The Diamond Jubilee Research Scholarship 2026 presents an exceptional opportunity for high-achieving international students to pursue a fully funded PhD in the Faculty of Humanities & Social Sciences. Designed to attract outstanding postgraduate researchers, this prestigious scholarship covers full tuition fees for up to three years of full-time doctoral study beginning on 1 October 2026.
Scholarship Overview
This competitive award is aimed at individuals with strong academic backgrounds and innovative research potential. With only one scholarship available, applicants are encouraged to prepare thoroughly and submit a compelling application.
Key Details
- Number of Scholarships: 1
- Funding Coverage: Full tuition fees (international rate)
- Study Duration: Up to 3 years (full-time)
- Opening Date: 15 April 2026
- Deadline: 13 May 2026
- Start Date: 1 October 2026
Research Focus Areas
Applicants must align their research proposal with at least one of the Faculty’s priority themes for 2026/27, including:
- Poverty reduction, inequality, and social exclusion
- Adolescent health and mental wellbeing
- Ageing, loneliness, and lifelong learning
- Ethical and legal implications of artificial intelligence
- Crime reduction and gender-based violence
- Globalisation, migration, and conflict
- Governance, democracy, and political systems
Eligible Fields of Study
The scholarship supports a wide range of disciplines within Humanities and Social Sciences, including:
- Public Health and Health Policy
- Psychology
- Social Policy and Social Work
- Education
- Law
- Politics and Policy Analysis
- Journalism and Media
- Languages and Translation Studies
- History and English
- Criminology
- Speech and Language Therapy
Eligibility Criteria
To be considered, applicants must:
- Demonstrate an excellent academic record (First-Class degree or equivalent, or a Master’s with Merit/Distinction)
- Show strong research potential through a well-developed proposal
- Align research interests with Faculty expertise
- Meet English language requirements (IELTS 6.5–7.0 or equivalent, if applicable)
Candidates with slightly lower qualifications (e.g., Upper Second-Class degree) may still be considered if they present an outstanding research proposal.
Important Financial Considerations
While the scholarship covers full tuition fees, it does not include a stipend. Applicants must be prepared to cover:
- Living expenses (approximately £20,000 per year)
- Visa and immigration costs
- Travel expenses
This scholarship cannot be combined with other university funding.
Application Process
Follow these steps to apply successfully:
- Identify your preferred research area
- Find a suitable supervisor whose expertise matches your topic
- Contact the supervisor with your CV and research proposal
- Obtain a Supervisor Statement
- Submit your application through the online system
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Required Documents
- 1500-word research proposal
- 2-page academic CV
- Academic transcripts and certificates
- Two academic references
- Supervisor statement
- English language certificate (if required)
Applicants who already hold an offer for 2026/27 must notify the Faculty via email before the deadline to be considered.
Selection Process
Applications will be evaluated and ranked by the Faculty. Successful candidates will be notified by early June 2026.
