Leeds Doctoral Scholarships 2026 (Fully Funded for UK Students)

The University of Leeds is inviting applications for the Leeds Doctoral Scholarships 2026 (Ref: PGR-F-209). This fully funded opportunity supports talented UK students who wish to pursue a PhD across any faculty at the University of Leeds.

Key Details

• Application Deadline: Wednesday, 1 April 2026 (17:00 UK time)

• Funding Start Date: Thursday, 1 October 2026

• Number of Awards: 5

• Eligible Applicants: UK students (Home fee status)

• Funding Provider: University of Leeds

• Study Mode: Full-time (3.5 years) or part-time (pro-rata)

Scholarship Overview

The Leeds Doctoral Scholarship 2026 offers an exceptional opportunity for highly motivated individuals to conduct independent research in their chosen discipline. The award supports postgraduate researchers for up to 3.5 years (full-time) or the pro-rata equivalent (part-time).

Duration of the Award

The award is initially granted for one year and is renewable annually—up to a total of 3.5 years, subject to satisfactory academic progress.

Funding Coverage

Successful applicants will receive:

• Full tuition fees for the duration of the award

• Maintenance grant: £20,780 per year (for 2025/26 session), adjusted annually in line with the UKRI rate

• Pro-rata funding for part-time study

Eligibility Criteria

Applicants must meet the following requirements:

• Hold (or expect to achieve) a UK First-Class Honours degree or equivalent.

• Candidates with a lower undergraduate grade may be considered if they:

  • Hold or are expected to achieve a Distinction in a relevant Master’s program, or

  • Have significant professional or research experience.

• Must not already hold or be registered for a PhD.

• Must live within a reasonable distance from the University of Leeds during the award period.

• The scholarship must be taken up by 1 October 2026.

English Language Requirements

Applicants must meet the minimum English language proficiency requirements:

• IELTS: Overall 6.0 (minimum 5.5 in each component) or equivalent.

• Higher requirements may apply depending on the Faculty.

• Test results must be no more than two years old at the course start date.

Eligible Faculties

Scholarships are available across all faculties, including:

• Arts, Humanities, and Cultures

• Biological Sciences

• Business

• Engineering and Physical Sciences

• Environment

• Medicine and Health

• Social Sciences

Selection Process

Each School will create a shortlist of nominees based on academic merit. The University Scholarship Selection Panel will make final decisions, and financial need will not influence selection.

The University will publish the names of successful applicants within 10 weeks of the scholarship deadline.

Application Process

Stage 1: Apply for a Research Program

1. Complete an online application for your chosen research degree.

2. Upload all required supporting documents listed on your School/Faculty website.

3. Incomplete applications will not be considered.

Stage 2: Apply for the Scholarship

1. Once you receive your 9-digit Student Application ID, complete the online scholarship application form.

2. Due to high demand, the Postgraduate Scholarships Office cannot respond to application status inquiries before official results are released.

Note: An unsuccessful application for this scholarship does not prevent you from applying for other funding opportunities at the University of Leeds.

Equality and Inclusion Statement

The University of Leeds is committed to diversity, equality, and inclusion. Applications are encouraged from all backgrounds, particularly from underrepresented groups including Black, Asian, and minority ethnic communities, LGBT+ individuals, and people with disabilities.
Selection is based strictly on academic merit and ability.

Contact Information

For additional details, contact:
Postgraduate Scholarships Office: pg_scholarships@leeds.ac.uk
Or reach out directly to the School or Faculty where you plan to study.

source: University of Leeds