For Indian students, pursuing a PhD in the UK can be expensive, but there are several fully funded scholarships available in 2025. The scholarships support for tuition, living expenses, and professional development is provided by the government, UK institutions and external funding agencies. For the academic year 2025–2026, this blog shows you the best scholarships, including government and university-funded ones, and provides helpful advice on how to apply.
Popular Government UK PhD Scholarships for Indian Students 2025–2026
For Indian students aiming to pursue a PhD in the UK, government-funded scholarships offer some of the most comprehensive and prestigious funding options. These programs are backed by the UK government and international partnerships to support research excellence, social development, and global collaboration.
Below is a 2025–2026 guide to the most sought-after UK government PhD scholarships for Indian students, along with their key benefits:
| Scholarship Name | Funded By | Key Benefits | Application Deadline (2025) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Commonwealth PhD Scholarships | UK Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) | Full tuition, return airfare, monthly stipend, thesis grant, study travel grants | Nov 2025 (tentative) |
| Chevening Scholarships (PhD Track) | UK Foreign & Commonwealth Office | Full funding for short-term or split-site PhD research, stipend, travel, and visa | Oct 2025 |
| Newton Bhabha PhD Placements | British Council + UKRI + DBT India | Research placements up to 6 months, airfare, visa, living allowance, insurance | Sept 2025 |
| Scotland Saltire Scholarships | Scottish Government + Universities Scotland | £8,000 (INR 9.2L) towards tuition fees for 1 year (can be used for integrated PhDs or modules) | May 2025 (for 2025 – 26 cycle) |
| Charles Wallace India Trust Fellowships | British Council & Charles Wallace Trust | Full/partial funding for PhD fieldwork or research in arts, heritage, history, or conservation | Varies by program |
Detailed Overview of the Popular Government UK PhD Scholarships
Here’s a list of the most popular PhD scholarships offered directly by the UK government:
1. Commonwealth PhD Scholarships
Overview:
Funded by the UK Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO), this scholarship supports talented students from low- and middle-income Commonwealth countries who would not otherwise afford to study in the UK.
Eligibility:
- Must be a citizen of India (a Commonwealth country)
- Hold a Master’s degree by September 2025
- Not already registered for a PhD or MPhil-to-PhD in a UK university
- Proposed research must be development-focused
How to Apply:
- Apply through the Commonwealth Scholarship Commission (CSC)
- Submit an application through the CSC’s online system and via a nominating agency (e.g., the Ministry of Education, India)
Documents Required:
- Proof of citizenship
- Academic transcripts and certificates
- References (2 academic)
- Supporting statement from a proposed supervisor in the UK
- Development impact statement
- Research proposal
- Proof of English language proficiency (if applicable)
2. Chevening Scholarships – PhD Track (Split-Site)
Overview:
Primarily offered for Master’s programs, the Chevening program also occasionally supports short-term PhD fellowships or split-site doctoral research. It’s a UK government global scholarship program that fosters future leaders.
Eligibility:
- An Indian citizen with a Master’s degree or enrolled in a PhD in India
- Mid-career professionals (typically 2+ years of work experience)
- Demonstrated leadership and networking skills
- Must return to India for a minimum of 2 years after the scholarship ends
How to Apply:
- Apply through Chevening’s official website
- Select the appropriate fellowship program (e.g., Chevening Research Fellowship)
Documents Required:
- Updated CV (2 pages)
- Two professional references
- Academic transcripts
- Statement of purpose (SP)
- Study/research plan
- Valid Indian passport
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3. Newton Bhabha PhD Placements
Overview:
A collaborative initiative by the British Council, DBT (India), and UKRI, this offers short-term research placements (up to 6 months) in UK institutions for Indian PhD students in STEM and interdisciplinary research.
Eligibility:
- An Indian citizen currently enrolled in a PhD program in India
- Age below 35 years
- Thematic focus: climate change, health, energy, AI, sustainable development, etc.
- Must have completed at least one year of their PhD at the time of application
How to Apply:
- Apply through the British Council India portal
- Coordinate with both Indian and UK supervisors to submit a joint application
Documents Required:
- Detailed CV
- Research abstract and objectives
- Letter of support from an Indian guide
- Letter of acceptance from a UK host supervisor
- PhD registration certificate
- Recommendation letters
- Passport copy
4. Scotland Saltire Scholarships (Integrated or Module-based PhD)
Overview:
Funded by the Scottish Government in collaboration with universities, these scholarships are usually aimed at Master’s students but can support early-stage PhD modules or integrated doctoral programs in key fields.
Eligibility:
- An Indian citizen applying to a Scottish university
- Interest in science, healthcare, renewable energy, or technology
- Strong academic performance in previous degrees
- Willingness to act as an ambassador for the Saltire brand
How to Apply:
- Apply through the participating universities’ Saltire Scholarship portal
- Must already have a conditional or unconditional offer from a Scottish institution
Documents Required:
- Saltire scholarship application form
- Personal statement on career goals
- Proof of university offer
- Academic transcripts
- Passport ID
- Reference letter
5. Charles Wallace India Trust (CWIT) Fellowships
Overview:
CWIT offers partial or full funding for Indian researchers and professionals in fields like heritage conservation, arts, museum studies, and humanities to pursue short-term research or doctoral fieldwork in the UK.
Eligibility:
- Indian nationals aged between 25 – 45
- Early- to mid-career professionals in arts, conservation, or heritage
- Must have a strong portfolio or academic record
- For PhD-related fieldwork or advanced short courses (not a full PhD)
How to Apply:
- Apply via the British Council CWIT page
- Submit application directly or via a UK host institution, depending on category
Documents Required:
- Academic CV and portfolio (if applicable)
- Statement of purpose and research/work plan
- Letters of reference (2)
- Proof of offer/acceptance from a UK institution or mentor
- Budget estimate
- Passport copy
These scholarships make studying in the UK more accessible to Indian students by covering tuition fees, living expenses, and other associated costs. Always check the specific university and scholarship website for the latest application deadlines and eligibility criteria.
Popular University UK PhD Scholarships for Indian Students 2025 – 2026
Top UK universities continue to offer highly competitive and fully funded PhD scholarships for Indian students in 2025–2026. These scholarships are designed to attract outstanding research talent across a range of disciplines, from engineering and data science to humanities and public health.
| Scholarship Name | University | Key Benefits | Deadline (2025) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Gates Cambridge Scholarship | University of Cambridge | Full tuition, £20,000 (INR 23L) annual stipend, visa, airfare, family support | Dec 2025 |
| Clarendon Fund Scholarship | University of Oxford | Full tuition and living expenses (~£17,668 [INR 20L] /year) | Jan 2025 |
| President’s PhD Scholarships | Imperial College London | Full tuition, £22,900 (INR 26.4L) /year stipend, consumables fund | Jan – Mar 2025 |
| Edinburgh Global Research Scholarships | University of Edinburgh | Tuition fee difference covered (home vs. international rate) | Feb 2025 |
| University of Birmingham Global Scholarships | University of Birmingham | Full tuition + maintenance stipend | Rolling (varies by dept.) |
| Vice-Chancellor’s Scholarships for Research Excellence | University of Nottingham | Tuition, £17,668 (INR 20L) + stipend, research expenses | March 2025 |
| Durham Doctoral Studentships | Durham University | Full tuition + maintenance stipend (UKRI rate) | Feb – Mar 2025 |
| Warwick Chancellor’s International Scholarships | University of Warwick | Full tuition + maintenance stipend (~£18,750 [INR 21.6L] /year) | Dec 2025 |
Detailed Overview of the Popular University UK PhD Scholarships
Here’s a list of the most popular PhD scholarships offered directly by UK universities:
1. Gates Cambridge Scholarship – University of Cambridge
Overview:
One of the world’s most prestigious international scholarships, Gates Cambridge offers full funding for PhD studies at the University of Cambridge. It aims to support outstanding applicants with leadership potential and a commitment to improving lives.
Eligibility:
- Must be a citizen of any country outside the UK (including India)
- Applying for a full-time PhD program at Cambridge
- Demonstrated academic excellence and leadership potential
How to Apply:
- Apply through the University of Cambridge Graduate Application Portal
- Select “Gates Cambridge” in the funding section
Documents Required:
- Gates Cambridge statement (500 words)
- CV/resume
- Research proposal (for PhD)
- Two academic references + one personal Gates reference
- Academic transcripts
- Proof of English language proficiency (e.g., IELTS/TOEFL)
2. Clarendon Fund Scholarship – University of Oxford
Overview:
Offered to the top 1% of PhD applicants, this scholarship covers full tuition and a generous stipend. All graduate applicants to Oxford are automatically considered.
Eligibility:
- Open to all nationalities
- Must apply for a full-time or part-time DPhil (PhD) at Oxford
- Exceptional academic merit and potential
How to Apply:
- No separate application needed
- Submit a DPhil application by the Oxford January deadline
Documents Required:
- CV
- Statement of purpose
- Research proposal
- References (2 – 3)
- Academic transcripts
- Language test scores (if required)
3. President’s PhD Scholarships – Imperial College London
Overview:
This elite scholarship provides full funding for tuition and a generous stipend, aimed at attracting the most promising PhD candidates worldwide.
Eligibility:
- First-class UK or equivalent Master’s/integrated degree
- Must have contacted a potential supervisor
- Strong research proposal
How to Apply:
- Apply via the Imperial College PhD portal
- Select “President’s PhD Scholarship” during the application
Documents Required:
- Academic CV
- Research proposal (2 – 3 pages)
- Personal statement
- University transcripts
- Two academic references
- Proof of English proficiency
4. Edinburgh Global Research Scholarships – University of Edinburgh
Overview:
This scholarship covers the tuition fee difference between home and international PhD students. It is highly competitive and awarded on academic merit.
Eligibility:
- International students applying for a full-time PhD
- Strong academic background
- Admission offer from Edinburgh
How to Apply:
- Apply for a PhD program first
- Then, apply for the scholarship via the MyEd portal
Documents Required:
- Research proposal
- Academic transcripts
- Degree certificates
- Two academic references
- Statement of purpose
- IELTS/TOEFL scores
5. University of Birmingham Global Scholarships
Overview:
These scholarships target high-performing international applicants for doctoral research and typically include full tuition and maintenance grants.
Eligibility:
- International student with first-class academic qualifications
- Must hold an offer for a full-time PhD
How to Apply:
- Apply to a PhD program at Birmingham
- Submit a separate funding application (where required)
Documents Required:
- Academic CV
- Statement of research interest
- Two academic references
- Previous degree transcripts
- Proof of English language skills
6. Vice-Chancellor’s Scholarships for Research Excellence – University of Nottingham
Overview:
These scholarships are designed for high-achieving international PhD applicants. They cover tuition fees and provide a stipend.
Eligibility:
- Must be classified as an international student
- High academic performance in previous degrees
- Research proposal aligned with the university’s strengths
How to Apply:
- Apply for admission to a PhD program at Nottingham
- Complete an online scholarship application form
Documents Required:
- PhD proposal (1,500 words)
- Academic CV
- Two academic references
- Academic transcripts
- Statement of purpose
- IELTS/TOEFL scores
7. Durham Doctoral Studentships – Durham University
Overview:
These studentships offer funding to exceptional PhD students across various departments and are based on academic merit.
Eligibility:
- First-class degree (Bachelor’s and/or Master’s)
- Must have an offer from a Durham PhD program
How to Apply:
- Apply for a PhD at Durham
- Indicate interest in studentship within the application
Documents Required:
- Research proposal (2,000 words)
- Academic CV
- Two references
- Transcripts
- Language proficiency (if applicable)
8. Warwick Chancellor’s International Scholarships – University of Warwick
Overview:
These scholarships are open to top international PhD applicants and provide full tuition and a generous stipend.
Eligibility:
- International applicants for full-time PhD programs
- Academic excellence and a strong research proposal
How to Apply:
- Submit a PhD application to Warwick
- Complete the Chancellor’s Scholarship application form online
Documents Required:
- Academic CV
- Personal statement
- Research proposal
- Two academic references
- Academic transcripts
- Proof of English language
Popular Externally Funded PhD Scholarships in UK for Indian Students 2025–2026
Beyond university and government programs, several renowned international organisations and charitable foundations offer externally funded PhD scholarships for Indian students studying in the UK. These scholarships are often research-driven, mission-aligned, and support students pursuing innovative work in high-impact areas like public health, social development, climate science, and tech.
Here’s a 2025–2026 curated list of the top externally funded PhD scholarships for Indian students, along with benefits and eligibility at a glance:
| Scholarship Name | Funded By | Key Benefits | Eligible Fields | Application Deadline (2025) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Inlaks Shivdasani Foundation Scholarship | Inlaks Foundation (India) | Tuition (up to $100,000), living allowance, travel, health insurance | STEM, humanities, fine arts, social sciences | March 2025 |
| Wellcome Trust Doctoral Studentships | Wellcome Trust (UK) | Full tuition, stipend (£19,500+), research expenses, fieldwork allowance | Health, biomedical sciences, mental health, social care | Rolling (via host university) |
| Rothamsted International Fellowship Scheme | Rothamsted Research + BBSRC | Tuition, travel, stipend, lab and research access at Rothamsted Research | Agriculture, crop science, sustainable development | Oct 2025 |
| The India-UK Education and Research Initiative (UKIERI) | British Council + Indian agencies | Co-funded research projects, travel support, academic exchange | Multidisciplinary: AI, energy, environment, education | Varies by call |
| Narotam Sekhsaria Scholarship | Narotam Sekhsaria Foundation (India) | Interest-free loan scholarship (up to ₹20L); mentorship and leadership training | Applied sciences, engineering, biosciences, management | March 2025 |
| JN Tata Endowment for Higher Education | Tata Trusts (India) | Partial loan scholarship (₹1–10L); travel grants; performance-based bonus | All academic fields | March–April 2025 |
| Commonwealth Split-Site Scholarships | Commonwealth Scholarship Commission (UK) | 12-month UK research placement with full costs (airfare, tuition, stipend) | PhD students enrolled in Indian universities | Nov 2025 (tentative) |
| Royal Society International Exchanges | Royal Society (UK) | Travel, accommodation, and subsistence for research collaborations up to 12 months | Natural sciences, engineering, AI, data science | Quarterly deadlines |
Detailed Overview of the Popular Externally Funded UK PhD Scholarships
Here’s a list of the most popular UK PhD scholarships offered directly by external organisations:
1. Inlaks Shivdasani Foundation Scholarship
Overview:
One of India’s most prestigious privately funded scholarships, Inlaks supports outstanding Indian students pursuing postgraduate study at top global institutions, including PhDs in the UK. The scholarship covers tuition, living costs, and related expenses up to USD 100,000.
Eligibility:
- Indian citizens under 30 years old
- First-class undergraduate degree from a recognised Indian institution
- Must have an offer from a top-tier UK university
- Not applicable for Engineering, Computer Science, or Business (except niche fields)
How to Apply:
- Apply through the Inlaks Foundation website
- The application opens in January and closes in March
Documents Required:
- Proof of admission to a UK university
- Academic transcripts
- Statement of purpose
- Two recommendation letters
- Portfolio (if applicable for arts/design)
- Financial statement
2. Wellcome Trust Doctoral Studentships
Overview:
This UK-based biomedical research charity offers full doctoral funding in health, life sciences, and public health through host institutions. These awards include tuition, a generous stipend (~£19,500), and research costs.
Eligibility:
- Indian or international students with an excellent academic record
- Applying to a UK university approved by the Wellcome Trust
- Must have a strong research proposal in the biomedical or public health domains
How to Apply:
- Apply directly through your chosen UK university’s doctoral program
- Ensure the project aligns with a Wellcome-funded department or supervisor
Documents Required:
3. Rothamsted International Fellowship Scheme
Overview:
This fellowship supports early-career researchers from developing countries to conduct 6–12 months of agricultural research at Rothamsted Research, the UK’s leading agritech institute.
Eligibility:
- An Indian national with a PhD or at least 3 years of relevant research experience
- Employed by a national research institute or university in India
- Research must align with Rothamsted’s priorities (e.g., food security, soil science)
How to Apply:
- Applications are submitted jointly by the UK supervisor and the Indian researcher
- Apply via the Rothamsted International website
Documents Required:
- Joint application form
- Project proposal
- CV of the applicant and the host
- Letters of support (home and host institution)
- Passport copy
4. UKIERI – India-UK Research Initiative
Overview:
UKIERI promotes joint PhD and faculty research projects between Indian and UK institutions. It supports PhD mobility, academic partnerships, and collaborative innovation.
Eligibility:
- Indian students enrolled in a recognised Indian institution
- Collaborative research with a UK university
- Research areas include AI, sustainability, education, public health, etc.
How to Apply:
- UK and Indian supervisors must jointly apply during the UKIERI open calls
- Monitor British Council India’s announcements
Documents Required:
- Joint proposal
- Letters of support from both institutions
- Research abstract and timeline
- CVs of researchers
- PhD enrollment proof (India)
5. Narotam Sekhsaria Scholarship
Overview:
This is a merit-based, interest-free loan scholarship for Indian students pursuing postgraduate degrees abroad. It can be applied to PhDs in select fields.
Eligibility:
- Indian citizens under 30
- Consistent academic excellence (first-class in undergraduate and postgraduate degrees)
- Must have a confirmed admission from a recognised UK university
How to Apply:
- Online application via www.narotamsekhsaria.org
- Applications open in January and close in March
Documents Required:
- University admission letter
- Statement of purpose
- Academic records
- Financial background documents
- Reference letters (academic and personal)
6. JN Tata Endowment for Higher Education
Overview:
Provides loan scholarships between ₹1–10 lakh for higher studies abroad. Aimed at deserving Indian students, it can support partial funding of PhD programs.
Eligibility:
- Indian citizens under 45 years
- Graduate from a recognised Indian university with academic excellence
- Must have an offer letter from a foreign university
How to Apply:
- Online application via www.jntataendowment.org
- Selection includes an online test and a personal interview
Documents Required:
- Admission offer letter
- Academic transcripts and certificates
- Statement of purpose
- Financial statement
- Letters of recommendation
7. Commonwealth Split-Site Scholarships
Overview:
Enables PhD students registered at an Indian university to spend 12 months at a UK university conducting research as part of a split-site arrangement.
Eligibility:
- An Indian national enrolled in a PhD program at a recognised Indian institution
- Proof of academic excellence
- Research alignment with the UK host university
How to Apply:
- Apply via the CSC online portal
- Must be nominated by the Indian Ministry of Education or UGC
Documents Required:
- Joint support letter from the UK and Indian supervisors
- Research proposal
- Transcripts
- Passport
- References
8. Royal Society International Exchanges
Overview:
Grants for UK–India research partnerships involving travel and collaborative research. Ideal for PhD candidates or postdoctoral researchers co-supervised in both countries.
Eligibility:
- Early-career or established researchers
- Collaborating with a UK institution
- Fields: Natural sciences, AI, engineering, life sciences
How to Apply:
- Joint application by UK and Indian institutions via the Royal Society
Documents Required:
- Detailed proposal with budget
- Joint application form
- CVs of UK and Indian investigators
- Institutional letters of support
Expert Tips to Secure a UK PhD Scholarship for Indian Students (2025–2026)
Securing a fully funded PhD scholarship in the UK is highly competitive, but with the right strategy, Indian students can significantly improve their chances. Here are proven tips to help you craft a compelling application and stand out in 2025 – 2026:
Step 1. Start Early & Research Thoroughly
Why it matters: Many prestigious UK PhD scholarships open 10–12 months in advance and have strict, early deadlines.
Action tip:
- Begin by shortlisting universities and scholarships by April – June 2025 for the Fall 2026 intake.
- Track official deadlines using scholarship portals, university calendars, and resources like UKRI and Scholarship Hub.
Step 2. Craft a Winning Research Proposal
Why it matters: Your research proposal is the heart of your PhD application and must align with the UK university’s academic focus.
Action tip:
- Tailor your proposal to address current global or national research challenges (e.g., climate tech, AI in healthcare, sustainable development).
- Showcase originality, feasibility, methodology, and impact.
Step 3. Target Supervisor-Led Projects
Why it matters: Many fully funded scholarships are tied to existing projects led by UK supervisors, especially in STEM and health sciences.
Action tip:
- Search faculty profiles on university websites and directly contact potential supervisors.
- Attach your CV, research interest summary, and propose collaboration aligned with their work.
Pro Tip
Pro Tip
Mention any co-publications or conference experience.
Step 4. Demonstrate Academic Excellence & Research Potential
Why it matters: Most scholarships prioritise students with first-class academic records and proven research capacity.
Action tip:
- Highlight your GPA (ideally >70%), research internships, publications, or teaching assistantships.
- For non-STEM fields, include writing samples or portfolios.
Step 5. Write a Strong Statement of Purpose (SOP)
Why it matters: A compelling SOP can set you apart from equally qualified applicants.
Action tip:
- Showcase your motivation, long-term goals, research intent, and why the UK is ideal for your study.
- Customise your SOP for each scholarship or university.
Step 6. Secure Strong Letters of Recommendation
Why it matters: Endorsements from respected academic mentors can validate your potential.
Action tip:
- Choose professors who know your work deeply and can write in detail about your research aptitude and character.
- Provide them with your CV and proposal for better context.
Step 7. Prepare for Interviews (If Applicable)
Why it matters: Some top scholarships like Rhodes, Gates Cambridge, or Clarendon involve interviews.
Action tip:
- Be ready to articulate your research clearly and confidently.
- Practice responding to questions about your academic journey, research feasibility, and impact.
Step 8. Set Your Application Documents
Why it matters: Incomplete or poorly formatted documents often lead to instant rejection.
Action tip:
- Review and proofread all application components.
- Use clear formatting, consistent font, and label documents correctly (e.g., “SOP_YourName_GatesCambridge.pdf”).
Step 9. Meet English Proficiency Requirements Early
Why it matters: Delayed IELTS/TOEFL scores can hold up admissions and scholarship consideration.
Action tip:
- Take the test by July 2025 if targeting Fall 2026.
- Aim for a minimum IELTS score of 6.5–7.0, depending on the program.
Step 10. Apply to Multiple Scholarships Strategically
Why it matters: Increasing the number of quality applications improves your chances.
Action tip:
- Combine university-based, government-funded, and external scholarships (e.g., Clarendon + Inlaks + Tata).
- Track and organise all deadlines using a spreadsheet or scholarship tracking tool.
Sample Statement of Purpose (SOP) for an Indian Student Pursuing a PhD in the UK with a Scholarship
| Statement of Purpose – PhD in Computer Science (AI & Machine Learning) Applicant: ABC XYZ Nationality: Indian Growing up in India’s rapidly digitising landscape, I witnessed firsthand the transformative potential of artificial intelligence in areas ranging from healthcare to education. My passion for problem-solving, combined with a fascination for intelligent systems, has driven my academic journey from a B.Tech in Computer Science at VIT Vellore to an M.Tech in Artificial Intelligence at IIT Hyderabad. I now aspire to pursue a PhD in Computer Science at [University Name], specialising in AI/ML, with the ultimate goal of advancing accessible, ethical AI systems for emerging economies. During my postgraduate studies, I worked under Dr. [Mentor Name] on a thesis titled “Optimizing Federated Learning Models for Low-Resource Environments”, which was published in the IEEE Access Journal. This research sparked my interest in decentralised AI and its relevance to data-privacy-conscious environments such as rural health systems in India. I aim to expand this work further by investigating adaptive learning techniques for dynamic edge-device networks—an area strongly aligned with the work of Dr. [Faculty Name] at your university. In addition to academics, I have interned at Microsoft Research India, where I contributed to a project on multilingual NLP systems for Indian languages. This hands-on experience, combined with my publications and a solid foundation in Python, PyTorch, and distributed computing, has equipped me for the rigour and innovation that a PhD demands. My long-term goal is to lead a research lab focused on AI for Social Good, either in academia or industry. I am particularly drawn to the USA for its collaborative research culture, diversity in ideas, and access to interdisciplinary mentorship. [University Name] stands out for its world-class research labs, commitment to innovation, and opportunities for funded research assistantships. I am applying for a fully funded PhD program with scholarship support due to both academic merit and financial need. I believe I bring the right blend of curiosity, perseverance, and purpose to contribute meaningfully to your academic community. Thank you for considering my application. |
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 avoid 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!
Frequently Asked Questions
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Q. What are some of the best countries to pursue a PhD?
Ans. Several countries are known for their excellent PhD programs. Top PhD destinations include the USA, the UK, Canada, Germany, and Australia. These countries are known for their high-quality research facilities, expert faculty, and supportive academic environments.
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Q. What is included in the UK PhD scholarships for Indian students?
Ans. The UK offers various merit-based, need-based, course-specific, and student-specific postgraduate scholarships to Indian students. These scholarships provide financial assistance to cover the cost of education, including tuition fees and living expenses. The scholarships also offer other benefits, such as fee waivers, stipends, and research grants.
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Q. How can Indian students get funding for PhD in the UK?
Ans. Indian students aspiring to pursue a PhD in the UK can secure funding through various avenues. They can explore scholarships from the UK government, universities, and external organisations. Additionally, some universities may provide research assistant positions or teaching opportunities for financial support. Indian students should thoroughly research and apply for relevant scholarships and grants to fund their PhD studies in the UK. For example, Lancaster University offers a Ph.D. Scholarships that provide financial support comprise a fee waiver and a stipend. Another example is the Gates Cambridge Scholarship program, which offers approximately 80 full-cost scholarships annually to exceptional applicants from countries other than the UK, covering the University Composition Fee at the applicable rate.
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Q. Is the UK PHD valid in India?
Ans. Yes, a PhD from the UK is valid and recognised in India. UK universities are well-regarded globally, and earning a PhD from a UK university can help enhance career prospects and open up doors to global opportunities. Additionally, the UK’s reputation for producing high-quality research and academic work can add credibility to one’s work and open up global opportunities.
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Q. Is IELTS compulsory for pursuing PhD in the UK?
Ans. For Indian students pursuing a PhD in the UK, IELTS is generally required to prove English proficiency. However, some universities may waive this requirement if the student has completed their previous studies in English or is a native English speaker. It’s important to check the language requirements of the specific university and program you are interested in before applying.
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Q. How many hours does a PhD student work in the UK?
Ans. The number of hours a PhD student works in the UK depends on various factors, such as the university’s regulations, the specific course requirements, and the student’s research project’s nature. Generally, PhD students in the UK work full-time, which is around 20 hours per week. However, this may vary based on the student’s workload and research needs. Some students may work more hours during busy periods, while others may work fewer hours if they have completed their research work.
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Q. What are the top universities in the UK for pursuing PhD?
Ans. Several top universities in the UK offer PhD programs. Some of the most popular ones include the University of Cambridge, the University of Oxford, Imperial College London, the University of Edinburgh, University College London (UCL), and the University of Manchester.
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Q. Can I work in the UK after obtaining my Ph.D.?
Ans. Yes, as an international student, including an Indian student who has completed a PhD in the UK, you can stay and work in the UK for up to two years through the UK’s Graduate Route. This route allows students to work without any restrictions or sponsorship requirements, allowing them to gain work experience and contribute to the UK’s economy after completing their studies.
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Q. Can Indian students pursue PhD in the UK with a scholarship?
Ans. Indian students can pursue a PhD in the UK with scholarships. The UK offers various merit-based, need-based, course-specific, and student-specific postgraduate scholarships to help students with their college finances. Pursuing a PhD in the UK for Indian students provides world-class education, research opportunities, and access to top-notch faculty, facilities, and resources. The UK’s reputation for producing high-quality research and academic work can also add credibility to one’s work and open up global opportunities.
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Q. Which country has the cheapest PhD for Indian students?
Ans. It’s difficult to determine which country has the cheapest PhD for Indian students as tuition fees and living expenses vary depending on the country and university. However, some countries that offer affordable PhD programs for international students include Germany, Finland, Spain, Italy, and China.
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Q. Which type of visa is required for PhD in the UK?
Ans. To pursue a PhD in the UK, Indian students must apply for a Tier 4 (General) student visa. This visa allows students to stay in the UK for the entire course duration. The visa application process involves completing an online application, paying a fee, and submitting supporting documents. The UK government requires students to demonstrate that they have enough funds to cover their course fees and living expenses while studying in the UK.
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Q. Is it worth doing PHD in the UK for Indian students?
Ans. Pursuing a PhD in the UK as an Indian student is worthwhile. UK universities boast world-class research facilities, renowned faculty, and a diverse academic community. The international exposure and strict academic environment contribute to a valuable learning experience. Additionally, a Ph.D. from the UK carries global recognition, enhancing career prospects in various fields.
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