The University of Edinburgh is inviting applications for several fully funded PhD scholarships for studies in economics, beginning in September 2026, at The School of Economics. These competitive awards are based strictly on academic merit and provide exceptional opportunities for aspiring researchers in economics.
Each scholarship covers full tuition fees and provides an annual stipend at UKRI rates (currently £20,780) for the full duration of the four-year PhD programme. Opportunities for paid teaching experience may also be available.
Scholarship Opportunities
1. Edinburgh Doctoral College Scholarship / College Research Awards
Open to outstanding applicants from anywhere in the world.
Application deadline: 2 February 2026.
2. Minto Scholarships
Funded by a bequest from the estate of Mr. Brian Dickinson, these scholarships support PhD research in Economics. Eligible applicants must be residents of Australia, Canada, New Zealand, or Scandinavia (Finland, Norway, Sweden, and Denmark).
Application deadline: 2 February 2026.
3. China Scholarships Council (CSC)
Available to citizens and permanent residents of the People’s Republic of China who have already received an offer of admission. Applicants must intend to return to China upon completing their degree at Edinburgh. Candidates currently studying abroad may apply, but those already enrolled in a PhD programme are not eligible.
Application deadline: 16 February 2026.
The University of Edinburgh reserves the right to amend or withdraw scholarships or re-open the call depending on institutional needs.
How to Apply and Requirements
Prospective candidates must first register their interest with the School’s PGR office at EconPGR.Enquiries@ed.ac.uk
Applicants must demonstrate excellence in graduate-level coursework comparable to the SGPE Master’s curriculum (check here) including achieving a distinction grade. A high-quality research paper—typically a master’s dissertation—showing strong research potential in the applicant’s chosen field of study is also required. In addition, applicants must have research interests that align with at least two academic staff members in the School of Economics (check here).
The University of Edinburgh’s School of Economics is offering fully funded PhD scholarships for September 2026 entry. Awards include a four-year stipend (currently £20,780 per year), full tuition coverage, and possible teaching opportunities. Applicants must demonstrate distinction-level postgraduate coursework, strong research potential, and alignment with faculty research interests. Available scholarships include the Edinburgh Doctoral College Scholarship, the Minto Scholarship (for applicants from Australia, Canada, New Zealand, and Scandinavia), and the China Scholarships Council award. Deadlines range from 2–16 February 2026.
For more opportunities, click here.