The SENSS Scholarships provide an unparalleled opportunity for exceptional international and domestic students to pursue postgraduate studies in social sciences at leading universities across the United Kingdom.
These scholarships, funded by the UK Research and Innovation (UKRI) Economic and Social Research Council, are designed to support students through comprehensive funding and research mentorship.
Overview
The SENSS program emphasizes a student-centered approach, allowing scholars to work on self-devised research projects guided by world-class academic supervisors.
Scholars benefit from robust research training and may have the opportunity to collaborate with external partners, such as businesses, charitable organizations, or think tanks.
These collaborations can offer additional resources, such as data, funding, supervision, or placement opportunities, enriching the research experience.
Participating Universities
SENSS scholarships are available at eight distinguished institutions:
- City, University of London (St George’s)
- Cranfield University
- Goldsmiths, University of London
- Middlesex University
- University of East Anglia
- University of Essex
- University of Lincoln
- University of Roehampton
Eligibility Criteria
Applicants must meet the following academic and residential criteria:
Academic Requirements:
- For the Master’s plus PhD Award (+4.5 years): A Bachelor’s degree (Honours) or equivalent, or relevant professional experience.
- For the PhD-Only Award (+3.5 years): A Master’s degree or substantial research skills to complete the proposed project successfully.
Residential Requirements:
- Scholarships are available to applicants of all nationalities and residency statuses.
- Approximately ten studentships per year are reserved specifically for international candidates.
- Current PhD Students: Those already enrolled in a PhD program may apply for SENSS funding, provided they have not completed a significant portion of their research.
Scholarship Benefits
The SENSS Scholarship is a comprehensive funding package that includes:
- Annual Stipend: A tax-free maintenance stipend of £19,237 per year to cover living expenses. For students at London-based universities, an additional £2,000 per year (London Weighting) is provided.
- Tuition Fee Waiver: Full coverage of tuition fees for the entire duration of the award, applicable to both domestic and international students.
- Research Training Support: Access to funds for research training, overseas fieldwork, international institutional visits, and language training.
- Collaborative Research Opportunities: Opportunities to engage with external partners for additional funding, data access, and practical research experience.
Application Process
Follow these steps to apply for the SENSS Scholarship:
- Identify a Supervisor: Choose an academic at a SENSS university whose research aligns with your project, ensure your research topic falls within one of the six SENSS Themes.
- Contact the Supervisor:
- Discuss your research proposal and explore potential supervision arrangements, if you are uncertain about whom to approach, contact the SENSS Operational Lead at the university for assistance.
- Apply for Admission: Submit an application for admission to your chosen program at the SENSS partner university, with the support of your proposed supervisor.
- Apply for SENSS Funding: Complete and submit the SENSS funding application after applying for admission.
Application Deadline: January 22, 2025
Additional Information
The SENSS Scholarships are designed for aspiring social science researchers passionate about impactful studies. With comprehensive funding and academic support, scholars can engage in cutting-edge research in a dynamic and intellectually stimulating environment.
For more details, please refer to the official SENSS scholarship page on the respective partner university websites.
Application link: https://www.senss.ac.uk/senss-student-led-competition
CHECK THESE OUT: