2026 Aston University PhD+ Scholarship Scheme in the UK

Location: United Kingdom

Program: Postgraduate (PhD Degrees)

Eligibility: International and UK Students

Duration: 3.5 years

Deadline: Not Specified

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The Aston University PhD+ Studentship Scheme 2026 represents the UK’s first fully funded doctoral scholarship program that uniquely combines rigorous academic research with a four-month industrial placement, preparing researchers with crucial skills for the digital age. Located in Birmingham’s Innovation Precinct, Aston University is a leading public research university established in 1895, known for its excellence in technology, innovation, entrepreneurship, and strong industry partnerships. The PhD+ scheme is a pioneering initiative that reflects Aston’s commitment to fostering innovation, inclusion, and practical application of research through partnerships with companies leading within their respective fields. The program offers exceptional PhD students the opportunity to excel in their research across diverse disciplines including engineering, physical sciences, health and life sciences, business, and social sciences, while simultaneously gaining invaluable professional skills through integrated industrial placements, advanced AI training, leadership development, and business acumen. With fully funded scholarships open to all students regardless of nationality, the PhD+ scheme equips researchers to make meaningful contributions to academia, industry, and society while advancing their careers in an increasingly competitive global research landscape.

Benefits of the Scholarship

This scholarship provides comprehensive support including:

Complete tuition fee waiver regardless of nationality
Annual stipend at UK Research Council rate for 3.5 years
Four-month integrated industrial placement with leading companies in respective fields
Training in latest AI advancements including artificial intelligence and machine learning applications
Leadership and business skills development through dedicated training programs
Certified Professional Development (CPD) certificate upon completion
Access to world-class research facilities and state-of-the-art laboratories

The annual stipend can be used to cover:

Accommodation
Living expenses
Travelling expenses
Health insurance
Other benefits

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Eligibility Criteria

To be eligible for this scholarship, applicants must:

Be a UK national or international student from any country worldwide
Hold a strong academic background appropriate for doctoral studies

Hold a bachelor’s degree (minimum upper second-class honours or equivalent) and/or a master’s degree in a relevant field
Demonstrate strong academic performance throughout previous studies
Have relevant academic background for chosen research area

Program-Specific Requirements:

College of Health & Life Sciences: Backgrounds in biosciences, neuroscience, medicine, pharmacy, psychology, biochemistry, biotechnology, or related fields

College of Engineering & Physical Sciences: Backgrounds in mechanical engineering, biomedical engineering, design, electrical engineering, materials science, physics, chemistry, or related areas

College of Business & Social Sciences: Backgrounds in business, management, law, social sciences, humanities, or related disciplines

Language Requirements:

English proficiency required for international students:
- IELTS Academic: minimum overall 6.5 with no component below 6.0
- TOEFL iBT: minimum 93
- Pearson PTE Academic: minimum 62
- Cambridge English: Advanced or Proficiency

Submit a completed research proposal with full research outline and firm research hypothesis
Demonstrate motivation and commitment to doctoral research
International students must provide all previous academic transcripts and degree certificates

Note: Kindly check the official website for full and complete requirements.

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Selection Criteria

Selection is based on academic excellence (strong undergraduate and/or master’s degree performance with upper second-class honours or equivalent), research potential (quality and feasibility of research proposal, alignment with available PhD projects and university research priorities), relevant academic background (appropriate qualifications in fields related to chosen research area), and motivation and commitment (demonstrated passion for doctoral research and career development). All advertised PhD+ positions remain open until filled with applications processed on rolling basis. Applicants should contact main supervisors directly to explore research opportunities before applying. The scheme particularly values candidates who demonstrate ability to benefit from the integrated industrial placement component and show potential for career advancement in academia, industry, or entrepreneurship sectors.