The President’s PhD Scholarships at Imperial College London offer an exceptional opportunity for talented and motivated students to pursue doctoral studies at one of the world’s top research institutions. Designed to attract the most outstanding minds from across the globe, this scholarship provides full financial support, access to world-class research facilities, and a dynamic academic environment that encourages innovation and discovery.
Scholarship Overview
The President’s PhD Scholarships aim to support up to 50 exceptional candidates who demonstrate outstanding academic achievement and strong research potential. Successful applicants will receive full tuition coverage and generous living support for up to 3.5 years. Scholars are encouraged to work on groundbreaking research under the guidance of expert supervisors and collaborate with other top researchers in their field.
Scholarship Benefits
Recipients of the President’s PhD Scholarship enjoy a comprehensive funding package that includes:
- Full tuition fees for the entire duration of the PhD program.
- A competitive annual stipend of approximately £26,500 to cover living expenses.
- A research consumables fund of £2,000 per year for the first three years to support research-related costs such as materials, travel, and fieldwork.
- Professional development opportunities, including training sessions and workshops organized by the Early Career Researcher Development Program.
- Access to Imperial’s extensive academic and career support services, designed to help scholars achieve both personal and professional excellence.
Eligibility Criteria
The scholarship is open to both UK and international students who meet the following criteria:
- Applicants must hold, or expect to obtain, a first-class undergraduate degree or equivalent.
- Candidates who hold a Master’s degree should have achieved distinction or its equivalent.
- Those with exceptional research experience may be considered even if they do not fully meet the academic requirements.
- The scholarship is available for new PhD applicants only; current Imperial PhD students are not eligible.
- Applicants may apply for either full-time or part-time doctoral study.
Application Process
Applicants do not need to submit a separate scholarship application. Instead, all candidates who apply for admission to an eligible PhD program at Imperial College London will automatically be considered for the President’s PhD Scholarship, provided they meet the eligibility requirements.
Step 1: Contact a Supervisor
Before applying, candidates must identify and contact a potential PhD supervisor who agrees to support their application. Supervisors can only nominate one candidate for this scholarship at a time.
Step 2: Apply for Admission
Applicants should submit their PhD application through Imperial’s online application system. During the application process, they must indicate that they wish to be considered for the President’s PhD Scholarship.
Step 3: Submit Supporting Documents
Candidates should provide the following:
- A two-page personal statement, with the first page outlining motivation for doctoral study and the second page detailing the proposed research project.
- Two academic references from individuals familiar with their academic or research work.
- A full research proposal if required by the department.
Selection Process
Each department reviews submitted applications and forwards the most competitive candidates to a central scholarship panel. The selection committee evaluates applicants based on academic excellence, research potential, and the alignment of their research with Imperial’s strategic priorities.
The evaluation process is highly competitive and includes multiple rounds of assessment. Applicants are judged on the strength of their academic record, research experience, recommendation letters, and the clarity of their research proposal. Only the most exceptional candidates will receive the award.
Application Deadlines and Notification
The scholarship operates on three main application rounds:
- Round 1: Deadline – 3 November 2025; results by 31 January 2026
- Round 2: Deadline – 12 January 2026; results by 31 March 2026
- Round 3: Deadline – 2 March 2026; results by 31 May 2026
Successful candidates can begin their studies between August and November 2026.
Conclusion
The President’s PhD Scholarships at Imperial College London represent one of the most prestigious doctoral funding opportunities in the world. This program not only provides full financial support but also immerses scholars in a vibrant research community where innovation, collaboration, and excellence thrive. Ideal for ambitious graduates who aspire to make significant contributions to their field, this scholarship paves the way for academic and professional success on a global scale.
