The Economic and Social Research Council (ESRC), in collaboration with the White Rose Doctoral Training Partnership (DTP), is pleased to announce the opening of applications for the ESRC White Rose Social Science DTP Scholarships for the academic year 2025/2026.
The University of Sheffield, founded in 1905, has a rich history rooted in academic excellence and community impact. Originally formed from three local institutions—Sheffield Medical School (1828), Firth College (1879), and Sheffield Technical School (1884)—the university was established to meet the educational needs of the industrial city. Today, it is a globally renowned institution, recognized for its innovative research, diverse student body, and commitment to addressing real-world challenges.
Table of Briefs
| Scholarship Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Funding Agency | Economic and Social Research Council (ESRC) |
| Participating Universities | Leeds, Sheffield, York, Sheffield Hallam, Hull, Bradford, Manchester Metropolitan |
| Scholarship Types | Pathway Awards, Advanced Quantitative Methods (AQM), Advanced Data Analytics (ADA), and others |
| Funding Coverage | Tuition fees, annual stipend (£19,237 for 2024/25), Research Training Support Grant |
| Eligibility | UK/Home and International applicants meeting academic and residency requirements |
| Application Deadline | 22nd January 2025 |
Background
The ESRC White Rose Social Science DTP Scholarships are funded by the Economic and Social Research Council (ESRC), the UK’s leading agency for research and postgraduate training in social and economic sciences. The ESRC plays a pivotal role in fostering innovative research that addresses critical societal challenges, supporting over 4,000 researchers and postgraduate students at any given time.
Eligibility Criteria
To apply for the ESRC White Rose DTP Scholarships, you must meet the following requirements:
- Hold at least a UK 2:1 Honours degree or equivalent. Lower classifications may be accepted if supported by additional qualifications, such as a Master’s degree.
- For +3.5 awards, you must demonstrate completed research training requirements via a Master’s in Social Science Research or equivalent.
- Meet the University of Sheffield’s English Language requirements if your first language is not English.
- Reside within a reasonable distance of the University of Sheffield during the studentship period, except during agreed fieldwork.
- Open to both UK/Home and International (including EU) applicants, subject to ESRC’s residency requirements.
Benefits
The ESRC White Rose DTP Scholarship provides:
- Tuition Fees: Full coverage at the UK research rate.
- Annual Maintenance Stipend: A tax-free allowance of £19,237 for the academic year 2024/25.
- Research Training Support Grant: Funds for attending conferences, conducting research, and other academic expenses.
- Additional Funding Opportunities: Students may apply for extra funding for overseas fieldwork, language training, and institutional visits.
Application Process
Follow these steps to apply for the scholarship:
- Submit Your Application Online:
Use the University of Sheffield’s Postgraduate Online Application system to apply for a start date of 1st October 2025. - Access the WRDTP Form:
- Within the application portal, download the WRDTP application form in Word format.
- Complete all sections of the form as per the instructions.
- Upload the Completed Form:
Once filled, upload the WRDTP form into the online portal and submit your application. Ensure all details are accurate. - Check Internal Deadlines:
Some Schools may have earlier deadlines for internal review. Confirm these with your department.
Important Dates
Application Deadline: 22nd January 2025.
Conclusion
The ESRC White Rose Social Science DTP Scholarships are more than just financial aid—they are an investment in your future as a social science researcher. With excellent funding, collaborative opportunities, and access to cutting-edge resources, this scholarship offers a pathway to academic and professional growth. Start your application today and take the first step toward achieving your research aspirations!