How to secure a funded PhD in the UK

Between 2019 and 2021, I submitted 22 PhD applications before finally securing the right project (ouch!). Meanwhile, some of my peers landed offers with just one application. So, what was I doing wrong?

After every interview, I asked for feedback, and supervisors reassured me I was doing everything right—there was just someone more competitive or with more experience. That was true, to an extent.

But I later realised that getting a PhD offer isn’t only about being qualified—it’s about knowing how to present yourself to an academic audience. As a first-generation student, I didn’t have that insider knowledge.

If you want to pursue a PhD in the UK but have no idea where to start, this guide is for you. I'll walk you through all the acronyms and unspoken rules of the application process.

Note: This blog focuses on funded PhDs in the UK, particularly in STEM fields, though some insights may be relevant more broadly. My perspective is based on my experience as an English national, so international applicants may have a different experience.

What is a PhD?

Let's start with the basics.

A PhD (Doctor of Philosophy) is the highest academic degree awarded by a university. It involves conducting an in-depth, original research project in a specific field and usually takes around four years to complete. You basically become the world expert in something ridiculously niche (like eDNA monitoring in rocky shores, hey!).

PhDs can be funded, usually by a research council or a company, or non-funded (where you have to pay out of pocket—yikes). Non-funded PhDs are now quite rare in the UK for good reason, especially for STEM related projects.

Despite the name, a PhD can be pursued in any subject area, not just philosophy. However, funded PhDs are typically available for research that has relevant real-world applications or aligns with industry priorities.

A person who completes a PhD will gain the title of Dr. This is not the same as a medical doctor, but you can still update your passport and driving license! A PhD candidate must have an undergraduate degree. While a master’s degree is not required, it can make you a more competitive applicant.

Is a PhD right for you?

By this point, I hope you’ve taken the time to think through why you want to pursue a PhD. It’s a significant commitment (four plus precious years of your life), so make sure you’re doing it for the right reasons! If you’re still unsure, here are some good and bad reasons to consider:

✅ You want to challenge yourself and develop advanced research skills.

✅ You’re passionate about contributing to your field and expanding scientific knowledge.

✅ You love delving into complex topics and enjoy independent learning.

✅ You want to become a specialist in a subject that genuinely excites you.

❌ You feel it's a natural next step after your undergraduate (PhDs are completely different).

❌ You assume it will advance your career (many industries don’t require a PhD).

❌ To fulfil someone else’s expectations rather than your own passion.

❌ You just want the title of ‘Dr’—trust me, it’s not worth the effort unless you love research.

How does PhD funding work?

A common route to securing a funded PhD in the UK is through Doctoral Training Partnerships (DTPs) or Centres for Doctoral Training (CDTs). These are competitive multi-institutional programmes designed to train the next generation of researchers. They involve partnerships between multiple universities and external organisations, offering a wide range of PhD projects across different disciplines.

UK Research Councils provide funding for DTPs and cover a broad range of themes. Since I’m an environmental biologist, my PhD is funded by the Natural Environment Research Council (NERC).

DTPs cover university tuition fees, provide a tax-free stipend for living costs (£19,237 for 2024/25 academic year), and offer a Research Training Support Grant (RTSG) to fund research-related expenses. Depending on the DTP, they can also provide structured training and access to a wider research network.

There are external sources of funding outside of DTPs. A supervisor might secure funding independently through research grants or industry partnerships. If a project does not come attached with funding, universities may offer scholarships or grants that you can apply for separately. It’s always worth checking university websites for available funding opportunities.

How to find a PhD

Most PhD projects are released between late October and early November. Application deadlines vary but are generally throughout January. However, you may need to contact potential supervisors before applying.

You can find PhD oppotunities in the following places:

• Find a PhD

• Jobs.ac.uk

• University, DTP or staff websites

• For those topics in the NERC remit, here is a list of all the available DTPs.

Before submitting your application

Applying for a PhD is more complex than applying for an undergraduate degree and can feel overwhelming. It’s a good idea to email lead supervisor as soon as possible to express your interest in the project. When reaching out:

• Be concise—researchers are busy people.

• Ask any key questions you have about the project.

• Be prepared for an informal chat—many supervisors like to discuss the project with potential candidates over a short online meeting. They can also advise you on whether you're a good fit for the project before you apply.

Preparing your application

The application process varies depending on the subject area and the organisation funding your PhD. However, most applications will require:

• A personal statement, either in a standard format or one specific to the DTP.

• An academic CV outlining your relevant qualifications and experience.

• Transcripts and certificates from your previous degrees.

  
  

If available, check the "How to Apply" section of each DTP’s website, as they provide essential details on what to include and how to submit your application. Here is an example help guide provided by my DTP.

Tailor each personal statement and CV to the specific PhD position you’re applying for. This can be time-consuming, but it significantly improves your chances of success. Highlight relevant skills, experience, and research interests that align with the project and the supervisor’s work. A generic application is unlikely to stand out.

Also, don’t be afraid to express your passion for the project. It is just as important as qualifications—after all, you’ll be committing to this research for the next four years.

It's a good idea to seek feedback from other academics, such from those who are acting as your referees for the application.

Interviews

DTP interviews typically take place in two stages. The first stage is an informal interview with the project’s supervisors. Their goal is to select a strong candidate to put forward to the DTP funding pool.

In the second stage, the DTP panel ranks the shortlisted projects and interviews the chosen candidates to ensure they meet the required academic standard. Since funding is limited, only the highest-ranked projects receive funding, meaning there is a cut-off point beyond which projects may not be funded.

However, each DTP operates slightly differently. Some prioritise ranking candidates before assessing the projects, while others rank projects first and then consider the candidates.

Before an interview, you could prepare by:

• Researching the supervisor’s work and their key research interests.

• Reading relevant papers related to the project.

• Preparing and practicing answers for common interview questions related to your experience and research skills.

Things to remember

Apply to numerous projects if you are serious about pursuing a PhD, but only if you are genuinely interested in the project!

Receiving a rejection does not necessarily mean you were unsuitable for the position, as the differences in applicants are often minimal. Remember that some principal investigators may already have preferred candidates in mind.

So, try not to be discouraged by rejections or take them personally. I faced many rejections before finding the right project (although in hindsight, I likely applied slightly too broadly).

Let me know if you have anymore questions or requests in the comments! Good luck!

As always, keep swimming 🐟