EPSRC Doctoral Studentship 2026

The EPSRC Doctoral Studentship is a doctoral funding route linked to the Engineering and Physical Sciences Research Council, part of UK Research and Innovation in the United Kingdom. EPSRC funding is normally offered through universities, doctoral training partnerships, centres for doctoral training, or specific research projects rather than through a single universal application portal.

These studentships are intended for PhD-level study and research. Depending on the project and host institution, they may support work in engineering, physical sciences, computing, mathematics and, in some interdisciplinary cases, related subjects connected to the funded research theme. Reference postings show that an EPSRC doctoral studentship can provide full funding for around 3.5 years, including a maintenance stipend at the UKRI rate, tuition fees at the standard home rate, and sometimes a Research Training Support Grant for project-related costs.

Eligibility is set by the university and the specific funded project. In the referenced opportunity, applicants needed a strong master's degree or equivalent, full-time study availability, and eligibility for Home or Rest of UK fee status. This means some EPSRC-funded projects may not cover international tuition fees unless the university states otherwise. Applicants must also satisfy the admission requirements of the relevant PhD programme and show a clear fit with the proposed research topic.

EPSRC Doctoral Studentships are hosted by universities in the United Kingdom. To apply, candidates usually submit an application directly to the university advertising the studentship, along with academic transcripts, degree certificates, references, a CV, and any project-specific materials required by the department. Because funding arrangements, subject scope and deadlines vary by project, students should always read the individual university posting carefully before applying.