Funding your PhD
The funding landscape for UK postgraduate research can be incredibly complex. Exact funding arrangements vary depending on the type of PhD you're interested in, and can even vary significantly between similar opportunities.
You can browse our FAQs for more information on how PhDs are funded, including information on scholarships and student finance. If you would like to discuss your specific needs or circumstances you can contact us to arrange a one-to-one with a member of the PGR Diversity Team.
Scholarships
Scholarships are funding awards that can help to cover the full or partial cost of academic fees for projects that don't come with their own funding. Many scholarships also include a maintenance stipend to help cover the cost of living while you study for your PhD. Some scholarships are ‘ring-fenced’ meaning that applications are only open to individuals who meet certain criteria, such as belonging to an underrepresented or minoritised group. Check out our ‘What are scholarships and where can I find them?’ FAQ for more information.
Fee status
When searching for funded PhD projects, or exploring funding options, it's important to be aware of your ‘fee status’ as this can affect which opportunities you are eligible to apply for and the amount of funding you will receive.
You will be classed as either a Home (UK) or Overseas (International) student, with a corresponding fee status.
A good rule of thumb is to look at the fee status for your undergraduate or Masters degree. This is usually (though not always) the same for your PhD.
If you grew up in the UK, and attended school here, you're likely to be classed as a Home student, and be entitled to the lower Home rate of academic fees. You may also qualify for this rate if didn't grow up in the UK, but meet other criteria related to your immigration status.
If you're not sure whether you qualify for the Home rate, you can find more information on the UKCISA website or contact the Admissions Operations Team at [email protected].
You can find more information about research degree fees at the University of Leeds here.