University College London is delighted to announce the Clara Collet Departmental Scholarships 2026/2027, offering fully funded opportunities for exceptional PhD candidates. Open to UK, EU, and international students, these prestigious scholarships provide four years of financial support along with valuable teaching experience, making them an excellent pathway for aspiring researchers.
University College London (UCL) was founded in 1826 as London University, becoming the first university in England to admit students regardless of religion, gender, or background. It was established with the aim of making higher education accessible to all, breaking away from the exclusivity of Oxford and Cambridge at the time. Over the years, UCL has grown into one of the world’s leading research universities, known for its innovation, academic excellence, and global impact.
Table of Briefs
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Provider | Departmental Scholarship Clara Collet |
| Level of Study | PhD including 1+3 route with a Master’s |
| Duration | 4 years |
| Funding Coverage | Full tuition fees + tax-free stipend of £21,870 rate subject to confirmation for 26/27 |
| Eligibility | UK, EU, and Overseas students |
| Application Deadline | 5 December 2025 same as PhD application deadline |
| Selection Criteria | Academic merit and research potential |
| Teaching Requirement | Up to 180 hours annually Years 2–4 and 110 hours in Year 1 |
| Contact for 1+3 Route | PhD Manager polsci.admissions@ucl.ac.uk |
Background
The Clara Collet Departmental Scholarship is named in honour of Clara Collet (1860–1948), a pioneering economist, social reformer, and advocate for women’s education. She was deeply committed to advancing opportunities for disadvantaged groups and promoting equality in higher education. Inspired by her legacy, the scholarship aims to support outstanding PhD candidates who demonstrate exceptional academic ability and research potential.
Eligibility Criteria
The Clara Collet Departmental Scholarship is open to:
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Domestic and international applicants UK, EU, and Overseas.
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Prospective PhD candidates beginning their programme in 2026.
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Candidates who either:
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Already hold a Master’s degree and are applying directly for a PhD (4 years funding), or
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Wish to pursue a 1+3 route 1-year Master’s within the department, followed by a 3-year PhD.
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Applicants with exceptional academic achievements and research potential.
Benefits
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Financial Support: Covers full tuition fees and provides a tax-free stipend of £21,870 annually 26/27 rate to be confirmed.
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Duration: 4 years in total.
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Teaching Requirement:
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Year 1: 110 hours training and second marking only.
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Years 2–4: 180 hours per annum both contact and non-contact hours.
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Competitiveness: Scholarships are awarded solely on academic merit and research promise.
Application Process
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Apply for the PhD programme in the department before the deadline.
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On the application form, indicate your interest in being considered for the Clara Collet Scholarship.
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For the 1+3 route Master’s + PhD, applicants should contact the PhD Manager at polsci.admissions@ucl.ac.uk before applying.
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Applications will be assessed on academic records, research proposal quality, and potential contribution to the department.
Important Dates
Application Deadline: 5 December 2025.
Conclusion
The Clara Collet Departmental Scholarship is more than just financial assistance it is an investment in your future as a researcher and academic. By covering tuition fees, providing a generous stipend, and incorporating valuable teaching experience, it equips students with the resources and skills needed to thrive in academia. Although the scholarship is highly competitive, well-prepared applicants with a clear research vision and strong academic background stand a strong chance of success.