor

After you receive your PhD offer, the Primary Supervisor will receive the PDS application form and guide you on how to complete the internal process. Only complete and on-time submissions are accepted.

Tips to Apply for the President’s Doctoral Scholar (PDS) Award

• Demonstrate a Strong Research Track Record

Highlight publications, conference presentations, academic awards, or research outputs. The PDS Award is highly competitive, and prior research engagement significantly boosts your application.

• Craft a Focused, High-Impact Supporting Statement

Explain your motivation, research goals, and why your profile aligns with the proposed project and supervisor. Make it specific, concise, and achievement-driven.

• Build a Solid Supervisor Relationship Early

Proactively discuss your proposal and readiness with your supervisor. A supportive supervisor can significantly influence the strength of your nomination.

• Meet All Entry and Documentation Requirements on Time

Manchester does not review incomplete or late applications. Prepare all documents, references, transcripts,and  English scores well before the offer and PDS deadlines.

• Show Academic Excellence With Clear Evidence

Since this award targets “the most outstanding” international candidates, it emphasises first-class performance, distinction-level work, or notable academic rankings from credible institutions.

AHRC Doctoral Landscape Awards

These scholarships are funded by the Arts and Humanities Research Council (AHRC) to support exceptional doctoral research across the arts, humanities, and related interdisciplinary areas. At the University of York, six Landscape Awards will be offered for 2026/27 entry, providing a generous stipend and full home-fee funding for outstanding researchers.

These awards are ideal for international students exploring UK PhD scholarships, especially those whose work aligns with the AHRC research remit. While international applicants are eligible, they must note the fee-coverage structure and residency requirements during their studies.

Scholarship Highlights

How to Apply for the AHRC Doctoral Landscape Awards?

Apply for a PhD at the University of York

Submit a complete PhD application to an AHRC-eligible department by early December to ensure enough time for interviews and processing before the studentship deadline.

Receive an Offer of Admission

You can only be considered for the award after receiving a formal offer (conditional or unconditional) for a September 2026 PhD start.

Confirm Eligibility Within AHRC Remit

Ensure your proposed research clearly fits within the Arts & Humanities scope defined by AHRC. Interdisciplinary topics may be eligible if the primary focus aligns with AHRC themes.

Submit the AHRC Landscape Award Application

Complete the Landscape Award application form online. You may revise your submission until the deadline. Make sure all information is accurate and complete.

Departmental & Faculty Ranking Process

Departments rank all applicants and then nominate top candidates to the Faculty panel. The faculty evaluates the group collectively and selects final awardees by late February 2026.

Tips to Apply for AHRC Landscape Award Application

• Build a Research Proposal Clearly Within the AHRC Remit

The award prioritises topics that directly align with AHRC subject areas. Clearly demonstrate how your project aligns with the AHRC themes to improve your ranking at both the departmental and faculty levels.

• Highlight Exceptional Academic Achievements

Most successful applicants have a first-class undergraduate degree and a Distinction-level master’s. If you have substantial research or sector-based outputs (publications, exhibitions, creative work, industry reports), emphasise them clearly.

• Apply Early to Secure Your PhD Offer

Since the award requires you to hold an offer before applying, submit your PhD application well before December. Delays in interviews or documentation can make you miss the January scholarship deadline.

• Demonstrate Readiness for On-Campus Research

Because the AHRC does not support distance learning, international applicants must show commitment to residing in the UK and actively engaging in departmental activities and meetings.

• Address the Fee Difference if You are an International Applicant

As the award covers only the UK fee rate, international applicants should show awareness of how they will manage the difference. This strengthens the credibility of your application.

Here’s a Reddit thread with students sharing their experiences on getting PhD funding in the UK.

International students doing their PhD in the UK – r/PhD from r/PhD

100% scholarships for Indian students? Sounds exciting, right? Watch this YouTube video to learn more:

Wrapping Up!

The UK remains a leading destination for doctoral research, supported by universities with strong academic reputations, well-established research facilities, and global collaborations. For international students, the advantages are clear access to reliable funding opportunities, exposure to diverse research environments, and supportive post-study work routes that help in building long-term careers. If you are planning to take the next step in your academic journey, the UK offers a strong platform to grow your expertise and contribute to meaningful research.

Ready to begin your PhD journey in the UK? Find your ideal course, secure funding, and book your student accommodation in the UK with UniAcco today.

Frequently Asked Questions