Clara Collet PhD Scholarship 2026 (UK) – Fully Funded

Looking for a fully-funded PhD in the UK? The Clara Collet PhD Scholarship 2026 is a golden opportunity at University College London (UCL). This scholarship covers full tuition fees and provides an annual tax-free stipend of around £21,870, supporting up to four years of study. It’s open to students worldwide (UK, EU, or other countries) and supports both direct 4-year PhD studies and a 1+3 Master’s+PhD track. If you have a strong research interest and meet the criteria, keep reading for a complete guide on eligibility, benefits, deadlines, and how to apply.

Clara Collet PhD Scholarship Overview

• Host University (Country): University College London (UCL), United Kingdom.
• Degree: PhD in Political Science (Doctoral level).
• Program: 4-year scholarship (covers a straight PhD or a 1+3 route with a Master’s + PhD).
• Nationality: Open to UK, EU, and international students (all nationalities are welcome).
• Funding: Full tuition fees plus an annual tax-free stipend (around £21,870 in 2026/27).
• Duration: Up to 4 years of funding (if taking the 1+3 option, 1 year Master’s + 3 years PhD).

The Clara Collet Scholarship is offered by UCL’s Department of Political Science (Faculty of Social & Historical Sciences). It aims to support outstanding doctoral researchers in the social sciences. Notably, the award requires academic excellence and research potential, and there is a teaching component built into the program for professional development.

Eligibility Criteria

To be eligible for this scholarship, you should:

• Meet UCL’s standard PhD entry requirements (typically a strong Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in a relevant field).
• Be a full-time PhD student in the UCL Political Science department starting in 2026.
• Nationality: You can be from any country – the scholarship explicitly covers UK, EU, and overseas students.
• Academic merit: The awards are highly competitive and granted solely on the basis of academic merit and research potential. Have a strong GPA, research background, and a clear research proposal.
• Application note: On your UCL PhD application form, express your interest in the Clara Collet Scholarship (for example, by writing it in your personal statement or application notes).
• 1+3 route candidates: If you plan to start with a 1-year Master’s (then continue to a 3-year PhD), you should contact the PhD Admissions Manager (polsci.admissions@ucl.ac.uk) to register your interest before applying.

In summary, any aspiring PhD student in political or social sciences with a strong academic record can apply. You must apply for the UCL Political Science PhD program (2026 intake) and indicate interest in the Clara Collet scholarship on your form. The selection is based on your academic profile and research fit with the department.

Also Read: SIIT Graduate Scholarship 2025-26

Benefits and Funding Details

This scholarship is fully funded, meaning it provides comprehensive financial support:

• Full Tuition Covered: UCL will pay your full PhD tuition fees for the duration (up to 4 years).
• Stipend: You’ll receive a generous tax-free stipend (around £21,870 per year in 2026/27) to cover living costs.
• Teaching Obligations: The scholarship includes structured teaching duties, which also count as professional development. Specifically, recipients contribute around 180 teaching hours per year in their 2nd–4th years (with training duties in year 1). This experience can be a valuable addition to your CV.
• Research Community: As a Clara Collet Scholar, you’ll join UCL’s vibrant research community in London. You’ll have access to faculty expertise and a global network in social sciences (this experience is priceless for your career).

Overall, this funding package lets you focus fully on your research without financial worries.

How to Apply (Step-by-Step)

1. Prepare your application: Gather all required documents – transcripts, CV, references, and a strong research proposal in political/social sciences. Familiarize yourself with UCL’s PhD application form.
2. Submit UCL PhD application: Apply online for the UCL Political Science PhD program (for entry in 2026-27). In your application, clearly indicate your interest in the Clara Collet Scholarship (for example, mention it in your research proposal or cover letter).
3. Register 1+3 interest if needed: If you plan to pursue the 1+3 pathway (without an existing Master’s), email the PhD admissions team at polsci.admissions@ucl.ac.uk before applying to express this and request guidance.
4. Review and finalize: Double-check that all sections of the form are complete, your proposal is compelling, and your referees’ reports (if needed) are ready.
5. Submit by the deadline: Make sure everything is submitted by December 5, 2025.

For applying: Visit the official UCL Clara Collet PhD Scholarship page to start your application and find further instructions.

Important Deadlines

• Application Deadline: December 5, 2025. (This is the deadline for the UCL PhD application for 2026-27 entry.)
• Program Start: Autumn 2026 (exact dates will be confirmed by UCL’s admissions after offers are made).

Be sure to apply well before the deadline to avoid any last-minute issues.

Also Available: Commonwealth PhD Scholarships 2026

Tips for Applicants

• Start Early: Begin preparing your research proposal and gathering documents well before the deadline. Reach out to potential supervisors or the admissions team if you have questions.
• Highlight Fit: Make it clear how your research aligns with UCL’s strengths in political and social sciences. Mention any relevant faculty or research groups.
• Showcase Achievements: Emphasize your academic successes, relevant projects, and clear goals. Since the scholarship is merit-based, these details can strengthen your case.
• Proofread Carefully: Ensure your application is clear, concise, and free of errors. Have mentors, peers, or supervisors review it.
• Be Enthusiastic: Convey your passion for research and your future goals. A confident, positive tone helps demonstrate your commitment.
• Share with Peers: Tell friends or classmates about this opportunity. Great opportunities are worth passing along!

Conclusion

The Clara Collet PhD Scholarship 2026 at UCL is an incredible chance to advance your research career with no tuition costs and a generous stipend. If you meet the criteria and are excited about pursuing a PhD in the UK, don’t hesitate – apply before December 5, 2025. This guide has outlined the key points, but always double-check details on the official UCL page. Good luck, and feel free to share this opportunity with others who may benefit!

Your global research journey starts today – seize this opportunity!