SEDarc

SEDarc is pleased to offer funding for up to 39 doctoral studentships, supporting postgraduate researchers in undertaking impactful doctoral research and training. Of these, three studentships are ring-fenced for applicants who meet our widening participation criteria, as part of our commitment to equity and inclusion. Further information regarding these Ring Fenced studentships can be found on our Equality, Diversity and Inclusion page.

You can see details of the studentship offer here, the available studentship award structures here, and the assessment criteria here.

Please contact your institutional administrator (links in Contact Us section) for further details or to apply.

We are pleased to offer Economic and Social Research Council (ESRC) funding for up to 39 PhD students for September 2026 entry.

The world-class research and training environments of our partner institutions are enhanced by the partnership’s strategic relations with non-HEI partner organisations.

SEDarc’s vision is to offer a transformative social science training experience that combines leading- edge research skills training, high-quality placements for all, and an individual research project based in one of five interdisciplinary, challenge-led pathways. These include:

• Living Sustainably
• Healthy Thriving Communities
• Inclusive Economic Growth
• Secure, Effective, & Trusted Institutions
• Transformative Technologies for Society

SEDarc is committed to principles of equality, diversity, and inclusion (EDI) throughout the student journey, from application to completion of the PhD programme. The DTP will reserve up to 3 ring-fenced scholarships for home students from certain Black, Asian & Minority Ethnic groups. The eligibility criteria for these ring-fenced studentships are available on the SEDarc website.

The standard SEDarc PhD is 3.5 years full-time including a 3-month placement (or part-time equivalent). Students who do not already possess a Master’s degree in the social sciences may also be eligible for funding to undertake an approved Masters course in the SEDarc consortium (see website for details). Awards cover UK tuition fees and provide a stipend at the UKRI home rate on a full-time and part-time basis. The UKRI has not yet announced the fees and stipend for 2026/27, but for the academic year of 2025/26 the UK fees are £5,006 and the stipend is £20,780 (£22,780 if London weighting applies). The balance between home and international tuition fees will be paid by the SEDarc institutions for successful overseas applicants. 

How to apply: Students must be nominated by one of the six SEDarc institutions to apply to the doctoral programme. Please contact one of our Administrators at the SEDarc institution of your choice as each institution has a different deadline and process for the institutional stage of the application process. The deadline for applications to SEDarc is 30 January 2026 at 16:00 (GMT).

Eligibility: These PhDs are open to UK and international students and consist of UK home fees and stipend awards.

If you have any queries about applying for a studentship award, please contact the administrator at your chosen SEDarc university in the first instance:

• Kingston University
• Royal Holloway, University of London
• University of Kent
• University of Reading
• University of Surrey
• University of Sussex

Please note: SEDarc are committed to identifying and awarding high quality applications and projects within our panel review process under three specific steer groups. They are:

• Advanced Data Skills
• Advanced Quantitative methods
• Interdisciplinary Collaboration with researchers outside of the social sciences

Please do speak to your selected institution should your project include any of the above to ensure these are highlighted within your application.

 

Can I apply to more than one university?
You are only permitted to submit ONE application for a SEDarc studentship commencing in October 2026.

 

Can you help me find a supervisor?
Unfortunately, we’re unable to assist with this request directly. However, the professional service lead at your chosen university will be able to help. When reaching out, please include the theme your project aligns with, your research area, and your specific topic - this will enable them to recommend appropriate supervisors. Once you receive a list of potential supervisors, it is your responsibility to contact your preferred supervisor prior to applying. Alternatively, you may explore staff directories available on our partner universities’ websites or use platforms like Google Scholar to identify prospective supervisors.

 

I want to study part-time; can I still apply?
Yes, those wishing to study part-time can do so. Due to visa restrictions, this option is only available to those with home fee status.

 

If successful, can I defer my studentship?
No. It is important to note that a deferred start date is not possible with a SEDarc studentship award.

 

Can I apply if I have already started my PhD?
Applicants who have already commenced a PhD are not eligible for the SEDarc DTP programme, regardless of whether they are based in the UK or internationally, due to the programme’s specific requirements.

 

What will I be assessed on?
The assessment criteria can be found here as well as in the guidance notes.

 

Is the stipend liable for tax?
We are unable to advise on this and would encourage you to check with HMRC.

 

Could you share more details about the rankings and where my application stood in the overall competition?
Due to the high volume of applications we receive, we are unable to provide individual feedback. Each submission undergoes a rigorous and comprehensive review process, with all applications given careful consideration. If your application is not successful this year and you remain eligible, we encourage you to apply again in future cycles.

I’m on the reserve list. When will I find out my outcome or position?
Applicants are notified of outcomes via email. If you’re placed on the reserve list, you will receive an email confirming this status. That email will also include the final date by which you will be informed of any changes. SEDarc must meet specific contractual requirements set by our funder, the ESRC. Because of this, the reserve list isn’t a simple ranked order. If a successful applicant withdraws, we must match their profile (such as fee status or research focus) with someone on the reserve list who meets similar criteria. If a suitable match becomes available, we will contact you as soon as possible.

What will we be assessed on?
The assessment criteria can be found here.