The University of St Andrews will fund up to 12 new PhD students starting in 2027/28 through its St Leonard’s College World-Leading Doctoral Scholarships. Each award covers full tuition fees, including the international rate, plus an annual living stipend (£20,467 in 2026/27), for 3.5 years of full-time study. There are no country restrictions.
The 12 awards come through two routes. Six student-led scholarships let you propose your own research project, and that competition is open now. Six supervisor-led scholarships fund projects designed by St Andrews academics; details are due in early 2027, with a separate application form.
Key dates (student-led competition)
- Now – submit your PhD course application first, then allow up to three working days for portal login details
- Wednesday 20 January 2027 – scholarship application deadline
- Week beginning 29 March 2027 – results
- End of December 2026 – 2027/28 stipend rate confirmed
Below, we explain both routes, who can apply, what the award covers and does not cover, and how to put together a strong application.
Scholarship overview
| Scholarship information | Details |
|---|---|
| Scholarship name | St Leonard’s College World-Leading Doctoral Scholarships |
| University | University of St Andrews |
| Location | St Andrews, Scotland, United Kingdom |
| Academic year | 2027/28 |
| Study level | Doctoral research / PhD |
| Total scholarships | Up to 12 |
| Student-led scholarships | Up to 6 |
| Supervisor-led scholarships | Up to 6 |
| International students | Eligible |
| Geographical restrictions | None for the student-led competition |
| Tuition fees | Fully covered, including international fees |
| Annual stipend | £20,467 for 2026/27; 2027/28 rate to be confirmed |
| Funding duration | 3.5 years full-time or 7 years part-time for student-led awards |
| Selection basis | Academic merit |
| Student-led applications opened | 19 August 2026 |
| Student-led application deadline | 20 January 2027 |
| Expected outcome | Week beginning 29 March 2027 |
| Supervisor-led projects | Details expected in early 2027 |
How are the 12 PhD scholarships distributed?
The University of St Andrews has allocated its World-Leading Doctoral Scholarships across two distinct competition routes.
| Scholarship category | Maximum awards | Application approach |
|---|---|---|
| Student-led doctoral scholarships | 6 | Applicants propose their own research projects |
| Supervisor-led doctoral scholarships | 6 | Applicants apply for projects developed by University supervisors |
| Total | 12 |
Both categories are intended to support exceptional doctoral researchers whose work contributes to the University’s strategic research ambitions. However, their application procedures are different.
1. Student-led doctoral scholarships – Up to 6 awards
The student-led scholarships allow applicants to develop and propose their own doctoral research projects. This means students are not restricted to selecting a research topic already defined by an academic supervisor. Instead, they can identify a research problem, develop a suitable proposal and seek supervision within an appropriate academic School.
The University expects applicants to communicate with the relevant School to establish whether suitable supervisory expertise and resources are available. The proposed research should also contribute to the world-leading theme of the University’s strategy. This category is particularly attractive to applicants who have already developed research ideas through their undergraduate dissertations, master’s research or professional experience.
For example, a student interested in Artificial Intelligence and Education might propose research into how AI systems influence teaching, learning or assessment, provided an appropriate School can support the project and its strategic relevance. Similarly, applicants in environmental sciences, humanities, medicine or other disciplines may propose original research aligned with the University’s expertise. These are illustrative research possibilities, not advertised or preapproved scholarship projects.
The student-led competition closes on 20 January 2027.
2. Supervisor-led doctoral scholarships – Up to 6 awards
The second category consists of supervisor-led scholarships. Under this route, research projects are defined by University academics rather than developed independently by applicants. Students will be able to explore the advertised projects and apply for opportunities that match their academic backgrounds and research interests.
The University has confirmed that information about these projects will be published in early 2027. Because the individual projects have not yet been announced in the reviewed guidance, applicants should wait for the official advertisements before assuming which research disciplines, supervisors or application deadlines will be available. The supervisor-led competition will have a separate scholarship application form.
Important: The 20 January 2027 deadline applies to the student-led competition. Applicants should not assume that the same date applies to the supervisor-led scholarships.
What does the World-Leading Doctoral Scholarship cover?
For international students, the combination of full tuition fee coverage and a maintenance stipend can significantly reduce the cost of pursuing a PhD in the United Kingdom.
1. Full international tuition fee coverage
The student-led scholarships cover the full tuition fees associated with the doctoral programme during the funded period. The scheme explicitly permits applicants with overseas tuition fee status. Therefore, successful international students receive tuition fee coverage at the applicable international rate.
This is an important benefit because overseas doctoral tuition fees can be considerably higher than those charged to UK students. Students should nevertheless check the terms of their award letter and ensure that the intended programme and study period are eligible.
2. Annual living stipend
In addition to tuition fee funding, successful candidates receive an annual maintenance stipend. The University sets the stipend rate for its postgraduate research scholarships. For the 2026/27 academic year, the annual stipend is £20,467.
When divided into twelve months, this is equivalent to approximately £1,706 per month. However, this figure is a reference based on the previous academic year. The University has stated that the stipend for 2027/28 will be reviewed, with confirmation expected by the end of December 2026.
The 2027/28 rate will apply from the scholar’s enrolment and will normally remain at that level for the duration of the award unless an uplift is confirmed by the relevant academic School. The stipend is intended to help students meet living expenses while conducting their doctoral research.
3. Funding for 3.5 years of full-time study
The student-led scholarships provide funding for 3.5 years of full-time study. The University expects scholarship recipients to submit their doctoral thesis for examination by the end of the funded period. This is an important consideration when planning a research project.
Applicants should propose work that is academically significant but also realistically achievable within the available research period.
4. Part-time funding for seven years
The student-led scholarship also supports eligible part-time study. For part-time students, funding lasts seven years. The annual stipend is paid proportionately rather than at the full-time rate.
International applicants should check whether their intended part-time arrangements are compatible with UK immigration and visa requirements.
5. Research training and professional development
Beyond the direct financial award, doctoral students at St Andrews can access the University’s postgraduate research training environment. This includes the University’s GRADskills programme, which supports researchers through academic, professional and personal development activities.
Depending on the available training, students may develop skills relating to:
- Research design and methodology
- Academic writing and communication
- Research ethics and integrity
- Data analysis and research management
- Presentation and public engagement
- Career development
- Professional and transferable skills
The Graduate School at St Leonard’s College also supports opportunities for postgraduate students to connect with other researchers and participate in the University’s academic community. These opportunities can be valuable for students considering future careers in academia, research institutions or industry.
What expenses are not covered?
Although the scholarships provide full tuition fee funding and a living stipend, they do not cover every possible expense.
The University explicitly states that the student-led scholarships do not cover:
- UK visa application fees
- Immigration Health Surcharge
- IELTS examination fees
- Travel to and from the United Kingdom
- Continuation fees
- Extension fees
- Thesis resubmission fees
- A separate research training grant or equivalent research expenses award
International applicants should therefore prepare a realistic financial plan before accepting an offer. The scholarship’s living stipend is intended to support maintenance costs, but relocation and immigration expenses may need to be paid separately.
Can international students apply?
Yes. The student-led World-Leading Doctoral Scholarships are open to eligible international students, with no geographical restrictions.
The University’s eligibility guidance includes applicants with Scottish, rest-of-UK and overseas fee status. Therefore, students from countries such as Bangladesh, India, Pakistan, Nepal, Sri Lanka, Nigeria, Ghana, Kenya and other countries worldwide may apply. Applicants must satisfy the academic admission requirements for their chosen doctoral programme and the conditions of the scholarship competition.
The availability of an appropriate supervisory team is also important. International students should verify programme-specific English-language requirements and the conditions applicable to their qualifications.
Academic eligibility requirements
The scholarship is intended for exceptional prospective doctoral researchers. The University awards the student-led scholarships based on academic merit.
1. Applicants must apply for a doctoral programme
Candidates must have submitted an application for a doctoral or PhD programme at the University of St Andrews. A doctoral admission offer is not required before applying for the scholarship. This distinction is important because students can begin their scholarship application while their course admission decision is still pending.
2. Applicants must be new doctoral students
The student-led scholarships are intended for prospective doctoral students. Candidates are not eligible if they already hold a doctoral degree. Applicants who are already registered for a doctoral degree at St Andrews or another institution are also ineligible.
3. Academic excellence and research potential
The University evaluates applications on academic merit. Strong academic qualifications, a well-developed research proposal and evidence of research potential can therefore contribute to a competitive application. Applicants should carefully explain their previous academic achievements, relevant research experience and preparedness for doctoral study.
The published general scholarship guidance does not specify one universal GPA or degree classification for applicants from every country. Students should instead consult the entry requirements for their chosen academic School and doctoral programme.
4. Research alignment
For the student-led competition, the proposed research must contribute to the world-leading theme of the University’s strategy. Applicants should consider how their research could strengthen existing academic expertise and contribute to the University’s long-term research ambitions. The proposal must also be appropriate for the supervision and resources available within the chosen School.
5. Joint doctoral programmes are excluded
The student-led scholarship conditions state that applicants must not be applying for a joint degree with another institution. Students interested in jointly supervised international doctoral programmes should explore the University’s separate Global Doctoral Scholarship opportunities.
Which research disciplines are eligible?
One of the most attractive features of the student-led competition is its broad disciplinary scope. The scholarship page does not impose an overall subject restriction, although applicants must seek admission through an eligible academic School and secure appropriate supervisory support. The University identifies the following Schools and departments as eligible.
| Academic School or department | Broad research area |
|---|---|
| Art History | Art, visual culture and historical interpretation |
| Biology | Biological sciences and related research |
| Chemistry | Chemical sciences |
| Classics | Classical languages, history and culture |
| Computer Science | Computing and related technologies |
| Divinity | Theology and religious studies |
| Earth and Environmental Sciences | Earth systems and environmental research |
| English | Literature and related research |
| Film Studies | Film and screen studies |
| Geography and Sustainable Development | Geography, environment and sustainability |
| History | Historical research |
| International Relations | International politics and related research |
| Mathematics and Statistics | Mathematical and statistical sciences |
| Medicine | Medical and health-related research |
| Modern Languages | Languages, literature and culture |
| Philosophy | Philosophical research |
| Physics and Astronomy | Physical sciences and astronomy |
| Psychology and Neuroscience | Psychology, cognition and neuroscience |
| Social Anthropology | Anthropological research |
| Business School | Business and management research |
For example, applicants interested in Artificial Intelligence may explore potential research within Computer Science, while students interested in environmental sustainability may find relevant expertise in Geography and Sustainable Development or Earth and Environmental Sciences. However, applicants should not assume that a particular proposed topic is automatically eligible simply because the broad discipline appears in the table. The chosen School must be able to provide suitable supervision and research resources.
Understanding the student-led research opportunity
The central attraction of the student-led scholarships is the freedom to propose an original doctoral research project. This differs from many conventional fully funded PhD studentships, where applicants compete for a predefined research project. Under the student-led route, prospective researchers can develop a proposal based on their interests and previous academic experiences.
However, the University expects the proposal to be appropriate for its research environment.
What makes a suitable research proposal?
A suitable proposal should demonstrate:
- A clearly defined research problem
- Understanding of existing academic literature
- A meaningful research gap
- Relevant research questions
- A feasible research methodology
- Potential contribution to knowledge
- Alignment with the University’s research strengths
- Availability of appropriate supervision
Applicants should also explain why the proposed research matters academically or practically. An ambitious proposal is valuable, but it must remain achievable within the funded doctoral period.
Why supervisor selection matters
The University expects student-led applicants to liaise with their chosen School regarding supervision and resources. This means identifying suitable academic expertise is an important early step. A prospective supervisor can help applicants assess whether a research topic fits the University’s strengths and whether the proposed research design is realistic.
However, communicating with a potential supervisor does not guarantee admission or scholarship funding.
How to apply for the World-Leading Doctoral Scholarships
Applicants must first submit a doctoral programme application before accessing the scholarship application.
Step 1: Identify an eligible doctoral programme
Begin by exploring the University’s postgraduate research programmes. Choose a discipline that matches your academic background and research interests. Read the programme’s academic entry requirements, research expectations and information about prospective supervisors.
Confirm that the programme is eligible for the scholarship and that your intended start date matches the published requirements.
Step 2: Develop your research idea
Before submitting the doctoral application, develop a preliminary research proposal. Identify a research problem that interests you and investigate the relevant academic literature. Consider what previous researchers have established and what remains insufficiently understood.
Your proposal should explain what you intend to investigate, why the research matters and how you plan to undertake it.
Step 3: Identify suitable supervision
Explore academic staff profiles within the relevant School. Look for researchers whose expertise aligns with your proposed topic. Read recent publications and investigate relevant research groups or centres.
Where appropriate, contact potential supervisors to discuss whether your project could be supported. A professional introductory email should briefly explain your academic background, proposed research topic and reasons for approaching the particular academic. Applicants should follow the School’s guidance on supervisor contact and doctoral admission.
Step 4: Prepare your supporting documents
The scholarship requires several supporting documents.
These include:
- University academic transcripts
- Interim transcripts for any qualifications still in progress
- Research proposal or an accepted alternative personal statement
- Academic CV or résumé
The University’s doctoral admission process may require additional documents, such as references or evidence of English-language proficiency. Applicants should prepare all relevant materials in advance.
Step 5: Submit your doctoral course application
Apply for your chosen doctoral programme through the University’s postgraduate research application system. Importantly, applicants must submit the course application before applying for the scholarship. However, they do not need to wait until the University has issued an admission offer.
After submitting the course application, applicants should allow up to three working days to receive login details for the University’s My Application portal. Students should therefore avoid submitting their doctoral application immediately before the scholarship deadline.
Step 6: Access the My Application portal
Once you receive your login details, access the University’s My Application portal. Navigate to the Scholarships and Funding section.
Search the scholarship catalogue for:
University of St Andrews Postgraduate Research Scholarships
This is the application route used for the student-led World-Leading Doctoral Scholarships.
Step 7: Complete the scholarship application
The University confirms that applicants who complete the Postgraduate Research Scholarships application form will automatically be considered for the student-led World-Leading Doctoral Scholarships if they meet the eligibility requirements. Applicants should provide the required academic details, supporting documents and research information. Because the scholarship is awarded on academic merit, students should make sure their application clearly demonstrates their academic achievements and research potential.
Step 8: Upload your research proposal
Applicants should upload a research proposal using the specifications required by their chosen School. If you already submitted a proposal with your doctoral course application, the University permits you to upload the same proposal again for scholarship consideration. If your course application did not require a formal research proposal, you may instead upload a personal statement explaining your motivation for the chosen programme and intended research project.
Applicants to Mathematics and Statistics should pay particular attention to that School’s specific application guidance.
Step 9: Complete any relevant financial information
The application form may contain questions about household income and financial circumstances. However, the World-Leading Doctoral Scholarships are awarded on academic merit. Applicants are not required to provide household income details specifically for this scholarship.
They may opt out of that section unless they also wish to be considered for other funding opportunities based on financial need.
Step 10: Submit before the scholarship deadline
The student-led scholarship application must be submitted by:
Wednesday, 20 January 2027.
Applicants should complete the process well before this date. Allow time for receiving portal access, preparing documents and resolving any application difficulties.
Step 11: Check the application outcome
The University expects to release scholarship outcomes during the week beginning 29 March 2027. Applicants can check their status through the My Application portal. Navigate to Scholarships and Funding and select the option to view or continue funding applications.
Successful candidates will also receive an award letter.
Important application dates
The University has published the following timetable for the student-led competition.
| Application stage | Date |
|---|---|
| Student-led applications opened | 19 August 2026 |
| Student-led scholarship deadline | 20 January 2027 |
| Expected scholarship notification | Week beginning 29 March 2027 |
| Supervisor-led opportunities announced | Expected in early 2027 |
| Eligible doctoral start dates | August, September or October 2027; January or May 2028 |
The University permits the following programme commencement months under the student-led scholarship conditions:
- August 2027
- September 2027
- October 2027
- January 2028
- May 2028
Students should ensure that their intended programme start date matches one of these options. Applicants interested in the supervisor-led competition should check the separate project announcements when they become available.
How competitive are these scholarships?
The World-Leading Doctoral Scholarships are prestigious awards designed to attract researchers of exceptional ability. With up to six student-led scholarships available, competition is likely to be strong. The selection process is based on academic merit.
However, excellent academic grades alone may not distinguish an applicant. A strong research proposal, convincing academic preparation and a clear match with the University’s research environment can help demonstrate the applicant’s suitability. The University is particularly interested in projects that contribute to its world-leading research ambitions.
Applicants should therefore explain how their proposed research addresses a meaningful problem and how it could make an original contribution to the relevant discipline.
Practical tips for international applicants
1. Start preparing your doctoral application early
The scholarship application depends on first submitting an application for admission to a doctoral programme. The University advises allowing up to three working days to receive portal access. Therefore, international applicants should not wait until the final days before 20 January 2027 to begin the process.
2. Develop a research idea that is genuinely your own
The student-led competition is specifically intended for applicants who propose their own research projects. Avoid presenting a supervisor-defined project as though it were independently developed. Explain the origin of your research idea and why you believe it deserves investigation.
3. Demonstrate alignment with the University’s research strategy
The scholarship aims to support research contributing to the University’s world-leading strategic ambitions. Explore the University’s strategy and research strengths. Explain how your research could make an original academic contribution and strengthen existing areas of expertise.
4. Find a suitable supervisor
A good research idea requires an appropriate supervisory environment. Identify academics whose research interests align with your project. Read their publications and investigate whether the School can provide the necessary expertise and facilities.
5. Make your research proposal focused and achievable
Avoid research questions that are too broad. For example, a proposal about improving education using Artificial Intelligence would need a more specific research problem, clearly defined methodology and feasible scope. An effective doctoral proposal should demonstrate that the applicant understands both the potential contribution and the practical limitations of the proposed research.
6. Present your academic achievements clearly
Because the scholarship is awarded on academic merit, applicants should make their strongest achievements easy to identify. Relevant evidence may include academic distinctions, dissertation work, research experience, publications, conference presentations and other significant achievements. Applicants without publications can still demonstrate research potential through substantial academic projects and research-related experience.
7. Prepare a strong academic CV
An academic CV should focus on qualifications and experiences relevant to doctoral research. Include appropriate information about education, research projects, technical skills, academic awards, publications and research-related employment. Avoid including unnecessary personal information that does not support the application.
8. Follow your School’s research proposal requirements
Different academic Schools may expect different research proposal formats. Use the instructions published by your chosen School rather than relying on a generic proposal template. If a personal statement is permitted instead of a proposal, ensure that it clearly explains your intended research direction.
9. Prepare for the financial costs not covered
Although the scholarship covers tuition fees and provides a maintenance stipend, it excludes several expenses. International students should plan for visa costs, the Immigration Health Surcharge, travel, accommodation deposits and other relocation expenses. A realistic financial plan can help avoid difficulties after receiving a scholarship offer.
10. Consider the supervisor-led competition as another opportunity
Students whose research interests align with the University’s forthcoming supervisor-led projects may wish to explore those opportunities when they are advertised. However, they should not assume that the same application form or deadline will apply to both competitions. The University has confirmed that the supervisor-led scholarships follow a separate application route.
Frequently asked questions
1. How many fully funded PhD scholarships is the University of St Andrews offering for 2027/28?
The University has announced up to 12 World-Leading Doctoral Scholarships: six student-led awards and six supervisor-led awards.
2. Are international students eligible?
Yes. The student-led competition has no geographical restrictions and is open to eligible applicants with overseas fee status.
3. Are international tuition fees fully covered?
Yes. Successful recipients of the student-led scholarships receive full tuition fee funding, including the applicable overseas rate.
4. How much is the annual stipend?
The published stipend for 2026/27 is £20,467. The University expects to confirm the 2027/28 rate by the end of December 2026.
5. How long does the scholarship last?
The student-led scholarships provide 3.5 years of funding for full-time study or seven years for eligible part-time study.
6. Can students from Bangladesh, India, Pakistan and Nigeria apply?
Yes. Applicants from these countries may apply if they meet the University’s academic and scholarship eligibility conditions.
7. Can I propose my own research topic?
Yes. The student-led competition allows applicants to develop their own original doctoral research projects.
8. Do I need to contact a supervisor?
Applicants are expected to liaise with their chosen academic School to ensure that appropriate supervision and research resources are available.
9. Do I need an admission offer before applying?
No. You must submit your doctoral course application first, but you can apply for the scholarship before receiving an admission decision.
10. Can I apply if I already hold a PhD?
No. Applicants who already hold a doctoral degree are not eligible for the student-led scholarship.
11. Can current PhD students apply?
No. Candidates already registered for a doctoral degree at St Andrews or another institution are ineligible for this student-led competition.
12. Do I need a research proposal?
Applicants must upload a research proposal or an accepted alternative personal statement, depending on the requirements of their chosen School.
13. Can I reuse the proposal submitted for admission?
Yes. The University permits applicants to upload the same research proposal for scholarship consideration.
14. Is a first-class undergraduate degree compulsory?
The published scholarship guidance states that selection is based on academic merit but does not establish one universal undergraduate classification for every programme. Applicants must meet their chosen doctoral programme’s academic entry requirements.
15. Can I apply without academic publications?
The published general scholarship conditions do not specify a universal publication requirement. Applicants should demonstrate academic excellence and research potential through relevant evidence.
16. Do I need IELTS?
Applicants must meet the English-language requirements of their chosen doctoral programme, unless an accepted exemption applies. The scholarship does not cover IELTS examination fees.
17. Can I study part-time?
Yes. Eligible part-time students may receive funding for seven years, with the maintenance stipend paid proportionately.
18. Does the scholarship cover visa and immigration costs?
No. The student-led scholarship explicitly excludes visa fees and the Immigration Health Surcharge.
19. Does the scholarship include research funding?
The student-led award covers tuition fees and a stipend but does not include a separate research training grant or equivalent research expenses award.
20. Can I apply for a joint doctoral degree?
No. The student-led scholarship conditions exclude applicants pursuing a joint degree with another institution.
21. Can I hold another fully funded scholarship at the same time?
No. The published terms require recipients to decline this award if they subsequently receive a fully funded scholarship from an external organisation.
22. What is the application deadline?
The student-led scholarship application closes on Wednesday, 20 January 2027.
23. When will the results be announced?
The University expects to notify applicants during the week beginning 29 March 2027.
24. When will the supervisor-led scholarships become available?
The University expects to publish information about the supervisor-led projects in early 2027.
25. How do I contact the University about this scholarship?
Applicants can contact the University’s postgraduate scholarships team at:
pgscholarships@st-andrews.ac.uk
Official University links
The following resources provide official information about the scholarship programme, eligibility and application procedure.
1. St Leonard’s College World-Leading Doctoral Scholarships – Student-led competition
This is the main scholarship page containing the funding arrangements, eligibility requirements, application process and deadline.
2. University of St Andrews Graduate School funding
https://www.st-andrews.ac.uk/graduate-school/funding
This page provides information about both student-led and supervisor-led scholarship opportunities.
3. University of St Andrews postgraduate research scholarships
This is the broader scholarship application route through which eligible candidates are considered for the student-led awards.
4. University of St Andrews postgraduate research programmes
https://www.st-andrews.ac.uk/study/postgraduate/research
Prospective students can explore doctoral programmes and identify suitable academic Schools.
5. University of St Andrews scholarship catalogue
https://www.st-andrews.ac.uk/study/scholarships
Applicants can explore other funding opportunities and scholarship information.
6. Official scholarship announcement for 2027/28
https://www.st-andrews.ac.uk/graduate-school/news/title-337522-en.php
This announcement confirms the allocation of up to 12 scholarships, divided equally between student-led and supervisor-led projects.
Before you apply: what to remember
The St Andrews World-Leading Doctoral Scholarships offer up to 12 fully funded PhD places for 2027/28: six student-led awards, open now, and six supervisor-led awards to be advertised in early 2027. Successful scholars receive full tuition fees at the international rate and an annual stipend, but visa costs, the Immigration Health Surcharge and travel are not covered.
With only six student-led places, the competition will be strong. The strongest applications show academic excellence, a focused research question, a feasible method and a clear fit with a School that can supervise the project. Remember that you must submit your PhD course application before you can reach the scholarship form, and allow up to three working days for portal access.
The student-led deadline is Wednesday 20 January 2027, with results in the week beginning 29 March 2027. For the full conditions, see the University’s official scholarship page.
Information reviewed: 7 November 2026. Award numbers, funding, eligibility, exclusions, eligible Schools, application steps and dates were checked against the University of St Andrews’ scholarship page, stipend page and Graduate School announcement (8 October 2026). Applicants should verify the latest details before applying.