The University of Bristol is proud to offer fully-funded Bristol Postgraduate Research Scholarships to support candidates of Black and mixed Black heritage. These scholarships aim to address structural inequalities and create opportunities for candidates who demonstrate exceptional research potential. The scholarship is open to UK-domiciled students with Home fee status who wish to pursue a PhD within the Faculty of Social Sciences and Law.
The University of Bristol, founded in 1876, is one of the UK’s leading research universities. Initially established as University College, Bristol, it gained its Royal Charter in 1909, becoming the first higher education institution in the UK to admit women on an equal basis with men. Known for its strong focus on research and innovation, the university has consistently ranked among the top institutions globally, offering a wide range of undergraduate and postgraduate programs across multiple disciplines. Its historic campus and diverse academic community make it a vibrant center for learning and discovery.
Table of Briefs
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Eligibility | UK-domiciled students with Home fee status, self-identifying as Black or mixed Black heritage |
| Deadline | 24 January 2025 |
| Scholarship Value | Tuition fees covered and a stipend of at least £19,795 per year for four years |
| PhD Fields | Any area within the Faculty of Social Sciences and Law, including Business, Law, Education, and Sociology |
Background
The Bristol Postgraduate Research Scholarships aim to support individuals from Black and mixed Black heritage backgrounds, helping to break down barriers in higher education. These scholarships are a direct response to persistent inequalities faced by Black communities, particularly in academic research and leadership. The programme invests in talented individuals, providing the tools necessary to reach their full potential, fostering independent research and knowledge exchange.
Eligibility Criteria
To be eligible for this prestigious scholarship, candidates must:
- Be UK domiciled with Home fee status.
- Self-identify as belonging to one of the following ethnic categories: Black African, Black Caribbean, Black Other, Mixed – White and Black Caribbean, Mixed – White and Black African, or Other mixed background (including Black heritage).
- Demonstrate exceptional research potential.
- Meet the admission requirements for a PhD course within the Faculty of Social Sciences and Law at the University of Bristol.
- Have received and accepted an offer for a PhD programme at the University of Bristol.
Additionally, applicants from low-income backgrounds, non-Russell group universities, and those from underrepresented groups (e.g., Black, Asian, minority ethnic, Trans, non-binary, and disabled candidates) are highly encouraged to apply.
Benefits
The Bristol Postgraduate Research Scholarships provide the following support:
- Tuition fees are fully covered.
- A maintenance stipend of at least £19,795 per year for full-time study over four years (or part-time equivalent over eight years).
- An annual research grant of £2,100 to cover associated research costs.
These scholarships are offered to new PhD students starting their programme in September 2025. Current PhD students or those upgrading from an MPhil are not eligible to apply.
Application Process
To apply for the scholarship:
- Submit a PhD application to a School within the Faculty of Social Sciences and Law at the University of Bristol. Applicants may apply to any School, including the Business School, Law School, School of Education, School of Sociology, and School of Economics.
- Indicate your interest in the Bristol Postgraduate Research Scholarship by selecting the relevant funding options in the application form: “University of Bristol Scholarship” or “UK Research Council.”
- Complete the additional online form specifically for the Bristol Postgraduate Research Scholarship.
- Ensure your research proposal does not exceed the 1,000-word limit (inclusive of all written content, including tables and graphics).
If you require any reasonable adjustments during the application process, you can contact the respective School’s Admissions team to discuss your needs.
Important Dates
Application Deadline: 24 January 2025.
Conclusion
The Bristol Postgraduate Research Scholarships offer an exceptional opportunity for candidates of Black and mixed Black heritage to advance their academic careers and become leaders in research and innovation. With fully-funded support, including tuition, a generous stipend, and research costs, this scholarship is designed to remove barriers and promote equity in higher education.