1718171976UK PHD Scholarships For Indian Students.jpg

UK PHD Scholarships For Indian Students

Get IELTS & PTE Exam Fee Refund

Start your Study Abroad Journey with WayUP Abroad for Free.

Why Study PhD in the UK?

Pursuing a doctorate or PhD in the UK can offer Indian students access to top-notch staff, facilities, and resources, as well as world-class research and educational opportunities. Furthermore, obtaining a PhD from a UK university might improve job possibilities and lead to international opportunities. Here are some more reasons to opt for a PhD in the UK:

World-Class Schooling: Indian students have access to top-notch research and educational opportunities thanks to the UK, which is home to some of the world's best universities. In the 2023 QS World University Rankings, four UK institutions are ranked in the top 10, and the top 200 universities in Times Higher Education are comprised of 28 universities.

Excellent Faculty and Facilities: Indian students can benefit from excellent faculty, facilities, and resources when they pursue a PhD in the UK. These things can help them grow both academically and personally.

Various Cultures and Ideas: Indian students who study in the UK are exposed to a variety of cultures and ideas, which can extend their horizons and improve both their academic and personal development.

Improved job possibilities: Indian students can benefit from improved job possibilities and access to international opportunities by obtaining a PhD from a UK university.

Opportunities for Financing: The UK provides a range of financial aid programs and scholarships to offset the expense of school, making it a reasonably priced choice for students from India. scholarships such as the Marshall Scholarship and the Commonwealth Scholarship, to name a couple. Additionally, students have the option of pursuing their courses full- or part-time. There are numerous student financial alternatives available to applicants from countries such as Australia, New Zealand, Germany, Ireland, Canada, Australia, and the USA.

Popular University PhD Scholarships For Indian Students

Scholarships from well-known universities are available to Indian students studying for a PhD in the UK. These UK PHD scholarships for Indian students are intended to support students financially while assisting them in reaching their professional and academic objectives. Numerous fields of study are covered by the need- and merit-based scholarships that are available.

The Chevening, Felix, Rhodes, and Commonwealth UK PHD Scholarships are a few well-liked options for Indian students seeking scholarships.
With the help of these scholarships, Indian students can now afford and easily study overseas and explore possibilities for cutting-edge research and education.

Here are the Top 5 PhD Scholarships For Indian Students:

  • CHASE AHRC Studentship Scheme for Arts and Humanities Research
  • President’s PhD Scholarships By Imperial College London
  • Southampton Presidential Bursaries
  • University Of Sheffield Research Scholarships
  • Leeds Doctoral Scholarships (PRHS Doctoral Scholarships 2025)

CHASE AHRC Studentship Scheme for Arts and Humanities Research

A member of the CHASE Doctoral Training Partnership, the University of Sussex is made possible by funding from the Arts and Humanities Research Council. For Indian students who wish to study for a PhD in the arts and humanities in the UK, this is a fantastic option.

Through this award, students can attain their academic and career objectives while receiving financial support.

Talented students from India and other countries are eligible for this scholarship, which pays for tuition and offers a stipend to help with living expenses. Students can further their academic interests and make contributions to their field of study with the help of this fellowship.

Number Of Awards:

The Total Number of Awards in the CHASE AHRC Studentship Scheme for Arts and Humanities Research is 17!

Eligibility for CHASE AHRC Studentship Scheme for Arts and Humanities Research:

  • Fulfill the requirements to enroll in the selected PhD program.
  • For AHRC CHASE support, the Stuart Hall Foundation is open to both domestic and international students; however, candidates must be eligible for home fees.

How to Apply for CHASE AHRC Studentship Scheme for Arts and Humanities Research?

  • To qualify for the award, pick a PhD in the humanities or arts.
  • Prior to December 15, 2023, submit an online application to Sussex.
  • In the IFinance/Funding part of your academic application form, state that you intend to apply for a CHASE scholarship.
  • You will receive a link to an online application for the CHASE scholarship if your application to study at Sussex is accepted.
  • Before the deadline, submit a completed application.

Documents Required for CHASE AHRC Studentship

  • Summary of the Research Proposal
  • Supervisor Documents
  • Two citations

Deadline for Applying:

The last date for Applying for CHASE AHRC Studentship is 27th January 2024!

President’s PhD Scholarships By Imperial College London

With the help of an exceptional supervisor, students can pursue whatever research project they choose with the President's PhD Scholarships. Cohort-building activities allow scholars to interact with other presidents' PhD Scholars, which is beneficial. The award is good for both full-time and part-time studies.

With the help of these scholarships, deserving individuals from undergraduate and master's programs can enroll in Imperial College London's 3.5-year PhD program.

Number of Awards:

The Total Number of Awards in President’s PhD Scholarships is 50!

Eligibility Criteria for President’s PhD Scholarships By Imperial College London:

  • Earn a postgraduate or undergraduate degree with first-class or comparable marks.
  • A master's degree with distinction or provide proof of exceptional performance toward it.
  • Also, registered PhD students at Imperial are not eligible to apply for the Scholarship.

Benefits of President’s PhD Scholarships By Imperial College London:

  • Full payment of tuition for the three and a half years.
  • A consumables fund for the first three years of study of about INR 2L annually.
  • Access to a specially tailored schedule of activities and events organized by the graduate school.
  • An annual stipend to help with living expenses of about INR 26L.

How To Apply for PhD Scholarships By Imperial College London?

  • There isn't a specific application form needed to apply for the scholarship.
  • Send Imperial College London an online application for admission.
  • Departments will evaluate your potential and academic merit while determining your candidacy for the scholarship.

Documents Required for President’s PhD Scholarships By Imperial College London:

To get President’s PhD Scholarships By Imperial College London you need to submit Two-page personal statement with the names of two academic references.

Restrictions in Getting President’s PhD Scholarships:

  • Only new PhD applications are accepted; Imperial PhD students who are enrolled full-time are not eligible.
  • While certain departments may have restrictions on foreign candidates, there are no restrictions based on nationality.
  • Applications may be submitted as early as 1 August 2024 and as late as 1 November 2024 for the school year 2024–2025.

Southampton Presidential Bursaries

A great chance for ambitious students who want to study for a PhD at the University of Southampton is the Southampton Presidential Bursaries. This distinguished scholarship covers all living expenses in addition to tuition fees, and it comes with a sizable stipend.

The University of Southampton offers top-notch research facilities and a welcoming academic environment, making it the perfect location for doctoral research that will have a big impact on your field of study.

Eligibility Criteria for Southampton Presidential Bursaries:

Open to candidates from abroad who have excelled academically.

In order to participate in doctoral research at the University of Southampton in 2024–2025, applicants must be accepted.

A first-class undergraduate degree, an integrated master's degree, or an overall distinction in a master's program are requirements for academic qualifying.

Those who are accepted must begin their PhD programs between August 1, 2024, and December 1, 2024.

How to Apply for Southampton Presidential Bursaries Scholarship?

No additional application is not required. On behalf of eligible applicants, faculties will submit bursary applications to the Doctoral College.

Documents Required for Southampton Presidential Bursaries Scholarship:

  • A filled-out application.
  • A message from yourself outlining your qualifications for the scholarship.
  • Transcripts of studies.
  • A recommendation from an academic mentor or instructor.
  • Proof of financial necessity, such as a family income statement or documentation of any applicable benefits received.

Restrictions of Getting Southampton Presidential Bursaries:

A first-class or upper-second-class degree from a UK university, or an equivalent, is required of applicants. Applicants cannot be enrolled in any PhD program at Southampton University or any other university.

University Of Sheffield Research Scholarships

For Indian students, the University of Sheffield provides multiple PhD scholarships. Students with exceptional academic potential and research talents are supported by these scholarships. The University of Sheffield is an ideal place to do a PhD and make a meaningful contribution to your field of study because of its superb facilities and wide choice of research fields.

Eligibility Criteria for Getting University Of Sheffield Research Scholarships:

Get a first-class or upper-second-class UK honours degree, or the equivalent, or plan to get one.

Satisfy any further prerequisites for admission that your department may have imposed.

To enroll in a PhD program full-time or part-time for the 2024–2025 academic year, submit an application.

Benefits of Choosing University Of Sheffield Research Scholarships:

  • Scholarships pay for education and give a tax-free allowance of about INR 19L.
  • A sizeable allocation for training and development is one form of additional assistance.
  • Up to seven years of part-time study or three and a half years of full-time study are supported by funding.
  • Get studentships for half-time work at 50% of the full-time wage.

How To Apply for University Of Sheffield Research Scholarships?

  • Use the Postgraduate Online Application Form to submit an application for study.
  • Select a commencement date that will not occur before September 1, 2024.

Documents Required for University Of Sheffield Research Scholarships:

  • Academic records for each degree earned previously.
  • CV, or curriculum vitae
  • English language proficiency test results for the research proposal (if applicable)
  • References (two scholarly references on average)

Restrictions of Getting These Scholarships by the University Of Sheffield:

  • Only accessible for full-time PhD coursework
  • Open to students from all countries, with the exception of the UK and EU
  • Applications for scholarships must be sent in by the deadline, which is often in January or February.
  • Prior to applying for the scholarship, candidates must have a confirmed offer from the University of Sheffield to pursue a PhD.

Leeds Doctoral Scholarships (PRHS Doctoral Scholarships 2025)

Prestigious grants known as Leeds Doctoral Scholarships are provided to Indian and foreign students at the University of Leeds so they can pursue PhD programs. These scholarships offer financial assistance and encouragement to deserving applicants who are dedicated to achieving success in their chosen fields of study.

Candidates may choose to accept the award for a full-time position that lasts for three years or for a part-time position that lasts for five years. Successful applicants may extend the award, which is initially given for one year, for up to two years of full-time education or 1.5 years of part-time study, with the possibility of a further extension of up to 3.5 years, provided they continue to make sufficient academic progress.

Merit and individual ability are the standard criteria used to select the prize recipients, guaranteeing a fair and equitable procedure.

Prospective candidates who are uncertain about the particular prerequisites for a research degree are advised to consult with the relevant School or Graduate School prior to submitting their application.

Number of Awards in These Leeds Doctoral Scholarships:

The Total Number of Awards in Leeds Doctoral Scholarships (PRHS Doctoral Scholarships 2025) is only 2!

Eligibility Criteria for Getting These Leeds Doctoral Scholarships:

  • Must not be pursuing a PhD program at this time.
  • Accept the scholarship by the first of October in 2024.
  • Throughout the scholarship term, you must reside a reasonable distance from the University of Leeds.
  • Possess a first degree that is on par with a UK first-class honors degree, or be in your last year of education.
  • For postgraduate research studies in the School of Philosophy, Religion, and History of Science, an IELTS score of 6.5 overall, with a minimum of 6.0 in each component, is the minimal requirement for English language proficiency.
  • For the test to be valid, it must be taken no later than two years from the commencement of the course.

Benefits of Choosing Leeds Doctoral Scholarships (PRHS Doctoral Scholarships 2025):

  • The School of Philosophy, Religion, and History of Science offers PhD scholarships.
  • Two scholarship recipients will be chosen: one from outside the UK and one from within.
  • It pays tuition fees for three years of full-time education or five years of part-time study, as well as maintenance stipends commensurate with UKRI rates (INR 19L in 2023–24).

How To Apply for a Leeds Doctoral Scholarship or PRHS Doctoral Scholarship?

  • Use the online application form to apply for a research location and indicate that you are interested in the "PRHS Doctoral Scholarship."
  • Verify your eligibility for a PhD program and send in the necessary paperwork.
  • Fill out the application for the School of PRHS Doctoral Scholarship.
  • Please send in your scholarship application by Thursday, January 25, 2024, at 5:00 p.m.
  • Non-native English speakers need to show that they have met the minimal language proficiency requirements set by the university.

Documents Required for These UK PHD Scholarships For Indian Students:

  • Research Project Proposal
  • Transcripts Of Studies
  • Results Of Tests Of English Language Competency
  • CV, Or Curriculum Vitae
  • References (Two Scholarly References On Average)

Application Deadline

The last date for Applying for Leeds Doctoral Scholarships (PRHS Doctoral Scholarships 2025) is 25 January 2025!

Let's now examine a few external PhD scholarships offered by the UK to Indian candidates. These scholarships are provided by non-university based organizations and foundations, which can also grant financial aid to help with educational expenses.

Top Universities in the UK Offering PhD Scholarships For Indian Students

Some of the most prominent universities in the world are located in the UK and provide PhD scholarships to Indian students. Organizations such as Lancaster University and Imperial College London offer substantial financial assistance, entry to first-rate research facilities, and opportunities to collaborate with eminent academics.

The best UK colleges that provide PhD scholarships to Indian students are listed below:

Top Universities Average Tuition Fees
University Of Manchester INR 20L – INR 30L
University College London INR 25 – INR 30L
University Of Southampton INR 26 – INR 28L
University Of Oxford INR 26 – INR 28L
University Of Southampton INR 27L – INR 30L
University Of Cambridge INR 30L – INR 33L
Kings College London INR 30L – INR 35L
University Of Nottingham INR 22.5L – INR 37L
University Of Leeds INR 22L – INR 40L
Imperial College London INR 22.6L – INR 46L

Tips for Successfully Getting UK PhD scholarships for Indian Students

Here are some tips to increase your chances of landing a UK PhD scholarship as an Indian student:

Targeted Research: Don't apply blindly! Explore scholarship programs offered by universities, government bodies, and external organizations in the UK. Focus on those that align with your research area and background.

Eligibility Ninja: Scrutinize eligibility criteria for each scholarship. This includes academic scores, research experience, and nationality requirements. Ensure you meet all before applying.

Craft a Compelling Proposal: A strong research proposal is crucial. Clearly define your research project, methodology, and its significance. Highlight its alignment with the supervisor's expertise and the university's research focus.

Shine in Your Statement of Purpose (SOP): Go beyond grades. Use your SOP to showcase your passion for research, relevant experiences, and future goals. Explain why a UK PhD is vital to achieving them.

Academic Excellence Matters: Strong academic performance in your undergraduate and postgraduate studies demonstrates your research potential. Aim for high scores!

Seek Stellar References: Secure strong reference letters from professors familiar with your research abilities. Choose those who can speak to your potential for success in a PhD program.

Meet Deadlines: Don't miss out! Be mindful of application deadlines for both universities and scholarships. Apply well in advance to ensure a complete and well-polished application.

By following these tips and showcasing your academic merit and research potential, you'll be well on your way to securing a UK PhD scholarship and achieving your research dreams. 

Conclusion

Indian students have great options to pursue their PhD goals in the UK. Studying in the UK can boost intellectual and personal development because of its many top universities, esteemed research centers, and multicultural population.

Moreover, students can eliminate the burden of covering their education expenses with a variety of funding options and scholarships. So, the UK is the ideal location for Indian students doing PhDs!

With more than 50 years of combined expertise, WayUp Abroad is pleased to employ a highly skilled staff of counselors that have assisted students in studying abroad. Find out which nation is best for you by speaking with us!

FAQ

Which nations are some of the Best for PhD study?
Numerous nations are renowned for having top-notch PhD programs. The UK, Australia, Canada, Germany, and the USA are among the top PhD destinations. These nations are renowned for their top-notch research facilities, knowledgeable professors, and encouraging learning environments.

What does the UK PhD scholarship for Indian students consist of?
Indian students can apply for a range of postgraduate scholarships from the UK that are need-based, merit-based, course-specific, and student-specific. These scholarships offer funding to help with living expenses and tuition costs associated with pursuing an education. In addition, the scholarships provide stipends, research grants, and fee waivers.

How can Indian students in the UK obtain financing for a doctorate?
There are several ways for Indian students who want to study for a PhD in the UK to get financial support. Students might look into scholarships offered by colleges, outside organizations, and the UK government. Furthermore, certain colleges could offer financial help in the form of teaching opportunities or research assistant positions. Indian students wishing to pursue a PhD in the UK should do extensive study and apply for appropriate grants and fellowships. Lancaster University, for instance, provides a Ph.D. Financial assistance scholarships consist of a stipend and a waiver of fees. An additional illustration is the Gates Cambridge Scholarship program, which provides about 80 full-cost scholarships per year to deserving candidates from non-UK nations, covering the University Composition Fee at the relevant rate.

Can I use my UK PHD in India?
Indeed, India recognizes and accepts a PhD from the United Kingdom. Global recognition for UK universities means that obtaining a PhD there can improve professional prospects and lead to international opportunities. Furthermore, the UK's standing as a producer of top-notch academic research can validate one's work and lead to international chances.

Is taking the IELTS required in the UK to pursue a PhD?
To demonstrate English proficiency, IELTS is typically required of Indian students pursuing a PhD in the UK. However, if the student is a native English speaker or has completed their prior coursework in the language, certain universities may omit this requirement. Before applying, it's crucial to confirm the language requirements of the particular school and program you're interested in.

In the UK, how many hours a PhD student works?
A PhD student's work hours in the UK are determined by a number of criteria, including the nature of their research topic, the laws of the university, and the needs of the particular courses they are taking. In the UK, PhD candidates often work 20 hours a week, or full-time. But depending on the student's workload and research requirements, this might change. During hectic times, some students might put in more hours of work, while others might put in less if their research is finished.

Which UK universities are the best for PhD programs?
A number of prestigious UK universities provide PhD programs. The University of Cambridge, University of Oxford, Imperial College London, University of Edinburgh, University College London (UCL), and University of Manchester are a few of the most well-known universities.

When I get my Ph.D. may I work in the UK?
Yes, using the UK's Graduate Route, overseas students—including Indian students who have earned a PhD there—are permitted to remain and work in the country for a maximum of two years. Through this route, students can work without sponsorship requirements or limitations, gaining valuable work experience and contributing to the UK economy after graduation.

Are scholarships available for Indian students to pursue a PhD in the UK?
With scholarships, Indian students can study for a PhD in the UK. To assist students with their college expenses, the UK provides a range of merit-based, need-based, course-specific, and student-specific postgraduate scholarships. Indian students can pursue a PhD in the UK and benefit from excellent research opportunities, world-class education, and access to first-rate professors, facilities, and resources. Additionally, the UK's reputation for producing top-notch academic research can lend legitimacy to one's work and create international chances.

Which nation offers Indian students the least expensive PhD program?
Since living costs and tuition differ by country and university, it is challenging to identify which country offers the lowest PhD for Indian students. Nonetheless, Germany, Finland, Spain, Italy, and China are a few nations that provide reasonably priced PhD programs for students from other countries.

What kind of visa is needed in the UK to pursue a PhD?
Indian students who wish to study for a PhD in the UK must apply for a Tier 4 (General) student visa. Students can stay in the UK for the duration of their degree with this visa. Filling out an online application, paying a fee, and sending in supporting documentation are the steps in the visa application procedure. Students must provide proof that they have enough money to pay for their living expenses and course fees while they are studying in the UK, according to UK government regulations.

Is it worthwhile for Indian students to pursue a PhD in the UK? 
It is worthwhile for an Indian student to pursue a PhD in the UK. Top-notch research facilities, distinguished staff, and a diversified academic community are features of UK universities. A worthwhile learning experience is enhanced by the rigorous academic environment and exposure to other cultures. Furthermore, a Ph.D. from the UK is recognized internationally, which improves job opportunities across a range of industries. 

Related Articles

Get a Quote

Book your video counselling Session

Request a callback