Top Funding Options for Your PhD Studies in Bristol
Located in southwest England, the University of Bristol is one of the UK’s leading research institutions. With a prolific history of innovation in fields like quantum technologies, infection and immunity, and climate change, Bristol presents outstanding opportunities for dedicated PhD researchers. Explore the scholarship possibilities if you have been accepted to a doctoral program at Bristol but need help covering costs.
Internal Awards from Bristol
Bristol Graduate School offers a variety of scholarships open to both UK/EU and international students. Prestigious 4-year full funding options include:
Vice-Chancellor’s Research Scholarships: These scholarships are for exceptional candidates with proposed research aligned with university strategies. It covers tuition, stipend (£15,600 p/a), materials, and travel.
College PhD Scholarships: You will join a research center or college for funding. It covers tuition and provides a tax-free stipend (£15,000-15,600 p/a).
Faculty Scholarships: Awarded by departments to support research priorities. Package amounts vary but fully fund studies.
Priority deadlines are in Dec/Jan for October enrollment. Success rates are around 25%, so apply early and ensure your statement of purpose is compelling.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are there external scholarships I can apply for?
Yes, many funding bodies outside Bristol support UK PhD studies. Notable options include Economic and Social Research Council (ESRC) awards, Natural Environment Research Council (NERC) awards, and Royal Society awards for science, technology and engineering. Deadlines are usually mid-Jan for Oct enrollment.
Can I work part-time as a PhD student?
PhD students at Bristol are considered full-time researchers but can work up to 6 hours per week, usually as a teaching or demonstration assistant. This provides valuable experience while easing financial demands. Alternatively, some scholarships provide an additional teaching allowance.
What if I am an international student?
Bristol participates in global scholarship consortia like Horizon 2020 and Erasmus Mundus. International-specific awards are offered through partners like DAAD German Academic Exchange and the China Scholarship Council. Private sponsors also fund some international PhD applicants directly. Explore all potential funding pathways early.
Applying Strategically
PhD admissions are competitive, so take time fine-tuning your statement, securing recommendation letters addressing your potential, demonstrating skill in grant writing if needed, and aligning your proposed plan of study closely to the priorities of your desired department or supervisor. Contact them early in the application process for guidance. Attend school workshops on creating robust scholarship applications, too. A thoughtful, thorough submission maximizes your chances of being awarded funding to pursue groundbreaking research at Bristol.
Life as a Bristol PhD Researcher
Once funded, you will join a supportive academic community housed in state-of-the-art facilities. Flexible research environments and mentorship from expert faculty encourage innovation. Bristol PhD students gain skills for successful careers in and beyond academia through conferences, seminars, and teaching opportunities. When studies wrap up, you will be well-equipped as an independent scholar prepared to impact the world.