The University of Manchester Bicentenary Studentships 2026 provide over 45 fully funded PhD scholarships within the Faculty of Science and Engineering to celebrate 200 years of innovation. The studentships are open to candidates of all nationalities who possess or expect to achieve at least a 2.1 honours degree or a Master’s (or equivalent) in a relevant science or engineering discipline. The benefits include the full coverage of tuition fees, an annual tax-free stipend of £20,780 (at the 2025/26 UKRI rate) for four years, and an additional £5,000 per annum research training support grant. Research projects align with major themes like Digital and AI, Environment and climate change, and Health inequalities. The deadline of January 31, 2026.
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Fully Funded University of Manchester Bicentenary PhD Studentships 2026 Summary Table
| Detail | Value |
|---|---|
| Host Country | United Kingdom (UK) |
| Study Abroad | Study in UK |
| Category | Postgraduate Scholarships | Masters Scholarships |
| Eligible Countries | All Countries |
| Reward | Full Scholarship, £20,780 Stipend per year |
| Key Criteria | 2.1 Honours Degree / Master’s, Research Experience |
| Application Deadline | January 31, 2026 |
The University of Manchester Bicentenary Studentships represent a major investment in the next generation of pioneering research. Launched to mark the University’s 200th anniversary, these fully funded PhD scholarships are awarded to outstanding postgraduate researchers in the Faculty of Science and Engineering. Commencing in September 2026, the program is designed to support life-changing breakthroughs across several critical research areas.
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Successful applicants will not only receive extensive financial support but will also join a diverse and collaborative environment at a world-leading research institution with strong industry links.
Scholarship Benefits for The Bicentenary Studentship 2026
Tier 1: Full Financial Coverage and Stipend (£20,780 Annual Value)
This tier outlines the complete financial support package provided to every Bicentenary Scholar.
- Fully Funded Tuition Fees: The studentship covers 100% of the tuition fees for the four-year duration of the PhD program, removing the financial barrier for domestic and international students.
- Annual Stipend at UKRI Rate: Scholars receive a generous annual tax-free stipend, benchmarked at the UK Research and Innovation (UKRI) rate, which is set at £20,780 per year for the 2025/26 academic year. This is paid for the full four-year duration.
- Research Training Support Grant: An additional £5,000 per annum Research Training Support Grant (RTSG) is provided for the full four years, giving scholars dedicated funding to cover project-related costs like equipment, travel, and conferences.
Tier 2: Research Focus and Expert Supervision
This tier highlights the thematic focus and academic environment provided by the studentship.
- Focus on Key Research Themes: The scholarships are awarded across major research themes that tackle global challenges, including Digital and AI, Environment and climate change, Health inequalities, and Creative industries.
- Expert Supervisory Team: Scholars are supported by an expert supervisory team committed to ensuring there are “no limits” to what the researcher can achieve, facilitating high-impact and life-changing breakthroughs.
- World-Leading Institute Access: Scholars gain access to a world-leading research institute with established industry links, which helps accelerate their research development, reputation, and professional profile.
Tier 3: Doctoral Academy and Community
This tier focuses on the institutional support and community benefits offered to the scholars.
- Membership in Doctoral Academy: Scholars automatically become part of the University’s prestigious Doctoral Academy, providing centralized resources, training, and professional development opportunities.
- Diverse and Welcoming Community: The program fosters a diverse community where differing perspectives are welcomed, ensuring a supportive and inclusive environment for all postgraduate researchers.
- Emphasis on Innovation: The studentships are intrinsically linked to the University’s 200-year history of innovation, placing scholars at the forefront of contemporary research and discovery.
Eligibility Requirements for University of Manchester Bicentenary Studentship 2026
To be considered for the Bicentenary Studentship, candidates must meet the following academic and application criteria:
- Academic Achievement: Must have, or expect to achieve, at least a 2.1 honours degree or a Master’s degree (or equivalent) in a relevant science or engineering-related discipline.
- Research Experience: Must demonstrate prior experience in research, which is essential for success in a PhD program.
- Admission Standards: Must meet all general requirements for admission into the University of Manchester and the specific PhD program of interest.
- Nationality: Open to all countries (international and domestic students).
How to Apply for University of Manchester Bicentenary Scholarship 2026 (Step by Step)
The application process is selective and requires careful preparation and consultation with potential supervisors.
- Select a Program/Project: Click the official link to go to the Bicentenary Studentship webpage and select a specific PhD project that matches your interests and academic background from the available list.
- Contact Supervisor: It is mandatory to contact the supervisor(s) listed for your selected project before completing the formal application. This is essential for discussing the project scope and confirming alignment.
- Prepare Documents: Prepare all required documents, including your updated CV, a detailed Personal Statement outlining your research background and why you are suited for the project, and secure your Letters of Recommendation.
- Complete Formal Application: Once you have communicated with the supervisor, complete a formal application through the University of Manchester’s online application portal, ensuring you reference the Bicentenary Studentship in your submission.
Application Deadline: January 31, 2026
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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. Is the University of Manchester Bicentenary Studentship a full scholarship?
Answer: Yes, it is a fully funded studentship that covers both the full tuition fees and provides an annual tax-free stipend.
2. How much is the annual stipend provided?
Answer: The annual stipend is set at the UKRI rate, which is £20,780 per year for the 2025/26 academic year. This is provided for four years.
3. Is the scholarship open to international students from all countries?
Answer: Yes, the studentships are open to candidates from all countries who meet the rigorous academic and admission requirements.
4. What is the duration of the PhD studentship?
Answer: The Bicentenary Studentship provides funding and support for the full duration of a four-year doctoral research program.
5. What are the main research themes for these PhD projects?
Answer: The projects are focused on major themes within Science and Engineering, including Digital and AI, Environment and climate change, Health inequalities, and Creative industries.
6. Is there additional funding available for research costs?
Answer: Yes, in addition to the stipend, scholars receive a £5,000 per annum Research Training Support Grant (RTSG) to cover specific research-related expenses.
7. Do I need to contact a supervisor before submitting my application?
Answer: Yes, the application instructions explicitly state that you should contact the supervisor(s) for your selected project before completing the formal application process.
8. What minimum degree classification is required for eligibility?
Answer: Applicants must hold, or expect to achieve, at least a 2.1 honours degree or a Master’s degree (or equivalent) in a relevant discipline.
9. When does the PhD program covered by this studentship commence?
Answer: The studentships are intended for programs commencing in September 2026.
10. Which documents are required to complete the application?
Answer: Key required documents include the Application Form, a current CV, a Personal Statement, and Letters of Recommendation from relevant referees.
