Leeds University Business School PhD Scholarship 2026: Fully Funded + £20k Stipend (Apply by Mar 11)

Leeds University Business School (LUBS) has announced its prestigious PhD Excellence Scholarships for the 2026/27 academic year. This is a fully funded opportunity for outstanding researchers from around the world to join a top-ranking UK institution.

There are 21 scholarships available across seven departments. Selected candidates will receive a full tuition fee waiver and a generous maintenance grant (currently £20,780 per year). If you are planning to start your PhD in October 2026, this is one of the most competitive and rewarding funding packages available. The deadline to apply for the scholarship is 11 March 2026.

Scholarship Overview & Key Details

Eligible Departments & Research Areas

The scholarships are distributed across seven key departments. You must be applying for a PhD in one of the following areas:

• Accounting & Finance
• Economics
• International Business
• Management & Organisations
• Marketing
• Analytics, Technology & Operations
• People, Work & Employment

Scholarship Benefits

This award is designed to support you for the full duration of your research (3.5 years for full-time).

• Full Tuition Fees: 100% waiver for both UK and International students.
• Maintenance Allowance: A tax-free living stipend matching UKRI rates (approx. £20,780 for 2025/26, rising annually).
• Research Community: Access to a vibrant community of over 210 postgraduate researchers and development opportunities.

Note: Relocation costs (visa, flights, insurance) are not covered by this award.

Eligibility Criteria

LUBS is looking for candidates with exceptional academic records. To qualify, you must meet the following requirements:

• Academic Qualification:
  • A First-Class or Upper Second-Class (2:1) Bachelor’s degree (or equivalent).
  • A Master’s degree or equivalent professional qualification.
• Department Specifics:
  • Accounting/Finance & Int. Business: Requires an average grade of 70% (Distinction level).
  • Other Departments: Minimum 60% (Merit level).
• Nationality: Open to all nationalities (UK & International).
• English Language: IELTS 7.0 overall (with no component below 6.5) or equivalent.

How to Apply (2-Stage Process)

You strictly need to follow this order. You cannot apply for the scholarship without a student ID.

Stage 1: Apply for the PhD Place (By March 4, 2026) Submit your application for a PhD study place at Leeds University Business School. Once submitted, you will receive a 9-digit Student ID number. You need this ID for the next step. Tip: Apply well before March 4 to ensure you get your ID in time.

Stage 2: Apply for the Scholarship (By March 11, 2026) Using your Student ID, complete the scholarship application form for your specific department. This form is separate from your study application.

Official Application Link: Click Here to Apply for Leeds PhD Excellence Scholarship