While many of us are interested in pursuing a PhD program in the UK, the fees for the program could add tremendous stress. But fret not; there are many fully-funded PhD programs in the UK for international students that make higher education affordable.
We will discuss all the details regarding applications, deadlines, tenure, and much more for fully-funded programs in the UK for international students.
Scholarship
High-calibre students who wish to apply for fully-funded PhD studentships can consider these programs. These fully-funded programs are offered by a wide range of universities in the UK and some Non-profit and corporate organizations. The positions in these fully-funding PhD can close at any time if someone accepts the offer.
Country/course eligible for
Usually, these fully-funded programs in the UK are available for overseas, European Union, and domestic students. The courses eligible for fully-funded PhD programs will vary according to different scholarships and programs.
Level of scholarship
The fully-funded PhD scholarship in the UK is for candidates who plan to pursue a PhD program or are currently pursuing one. You should essentially have a bachelor’s and master’s coursework for the same.
The fully-funded PhD in the UK for international students covers the expenses for the entire duration of the course, which is typically three years.
Subject/fields
There are no fixed subjects or fields where the scholarships will be offered. Students can find opportunities in every discipline across different fully funded PhD programs.
Number of scholarships available
Several scholarships are available for fully-funded PhD in the UK for international students. Some of the renowned names are
Fully Funded PhD in UK for International Students
Eligible Nationalities
President’s Ph.D. Scholarships at Imperial College London
1. offered by Imperial College London to 50 research students
2. offered to all the nationalities
Aga Khan Foundation International Scholarship Program
1. Nationalities from countries like Bangladesh, Kyrgyzstan, Syria,Madagascar, Mozambique, France, Portugal, Egypt, Kenya, Tanzania, India, Pakistan, Afghanistan, Tajikistan,Uganda, the United Kingdom, the United States, and Canada.
Lancaster Ph.D. Scholarships for Students from Developing Countries
1. Offered by Lancaster University
2. Two fully-funded UK PhD scholarships to students in the field of environment
3. offered to students from developing students
Kamran Djam Scholarships
1. offered by Fereydoun Djam Charitable Trust
2. Nationalities that can benefit from this scholarship are India, United Kingdom, European Union, and other international students
Aberystwyth University Scholarship
1. offered to to European students who wish to pursue PhD in the Department of Mathematics
Leeds Doctoral Scholarships
1. open to International student or British/European Union student
Krebs Memorial Scholarship
2. open to all the nationalities
British Council Newton Ph.D. Program
1. Open to students from Africa, Asia (including China, , Europe, Middle East, India & South East Asia),Oceania, North America, South & Central America
UCL Critical Histories of Art Scholarship
1. Open to UK and EU students only
2. offered by University College London
Aga Khan Foundation International Scholarship Program
1. open to students from Bangladesh, India, Pakistan, Afghanistan, Tajikistan, Kyrgyzstan, Syria, Egypt, Kenya, Tanzania, Uganda, Madagascar, Mozambique, France, Portugal, the United Kingdom, the United States, and Canada.
Ten universities offering fully-funded PhD in the UK for international students
Here are ten universities in the UK offering international students a fully-funded doctoral program in the country for your reference:
Each of these fully-funded PhD programs has a different application start date. We strongly suggest you be aware of the same by regularly checking the official websites.
As far as deadlines are concerned, below mentioned are some of the renowned fully funded Ph.D. program scholarships along with their deadlines.
Name of Scholarship
Application Deadline
President’s Ph.D. Scholarships at Imperial College London
5th November/ 11th January
Aga Khan Foundation International Scholarship Program
21st March
Lancaster Ph.D. Scholarships for Students from Developing Countries
31st March
Kamran Djam Scholarships
1st May
British Council Newton Ph.D. Program
Not indicated
Aberystwyth University Scholarship
End of January
Leeds Doctoral Scholarships
1st April
Krebs Memorial Scholarship
1st April
UCL Critical Histories of Art Scholarship
27th April
Mode of Application
The mode of application for fully-funded PhD programs in the UK is online.
Eligibility Criteria and Additional Requirements
1. Eligible countries: the UK, EU citizens, and foreign candidates are acceptable
2. Acceptable course/subjects: PhD support is generally awarded in the given research areas such as Architecture, construction projects and organization, building energy, construction products and processes, digital construction, urban planning, water engineering, and infrastructure, transport.
3. Admissible criteria: To be eligible, the applicants must meet all the following criteria:
It would be best if you had, or expect to achieve, a minimum of 2:1 honours degree (equivalent international qualification) in a similar discipline.
Previous applicants should have their degrees in Civil Engineering, transport, geography, building services engineering and physics, mathematics, or chemistry.
A relevant master’s degree clubbed with employment experience will also give you an edge.
Value of Scholarship
The scholarship value for a fully-funded PhD in the UK varies from GBP 20,000 to GBP 23,200 (INR 20 Lakh to INR 21.56 Lakh).
Selection Process
The selection process involves a panel of experts who access your academic, research, and extracurricular contributions. At times, need-based scholarships are also provided to students.
Requirements for continuing the Scholarships
Most of these scholarships are allotted annually, but we recommend maintaining a stellar academic record if you wish to continue the scholarships.
In summary, the availability of fully funded PhD programs in the UK for international students in 2024 represents a significant opportunity for scholars worldwide. These scholarships not only alleviate the financial challenges associated with advanced studies but also open doors to extensive research resources, expert guidance, and international academic networks. For aspiring doctoral candidates, these programs in the UK offer more than just financial support; they provide a platform for groundbreaking research, intellectual growth, and the chance to contribute to global knowledge. The 2024 admissions cycle thus stands as a gateway for talented international students to embark on a journey of discovery and academic excellence, fully supported by the generous scholarship opportunities available in the UK.
Here are some detailed articles on Fully Funded Scholarships for top Study Abroad Destination:
With over a decade of expertise in international education, Jyotsna has held impactful roles at the British Council, Unilodgers, a prominent UK university, and IDP Education, empowering countless students by not only enhancing their educational experiences but also by offering them guidance in securing essential scholarships and financial aid. She is dedicated to helping students achieve their academic goals through tailored guidance and financial support.