Imperial Global Development Fellowship Opens Doors for Global South PhD Students

Applications are now open for the Imperial Global Development Fellowship. This initiative from Imperial College London supports PhD scholars from developing nations. The program funds short-term research placements in the UK. The deadline for applications is November 28, 2025. Successful candidates will begin their fellowships in March 2026.

This fellowship offers a remarkable chance for academic growth. It is designed for students from Least Developed and Lower Middle-Income Countries. The goal is to foster international research collaboration. According to Reuters, such programs are vital for global scientific advancement.

Imperial Global Development Fellowship Benefits and Support

The fellowship provides comprehensive financial support. Awardees will receive a monthly stipend of £1,900. They also get a £200 payment upon arrival in the UK.

The fund covers return economy class airfare. It also pays for the UK visa application and Biometrics Residence Permit. Additional support for travel to visa centers is included.

Participants must arrange their own London accommodation. The fellowship does not provide support for dependents. This ensures the funds are focused solely on the student’s research experience.

Eligibility and Application Process Explained

Eligibility for the Imperial Global Development Fellowship is specific. Applicants must be current doctoral students. They need to hold a passport from an eligible LDC or LMIC nation.

Students must be over 12 months into their PhD program. They must be studying at an institution in an eligible country. A letter of support from an Imperial supervisor is mandatory.

The application requires several key components. A letter of recommendation from the home supervisor is essential. This letter must confirm the applicant’s English language proficiency.

Applicants must answer specific questions in the form. These include a lay summary of their PhD work. They must also detail how the placement will add value to their doctoral research.

The Imperial Global Development Fellowship represents a significant investment in global research talent. It provides a unique platform for cross-border scientific collaboration. This initiative directly strengthens the research capabilities of scholars from the Global South.

Info at your fingertips

What is the application deadline for the fellowship?

The application deadline is November 28, 2025. All required documents must be submitted by this date. The placements themselves will begin in March 2026.

Which countries are eligible for this program?

Eligibility is for students from Least Developed and Lower Middle-Income Countries. The specific list is based on the OECD ODA Recipients list. Upper Middle-Income Countries are not eligible for this particular fellowship.

What financial support does the fellowship offer?

It provides a £1,900 monthly stipend and covers return flights. The program also includes a £200 arrival payment and covers visa costs. This comprehensive package is designed to ease financial burdens.

Does the fellowship support family members?

No, the funding is for the individual student only. The fellowship terms explicitly state that dependents will not be supported. Students are expected to manage their accommodation independently.

What are the key application requirements?

Applicants need a host supervisor’s support letter signed by an Imperial Head of Department. A recommendation letter from their home supervisor is also critical. They must also complete a detailed application form with research statements.

Trusted Sources

Reuters, Imperial College London