LSE PhD Studentships 2027
Awaiting Announcement
Overview
The LSE PhD Studentships cover full fees and an annual stipend for four years for research students of all nationalities at the London School of Economics. There is no separate scholarship application. Departments nominate students to a School panel, and awards are made on academic merit and research potential. For the full list of benefits, see what the scholarship covers.
What to know before applying
To be considered, submit your complete admission application to your LSE research programme by your department’s deadline. The studentship is decided alongside admission, so a late or incomplete application removes you from consideration. The stipend on the current LSE page is £23,805 a year, and funding is renewed each year subject to satisfactory academic performance. The page does not state how many studentships are awarded.
To compare other PhD funding in the UK, see the Scotland Saltire Scholarship, the Gates Cambridge Scholarship, browse all scholarships in the UK, fully funded scholarships and more PhD scholarships.
Timeline notes
The studentship page lists deadlines for 2026 entry only (10 December 2025, 14 January 2026 and, for some departments, 27 May 2026). Deadlines for 2027 entry are not shown there, so check your programme page before you apply. See the application deadline section for the current status.
About the LSE PhD Studentships
The LSE PhD Studentships is a fully funded scholarship offered by London School of Economics and Political Science (LSE) for study in United Kingdom. The scholarship supports students pursuing PhD studies in Any LSE discipline. Recipients receive £23,805 per year on the current LSE page for a duration of Four years. Funding is renewed annually, subject to satisfactory academic performance.
Eligible applicants: Students of all nationalities, UK and international, admitted to an LSE research programme. Academic standing: Not communicated on the studentship page. Awards are made on academic merit and research potential.
If you meet the eligibility requirements and align with the LSE PhD Studentships selection criteria, this represents a life-changing opportunity to study with full financial support. Read the sections below carefully to understand the benefits, eligibility, application process, and deadline before applying.
Scholarship Benefits & What's Covered
Selected recipients of the LSE PhD Studentships receive a comprehensive funding package. Here's what the scholarship covers:
- Stipend and allowances: £23,805 per year on the current LSE page
- Tuition fees: Yes, full fees
- Accommodation: Not covered separately. The annual stipend is paid for your living costs
- Airfare / travel: Not communicated
- Health insurance: Not communicated
- Family / dependants: Not communicated
- Program duration: Four years. Funding is renewed annually, subject to satisfactory academic performance
- Number of awards per year: Not communicated
The scholarship is classified as Fully Funded. This means recipients receive complete financial coverage throughout their study period, allowing them to focus entirely on their academic and research goals without financial burden.
Eligibility Requirements
To be considered for the LSE PhD Studentships, applicants must meet the following requirements. Applications from ineligible candidates are automatically rejected, so review these carefully before applying.
Academic requirements
- Minimum degree level: A place on an LSE research degree (MPhil/PhD)
- Academic standing: Not communicated on the studentship page. Awards are made on academic merit and research potential
- Academic background: Awards are made on academic merit and research potential. Departments nominate students to a School panel
- Fields of study: Any LSE discipline
Nationality & residency
- Eligible countries: Students of all nationalities, UK and international, admitted to an LSE research programme
- Residency: Not communicated
Language requirements
- Language of instruction: English
- Language test: Yes, an English test applies at admission. Most MPhil/PhD programmes use IELTS Academic 7.0 overall, and some programmes differ
- Minimum score: IELTS Academic 7.0 overall with 7.0 in reading and writing and 6.5 in listening and speaking for most MPhil/PhD programmes. Selectors may ask for a higher score
Other requirements
- Age: Not communicated
- Gender: Not communicated
How to Apply for the LSE PhD Studentships
Applications for the LSE PhD Studentships are submitted through the official channels of London School of Economics and Political Science (LSE). Follow these steps to submit a strong application:
Step 1: Verify eligibility. Confirm you meet every requirement listed above, particularly nationality, academic level, and language proficiency. Applications from ineligible candidates are automatically rejected without review.
Step 2: Prepare required documents. You will need to submit: No separate application. Submit your complete admission application by your department's deadline. Prepare each document carefully, reviewers typically shortlist based on document quality and completeness.
Step 3: Secure reference letters. Not communicated. Contact your referees early. References take time to prepare.
Step 4: Submit the application. Complete the application on the official portal before the deadline. The application deadline for this scholarship is To be announced. Late or incomplete applications are not considered.
Step 5: Await response. Shortlisting typically takes 4–8 weeks after the deadline. Successful candidates are invited to interview or additional assessment. Final decisions are announced 3–6 months after the application deadline.
Application Deadline
The application deadline for the LSE PhD Studentships is To be announced. Application window: To be announced.
We strongly recommend starting your application at least 6–8 weeks before the deadline to allow sufficient time for document preparation, reference letter requests, and revisions to your personal statement. Rushed applications are visibly weaker and reduce your chance of shortlisting.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the LSE PhD Studentships fully funded?
The scholarship is classified as Fully Funded. This means it covers all or most major costs — see the Benefits section above for a full breakdown.
Who can apply for the LSE PhD Studentships?
Applicants must be from Students of all nationalities, UK and international, admitted to an LSE research programme. Additionally, applicants must hold A place on an LSE research degree (MPhil/PhD). Full eligibility criteria including language, age, and academic requirements are detailed in the Eligibility section above.
What is the application deadline?
The application deadline for the LSE PhD Studentships is To be announced. Late applications are not accepted, so aim to submit at least 2 weeks in advance.
Is there a bond or return obligation?
Not communicated.
Where do I apply?
Apply directly on the official portal: Application Link. ScholarshipSpace does not process applications on their behalf.