The President’s PhD Scholarships at Imperial College London offer one of the UK’s most prestigious and competitive opportunities for aspiring researchers. Each year, up to 50 outstanding international and domestic students are awarded full tuition, a generous stipend, and exclusive academic support to pursue a 3.5-year PhD programme at one of the world’s top-ranking universities.
This scholarship is designed for exceptional Bachelor’s or Master’s students who are passionate about research, innovation, and academic excellence. Scholars will work alongside leading experts, access world-class research facilities, and join a vibrant, international research community.
What the Scholarship Covers
Successful scholars will receive:
- Full tuition fees for 3.5 years
- Annual stipend of £26,500 (2026–27 rate) for living expenses
- £2,000 per year for research consumables (first 3 years)
- Access to the Early Career Researcher Institute (ECRI) development programme – workshops, mentoring, and networking opportunities
- Full access to Imperial’s career services, disability support, visa assistance, and international student resources
Who Can Apply? (Eligibility Criteria)
Applicants from any nationality and any academic background offered at Imperial may apply. To be eligible, you must:
- Hold or be expecting a First-Class Honours degree (or international equivalent)
- OR hold/expect a Distinction in a Master’s degree
- Show strong academic excellence and research potential through grades, publications, projects, or awards
- Not already be enrolled in a PhD at Imperial
Exceptional candidates with non-traditional academic paths will also be considered under special circumstances.
How to Apply
No separate scholarship application is required. Instead:
- Find and contact a potential PhD supervisor in your chosen department
- Submit an online PhD application via the Imperial College application portal
- Under the Funding Section, select “President’s PhD Scholarship”
- Upload the required documents:
- A 2-page personal statement (1 page motivations & achievements, 1 page research proposal)
- Two academic references (not from your proposed supervisor)
- A 2-page personal statement (1 page motivations & achievements, 1 page research proposal)
Funded PhD programmes will start between 1 August 2026 and 1 November 2026.
Selection Process
Applications go through two major stages:
- Department Review – Shortlisting based on academic merit & research alignment
- College Selection Panel – Final decision by senior academics including the Vice-Provost
You will be assessed on:
- Academic Excellence – Grades, rankings, awards, distinctions
- Research Potential – Previous research experiences, proposal strength, and interview performance
Important Deadlines (2025–26 Entry)
| Application Round | Deadline | Results Announcement |
| Round 1 | 3 November 2025 | 31 January 2026 |
| Round 2 | 12 January 2026 | 31 March 2026 |
| Round 3 | 2 March 2026 | 31 May 2026 |
Applicants not selected are still automatically considered for other PhD funding opportunities at Imperial.
Why Study at Imperial College London?
Choosing Imperial means joining a world-leading institution known for research that shapes global change. Scholars benefit from:
- World-class laboratories and cutting-edge facilities
- Collaboration with leading academics and industry experts
- A diverse and international research community
- Leadership, communication, and innovation training
- A powerful platform to launch a career in research or academia
Become a Research Leader of Tomorrow
This scholarship is more than funding – it’s a pathway to becoming an influential researcher in science, engineering, medicine, or business.
- Take the first step toward your PhD journey.
- Apply before 3 November 2025.
VISIT THE OFFICIAL WEBSITE TO APPLY
Check other opportunities:
Applications Open: Raisina Young Fellows Programme 2026 (Fully Funded Fellowship in India)
Applications Open: WAAW Foundation Scholarship 2025/2026 for Young African Women in STEM
UTokyo Amgen Scholars Program 2026 in Japan (Fully Funded Summer Internship)
Study in Europe for Free: Erasmus Mundus PROMISE Scholarship 2026 (€1,400 Monthly Stipend)
