This application programme is for applicants looking to apply for ESRC studentship funding to undertake a supervisor-led pre-designed PhD research project, starting in the academic year 2026/27 (October 2026). To ensure you have the best chance of success please review the relevant studentship advert(s) in advance of submitting an application. 

Application Process: 

1. First complete our Equality Opportunities Monitoring Form -  Please note, this information is kept private and is not considered by reviewers during the competition process. For more on this, visit the pg. 3 of our applicant guidance document, here. 
2. Next, complete the “Supervisor-led Student Recruitment Pre-Application Questions” section. This will let you and SGSSS know if you are eligible to apply and/or if you are a home or international student. See our student eligibility webpage here, as only a maximum of 30% of available studentships may be awarded to international applicants.
3. Next, complete the "Supervisor-led Student Recruitment Applicant Information (Part 1)" - Here you will answer questions on previous and current address; nationality; and other applicant information questions. 
4. Next, complete the "Supervisor-led Student Recruitment Applicant Information (Part 2)" - Here you will indicate your will indicate your award length, fee status, and study mode.
5. Next, complete the “Supervisor-led Student Recruitment Applicant Information” section. This is where you will input some basic information about yourself, e.g. award length and if you want to study full or part-time etc.
6. Next, complete the "Supervisor-led Student Recruitment Application Information" - Here you will answer three prompts: ‘Preparedness to undertake and complete a PhD and to flourish as a result of PhD funding’; and ‘Personal Statement’. Additionally, you will be asked about ‘Contributing to a positive and diverse PhD community’ and the Stuart Hall Foundation, but these questions are not part of the marking framework. Please read section 8 for more.
7. Next, complete the “References” section by inputting the contact details for two referees. SGSSS will contact your referees automatically to request that they provide a reference for you. Please make sure you review the full guidance provided within this section before you submit your referees' contact details. Please note, the deadline for applications is 5pm (GMT) on 24th March 2026, referees must have submit by the 26th April 2026 at 5 pm GMT. We do not accept applications or references submitted after the deadline or via email.
8. Upload your transcripts (where available) and your CV (academic where applicable).
9. Additionally, if the advert indicates it, please upload any additional information the supervisory team may require. 
10. By submitting an application to SGSSS, you are NOT submitting an application to study at the institution where the studentship will be hosted. Successful applicants will be invited to submit an application directly to the host institution (by the host institution) once the studentships have been awarded, however applicants should check the institutional application process with the relevant institution directly. 

Shortlisting and Interviews: 

1. Once the studentship lead supervisor has reviewed your application you will be notified if you have been shortlisted for interview, or not (via email). Please note, each studentship has its own shortlisting and interview deadline dates (please review the relevant studentship advert for details here).
2. If you are invited for interview, this will be coordinated by the relevant host institution directly (by the supervisor or relevant HEI Admin Lead), with the outcome of the interview being communicated within 2 to 4 weeks (typically) after the interview date. 

The deadline for applications is 5pm (GMT) on 24th March 2026, referees must have submit by the 26th April 2026 at 5 pm GMT. We do not accept applications or references submitted after the deadline or via email.