The University of Kent is happy to announce the Christine and Ian Bolt Scholarships for the academic year 2025–2026. Funded by the late Ian Bolt in memory of Christine Bolt, Emeritus Professor of History at the University of Kent, this prestigious scholarship offers up to £10,000 to support postgraduate students undertaking a period of research in the United States.
The University of Kent, founded in 1965, is a public research university located in Canterbury, England. Known as the “UK’s European university,” it has a strong international outlook with campuses in the UK and partnerships across Europe. The university is recognised for its high-quality teaching, strong student support, and research excellence across various disciplines including humanities, social sciences, and sciences. Over the years, Kent has built a reputation for innovation, global engagement, and a vibrant academic community.
Table of Briefs
| Key Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Scholarship Name | Christine and Ian Bolt Scholarship |
| Scholarship Value | Up to £10,000 (including tuition fees) |
| Application Deadline | 30 June 2025 |
| Eligibility | Postgraduate students or offer holders in select divisions at Kent |
| Interview Date | July 2025 (Exact date TBC) |
| Research Requirement | Must involve a U.S. element or access to U.S.-based materials/expertise |
| Scholarship Duration | Up to one year, with potential renewal in exceptional cases |
| No. of Scholarships | Up to three awards available |
Background
The Christine and Ian Bolt Scholarship was established in loving memory of Christine Bolt, Emeritus Professor of History at the University of Kent, a respected scholar known for her contributions to American studies and transatlantic history. The scholarship is generously funded by her late husband, Ian Bolt, to continue her legacy of academic excellence and international research collaboration.
Eligibility Criteria
To qualify for the Christine and Ian Bolt Scholarship, applicants must:
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Hold a strong academic record (1st or 2.1 in undergraduate, or merit/distinction at postgraduate level).
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Be enrolled in or hold an offer for a postgraduate taught or research degree (full-time or part-time) at the University of Kent for the following academic year.
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Be from one of the following academic divisions:
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Kent Law School
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School of Arts and Architecture
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School of Humanities
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School of Psychology
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The Language Centre
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School of Social Sciences
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Durrell Institute of Conservation and Ecology (School of Natural Sciences)
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Possess excellent communication skills, both written and verbal.
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Be able to explain their project clearly to non-specialist audiences and demonstrate its broader significance.
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Serve as an effective ambassador for their field and the University.
Benefits
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Value: Up to £10,000 per scholar (covering tuition and/or research expenses).
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Purpose: To fund research in the USA that is central to the student’s project.
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Use of Funds: Travel, accommodation, tuition, and research-related expenses in the U.S.
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Award Duration: Up to one year (renewable in rare cases).
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Number of Awards: Maximum of three.
Application Process
To apply for the Christine and Ian Bolt Scholarship, submit the following documents via the Kent Vision portal before the deadline:
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Research Proposal (approx. 2000 words) outlining:
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Project aims
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Research methodology
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Relevance of U.S.-based research
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CV (updated academic résumé)
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Covering Letter explaining:
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Motivation for applying
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Why this scholarship is important for your work
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Names of two referees
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Proposed Budget detailing how you plan to use the funds
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Two Academic References, including:
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Suitability on academic and general grounds
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Referee’s official contact details and relationship to the applicant
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References must be in English on official headed paper
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Important Dates
Application Deadline: 30 June 2025.
Conclusion
The Christine and Ian Bolt Scholarship is more than financial aid it’s a career-enhancing opportunity to expand your academic horizons in the U.S. If your research involves an American component and you’re passionate about making an impact, this scholarship could be the key to unlocking international research excellence.