Study in UK | Leeds University Business School PhD Excellence Scholarships 2026
Leeds University Business School has officially launched applications for its highly competitive PhD Excellence Scholarships 2026. This funding opportunity invites ambitious researchers from every region of the world to join one of the United Kingdom’s most respected business schools. With a strong reputation for impactful research, global partnerships, and advanced academic training, the school encourages motivated scholars who want to deepen knowledge across major business, management, and economic fields.
This scholarship serves as a significant gateway for early researchers who aim to build successful academic or industry-focused research careers.
A Fully Funded PhD Opportunity for Future Research Leaders
The PhD Excellence Scholarship for 2026 offers a full financial support package that allows scholars to concentrate entirely on high-level research. Selected students receive:
- Full PhD tuition fee coverage for the entire program
- A maintenance grant of nineteen thousand two hundred thirty-seven pounds per year for three and a half years
- Access to research training workshops, doctoral seminars, interdisciplinary projects, and academic networking events
The maintenance allowance follows UKRI standards and adjusts each year, ensuring scholars receive competitive support throughout their PhD journey. As a result, recipients enter a vibrant research community that provides mentorship, collaboration, and professional growth.
Eligibility Requirements for 2026 Entry
Leeds University Business School welcomes applicants from any nationality, including candidates already living in the United Kingdom. Applicants should meet the following academic and language requirements:
Academic Requirements
- A First Class or Upper Second Class Bachelor’s degree from the United Kingdom or an equivalent international credential
- A relevant Master’s degree
- At least sixty percent for most departments
- At least seventy percent for Accounting, Finance, and International Business
- Exceptionally strong candidates with sixty-five percent may receive consideration
English Language Requirements
- IELTS overall score of seven point zero with no section below six point five
- Equivalent qualifications are also accepted if approved by the university
- Test scores must still be valid when the programme begins
Research Areas and Departments for 2026
Applicants may complete their doctoral research across seven departments within the business school:
- Accounting and Finance
- Analytics Technology and Operations
- Economics
- International Business
- Management and Organizations
- Marketing
People Work and Employment
Research within these departments contributes to four key themes shaping global business and public policy:
- Financial systems, governance, and economic well being
- People, performance, and organizational development
- International business strategy, global marketing, and network formation
- Technology driven innovation and modern management practices
How to Apply for the PhD Excellence Scholarship
1. Submit a PhD Application
Candidates must first apply for a PhD programme at Leeds University Business School. Applicants also need to upload all academic documents and secure a nine-digit student ID number.
2. Submit the Scholarship Application
After completing the study application:
- Visit the scholarship page for your chosen department
- Complete the scholarship form
- Submit all information before the listed deadline
- Only complete and on-time applications receive review.
Application Deadlines for the 2026 Entry Cycle
Leeds University Business School offers several start dates. Deadlines differ for United Kingdom applicants and international applicants.
September 2026 Start
- UK applicants: 31 May 2026
- International applicants: 30 April 2026
October 2026 Start
- UK applicants: 30 June 2026
- International applicants: 31 May 2026
February 2027 Start
- UK applicants: 31 October 2026
- International applicants: 30 September 2026
April 2027 Start
- UK applicants: 31 December 2026
- International applicants: 30 November 2026
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