The University of Manchester has opened applications for its Excellence in Diversity PhD Scholarships for 2027/28 entry. The scholarships support doctoral research in biological, medical and health sciences. They are aimed at candidates from groups that are under-represented in postgraduate research.
This guide explains what the scholarship offers, who can apply, the key dates and how the application process works. Please read the eligibility section carefully, because this scheme is not open to all international applicants.
Quick Answer
The Excellence in Diversity PhD Scholarship is a fully funded PhD opportunity at the University of Manchester for 2027/28 entry. It is open only to UK-domiciled applicants who qualify for home fee status and belong to one of the eligible groups listed by the university. According to the university’s application guide, the deadline is 9 November 2026.
Scholarship Overview
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| University | University of Manchester, United Kingdom |
| Faculty | Biology, Medicine and Health |
| Level | PhD (doctoral research) |
| Entry | 2027/28, with studentships beginning in October 2027 |
| Funding duration | 4 years |
| Application deadline | 9 November 2026 (see the note on dates below) |
What the Scholarship Offers
According to the university, the scholarship provides:
- Tuition fees
- An annual tax-free stipend at the UKRI rate for 4 years
- An additional £1,000 per year enhancement
- A supportive research environment
- A skills and career development programme for careers in research, higher education, healthcare or industry
The exact stipend amount is not stated on the scholarship page, so candidates should check the current UKRI rate with the university.
Research Areas
The scholarships cover PhD research across the Faculty’s three Schools, in biological, medical and health sciences. Applicants do not need a fixed project in mind when they apply, but the university encourages them to explore its research areas. The Faculty’s Doctoral Academy helps candidates find a suitable project.
Who Can Apply?
Applicants must meet all of the following conditions:
- Be UK-domiciled and qualify for home fee status
- Hold, or expect to be awarded, an Upper Second class bachelor’s degree
- Belong to one of the groups the university lists as under-represented in postgraduate research
The groups currently listed are:
- Asian/Asian British – Bangladeshi
- Asian/Asian British – Indian
- Asian/Asian British – Pakistani
- Asian/Asian British background – Mixed
- Black/Black British – African
- Black/Black British – Caribbean
- Black/Black British – Other
- Black/Black British background – Mixed
The university states that eligibility is reviewed every year and may change.
Important Note for Readers in Pakistan
Many readers may see the word “Pakistani” in the eligibility list and assume the scholarship is open to students living in Pakistan. It is not. The scheme is for applicants who are UK-domiciled and qualify for UK home fee status. Pakistani nationality alone does not make a person eligible. If you are unsure about your fee status, contact the university before applying.
Key Dates
| Event | Date |
|---|---|
| Applications opened | 5 October 2026 |
| Information webinar | 19 October 2026, 12pm–1pm |
| Applications close | 9 November 2026 |
| Interviews | Week beginning 18 January 2027 |
| Studentships awarded | Week beginning 1 February 2027 |
| Studentship begins | October 2027 |
Date note: One section of the university’s page mentions 5 November 2026, while the application process and key dates sections say 9 November 2026. Please confirm the final deadline on the official page and with the admissions team, and avoid leaving your submission to the last day.
How to Apply
The university’s application guide lists these stages:
- Check you are eligible. Review the full criteria before you begin.
- Choose a pathway. You can explore advertised projects or discuss ideas with academics. A specific project is not guaranteed until after interviews.
- Contact a supervisor. You are welcome to approach academics in the Faculty to discuss research topics.
- Write a supporting statement.
- Arrange academic references.
- Prepare your supporting documents.
- Apply online. Submit a separate application for the Excellence in Diversity scheme, in addition to your programme application.
- Attend an interview, if shortlisted.
The university also encourages applicants to consider its other funded programmes alongside this scholarship, which may improve their chances of finding funding.
Tips for a Stronger Application
- Start early, because supervisor discussions and references take time.
- Read the supporting statement requirements on the official page carefully.
- Explain your research motivation clearly and honestly.
- Ask your referees well before the deadline.
- Join the information webinar if you can.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is this scholarship open to international students?
No. It is open only to UK-domiciled applicants who qualify for home fee status and meet the listed eligibility criteria.
How long does the funding last?
The scholarship provides funding for 4 years.
Do I need a research project before applying?
No. Having a project in mind is not required, but exploring projects and academics is encouraged.
Who should I contact with questions?
The university lists its Doctoral Academy Admissions team as the contact for questions about this scholarship.
Conclusion
The Excellence in Diversity PhD Scholarship is a valuable funded opportunity for eligible candidates who want to pursue research in biological, medical or health sciences at Manchester. Because eligibility is specific and the deadline is close, check the official page, confirm your fee status and prepare your documents early.
TechKarimi is an independent information website and is not affiliated with the University of Manchester. Always confirm the latest details on the official university website.