PhD Studentships in Law, Sociology, Gender, Economics, International Development, Government at London School of Economics London School of Economics and Political Science in United Kingdom

The London School of Economics and Political Science (LSE) is offering PhD Studentships for 2026 entry, providing an excellent opportunity for high calibre students to pursue doctoral research in a world-leading institution. These studentships are available across a range of disciplines including Law, Sociology, Gender Studies, Economics, International Development, and Government. The awards are open to applicants of all nationalities and are designed to support outstanding academic merit and research potential.

LSE PhD Studentships and LSE DTP ESRC Studentships are fully funded, covering full tuition fees and an annual stipend of over £20,000 (with the 2025 entry stipend set at £22,780). The funding is tenable for four years, with annual renewal subject to satisfactory academic performance. The awards are made solely on the basis of academic excellence and research promise, assessed through your previous academic achievements and your proposed research topic.

To be considered for these studentships, applicants must submit a complete application for admission to LSE by the relevant departmental deadline. For the 2026 entry, the first major deadline is 10 December 2025 for research programmes in the Department of Government, Department of Economics, Department of Sociology, Department of Gender Studies, Department of International Development, and The Law School. Additional deadlines include 14 January 2026 for the first round of PhD Studentships and ESRC funding, and 27 May 2026 for the second round (some departments only). There is no separate application for the studentships; all eligible applicants are automatically considered based on their programme application.

LSE is renowned for its research in the social sciences, and successful candidates will join a vibrant academic community with access to world-class resources and support. The studentships provide financial security, enabling recipients to focus on their research and academic development. Past recipients have highlighted the importance of this support in enabling them to pursue their studies at LSE.

For more information, prospective applicants should consult the individual programme pages for specific requirements and deadlines, and follow the application instructions provided by LSE. This is a unique opportunity to undertake funded doctoral research at one of the world's leading social science institutions.