Study in UK | University of Oxford DPhil Scholarship 2026

November 14, 2025 10:29 am

Study in UK | University of Oxford DPhil Scholarship 2026

The University of Oxford’s Faculty of Music has unveiled a significant new opportunity for advanced musical scholarship: the DPhil Scholarship in Schubert Studies for the 2026/27 academic year. This prestigious, fully-funded award, made possible by the generous support of Dr. Nigel Nettheim, is designed to attract the world’s most promising doctoral candidates to undertake original research into the works and world of Franz Schubert. By establishing this dedicated scholarship, Oxford not only invests in a single researcher but also actively fortifies its legacy as a global epicenter for musicological inquiry, ensuring that Schubert’s rich legacy receives the deep, scholarly attention it warrants.

This initiative encourages applicants to explore a wide spectrum of research avenues connected to the early-Romantic composer. Scholars might pursue rigorous analytical studies of Schubert’s own compositions, or they might investigate the music of his contemporaries, his immediate circle, and his diverse musical influences. The program’s scope is intentionally broad, welcoming any research that ultimately illuminates Schubert’s unique creative process and lasting impact. Consequently, this scholarship offers more than just financial freedom; it provides a unique platform to contribute meaningfully to the evolving understanding of nineteenth-century music within the inspiring and resource-rich environment of Oxford.

Scholarship Scope and Research Focus

This doctoral program encourages in-depth analytical studies of Schubert’s compositions and their historical context. Applicants are welcome to propose research that explores Schubert’s contemporaries, his immediate circle, and his broader musical influences. The core requirement is that the research must ultimately enrich our understanding of Schubert’s own creative output and his lasting impact on 19th-century music.

Comprehensive Funding and College Affiliation

The scholarship provides a complete financial package, ensuring scholars can focus entirely on their research without financial pressure. The benefits include:

Full coverage of tuition fees at the home rate for three years.
An annual living stipend of at least £22,027 to support your stay in Oxford.
Affiliation with the renowned Wadham College for the duration of your studies.

Please note that while you may list any college preference on your initial application, successful awardees will automatically become members of Wadham College.

Eligibility and the Application Journey

This competitive scholarship is open to qualified applicants worldwide. The application process follows the university’s standard graduate admissions procedures, ensuring a fair and rigorous selection based on academic excellence and research potential.

Prospective candidates should prepare a compelling research proposal that clearly aligns with the scholarship’s focus on Schubert studies. Furthermore, you must ensure your application demonstrates a strong academic record in musicology or a closely related field.

How to Apply

Click Here to Apply

Key Dates and Next Steps

The final deadline for applications is midday UK time on Wednesday, January 7, 2026. Given the prestige of this award, we strongly advise beginning your application well in advance. This allows sufficient time to craft a robust research proposal and gather all necessary supporting documents.

For detailed information on application requirements and to start your application, visit the official Oxford Faculty of Music website. For specific academic inquiries related to the scholarship, you can contact Professor Laura Tunbridge, Chair of the Faculty Board.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the DPhil Scholarship in Schubert Studies represents a remarkable opportunity to pursue advanced musicological research at one of the world’s top universities. If you are a passionate researcher with a focus on Schubert and nineteenth-century music, we highly recommend preparing your application for this transformative doctoral program.

Study in UK | University of Oxford DPhil Scholarship 2026