The University of Leeds — one of the UK’s leading research powerhouses — is opening its doors to the next generation of academic visionaries through the Leeds Doctoral Scholarships 2026 (PGR-F-209). If you’re ready to immerse yourself in advanced discovery, join a diverse community of scholars shaping solutions for global challenges — this is your chance to begin a fully funded research journey that could define your career.
About the Scholarship
The Leeds Doctoral Scholarships offer five (05) prestigious funding places for the 2026/27 academic year, reserved for Home-fee (UK-eligible) postgraduate researchers. This full-time award runs for 3.5 years (or part-time equivalent), giving you the financial freedom and academic mentorship needed to pursue a PhD in one of the university’s many world-class faculties.
Whether your passion lies in science, arts, business, engineering, or social sciences, the University of Leeds provides a platform where creativity meets innovation.
What the Scholarship Covers?
Selected scholars will receive:
- Full tuition fee coverage for three years
- Maintenance grant of £20,780 per year (2025/26 rate, adjusted annually to UKRI levels)
- Support for 3.5 years (full-time) or equivalent for part-time study.
The scholarship ensures that your focus stays where it should be — on research, discovery, and academic impact — not financial strain.
Fields of Study
The breadth of this opportunity is truly remarkable. You can pursue your PhD in one of the many schools and research institutes, including:
- Sciences & Health: Biology, Biomedical Sciences, Dentistry, Medicine, Molecular and Cellular Biology, Food Science, Earth and Environment
- Humanities & Social Sciences: English, History, Law, Politics, Philosophy, Sociology, Psychology, Education, and more
- Creative & Business Disciplines: Design, Fine Art, Performance, Cultural Studies, Management, Marketing, and International Business.
The Institute for Medieval Studies and Leeds Institute of Health Sciences are also offering research opportunities under this scheme — a golden chance to dive into historic or healthcare research at one of the UK’s most dynamic universities.
Eligibility Criteria
To be considered, applicants must:
- Hold (or be about to complete) a UK First Class Honours degree or its international equivalent.
- Applicants with a lower classification may still qualify if they have achieved Distinction in a relevant master’s program or possess strong professional research experience.
- Meet the English language requirement — IELTS 6.0 overall (with no component below 5.5) or equivalent.
Diversity and Inclusion
The University of Leeds strongly encourages applicants from all backgrounds. The institution is proud of its inclusive ethos, welcoming applications from Black, Asian, and minority ethnic communities, LGBT+ individuals, and people with disabilities — ensuring that every brilliant mind gets an equal opportunity to thrive.
How to Apply?
The application process involves two stages:
Stage 1:
Apply for a PhD research program at the University of Leeds. Make sure your application includes all required supporting documents listed by your chosen School or Faculty.
Stage 2:
Once you receive your 9-digit Student Application ID, complete the online Leeds Doctoral Scholarship application form.
Note: Incomplete applications or missing documents will not be considered. The selection is purely based on academic merit, not financial background.
Application Dates to Remember
The application deadline for the Leeds Doctoral Scholarships 2026 is Wednesday, 1 April 2026 (5:00 p.m. UK time). The funding will officially start on Wednesday, 1 October 2025, with the award running for a duration of 3.5 years for full-time study or the equivalent for part-time students.
Successful candidates must commence their scholarship no later than 1 October 2026. The University of Leeds will announce the names of selected candidates within 10 weeks after the closing date — marking the beginning of an exciting new academic chapter.