SENSS Student-Led PhD Studentships 2027 in the UK

About the opportunity

The Economic and Social Research Council (ESRC) offers SENSS Student-Led PhD Studentships for 2027, a fully funded doctoral research opportunity. This studentship is available for both home and international applicants across eight universities and six interdisciplinary themes.

What you get

• £21,805 per year tax-free maintenance stipend
• Additional £2,000 per year London Weighting for London-based universities
• Tuition fees covered for the duration of the award
• Access to research training support funds
• Funds for UK or overseas fieldwork, placements, and language training

Who can apply

• All applicants, regardless of nationality or residency
• Limited to 10 international applicants per year
• Qualifications or experience equivalent to a Bachelor’s degree (Honours) for a Masters plus PhD
• Qualifications or experience equivalent to a Masters degree for a PhD only
• Already started PhD, but not completed a substantial proportion

What you need to apply

• Identify and contact a proposed supervisor
• Complete online application in HEIApply
• Read SENSS funding fact sheet and guidance documents
• Submit application by 12pm GMT on Monday 11 January 2027
• Provide necessary documents as specified by the university