UK PHD Scholarships For Indian Students

22 min read

Enrolling in one of the top universities abroad and pursuing the course you’ve always envisioned is a dream of many Indian students. Grabbing a scholarship can be a blessing for students that can help them study the course of their choice without any financial burden in one of the top-rated universities in the UK.

The most famous PhD courses to pursue in the UK include Engineering, Medical Sciences, Physics and Astronomy, Journalism, etc. 

Meritorious Indian Students seeking to study in the UK can apply for these scholarships. Some popular UK scholarships for international students are Chevening scholarships, Felix Scholarships, Rhodes scholarships, etc.

The scholarship amount for international students ranges from INR 6.3L to INR 10.5L based on the student’s profile.

Indians comprise one of the largest student populations throughout the UK today. According to the Economic Times, In the academic year 2022-2023, the UK hosted a notable population of over 1,20,000 Indian students, marking them as one of the country’s most significant international student groups. There has been a consistent annual growth in the number of Indian students in the UK.

The UK, one of the most sought-after study destinations for Indian students, offers several merit-based, need-based, course-specific, and student-specific PhD scholarships to help you work out the hassle of paying for all the college finances. 

These scholarships also make studies abroad affordable. Usually, the primary intake of the UK scholarship programs happens in September. However, the criteria for eligibility for different scholarship programs vary.

However, the following points are taken as general criteria for eligibility for every scholarship exam:

• The candidate must be an Indian.
• The candidate should be a high-scoring scholar.
• The candidate must have completed his previous education in English medium schools and colleges.

So, if you also want to pursue your PhD from the top colleges in the UK at affordable costs, read more about these scholarships in detail.

Why Study PhD In The UK?

Studying for a PhD in the UK can provide Indian students with world-class education research opportunities and access to top-notch faculty, facilities, and resources. Additionally, earning a PhD from a UK university can enhance career prospects and open up doors to global opportunities.

Advantages of Pursuing a PhD in the UK for Indian Students

Advantages of Pursuing a PhD in the UK for Indian Students:

• World-Class Education: The UK is home to some of the world’s top universities, offering Indian students access to world-class education and research opportunities. Four UK universities have been placed in the top 10 of the 2023 QS World University Rankings, and 28 universities are featured amongst the Times Higher Education’s top 200 in 2023. 

• Top-Notch Faculty and Facilities: Pursuing a PhD in the UK gives Indian students access to top-notch faculty, facilities, and resources, which can enhance their academic and personal growth.

• Diverse Cultures and Ideas: Studying in the UK exposes Indian students to diverse cultures and ideas, which can broaden their perspectives and enhance their academic and personal growth.

• Better Career Prospects: Earning a PhD from a UK university can enhance Indian students’ career prospects and open up doors to global opportunities.

• Funding Opportunities: The UK offers various funding opportunities and scholarships to support the cost of education, making it an affordable option for Indian students. Scholarships like the Commonwealth Scholarship and Marshall Scholarship, among others. Students can also choose to pursue their courses part-time or full-time. Applicants from countries like India, Australia, Canada, Germany, Ireland, the USA and New Zealand enjoy many student finance options.

Popular University PhD Scholarships For Indian Students

There are various popular university scholarships available for Indian students pursuing a PhD in the UK. These scholarships are designed to assist students financially and help them achieve their academic and professional goals. The scholarships offered are both need-based and merit-based, covering many fields of study. 

Some popular scholarships for Indian students include Chevening, Felix, Rhodes, and Commonwealth Scholarships.

These scholarships make studying abroad affordable and accessible to Indian students and provide an opportunity to pursue a world-class education and research opportunities.

Discover Top UK PhD Scholarships for Indian Students:

1. CHASE AHRC Studentship Scheme for Arts and Humanities Research

The University Of Sussex is a proud CHASE Doctoral Training Partnership member supported by Arts and Humanities Research Council funding. It is an excellent opportunity for Indian students who want to pursue a PhD in Arts and Humanities research in the UK. 

This scholarship provides financial assistance to students and helps them achieve their academic and professional goals. 

The scholarship is open to talented applicants from India and around the world, and it covers tuition fees and provides a stipend to support living expenses. With this scholarship, students can pursue their research interests and contribute to their field of study.

Number Of Awards: (17)

Eligibility:

• Meet the entry criteria for the chosen PhD program
• Open to both Home and International students for AHRC CHASE funding
• Stuart Hall Foundation applicants must qualify for Home fees.

How To Apply?

• Choose a PhD in the Arts and Humanities to be eligible for the scholarship.
• Apply to Sussex using the online application system before December 15th 2023.
• Indicate your intention to apply for a CHASE scholarship on your academic application form in the IFinance/Funding section.
• If approved to study at Sussex, you will receive a link to an online application form for the CHASE scholarship.
• Submit a complete application before the January 26th 2024 deadline. 

Documents Required

• Research Proposal
• Supervisor Statement
• Two references

Deadline: 26th January 2024

2. President’s PhD Scholarships By Imperial College London

The President’s PhD Scholarships allow students to pursue a research project of their choice, guided by an outstanding supervisor. Scholars benefit from engaging with fellow President’s PhD Scholars through cohort-building activities. The scholarship applies to both full- and part-time study.

These scholarships provide outstanding undergraduate and Master’s students the chance to undertake a 3.5-year PhD program at Imperial College London.

Number Of Awards (50)

Eligibility Criteria

• Obtain first-class or equivalent grades in an undergraduate or postgraduate degree.
• Distinction in Master’s qualification or show evidence of high performance leading to it.
• Currently, registered Imperial PhD students are not eligible to be considered for the Scholarship.

Benefits

• Complete coverage of tuition fees for the entire 3.5-year duration.
• A consumables fund of approximately INR 2L per year for the initial 3 years of study.
• Access to a customised program of opportunities and events facilitated by the Graduate School.
• A stipend of approximately INR 26L per annum to assist with living costs.

How To Apply?

• No particular application form for the scholarship is required.
• Submit your admission application online to Imperial College London.
• Departments will consider your eligibility for the scholarship based on academic merit and potential.

Documents Required

• Personal Statement (2 pages)
• Names of 2 academic referees

Restrictions

• Only available for new PhD applications; currently registered Imperial PhD students are not eligible
• There are no nationality restrictions, but some departments may have limitations on international candidates.

For the academic year 2024–25, applications can begin as early as 1 August 2024 and as late as 1 November 2024.

3. Southampton Presidential Bursaries

The Southampton Presidential Bursaries is an excellent opportunity for aspiring scholars who wish to pursue their PhD studies at the University of Southampton. This prestigious scholarship provides total funding for tuition fees and a generous stipend to support living expenses. 

With world-class research facilities and a supportive academic community, the University of Southampton is an ideal place to undertake doctoral research and significantly contribute to your field of study.

Eligibility Criteria:

• Open to overseas candidates with remarkable academic achievements.
• Applicants must secure acceptance for doctoral research at the University of Southampton for 2024/25.
• Academic eligibility includes a first-class undergraduate or integrated master’s degree or an overall distinction in a master’s programme.
• Successful candidates must start their doctoral studies between 1 August and 1 December 2024.

How To Apply?

• No separate application is needed. Faculties will submit bursary applications to the Doctoral College on behalf of qualified candidates.

Documents Required:

• A completed application form
• A personal statement explaining why you should be considered for the bursary
• Academic transcripts
• A reference from a teacher or academic tutor
• Evidence of financial need, such as a statement of household income or evidence of any relevant benefits received

Restrictions:

• Applicants must have a first-class or upper-second-class degree from a UK university or equivalent.
• Candidates must not be enrolled in a PhD program at the University of Southampton or any other institution.

4. University Of Sheffield Research Scholarships

The University of Sheffield offers several PhD scholarships for Indian students. These scholarships support students with outstanding academic potential and research skills. With a wide range of research areas and excellent facilities, the University of Sheffield is a great place to undertake a PhD and significantly contribute to your field of study.

Eligibility Criteria

• Obtain or anticipate obtaining a first or upper-second-class UK honours degree or equivalent.
• Fulfil any additional entry requirements specified by your chosen department.
• Apply for full-time or part-time PhD program enrollment for the 2024/25 academic year.

Benefits

• Scholarships cover tuition fees and provide a tax-free stipend of approximately (INR 19L).
• Additional support includes a substantial training and development allowance.
• Funding supports up to three and a half years of full-time or seven years of part-time study.
• Receive part-time Studentships at 50% of the full-time rate.

How To Apply?

• Submit a study application through the Postgraduate Online Application Form.
• Choose a start date no earlier than 1 September 2024.

Documents Required

• Academic transcripts of all previous degrees
• Curriculum Vitae (CV)
• Research proposal
• English language proficiency test score (if applicable)
• References (usually two academic references)

Restrictions

• Available only for full-time PhD study
• Open to all nationalities except for UK and EU students
• Scholarship applications must be submitted before the deadline, which is usually in January or February
• Applicants must have a confirmed offer for PhD study at the University of Sheffield before applying for the scholarship.

5. Leeds Doctoral Scholarships (PRHS Doctoral Scholarships 2024)

Leeds Doctoral Scholarships are prestigious awards offered to Indian and International students to pursue their PhD studies at the University of Leeds. These scholarships provide funding and support to exceptional candidates committed to pursuing research excellence in their chosen fields.

The award offers flexibility in its duration, allowing candidates to opt for either a full-time commitment spanning 3 years or a part-time engagement extending over 5 years. Initially granted for one year, successful applicants can renew the award for up to 2 years in the case of full-time study or 1.5 years for part-time, with an option for an additional extension of up to 3.5 years, contingent on maintaining satisfactory academic progress. 

Selection for the award is consistently based on merit and individual abilities, ensuring a fair and equitable process.

 Future applicants guiding uncertainties regarding the specific requirements of a research degree are encouraged to seek guidance from the respective School or Graduate School before initiating their application.

Number Of Awards:

(2) PhD Scholarships are rewarded

Eligibility Criteria

• Must not be currently enrolled in a doctoral degree.
• Take up the scholarship by October 1st, 2024.
• Reside within a reasonable distance from the University of Leeds during the scholarship period.
• Have a First Degree equivalent to a UK First Class Honours degree or be in the final year of study.
• The minimum English language entry requirement for research postgraduate research study in the School of Philosophy, Religion and History of Science is an IELTS of 6.5 overall with at least 6.0 in each component.
• The test must be dated within 2 years of the course’s start date to be valid.

Benefits

• PhD scholarships are available in the School of Philosophy, Religion, and History of Science.
• One scholarship is for a UK candidate, and one is for an international candidate.
• It covers maintenance stipends matching UKRI rates (INR 19L in 2023/24) and three-year full-time or five-year part-time study tuition fees.

How To Apply?

• Apply for a research place of study through the online application form, specifying interest in the “PRHS Doctoral Scholarship.”
• Ensure eligibility for PhD candidacy and submit required documents.
• Complete the School of PRHS Doctoral Scholarship Application Form.
• Submit the scholarship application by 5:00 p.m. on Thursday, January 25, 2024.
• Non-native English speakers must provide evidence of meeting the University’s minimum English language requirements.

Documents Required

• Research proposal
• Academic transcripts
• English language proficiency test scores
• Curriculum Vitae (CV)
• References (usually two academic references)

Application Deadline – 25 January 2024

Now, look at some external UK PhD scholarships that Indian students can apply for. Organisations and foundations outside of universities offer these scholarships and can provide financial assistance to cover the cost of education.

Popular Externally Funded Ph.D. Scholarships For Indian Students In The UK

There are a variety of external scholarships available to Indian students looking to pursue a PhD in the UK. These scholarships help cover tuition costs, living expenses, and other fees associated with studying abroad. It is essential for students to thoroughly research and apply for these scholarships to help make their academic dreams a reality.

The UK government or philanthropic organisation provides many funding opportunities for doctoral candidates, such as loans, stipends, and scholarships like the Commonwealth Scholarship and Marshall Scholarship. 

Students can also choose to pursue their courses part-time or full-time. Applicants from India, Australia, Canada, Germany, Ireland, the USA and New Zealand enjoy various student finance options.

1. Charles Wallace India Trust Scholarships

British Council India has worked with the Charles Wallace India Trust (CWIT) for 40 years, enabling them to pursue their preferred courses in the UK. Talented Indian students are chosen by the trust each year for the final year of their doctoral studies, and the trust covers all of their academic expenses, excluding visa costs and international airfare.

The major types of scholarships available for PhD students are- 

1. CWIT Short Research Grants:

Number Of Awards (15)

Rewards:

INR 1.58L will be provided for the short stay in the UK.

Eligibility Criteria

The candidate must:

• Be an Indian citizen residing in India.
• Fall within the age bracket of 25 to 45.
• Hold a confirmed spot at the UK university.
• Completed their studies with at least 4 years of specialised research or practical experience or must be in the final stage of doctorate studies.
• Not have received a CWIT grant in the past 5 years.

How To Apply?

• Provide a concise CV with email, postal address, and a photo.
• Include emergency contact details in India.
• Clearly state your UK objectives and specific academic research plans in 2-3 pages.
• Specify your intended time frame in the UK (the CWIT grant covers about 3 weeks).
• Share the names and addresses of 2 referees familiar with your work.
• Confirm eligibility within the age range and that there has been no prior CWIT grant in the last 5 years.

Documents Required

• IELTS Certificate 
• Proof of unconditional acceptance into the chosen course, program, attachment, internship, or evidence of progress towards acceptance.
• Submitting portfolios, if applicable, through online links or uploading relevant documents or pictures.

Restrictions

• The scholarships are only for short-term research and doctorate studies, not degree courses.
• The minimum age requirement for the scholarship is 25 years, with no upper age limit.
• The scholarship is unavailable for those who have already received a Charles Wallace India Trust Scholarship in the past 5 years.

2. Grants towards the final year of Doctoral study in the UK

Rewards:

INR 53,000- INR 63,200 – intended to help fill funding gaps.

Eligibility Criteria

The candidate must:

• Be an Indian citizen residing in India.
• Fall within the age bracket of 25 to 45.
• Hold a confirmed spot at the UK university.
• Completed their studies with at least 4 years of specialised research or practical experience or must be in the final stage of doctorate studies.
• Not have received a CWIT grant in the past 5 years.

How To Apply?

• Submit a concise CV and a Statement of Purpose.
• Provide names and email addresses of 2 referees.
• Assure your intention to return to India for your career.
• Include details of any additional grants you are currently seeking.

Documents Required

• IELTS Certificate 
• Proof of unconditional acceptance into the chosen course, program, attachment, internship, or evidence of progress towards acceptance.
• Submitting portfolios, if applicable, through online links or uploading relevant documents or pictures.

Restrictions

• The scholarships are only for short-term research and doctorate studies, not degree courses.
• The minimum age requirement for the scholarship is 25 years, with no upper age limit.
• The scholarship is not available for those who have already received a Charles Wallace India Trust Scholarship in the past 5 years.

Deadline: 14 January 2024

2. Gates Cambridge Scholarship

The Gates Cambridge Scholarship program originated in October 2000 through a significant contribution of US$210 million from the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation to the University of Cambridge. The inaugural group of scholars began their residence in October 2001. Since its beginning, the Trust has granted over 2,000 scholarships to individuals from over 100 countries. 

Approximately 250 scholars from 50 countries are studying in Cambridge at any one time. They pursue the full range of subjects available at the university, spread across its departments and colleges, forming its distinctive community. There is also a community of over 1,700 Gates Cambridge Alumni spread worldwide.

Gates Cambridge does NOT consider Business Doctorate (BusD), Part-time degrees other than the PhD and Non-degree courses. The Scholarship covers most costs, but Gates Cambridge does not cover bench fees or the costs of scientific equipment or similar academic resources.

No. Of Awards

Gates Cambridge generously offers approximately 55 full-cost scholarships annually to exceptional applicants from countries other than the UK except the USA.

Eligibility Criteria: 

You can apply for a Gates Cambridge Scholarship if you complete the following criteria:

• Demonstrate outstanding intellectual ability.
• State reasons for selecting the chosen course.
• Express a sincere commitment to enhancing the lives of others.
• Showcase potential for impactful leadership roles.

Benefits

• Cover for the University Composition Fee at the applicable rate.
• Maintenance allowance for a single student (INR 20.8L for 12 months, at the rate of 2023-2024.
• Economy single airfare for the start and end of the course
• Cover Inbound visa expenses and the Immigration Health Surcharge costs.

How To Apply?

• Visit the official University of Cambridge website for most courses.
• Submit your scholarship application concurrently with your admissions application.
• Upload the required supporting documents after completing the application form.
• Finalise and submit your application.

Documents Required

• Personal statement (up to 3000 characters)
• Research proposal for PhD candidates (required, even if not specified by the course or college)
• LOR
• Two reference letters ( from a current employer if necessary)

3. Kerb Memorial Scholarship

The Krebs Memorial Scholarship is designed for individuals whose promising research career has been disrupted due to extraordinary non-academic reasons or those ineligible for public funds. The scholarship aims to acknowledge exceptional academic distinction and recognise outstanding promise. It is not intended to supplement grants already received from other sources.

Eligibility Criteria

• Open to applicants of any nationality.
• Planning to pursue a PhD in Biochemistry or a related biomedical science.
• Ranked in the top 5% of PhD candidates.
• Must demonstrate an interrupted research career for extraordinary non-academic reasons (e.g., war, disease outbreak, refugee status).
• Ineligible for public funds.

Benefits

• Covers tuition fees at the home student’s rate and provides maintenance.
• The scholarship is usually offered in line with the UKRI/Research Council studentships. For the 2023/24 academic year, the scholarship is worth INR 23.5L.

How To Apply?

• Applicants must have arrangements with the intended university for the award.
• Required to upload letters from the Supervisor, Head of Department, and two academic referees during the application.
• Consideration will only be taken after receiving all supporting letters.
• Letters should confirm the candidate’s academic merit and agreement to accept them.
• The referees must assess the candidate in the top 5% of PhD candidates.

Documents Required

•  Letter from the intended Supervisor in the application.
• Letter from the Head of Department to support your candidacy.
• Letters from two academic referees during the application process.

Restrictions

• Restricted to specific fields of study, including law, humanities, and social sciences.
• Only 1 scholarship is available each year.
• Applicants must demonstrate academic excellence and financial need.
• Recipients must return to India for at least 2 years after completing their studies at Oxford.

Deadline- The deadline for funding applications for the 2023/24 academic year has passed. This program will become available again in 2024.

4. Wolfson Scholarships

The Wolfson Scholarships are provided in the Humanities field to fully fund a PhD cost, including a travel allowance, in history, literature, and languages at six partner universities. This programme was established in 2012 and has allocated over £24 million. Indian students passionate about these fields can also apply for this scholarship and further their academic pursuits.

Wolfson Scholarships will be available in three disciplines that align closely with the Foundation’s interests: History, Literature and Languages. The awards are available for doctoral research only and will be paid over 3 years (or up to 6 years part-time). For full-time students, it is expected that students complete their doctorate in 3years.

Students should have an outstanding academic record, usually a first-class honours degree at the undergraduate level and a Master’s degree from a recognised university in a field of study relevant to their proposed doctoral research.

The Wolfson Postgraduate Scholarships in the Humanities, six associate universities are:

• University of Birmingham 
• University College London
• University of Exeter
• University of Nottingham
• University of Oxford
• University of York 

Eligibility Criteria

• Open to UK and International (including EU) applicants starting a campus-based PhD at any university mentioned above in the 2024/25 academic year.
• Intended Ph.D. research must be in history, literature, or languages.
• Applicants must reside in the UK during their studies.
• A track record of academic excellence is required, typically with a first-class undergraduate degree and a completed or ongoing master’s in a related field.
• Applicants must have applied for a PhD at any University mentioned above before submitting their Wolfson Scholarship application.

Benefits

• Starting in 2024/25, each student will receive a total of INR 1Cr, equating to INR 37L per annum.
• Funding includes a stipend, covering fees, and a research allowance.

How To Apply?

• Candidates are nominated for Wolfson Scholarships by their department. Direct applications are not accepted.
• Check the department’s application procedure on its website and notify the Departmental Graduate Tutor.
• After departmental selections, Departmental Graduate Tutors send nominations to the Joint Faculties’ Office.

Documents Required

• A completed application form for your chosen course of study
• A 500-word personal statement explaining why you want to pursue postgraduate study, academic achievements, and future aspirations.
• Two academic references from individuals who can speak to your academic ability and potential.
• Academic transcripts from all previous degree programs.
• Proof of English proficiency.
• A research proposal for those applying for a research degree.

Deadline – 24 January 2024

5. Dr Manmohan Singh Scholarship

The Dr. Manmohan Singh Scholarship is a prestigious program that provides financial assistance to Indian students who wish to pursue postgraduate and PhD studies at St John’s College at the University of Cambridge. 

The scholarship is named after Dr Manmohan Singh, the former Prime Minister of India and an alumnus of St John’s College at the University of Cambridge. The scholarship aims to support deserving Indian students who have the potential to become future leaders in their respective fields.

Eligibility:

• Must be an Indian citizen with a valid passport.
• Age should be below 35 at the end of December before starting the course at Cambridge.
• No prior significant exposure to UK education or UK government funding.
• Hold a First-Class Master’s degree from a recognised Indian university.
• Must plan to pursue a full-time Doctoral Research degree at the University of Cambridge.
• Proficient in spoken and written English.
• Demonstrate leadership qualities through personal statements or extracurricular activities.

Benefits:

• Tuition fees
• International flight expenses
• Monthly stipend for living costs
• UK visa expenses

How To Apply:

• Choose a suitable doctoral program and supervisor at the University of Cambridge.
• To submit a formal application, visit the University’s Graduate Admissions Office website.
• Select St John’s College as your first-choice college in the application.
• Indicate on the Graduate Application Form if you are applying for the Dr. Manmohan Singh Scholarships (optional) and complete the funding section.
• Complete the online College Application form on St John’s College website by January 15.

Documents Required

• Send transcripts from both undergraduate and graduate studies.
• Present a clear research proposal.
• Include a detailed resume.
• Provide an academic reference 
• Statement Of Purpose
• Attach a copy of your valid Indian passport for identification.

Application Deadline: 15 January Each year

Top Universities In The UK Offering PhD Scholarships For Indian Students

The UK is home to some of the world’s most prestigious universities offering PhD scholarships to Indian students. Institutions like Lancaster University and Imperial College London provide generous financial support, access to top-notch research facilities, and the chance to work with distinguished faculty members.

Here is the list of top universities in the UK offering PhD scholarships for Indian students:

Top Universities	Avg Tuition Fees
University Of Manchester	INR 20L – INR 30L
University College London	INR 25 – INR 30L
University Of Southampton	INR 26 – INR 28L
University Of Oxford	INR 26 – INR 28L
University Of Southampton	INR 27L – INR 30L
University Of Cambridge	INR 30L – INR 33L
Kings College London	INR 30L – INR 35L
University Of Nottingham	INR 22.5L – INR 37L
University Of Leeds	INR 22L – INR 40L
Imperial College London	INR 22.6L – INR 46L

Tips For Successfully Getting UK PhD scholarships for Indian Students

Research Scholarship Opportunities:

• Explore various scholarship programs offered by UK universities, government bodies, and external organisations.
• Check eligibility criteria, application deadlines, and specific requirements for each scholarship.

Identify Your Research Interest:

• Clearly define your research interests and goals. This will help you narrow down the scholarships that align with your field.

Choose the Right University:

• Look for universities that excel in your chosen field of study. Research the faculty, facilities, and ongoing projects to ensure a fit.

Build a Strong Academic Profile:

• Maintain a high academic performance in your undergraduate and Master’s studies.
• Showcase any relevant research experience, publications, or conference presentations.

Secure Strong Letters of Recommendation:

• Obtain letters of recommendation from professors or professionals who can attest to your academic and research capabilities.

English Language Proficiency:

• Ensure you meet the English language requirements for the scholarship and the university. Take the necessary language tests like IELTS or TOEFL if required.

Apply Early:

• Start the application process well in advance to avoid any last-minute rush. This allows time for careful preparation and ensures all documents are in order.

Stay Informed about Visa Requirements:

• Familiarise yourself with the UK visa application process and ensure you meet all the requirements.
• Remember, persistence and thorough preparation are key. Tailor your applications to each scholarship, and don’t be afraid to seek guidance from mentors or advisors.

In Summary

The UK provides excellent opportunities for Indian students to pursue their PhD dreams. With several world-class universities, prestigious research institutions, and a diverse range of cultures, studying in the UK can enhance personal and academic growth. 

Moreover, with various funding opportunities and scholarships, students can work out the hassle of paying for their college finances. So, if you’re an Indian student pursuing a PhD, the UK is your perfect destination!

Leap Scholar is proud to have a highly qualified team of counsellors with 50+ years of combined experience in helping students study abroad. Talk to us and find out which country is ideal for you!

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