The application process for the Student-led Open Competition, for ESRC-funded PhD studentships.

CLOSED for new applications on 1 December 2023, 5pm

ESRC Funded Studentships - How To Apply

Step 1 >>>>>

Find a supervisor

Step 2 >>>>>

Check if you qualify for Home or International tuition fees

Step 3 >>>>>

Read application guidance and apply

Scholarship financial support

  • Annual stipend at UKRI rates - in the region of £18,622 for the year 2023 to 2024.
  • Full tuition fee waiver
  • Access to a Research Training Support Grant of £750

SGSSS New Logo 2015 - Thistle

Key Dates and Deadlines

Dates for the competition are now available below:

  • 2 October 2023 - SGSSS Apply opens for applications.
  • 5.00pm, 1 December 2023 - Deadline for applicants to upload Stage 1 application documentation to SGSSS Apply.
  • 5:00pm, 1 December 2023 - Deadline for referees to complete references on SGSSS Apply.
  • 1 December 2023 – 22 February 2024 - HEI review stage during which successful applicants will be invited to submit their Supervisor Statement of Support and Disciplinary Statement templates.
  • 5 April 2024 - Candidates advised the outcome of the Challenge Pathway Review Stage (successful and unsuccessful).
  • 17 May 2024 - Candidates advised the final outcome of the competition (successful and unsuccessful).