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Funding and opportunities

PhD Scholarships available Cohort 2025-2026

*Applications deadline for UK-resident applicants 2 May 2025 | Overseas quota now full | We reserve the right to close applications if we reach our target earlier than deadline.

Apply now*

PhD Scholarships available Cohort 2025-2026

We believe in breaking down barriers and cultivating a more equitable, inclusive and innovative digital landscape for society.  

We’re looking for PhD candidates with academic excellence, passion for research on AI for digital media inclusion, and evidence of working effectively as part of a team.

Colleagues working in front of a screen

Funding available

Our scholarships funding is provided for full-time candidates for a period of 4 years and covers:
- UK home tuition fees
- Tax-free maintenance payment based on UKRI’s minimum rate: UKRI recently announced a stipend increase for 2025/2026 to be £20,780 per year from 1st October 2025.
- Enhanced supplement of £4,000 per year
- As a doctoral student, you may be able to access additional funding to cover the cost of other related training and development opportunities.

Abstract two hands working to untangle rope

Application process and guidelines

The application process is described in detail in the additional information supplied. Steps for applying are summarised below:
1. Complete online application forms
2. Submit CV and Case Study to CDT_AI@Surrey.ac.uk
3. Pre-selected candidates attend a recruitment workshop (in person/online)
4. Successful candidates apply via the University's online portal.