The South and East Network for Social Sciences (SENSS) ESRC Studentship

The South and East Network for Social Sciences (SENSS) ESRC Studentship offers a fully funded postgraduate scholarship in the United Kingdom.

Successful applicants will receive a stipend of £20,780 per year to cover living expenses — with an extra £2,000 per year for students studying at London-based universities.

The SENSS scholarship provides high-quality research training under experienced supervisors across 8 leading UK universities and 6 interdisciplinary themes.

This post outlines all you need to know — including eligibility, benefits, and a step-by-step guide to applying.

📌 SENSS Scholarship Summary

• Host Country: United Kingdom (UK)

• Study Abroad: Study in UK

• Category: Postgraduate | Masters | PhD Scholarships

• Eligible Countries: All Countries

• Reward: Full Scholarship | £22,780 per year | Travel & Research Support

• Deadline: January 14, 2026

🏫 About SENSS ESRC Studentship

Applications for the 2025/2026 South and East Network for Social Sciences (SENSS) competition are now open.

Each year, SENSS offers funded studentships across 8 UK universities, covering multiple interdisciplinary themes.

What is a Student-Led Studentship?

• Students propose their own research project.

• Guided by an expert academic supervisory team.

• May include collaboration with organizations like businesses, charities, or think tanks, providing additional funding, supervision, or placements.

✅ Eligibility Requirements

To qualify for the SENSS ESRC Studentship 2026, applicants must meet the following:

• Open to all nationalities across all 8 SENSS universities.

• About 10 international scholarships are awarded yearly.

• For Masters + PhD (+4.5 years): Equivalent to a Bachelor’s (Honours) degree.

• For PhD only (+3.5 years): Equivalent to a Master’s degree or professional experience.

• Applicants already enrolled in a PhD may apply if they have not completed a substantial portion of their studies.

💰 Benefits of the SENSS Scholarship 2026

Recipients of the SENSS Scholarship will enjoy the following:

• 💷 Stipend: £20,780 per year (tax-free).

• 💸 London Weighting: Extra £2,000/year for London-based universities.

• 🎓 Tuition Fees: Fully covered (Home & International).

• ✈️ Research & Travel Support: Access to additional funding for research, overseas visits, fieldwork, and language training.

🏛️ Partner Universities

• St George’s, University of London

• Cranfield University

• University of East Anglia

• University of Essex

• Goldsmiths, University of London

• University of Lincoln

• Middlesex University

• University of Roehampton

🪜 How to Apply (Step-by-Step Process)

Follow these steps to apply for the SENSS Scholarship 2026:

1. Identify a Supervisor:
   Choose an academic at a SENSS university whose expertise aligns with your research topic.

2. Contact Your Supervisor:
   Reach out directly to discuss your research proposal and potential supervision.

3. Apply for Admission:
   Submit your application for admission at your chosen SENSS university.

4. Apply for SENSS Funding:
   Once admitted, complete your separate SENSS funding application for your studies.

📎 CLICK HERE TO APPLY

🕓 Application Deadline

January 14, 2026