how much does a phd cost uk

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PhD tuition fees

Students enrolling on a postgraduate degree programme are charged tuition fees each year by Queen Mary University of London. The rate you will be charged depends on  whether you are assessed as a Home or Overseas student .

2024-25 Tuition Fees 

Home students beginning their PhD in September 2024 (or later) will be charged the following tuition fees:

• £4,786  for full-time research degrees 
• £2,393 for part-time research degrees 

2023-24 Tuition Fees 

Home students beginning their PhD in September 2023 (or later) will be charged the following tuition fees:

• £4,712 for full-time research degrees 
• £2,356 for part-time research degrees 

Tuition fees for Home students are set by UK Research Council (UKRI) and each year UKRI usually increases their fee and stipend levels in line with inflation. Further information can be found on the  UKRI website .

For international students (this now includes EU students), the tuition fees for 2023-24 and 2024-25 entry can be downloaded below:

2023-24 PGR Tuition Fees [PDF 436KB]

PGR 2024-25 Tuition Fees [PDF 64KB]

Some postgraduate courses may include an additional charge known as a fee band. This is to cover associated costs including equipment, laboratory consumables, specialist technical support, data processing, training and travel. You will be notified at the point of offer if a fee band is applicable.

Please note that fees are quoted at the full-time/part-time rate for the academic year you’ve applied for.  If you begin your study part-way through the academic year then your first tuition fee payment will be calculated on a pro-rata basis

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Information on how to pay

Instalment Plan

If your fees are more than £1,000 per year, you can pay in instalments. 

Fee status determines the rate of fees throughout studies at Queen Mary.

University Fee Regulations

Our regulations are updated every year, you can access a list of present and past University fee regulations here

• Postgraduate Research

PhD fees and costs

To study a PhD, you'll need to pay the cost of tuition fees, research support fees (such as materials used in a laboratory) and be able to cover your living expenses

A funded PhD studentship may meet all or part of these costs or you may be able to find funding for your self-funded PhD or research project.  The fees below are for the academic year 2024/25.

The fees stated in the table above exclude potential research support fees also known as ‘bench fees’. You will be notified of any fee which may apply in your offer letter.

* Please note that if you are undertaking a PhD within the Faculty of Science and Engineering the fee you pay, Band A or Band B, will reflect the nature of your research project. Some research projects incur a higher fee than others e.g. if you are required to undertake laboratory work. You will be informed of the fee for your programme in your offer letter.

^ Self-funded, full-time international students studying a PhD programme classified as Band A will receive a £2,000 reduction in their fees for the first year only.

Paying fees

The University requires payment of tuition fees at registration for the whole of the coming academic session or for the duration of a programme that is to be completed in less than a year. However, arrangements can be made for self-supporting students to pay their tuition fees in installments.

All instalments must be arranged with the Student Administration and Support Division. If you hold a scholarship or studentship, the awarding body should provide the Student Fees section of the Student Administration and Support Division with an acceptable guarantee of payment.

If you expect to be sponsored please ensure that your sponsors understand fully their responsibilities for your fees and maintenance and that they are prepared to honour them for the duration of your studies in Liverpool.

If your sponsor does not provide an acceptable guarantee of payment, or defaults on their guarantee, you will become responsible for the payment of fees yourself. Unfortunately, the University is not able to provide financial aid or waive fees for students whose arrangements for financial support fail during the period of their studies.

Transfering funds from abroad

International students will need to ensure that they can bring sufficient funds with them for living expenses, as well as for payment of fees, or have sufficient funds sent to them in instalments throughout the year. Students from countries which operate strict foreign exchange controls should make sure that permission can be obtained for the transmission of adequate funds.

Other costs

Research support fees.

Research support fees, also known as 'bench fees', cover the cost of consumable materials used in your study. Some MPhil/PhD and taught programme projects use up large amounts of materials or ‘consumables’. In these cases you may be charged an annual Research Support Fee to help cover the cost of this. Programmes which might incur a Research Support Fee are likely to be those which are laboratory-based. You will be notified of any fee which applies in your offer letter. Research Support Fees are the same for UK, EU and International students.

Study costs

We want to try and help you prepare for the day-to-day costs of studying. These might include things like photocopying in the library, buying textbooks and specialist equipment or going on field classes. We have put together tables of additional costs for guidance, for each subject area, including where departments make contributions towards these costs.

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Fees – what you need to pay

The information below is only relevant for students who register directly with The Open University. Students who register through an Affiliated Research Centre (ARC) should contact the ARC directly if they have any questions about fees.

Annual fees

All students registered for a research degree are liable for an annual fee that covers registration, supervision, examinations and graduation.

• Where a student is in receipt of funding, their fees will be met by the funding body for the periods stated in accordance with the provisions in the offer letter. Where registration continues beyond the funded period the student will become liable for fees.
• Self-funded students are required to pay annual fees in full at the beginning of each of their academic years (usually prior to the registration anniversary date).

The annual fee depends on the research programme that you want to study, whether you are studying full time or part time, where you currently live and potentially on your nationality and immigration status.

Fees normally increase annually in line with inflation.

Annual fee amounts for 2023–24 and 2024–25 are:

Am I a UK or an international student?

UK students are those who can show that:

• they have been ‘normally resident in the UK’ – not just for educational purposes – for at least three years before the start of their course
• who can demonstrate that they are ‘settled’ in the UK.

‘Settled’ means having either:

• indefinite leave to enter or remain
• having the right of abode in the UK.

For those students who are resident outside the UK, the fee varies according to whether they are taking a research degree in a science or in an arts discipline.

Advice for international students about fees and finance for research degrees for international students can be found on the website of the UK Council for International Student Affairs (UKCISA) . Advice about visa requirements can be found on the UK Visas and Immigration website .

Continuation fees, writing-up and resubmission fees

Continuation fees, writing-up fees.

Please note that students on Professional Doctorate courses are not eligible for writing-up fees.

Where a student enters their fourth year (full time) or eighth year (part time) of study and is no longer engaged in the acquisition of new data and is predominantly concentrating on writing up their thesis prior to submission, they will be classified as writing-up students. A writing-up student must be in a position to submit their thesis within 12 months, or by their thesis submission date, whichever is sooner.

The writing-up fee is available for a maximum of one year. Regardless of mode of study, should the student fail to submit their thesis within the ‘writing-up year’ they will become liable for the full annual continuation fee should they be granted an extension to registration.

The supervisor will need to formally confirm to the Graduate School when a student should be classified as writing up.

The writing-up fee will be invoiced at the start of the fourth year (full time) or eighth year (part time); it becomes payable halfway through the year (e.g. at 42 months of registration for full-time students and at 90 months of registration for part-time students). Where a full-time student who has been designated as at ‘writing-up’ stage submits prior to 42 months the writing-up fee will be waived. Where a part-time student who has been designated as at ‘writing-up’ stage submits prior to 90 months the writing-up fee will be waived.

Resubmission fee

Where a student is required following the final examination to resubmit their thesis for re-examination a fee will apply. The charge is made to cover costs of re-examination and additional supervision.

Before accepting an offer of registration, it is important to consider your finances over the period of your studies. If you are paying your own fees, you must make sure you can meet the cost; you will not be able to proceed with your degree if your fees are in arrears. New postgraduate research students are now eligible for student loans; information on eligibility and how to apply can be found on the Gov.uk’s doctoral loan page. Please note you are unable to apply until you have received an offer letter and you will need to ask the Graduate School for a Course Code in order to apply.

Funded students

Some students are in receipt of a studentship – that is, they have applied for and successfully been awarded funding for a fixed amount of time during their studies. Current studentships are advertised on the Studentships page . Depending on the award received, which would be confirmed in their award/funding offer letter, students typically receive a stipend and the awarding body pays the fees.

Students entering the fourth year (full time) or eighth year (part time) may become liable for a continuation fee or a writing-up fee. This may not always be covered by funding bodies and the student will be expected to pay this fee – payments by instalment can be arranged using an OUSBA account (subject to credit check). Where a student is formally recorded as ‘writing up’ (i.e. they have completed their research and are focused on writing their thesis), by the time they enter the fourth year (full time) or eighth year (part time) year, the fee is reduced.

Students are advised to check whether this is covered in their award offer letter and/or with the organisation/body making the award offer.

Self-funded students

Students who are self-funded are liable for the full fees for the duration of their study.

Students entering the fourth year (full time) or eighth year (part time), will become liable for a continuation fee unless they are formally recorded as ‘writing up’ by the time they reach the end of the third (full time) or seventh (part time) year, in which case the fee is reduced.

Your questions

For advice about applying for a research degree, or sponsoring a research student, email the Graduate School or call +44 (0)1908 653806.

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PhD in UK: Fees 2024, Top Colleges, Placement and Salaries

The average annual tuition fee for pursuing PhD in UK at the top universities is 20,000 GBP- 50,000 GBP (20-50 Lakh INR) and the average cost of living in UK is around 14,000 GBP (14 lakh INR) per year. The opportunities after studying in UK universities are vast. Almost 87% of the Ph.D. students start working after graduation and earn an average pay of 40,000 GBP- 60,000 GBP (40-60 Lakh INR) per annum.

PhD in UK: Top Universities

International students are attracted to the high-quality education offered by the top universities in UK . According to the QS Ranking of 2024, 5 universities in the UK rank among the top 50 universities across the world. The following table lists some of the top universities offering PhD in UK:

Why Study PhD in UK?

• PhD graduates from UK universities have a high employability rate, with 82% of them in employment or further study within six months of graduation, Higher Education Statistics Agency.
• The UK has some of the world's best universities, and many of these institutions are highly ranked for their PhD programs. According to the QS World University Rankings 2024, the UK has 3 universities in the top ten for graduate employability, and five universities in the top 40 for graduate employability.
• The opportunities after studying in UK universities are vast. Almost 87% of the Ph.D. students start working after graduation and earn an average pay of 40,000 GBP- 60,000 GBP (40-60 Lakh INR) per annum.
• UK universities offer cutting-edge research facilities and opportunities for interdisciplinary collaboration. Students have access to world-class resources and expertise, allowing them to undertake innovative research in their chosen fields.

PhD in UK: Admissions

Depending on the institution and the particular school, the admission requirements for PhD in UK may change, but they typically include academic credentials, English language proficiency, and work experience. In the section below the detailed admission requirements for top universities offering PhD in UK are given.

PhD in UK: Eligibility Criteria

Admission requirements for a PhD in UK can vary depending on the university and the area of research. However, there are some general admission requirements that most universities will require from applicants:

• Academic Degree- A first-class or strong upper second-class undergraduate degree with honours in a related field of study.
• Minimum GPA- The minimum GPA requirement is 3.7 on a scale of 4.0
• English Proficiency Test Score- IELTS: 7.0 or above, TOEFL: 100+.
• Statement of Purpose (SOP) - Submit a 5000 word personal statement outlining their academic and professional background, their reasons for applying to the program, and their career aspirations.
• Letters of Recommendation (LOR) - Applicants are usually required to provide at least 2-3 academic or professional references.
• Research Proposal- A 3000 word research proposal needs to be submitted in the area of research you are applying for.

PhD in UK: Admission Requirements

Following table shows the general admission requirements for getting into a Phd program in the UK universities along with their respective academic requirements and additional document requirements:

PhD in UK: Cost of study

United Kingdom is one of the most pursued and sought out countries in the world for international students. The cost of study in UK will include the cost of living and the tuition fees a student is paying for PhD in UK. The cost of study in UK can differ from person to person depending on the university of their choice. The average cost of study in UK ranges from 30,000 GBP to 37,000 GBP (30-37 lakh INR).

PhD in UK: Tuition Fees

A PhD in UK lasts for 3-5 years on a full-time basis depending on the University and the area of research. The following table highlights the annual fees for pursuing PhD in UK universities:

Cost of Living in UK

The cost of living in UK includes accommodation, food, transportation, healthcare, personal expenses etc. The average cost of living in UK is around 14,000 GBP- 24,000 GBP (14-25 lakh INR) per year.

PhD in UK: Scholarships

If you are planning to study in UK for a PhD you should know that it can become heavy on your pocket. For that reason UK universities provide different scholarships in UK for international students to lighten their burden. Following are some of the scholarships offered to international students who are applying for PhD in UK.  

PhD in UK: Job Opportunities

A PhD graduate earns on an average of 40,000 GBP- 60,000 GBP (30-60 Lakh INR) per year in the UK. Most of them go for an academic job especially in the teaching and education sector. According to Prospects UK, over 50% of graduates having PhD in UK are either education or science professionals working in the science and pharmaceutical industry.

Here are some sectors in the where PhD graduates may find job opportunities in UK , along with the percentage of PhD graduates employed in each sector (source: Vitae Researcher Development International):

• Higher Education - 37%
• Business and Industry: 23%
• Government- 16%
• Non-profit Organizations- 10%
• Self Employed- 5%
• Health and Social Care- 5%
• Other Sectors- 4%

Here are some average salaries for various job titles in the UK for PhD holders:

Phd in UK: Visa

International students planning to pursue PhD in Uk will require a points-based Student Route visa (previously known as the Tier 4 student visa). To get this visa you must be able to show that you have sufficient money for living costs. The minimum requirements are:

• £1,023 per month if your PhD is based outside London
• £1,334 per month if your PhD is based in London

A student visa requires 70 points. These are awarded to you as follows:

• 50 points – for gaining your confirmation of acceptance for studies
• 10 points – for proving that you have sufficient funds to support yourself during your degree
• 10 points – for proving you meet the English language requirements

PhD in UK: Work Permit

Provided you are pursuing a full-time PhD in UK, you may work alongside your project or programme, provided you do not: work for more than 20 hours per week, except during any vacations or in the case of an agreed work placement or internship

PhD in UK: ROI

A UK PhD offers a strong ROI as graduates gain advanced skills leading to higher salaries and diverse career opportunities, offsetting initial costs. The prestige of a UK PhD can boost professional credibility, leading to leadership roles and consulting opportunities, further enhancing ROI.

PhD in UK: Degree Comparison

The following table draws a comparison between PhD in UK vs PhD in USA on the basis of program duration, tuition fees, cost of living, visa, average salary among other parameters.

Pursuing a PhD in the UK can be a great opportunity for students who are looking for world-renowned universities, a multicultural environment, generous funding opportunities, and a shorter duration of the program. UK offers excellent research opportunities, and PhD graduates from UK universities have a high employability rate. After completing your PhD in UK one can work at higher posts in different fields and earn an average annual salary of 40,000 GBP- 60,000 GBP (30-60 Lakh INR).

Ques. How much does a PhD cost in UK?

Ans . The average annual tuition fee for pursuing PhD in UK at the top universities is 20,000 GBP- 50,000 GBP (20-50 Lakh INR) and the average cost of living in UK is around 14,000 GBP (14 lakh INR) per year.

Ques. How long is the PhD in UK?

Ans . PhD in UK, also referred to as a doctorate, is a 3-5 years full-time and 5-6 years part-time degree depending on the University of choice and the area of research.

Ques. Do PhD students get paid in UK?

Ans A stipend is awarded to students planning to pursue Ph.D in the UK. The cost of the stipend varies from university to university. PhD stipends in the UK were set at £16,062 for students outside of London and £18,062 for those within London, reflecting the higher cost of living in the capital.

Ques. What are some of the top universities offering PhD in UK?

Ans . University of Oxford, University of Cambridge, Imperial College London, University College London, and University of Edinburgh are some of the top universities offering PhD in UK.

Ques. What are the admission requirements for applying to a PhD in UK?

Ans . The minimum admission requirement for PhD in UK is to have a first-class or strong upper second-class undergraduate degree with honours in a related field of study or a masters degree with a minimum of 70%, IELTS score of 7.0 or above or a TOEFL score of 100+ and while applying for a PhD in UK you will need to submit a research proposal in the field you of research you are applying for.

Ques. What are the career prospects after completing a PhD in the UK?

Ans . Graduates with a PhD from a UK university have diverse career opportunities. While some pursue academic careers as researchers or professors, others find employment in industry, government, or non-profit organizations. The skills acquired during a PhD, such as critical thinking and problem-solving, are highly valued in many sectors.

Ques. Are there funding opportunities available for international students pursuing a PhD in the UK?

Ans . Yes, many UK universities offer scholarships, grants, and funding opportunities for international PhD students. These may cover tuition fees, living expenses, or research costs. Prospective students should research and apply for relevant funding opportunities early in the application process.

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How much does it cost to study for a UK doctorate?

Circumstances differ but here are some questions you might want to ask a potential university.

Fees and funding:

• What do the programme fees cover and what other charges might you be liable for? For example are there any additional 'departmental research costs', or charges for printing or other tangibles and how much could they add to your annual fees?
• Will you incur other expenses through your research, for example, research equipment, fieldwork costs or conference attendance? To what extent would your funding source (if you have one) or host department be able to fund these?
• What fees would be charged if you needed an extension beyond the normal period of study? These can rise sharply if you exceed your maximum period of registration
• Are scholarships or bursaries available? There are often small amounts of funding that you can apply for from subject societies or specific bequests
• Can you earn extra money through teaching or other part-time work in the university or elsewhere? What are the rates of pay for tutoring, demonstrating, marking etc.?
• What happens if your research funding finishes before you do? Are any emergency funds available? Postgraduate researchers may qualify for university hardship funds.

Accommodation and cost of living:

• Does the institution offer any suitable accommodation, on- or off-campus? If it does, can you stay all year round?
• Is there suitable accommodation if you need to bring your family, or have other specific needs such as a disability?
• Is any such accommodation specifically for postgraduates, or only for international students?
• If you live somewhere off-campus, is there public or other transport, what does it cost and can you reclaim any of those expenses?  Is there car parking in the university?

Working part-time may be limited within some doctoral programmes but is a common way to offset the costs of doing a doctorate. There are also some limits on what is permitted for international doctoral researchers . International researchers considering a doctoral degree in the UK are advised to consult the EURAXESS UK website which has practical information on coming to and living in the UK as a researcher. Most UK universities have an international office which can be an invaluable source of local advice and help.

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Frequently asked questions.

Tuition fees throughout the United Kingdom vary from University to University. However, the typical cost of PhD tuition for home UK and EU students is around £4,500 per year. These costs are calculated by the Research Councils UK.

How much are PhD fees for international students in the UK?

Fees for studying a PhD in the UK for international students are more expensive and again, vary from University to University but range from anywhere between £14,000 and £30,000.

There are more ways to get funding for a PhD than you might realise. For instance funding bodies may contribute to your course fees and come with a stipend while others help to fund travel expenses.

These funding bodies all have their own criteria for deciding who gets funding and what level of PhD funding they are eligible to receive. For instance these bodies can include the Research Councils who invest around £400 million into PhD research each and every year. Other funding bodies come in the shape of academic institutions such as colleges and universities and charities and trusts.

You have to weigh up the benefits of a PhD for yourself. Your career advancement may depend on having the qualification but for most jobs a PhD is unnecessary. However, it should be noted that those with a PhD earn on average around 26% more than those who attend university but have not obtained a PhD.

When you are thinking about studying for a PhD, especially as you will be studying for three or four years, you will be thinking about how much does a PhD cost in the UK and where you could find funding. Below is important information that you should consider before beginning your study.

What does a UK PhD studentship usually cover?

If you are a UK (and sometimes an EU student) you may be able to apply for full funding for your PhD in the form of a PhD studentship which will pay you a tax free sum to cover your fees, and a living stipend. EU students sometimes receive the fees but not the stipend.

You will generally need to be studying full-time to receive a studentship like this. If the PhD studentship comes from University funds it is likely to be for the same or a similar amount. These are tax free sums which pay you enough to live in most parts of the UK – and you also qualify for student discounts.

Some universities also make some PhD funding available for overseas students. If you will only be partly funded, or you cannot get funding, as well as the fees, here are some of the other costs you need to think about, for each of the years of your PhD.

Living costs – including accommodation and family into your over cost of getting a PhD

If you are living at home your costs will be less than if you have to move and find accommodation. If you do have to do this, the university may have postgraduate accommodation that is not too expensive. It may help you find other PhD students you may be able to share with.

If you are hoping to bring your partner or dependents with you whilst you are studying check with the University. They will have policies to see what family accommodation they have available for students.

Most university websites give an indication of the general cost of living, including accommodation, in that area. These costs can be different depending on where you study in the UK.

Your travel costs will be to and from campus, either every day or the days you need to be there. If you are studying away from home these will be additional occasional costs too. If you are travelling by car, you may be able to park for free on campus but they may charge.

Whilst you are studying

As a PhD student, there may well be conferences you either need, or want, to attend whilst you are studying. Student registration costs are less than the Academic cost, but you will still need to travel, and perhaps stay over. Many academic departments have travel funds for PhD students, but the number you can attend may vary. Always check this first before you book if you are likely to want to attend conferences.

Clubs and Societies

Many universities have specific clubs and societies for PhD students. Some social and others that may be related to your subject area. Some that are run to offer general support and to bring PhD students together. Your academic department or by a central graduate school run these. They can be a great opportunity to make friends, but also to look for support and share experiences with other PhD students. They can be a really important part of your time as a PhD student. Some can also help you with networking and development. Some of these clubs and societies will be free, but others may charge a subscription which you will need to take into account.

One good thing about being a student is the discounts you get with your student status – remember to get the right cards and registration from the University when you start and find out about the local shops and services where you can use them to reduce at least some of the costs of doing your PhD.

Although the cost of studying for a PhD may seem daunting, the benefits, both whilst you are studying and in the future for your career and development, can be really important, whether you pursue an academic career or move into industry.

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• Postgraduate study

Find out how much your research degree will cost and our approach to the tuition fee-paying period.

View tuition fees alphabetically by department:

Tuition fees for postgraduate research degrees by department

Tuition fees for the degrees of Doctor of Medicine and Doctor of Dental Science are available once you have applied and subject to you having met the admission and eligibility criteria.

In common with other UK universities, the University of Sheffield charges different tuition fees depending on whether students are classed as Home or Overseas for fee purposes.

How we assess your fee status

The tuition fee-paying period

The tuition fee-paying period is the period during which full annual tuition fees are payable. This varies between 3 and 4 years for full-time PhDs (6-8 years for part-time PhDs), depending on the source of funding and scope of the research project. 3.5 years is the recommended tuition fee-paying period for most full-time PhDs.

If you're still working on your project between the end of the tuition fee-paying period and the overall time limit (4 years for full-time PhDs, 8 years for part-time PhDs), restrictions may apply .

PhD projects should be designed from the start to ensure that they can be completed within the tuition fee-paying period, as this is the period during which most students also receive a stipend from their funder to support their living costs. You'll discuss and agree the appropriate tuition-fee paying period for your project with your supervisor during the admissions process. Precise details of both the tuition fee-paying period and the overall time limit for the degree will be included in the offer letter.

You can find more information about fee types and tuition fee-paying periods on our Research, Partnerships and Innovation webpages:

Periods of registration

I simply would not have been able to undertake this PhD without the university's funding and I am very grateful to be able to remain in the UK to continue my studies Krissy Moore, Department of Archaeology Doctoral Academy Award recipient

PhD scholarships

Search for PhD opportunities at Sheffield and be part of our world-leading research.

• PhD Study in the UK – A Guide for 2024

The United Kingdom is home to some of the world's oldest and most respected universities, but there's more to PhD study than age and reputation. Thankfully, British research programmes are also innovative and world-leading, with a modern approach to doctoral training and generous funding available to students from all backgrounds.

This guide covers everything you need to know about studying a PhD in the UK in 2024. We've explained how British PhD programmes work, what they cost (and how to pay for them) as well as advice on How to apply for a PhD in the UK.

Why study a PhD in the UK?

We're celebrating international students in the UK by supporting the #WeAreInternational campaign .

UK universities carry out research in all major subject areas but recent years have seen increasing investment in priority areas such as AI, Machine Learning and related fields such as Health Science and Bioinformatics.

Alongside this, the UK Government is working to attract and support talented international researchers with the launch of a three-year post-study work visa and the extension of PhD studentships to overseas students .

Here are a few reasons to consider a PhD in the UK this year:

• Historic universities – the British university system dates back to at least the eleventh century and has nurtured some of the most important developments in western science, medicine, art and philosophy.
• Global reputation – A British PhD commands respect around the world as the hallmark of the ability to conduct rigorous research and scholarship at the cutting edge of a student's field.
• Innovative training and support – UK universities increasingly deliver PhDs within structured doctoral training programmes, offering additional opportunities for academic and professional development that equip candidates for a range of careers.
• A wide range of funding options – The UK invests heavily in doctoral training, with studentships from dedicated Research Councils as well as a government doctoral student loans system and a range of support for international candidates .
• Priority research areas – On top of all the support the UK already provides for PhD study, additional funding is currently being made available for pioneering work in AI and related fields.
• New post-study work visas – A Graduate Route visa is available to international students completing a PhD from summer 2021 onwards. It allows you to stay in the UK and work (or seek work) for up to three years.

PhDs in the UK

The UK is a member of the European Higher Education Area (EHEA). This means its qualifications follow the format of the Bologna process. A doctorate in the UK is a third-cycle qualification. It usually takes between three and four years to complete a UK PhD.

This guide focuses on how PhD programmes in the UK are structured including assessments, examinations and supervision.

The British PhD follows a format that's recognisable around the world (partly because many parts of the world have copied the British PhD format!).

At its core, a UK doctorate is an independent research qualification. Right from the beginning, the focus is on your own individual research project with the ultimate aim of producing an original thesis that contributes to the understanding of your field.

Unlike in some countries (such as the USA ), there isn't any formal taught components for a UK PhD. You probably will have some additional training and development opportunities during your doctorate (such as teaching undergraduates , attending conferences and publishing papers ) but your performance in these won't affect your final degree result.They will help you hone your skills and knowledge to increase your employability prospects though!

UK doctoral degrees

Most UK universities award their academic doctorates as PhD qualifications. However, some institutions award a DPhil instead. The two degrees are effectively the same; in fact, they even stand for the same thing ('PhD' is an abbreviation of the Latin philosophiae doctor , whereas 'DPhil' is an abbreviation of the English 'doctor of philosophy'). Rest assured that, for all intents and purposes, a DPhil is the same as a PhD.

Other UK doctoral degrees do differ. Some universities award specialised professional doctorates in particular subjects. Examples include the Doctor of Engineering (Eng.D), Doctor of Education (EdD) or the Doctor of Business Administration (DBA) . These tend to include more practice-based research and reflection, being designed for experienced professionals.

The length of a UK PhD (or other doctorate) is fairly standard. You'll normally be expected to spend a minimum of three years researching towards your thesis, with most universities allowing students to extend for a fourth year if necessary. Around six to eight years are normally allowed for part-time PhDs.

The UK academic year runs from September to June , but the lack of formal teaching on British doctoral programmes means that PhD students can, in principle, start at any point in the calendar year. Be aware that your university may prefer a September start where possible, however, in order to line up with induction and orientation.

Supervision

At the start of your degree, you'll be partnered with at least one PhD supervisor . They will be an expert in your specialism with some relevant experience of the kinds of material you intend to research and the methods you expect to use. It's their job to guide your project and provide advice on the best direction for your research as you progress. Your supervisor will also support your professional development as a researcher and – potentially – as a future academic.

It's actually common for students in the UK to have two supervisors :

• Your primary supervisor provides expert academic advice on the best direction for your project and offers feedback on drafts and other work in progress. This person is sometimes referred to as a 'director of studies'.
• Your secondary supervisor provides more pastoral support and general mentoring. They may not be as closely in your research but will help with professional development and training.

Sometimes the split in supervisor roles and responsibilities isn't as clear as this, with some students being co-supervised by two academics who both offer academic advice and more general support.

PhD structure

The UK PhD is traditionally a pure research degree, with no taught classes and assessments (other than your final oral examination – see below). You will normally begin with a literature review of existing work in your field, before moving on to gathering your own quantitative or qualitative data, textual evidence or other materials and eventually writing up your findings as a PhD thesis .

Some UK PhD students begin by registering for an MPhil before completing a PhD upgrade at the end of their first year (this is a short oral exam, based around a chapter draft or similar).

Some UK universities also offer a more structured PhD with timetabled training and development activities. This is most common for PhDs funded by the UK Research Councils which take place within dedicated Doctoral Training Centres.

Submission and examination

At the end of your PhD you will submit a written thesis detailing your findings and the conclusions you have drawn from them. The length of a UK PhD thesis varies by subject. Dissertations in the Arts, Humanities and Social Sciences tend to be between 60,000 and 100,000 words. Dissertations in STEM subjects are shorter, as much of the information is conveyed through graphs and data tables.

At least one of your supervisors will read your PhD in full before you submit it and offer constructive feedback to help improve your thesis.

Your PhD will then be submitted for oral examination in a process known as a viva voce (Latin for 'living voice'). A UK PhD viva usually involves two examiners: one 'internal examiner' from within your university and one 'external examiner' from another institution. Both will read your thesis in advance and then question you about it. It is your job to 'defend' your findings and conclusions in order to prove the value of your research and confirm the PhD is your own work.

Unlike in other European countries , where the viva is often a public defence, UK PhDs are usually examined in a 'closed room' setting. Your supervisor is not usually present but should be available before and after the exam.

Immediately following your viva your examiners will recommend a PhD result for you. This may involve passing (with or without some corrections to your thesis) or other outcomes that may require additional research and / or resubmission (it's rare to completely fail your PhD after reaching the viva stage).

If you’re interested in studying in the UK then we’ve covered everything you need to know including what they cost (and how to pay for them as an international student ) as well as advice on how to apply for a PhD in the UK .

Think you’re ready to find the perfect project for you?

Search our database of PhD programmes in the UK .

The seven UK Research Councils provide government studentships for PhD research in different subject areas. Our simple guide explains how this funding works, what you can get and how to apply successfully.

You may be able to get a PhD loan of up to £27,892 for a UK doctorate. Our guide explains eligibility, applications and repayments.

Our guide explains the best ways to fund international PhD study in the UK, with information on all the main scholarships available to you.

Centres for Doctoral Training (CDTs) or Doctoral Training Centres (DTCs) provide UK Research Council funded PhD studentships to postgraduate students

Our postgrad newsletter shares courses, funding news, stories and advice

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Tuition Fees - How Much Are They?

This page provides information about fees for postgraduate research degrees. For more information about fees for postgraduate taught degrees, please check our course records.

Tuition fees are grouped according to the subject area shown in the table below. 

General Principles 

• Fees are per annum unless otherwise stated. All figures are GBP (£) unless otherwise stated. 
• Fees are set by year of entry, and unless noted specifically otherwise, remain the same for the duration of a course. 
• EU students will pay the overseas fee for the duration of their course. 

Scholarships

For further information relating to scholarships please e-mail  [email protected] or follow the link to find out more.

Postgraduate Research 

Standard Full-Time Fees for 2024/25 entry

Standard Part-Time Fees for 2024/25 Entry

Fees are set on a pro-rata basis of the standard full-time fee plus 10% (rounded up to the nearest 100 where appropriate). The figures in the table above are based on 0.5FTE.

Arts and Humanities

Social Sciences and Health

 Sciences 

Full-time Postgraduate Research

Exceptional Postgraduate Research Full-Time Fees for 2024/25 entry 

*Due to the high teaching element of these programmes, fees are levied at the taught fee band in appropriate years. 

**Students will be charged in years 2 – 4 at the PGR rates applying to students beginning standard PhD courses in the same year as the first (Master’s) year of the Integrated Studies course. 

***Year 2 fees for these programmes are set at the standard PGR fees.

Tuition Fees for Current Students

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Postgraduate fees in the uk.

PLEASE NOTE: As a result of Brexit, from Autumn 2021 postgraduate students from the European Union studying at a UK university will be charged the same tuition fees as international students. Meanwhile, UK students studying their postgraduate course at a European university are also likely to incur higher tuition fees than their EU counterparts. It is advisable to check with the individual universities in the UK and Europe for up-to-date information on tuition fees for all postgraduate programs.

Postgraduate fees in the UK vary massively depending on the type of course, where you are from and a myriad of other factors. Postgraduate qualifications, typically, a Masters Degree , Postgraduate Diploma or Certificate , or a PhD , are a popular choice for many students who want to study a particular subject in greater detail. But with so many options it’s easy to get confused about how much a postgraduate degree will cost, what the course fees include and even how long the fees will take to pay. 

So, here at Postgrad, we’ve condensed all the information you need about average postgraduate fees in the UK down to one page.

Here are four of our most frequently asked questions about postgraduate fees, which hopefully will help you on your way to applying for your postgraduate degree.

1. How much will I pay?

The cost of your postgraduate program depends on two main factors; what sort of course you are doing and what country you come from. Remember to take the length of your degree into account too. 

PhDs and masters programs may seem to have similar or the same costs at first, but a PhD usually lasts three years, so you are paying three times the cost of a masters degree. For the same reason, part-time courses can sometimes work out more expensive.

Funding can come from a variety of sources including postgraduate loans , study bursaries and scholarships . 

How much is a masters degree in the UK?

The typical cost of a masters degree in the UK is £11,000, although fees can range from £3,000 to over £30,000 depending on the university, the subject, and the length of study. 

Non-STEM subjects, such as Arts and Humanities that are classroom-based, tend to be cheaper, and STEM subjects like Science and Healthcare are more expensive. Taught masters also differ in cost from research masters, a taught masters will be more expensive because you are charged for the price of the teaching. Specialised degrees like MBAs also tend to cost more. 

How much does a PhD cost? 

Tuition fees for PhDs vary, but the typical cost is between £3,000 and £6,000 per year for UK students. The average cost in 2021/2022 is around £4,500 per year, as this is the indicative rate set by UK Research and Innovation (UKRI) for UK universities. 

EU and International students can expect tuition fees of between £16,000 to £24,000 per year. Non-STEM subjects will generally be at the lower end of the range, whilst STEM subjects will be at the higher end. 

Postgraduate fees

To give you some idea of tuition fees, here is a table examining how most postgraduate fees at Durham University vary according to status and course (prices are per year):

(Source: Durham University)

Durham University is an elite UK university – it is in fact a member of the UK’s highly prestigious Russell Group universities, so their prices tend to lean towards the more expensive side for overseas students.

On average, UK fees for overseas postgraduates are :

• Postgraduate classroom based degree: £16,000 – £20,000 (average £18,000)

• Postgraduate laboratory based degree: £18,500 – £23,000 (average £20,750)

• Postgraduate medical degree: £7,500 – £54,500 (average £31,000)

• MBA £8,500 – £63,000 (average £35,750)

* All figures sourced from the Complete University Guide, Reddin Survey of University Tuition Fees 2021/22. All currency was rounded to the nearest £100. 

How does residency affect postgraduate fees? 

How much you pay in postgraduate tuition fees largely depends on where you are from, as well as what you are studying. As the UK government subsidises part of postgraduate fees through the Higher Education Funding Council, postgraduate fees are slightly lower for British students in British universities. 

From 2021/22, most new entrant EU students will have to pay the same fees as all other international students. Yet there are still some ways for overseas students to escape their overseas premium and pay home student fees. You can find a detailed summary of the conditions here, but the most common exceptions are:

You have been a permanent resident and settled in the UK for at least three years (and the main purpose of this residence was not for education).

You have been granted refugee status.

Those who have applied for asylum (including those not recognised by government legislation, still granted ‘Humanitarian Protection’).

The UK government offers hundreds of scholarships, bursaries and additional financial support to students from several countries. You can visit the UKCISA (UK Council for International Student Affairs ) website to find out if you are eligible for a scholarship. 

Once you’ve used this guide to suss whether you have to pay Home or Overseas fees and have got an idea of the kind of fees you could pay, go to the website and prospectus of the universities you like and find out what their fees are. Almost all universities have their fees displayed on their websites, so have a search and find out! 

Many institutions also offer their own financial assistance, and you can check their websites for more information.

2. What am I paying for?

Charges levelled on you by your university usually cover most of your costs, including tuition and use of university resources. Although details vary between institutions, your money usually goes towards paying your teachers (in the case of taught courses), maintaining resources you will draw upon (such as libraries or laboratories) and other miscellaneous costs.

3. What isn't included in the course fees?

You may be expected to pay additional fees if you study a masters or PhD course that is resource intensive (especially in sciences). Laboratory fees are not uncommon and can come in anywhere from £100 to £1,000 per year. Also, course fees often do not include other necessary items such as textbooks, equipment for fieldwork and other items that add up in price.

4. How will I pay for my masters or postgraduate course fees?

Many undergraduate students in the UK have their fees directly paid by the Student Loans Company, meaning they never actually have to organise paying their tuition fees themselves. At postgraduate level however, you are expected to arrange the transfer of money for your fees yourself (unless any sponsors or scholarship committees have agreed to arrange the transfer).

The first thing to consider is that your university may ask you to make a small deposit (usually of around £500) to help clamp down on people dropping out after agreeing to a place. This may be returned to you upon enrolment or completion or discounted from your payment.

There are usually three ways of paying your fees :

A single payment : if you wish to pay all of your fees up front, then you can usually do so. In fact, it is encouraged or even required by some universities. Choose your method of payment carefully: you may be charged if you pay by credit card.

Termly payments : Many universities allow students to pay termly, so that their payments are spread across the year. This is particularly convenient for students who are reliant on scholarship payments that are spread out across the year.

Monthly payments : Select universities allow students to pay tuition monthly, typically by standing order or direct debit. This method may be the most convenient for you, but it can be costly if you cannot pay by standing order and have to make repeated bank transfers or credit card payments.

Please note that some universities require that you pay them from a UK bank account, and if this is the case you will need to open an account promptly before taking your place at a university. 

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PhD Fees in the UK for International Students

• Maisie Dadswell
• September 6, 2023

PhD fees in the UK for international students vary based on several factors, including your field of study, the university you are doing your doctorate research with and which city the university is in. The cost of a PhD in the UK is generally anywhere from £15,000 to £35,000 for annual PhD tuition fees. To help you budget, this article will cover all the variable factors before covering several potential finance options which can help you to fund your studying in the UK. 

Even if the fees seem steep at first, don’t get disheartened; there are plenty of funding sources for international students – there is a reason why UK universities, including UWS London, are such popular academic destinations for PhD students beyond our high academic standards.

It is also worth bearing in mind that PhD tuition fees tend to increase each year in line with inflation. Always ensure you are budgeting with the most up-to-date PhD tuition fees, and take into account that for self-funded students, tuition fees may be marginally higher in the second and third years. The good news is that whatever your field of study and preferred university, PhDs will be vastly cheaper than undertaking a taught undergraduate or postgraduate degree in the UK as an international student. Along with covering the typical cost of PhD fees, we have also outlined additional expenses and living costs you may have to budget for. Luckily, as a full-time, student you’ll never have to worry about paying council tax.

PhD fees in the UK for international students

For domestic students in the UK, the average cost of PhD tuition fees is around £4,500. However, this can rise to £20,0000 – depending on the subject. The main reason there are vast differences in the price of PhD tuition fees is the resources that research students will require; typically, STEM students pay the highest tuition fees due to resources such as tech support, servicing, and equipment. The PhD students who can expect to pay minimum fees are students looking for a doctorate title in the arts, social sciences or humanities.

Part-Time PhD Fees

If you want to study part-time, you can expect to pay 50% of the full-time fees. However, this can vary, and not all PhDs are available on a part-time basis. If you are looking to be a part-time PhD student around your work or any other responsibilities, always check with the institution where you want to study if this is viable. You will also need to check if your visa restricts part-time PhD study.

Research Support Fees

Research support fees don’t apply to every international PhD student in the UK. However, you may need to pay research support fees, which will go towards covering the cost of any specialist materials you use during your research. For students carrying out their research in a laboratory setting, these support fees are also referred to as bench fees and cover the cost of any consumables used in addition to the facilities where any research and experiments are carried out. 

Some universities will include bench and research fees in the tuition fee, while other institutions will quote them separately. Even if the PhD tuition fees aren’t all-inclusive, universities will always be 100% transparent and upfront about the costs. As the additional tuition fees can vary significantly due to the nature of the research that you are undertaking, bench fees and support fees will usually be discussed during the application process. Other universities prefer to make them available on request. Typically, where applicable, bench fees range between £1,000 – £10,000. You will only pay the higher bench fees if you are using expensive equipment and consumables; most UK universities keep the rates the same for domestic and international students.

How to Enquire about PhD Fees in the UK for International Students

To ensure that you are working with the correct figures when you’re budgeting or applying for funding for your PhD fees and living expenses, always be proactive in your search for accurate information by contacting the UK universities you are keen to study with. 

When you are getting in touch with the university, state if you are an international or EU student, and pose these questions:

• How much are the fees for the programme, and what is included/excluded in the fees?
• Are there any extra-departmental research fees, printing costs or administration fees?
• Does fieldwork incur additional costs?
• Are the bench/research support fees the same for international students?
• Are there any bursaries or scholarships available that I may be eligible for?

PhD Funding for International Students Studying in the UK

International students are eligible for many PhD scholarships in the UK; these scholarships and other funded projects are open to international students of all nationalities. Scholarships and grants can be provided by universities, government bodies and charities.

Funded PhDs for International Students

There are ample options to explore based on your field of research; to make your search for funding easier, many PhDs in the UK are advertised to domestic and international students with funding options attached. This is incredibly common for Science, Technology, Engineering and Medicine (STEM) subjects, but it isn’t unheard of for the Social Sciences, Arts and Humanities to offer the same funding options. Applying for a PhD with attached funding options isn’t worlds apart from applying for a job. If you are accepted as a candidate, you will receive a ‘salary’ in the form of tuition fees, research expenses and a grant which will go towards your living costs. If funding isn’t attached to a PhD project, you can use platforms such as FindAPhD to browse all the current projects offering funding to international students. To broaden your search, you can also use the search bar to sift through your different options. At the time of writing, FindAPhD has over 4,000 PhD projects and scholarships in the UK.

Research Council Studentships

Research Council Studentships are also frequently made available to international students in the UK looking for PhD funding. The more than generous financial support comes from UK Research and Innovation. If you receive funding from UK Research and Innovation, you will receive a monthly stipend to cover your living costs and a fee waiver. The waiver will allow you to pay the drastically reduced domestic rate instead of the PhD fees in the UK for international students. Whichever university funding you apply for, bear in mind that most funding is either provided in a bid to support widening participation or based on academic merit.

Government PhD Loans

If you aren’t eligible for a scholarship, grant, or funding from UK Research and Innovation, Government PhD loans are also available to some international students. Usually, to qualify, you will either need to be able to prove you have a settled status in the UK, be an Irish national or be part of the EU settlement scheme. These loans will cover your tuition fees and living expenses; you only need to repay the loan when you earn over the threshold amount.

Living Costs in the UK for PhD Students 

The living costs for international students in the UK will vary greatly depending on your circumstances, lifestyle and where you live. The most expensive city for living costs, excluding rent, is £894 for London, while the cheapest is £577 for Bradford – based on 2022 figures. With rent included in London, it can cost £1,309 per month if you are living off campus, or £1,237 if you are living on campus. 

How Much Does it Cost for a PhD in London?

London is renowned for its vibrant culture, history, and world-class education, making it a top choice for students pursuing higher degrees. However, it’s essential to note that London is also the most expensive city in the UK. The cost of living in the capital can be higher than in other parts of the country. While pursuing a Ph.D. in London offers incredible opportunities and access to prestigious institutions, potential students should be prepared for higher living expenses.

Additional Costs for International Students 

Your PhD fees, rent and living costs will be your greatest expenses as an international PhD student. However, there are additional expenses which you may need to account for:

• Visa Processing Fees – to apply for a visa outside of the UK, it will cost £363. If you are extending your visa or switching to a student visa, the processing fee is £490. 
• University Application Fees – these fees aren’t especially common in the UK; however, they aren’t unheard of.
• Language Tests – if you are studying your PhD in a second language, you will need proof that you possess sufficient language skills. In some instances, you will be required to sit a language test and achieve a certain score.

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PhD fee structure

How fees are charged for full-time and part-time PhD programmes, as well as PhDs by publication.

Full-time study

For full-time study, you will pay a total of three or four full-time annual fees (as appropriate) for the period of prescribed study under supervision.

Part-time study

For part-time study, you will pay a total of  six or eight part-time annual fees (as appropriate) for the period of prescribed study under supervision. 

Part-time tuition fees are 50% of the full-time fee applicable for the programme of study in each academic session. 

Submitting your thesis early

If you submit your thesis early, you must pay the remaining years’ fees on submission.

PhD by publication

If you submit for a  PhD  by publication, you will need to pay an examination fee on submission.

PhD programme fees

PhD programme fees for each year of study can be found on our postgraduate research fees page.

Postgraduate research fees

Postgraduate fees and funding

Fees and funding, postgraduate loans.

• UCAS Conservatoires tuition fees and finance

You’ll be able to see how much postgraduate fees are when you search for courses . Getting funding for postgraduate study isn’t always as straightforward as the process for undergraduate study, but there’s still a range of options you can look into.

New postgraduate loans

You could be eligible for a loan from the UK government of up to £11,295.

What are the fees for postgraduate degrees?

• What you pay will be determined by the duration of the course, its perceived quality and reputation, its level and how much it costs the university to manage.
• A doctorate costs more than a master's, a MBA more than a PhD. Tuition fees range from around £4,900 a year to over £30,000, with the average around £11,000 per year.
• Fees are normally higher for international students.

How much are tuition fees for international students studying in the UK?

• The average cost per year of study in the UK for international students is around an average of £11,000 per year in tuition fees. However some fees can be £8,000 to £9,000 a year or up to £30,000 a year.
• Normally, you will pay the 'home' fee if you have a EU passport. But other international students can qualify too.
• Find further details on the  UK Council for International Student Affairs  (UKCISA) website. 

Is there help for refugees and asylum seekers?

If you're a refugee or asylum seeker applying to higher education, there's support available to help you with finance and your studies.

It's a good idea to contact universities or colleges before you apply, to discuss what support they can offer you. This will depend on your circumstances, and you will need to let them know your refugee status.

Find out more

What other expenses should I take into account?

• The cost of renting a room. To help you make the right choice,  use our accommodation search  to  research your options  and find both uni and private student accommodation.
• Materials used in your studies.
• Travel costs.
• Food, phone, local council tax, heating, lighting and water costs, and other general expenses.

Average student living expenses are estimated between £8,000 - £11,000 a year. The location of your university will affect your housing costs. Our  regional guides  give details of average local rents.

Will it help me financially if I study part-time at postgraduate level?

Tuition fees per year are lower for part-time qualification. However, it will take you longer to complete your studies. So, overall, the amount you pay will be the same or maybe even higher. The main advantage of studying part-time is that it allows you to balance work/home life and study.

If you require a Tier 4 student visa to study in the UK, you will be unable to study a part-time course.

I don’t want a loan, won’t the university fund me?

• That really only happens for a select number of PhD students, although some universities do offer discounts and scholarships on their courses. 
• The majority of master's students, those studying for a MBA and doctorate level postgraduates need to secure their own funds.

Is there help for disabled students?

You may be entitled to Disabled Students Allowances (DSAs) for physical or mental impairments, long-term or mental health conditions, or specific learning difficulties such as dyslexia. This funding covers the cost of the support you need – e.g. specialist equipment and non-medical helpers – like a note-taker or reader.

• First you’ll need either a letter from your doctor or consultant confirming your impairment or health condition, or a diagnostic assessment of your learning difficulty from a psychologist or specialist teacher.
• Then you can apply for DSA through your regional funding organisation –  Student Finance England ,  Student Finance Northern Ireland ,  Student Awards Agency for Scotland  or  Student Finance Wales . It can take up to three months to arrange, so make sure you apply early.
• If you’re eligible, you’ll then have an assessment to work out what you need – find an assessment centre near your course provider via the  DSAs Quality Assurance Group website .
• Once everything’s arranged, the money will be paid directly to your service/equipment providers, or to your bank account.

How do I pay my tuition fees?

What sources of funding are available in the uk for international students.

• Chevening Scholarships   – the UK government’s global scholarship programme, funded by the Foreign & Commonwealth Office (FCO) and partner organisations. The scheme awards to outstanding scholars with leadership potential from around the globe to study postgraduate courses at UK universities. 
• The Commonwealth Scholarships and Fellowships Plan  for students from particular commonwealth countries. 
• Scholarships for international students who want to study in Scotland  

It’s also worth contacting the national branch of the British Council to see if there are other forms of help. And your own government, private companies or charities in your own country may also be able to help.

Find out what the EU referendum means for you

What about loans or help from my employer?

Professional and Career Development Loans are bank loans to pay for courses and training that help with your career or help get you into work.You may be able to borrow between £300 and £10,000. Loans are usually offered at a reduced interest rate and the government pays interest while you’re studying.  Find out more on the GOV.UK website.

A number of banks and specialist financial organisations also offer loans specifically for MBA students.

If your employer is generous enough to fund your postgraduate study, you will almost certainly need to guarantee to work for them for a set period of time – or pay them back.

Tuition fee reductions

Depending upon your country of origin, postgraduate tuition fees may be cut, because of government support given to your university. Often tuition fees are reduced at postgraduate level, with the difference made up by a course provider’s public funding.

Studying a second master’s, or another ‘equivalent or lower qualification’ (ELQ)?

If you’re now doing another postgraduate course at the same level as one you’ve already completed, you’ll have to pay the full tuition fees.

International and EU students

In 2020/21, EU students are eligible for the course provider’s public funding, but other international students usually pay the full costs. However, you may be eligible for some of the other funding options outlined below. In 2021/22, EU student fee status and eligibility for financial support will be subject to changes due to the end of the Brexit transition period.

Search for funding

• If you’re looking to fund your postgraduate course, take a look at the Scholarship Search website, which has information and guides to help you research your study.
• Use the Prospects postgraduate funding search .
• Search for funding at  The Alternative Guide to Postgraduate Funding Online  website.  
• Look for Government funding from the seven UK Research Councils – for this option, you’d normally apply through your course provider. They  may donate funds to your university for a limited number of scholarships for students who study a taught master's followed by a PhD. Other funding bodies exist – e.g. Arts & Humanities Research Council – but most will also ask universities to allocate their money. 
• Apply for Studentships – postgraduate positions that come with funding.
• Employers are also potential sources of funding.
• Charitable trusts and societies  –  many offer a modest number of small grants. Your university careers service may have a directory of these organisations.
• UK students wanting to study at postgraduate level in Northern Ireland  –   some financial assistance is provided by the Department for the Economy.
• Scottish students wanting to study at postgraduate level in Scotland  –   some financial assistance is provided by the  Student Awards Agency for Scotland .

Apply for a loan

• UK, EU, and international students enrolling on postgraduate and professional courses may be able to use StudentFunder to fund their studies. 

How to manage your money during your course

Many students wonder how they'll afford everything during their studies. There's a lot to handle – from tuition fees and accommodation, to food, course materials and a social life.

• Figure out a budget – making your money last through each semester can be hard, so in our Undergraduate section, you can find a budgeting checklist so you’ll know how much money you can spend.
• Balance your work and studies – if you work part-time during your studies, here’s how to find a good balance, plus how you can find a job.
• Manage debts – many of us end up with debts one way or another, but rather than panicking about them, the important thing is to find a way to make them manageable.

Student support

Course providers can offer support for any worries, anxieties or individual needs you have.

• Pop into your  students’ union  to join socials, activities, and societies.
• Get support for worries or concerns about university life.

You might also like to read

Sponsored articles ucas media service, how to find a job, five reasons to sign up to the ucas newsletter, student finance for postgraduate loans.

• PhD Salary in UK – Explained
• Funding a PhD

What Are PhD Salaries?

The average cost of undertaking a PhD in the UK is approximately £20,000 per academic year for UK students and £40,000 for international students. To help offset the cost of this, many students question whether undertaking a doctorate comes with a PhD salary.

The salary of a PhD student is governed by three factors: whether they’re assisting in undergraduate teaching, assisting in research, or have secured a PhD with a stipend. Depending on which of the three categories a student falls within, they will receive an income during their studies, however, the amount will differ by a substantial amount.

To help show you how you can fund your postgraduate degree and how much you can expect to earn whilst doing so, carry on reading below.

Types of PhD Salaries

There are three types of PhD degree salaries:

• Graduate Teaching Assistantships (GTAs) . In exchange for a salary, you’ll be required to assist in the delivery of one or more courses over a number of years. This includes, but is not limited to, marking student tutorials, supervising lab experiments and providing support to undergraduates during office hours. Besides this, you may have to teach a small section of the course itself. You can discover more about GTAs on King’s College London’s website.
• Research Assistantships (RAs) . In exchange for a salary, you assist a departmental professor with their research. In the ideal scenario, the professor you work with should also be your PhD supervisor and the research you’re asked to support with relates to your own doctoral project.
• Stipend via Studentship: A stipend is a non-repayable grant provided to doctoral students to help support their studies. A studentship covers a student’s tuition fees whilst a stipend covers a PhD student’s living costs. This includes outgoings such as rent, food, bills and basic travel. Unlike Graduate Teaching or Research Assistantships, stipends rarely have duties attached to them. The only expectation of receiving a stipend will be that you maintain continuous progress within your degree.

It’s worth noting these earning opportunities can be also be combined. For example, it’s possible to be a research assistant whilst also committing time to teach undergraduate students.

Average PhD Salary in UK

The average PhD student salary for teaching assistantships will vary depending on the level of responsibility you’re taking. However, to provide figures, past doctoral students have reported receiving approx. £10/hr for marking tutorials, £15/hr for leading laboratory sessions and up to £20/hr for leading undergraduate classes and tutorials.

The actual amount you can earn from teaching assistance will depend on the rate your department offers and the hours you can realistically take on. If you’re on a Graduate Teaching Assistantship programme, they will require you to dedicate a set number of hours per week. If you’re not on a GTA but would still like to earn an income through this scheme, you will likely need to commit several hours per week consistently. Although this can be a great way to earn whilst you study, you need to make sure you manage your time effectively as to not become overwhelmed by taking on an additional commitment.

The average salary for research assistantships will vary depending on the field of the doctoral degree you are enrolled in. Usually, these positions pay between £25,000 to £30,000 per year, however, it’s possible to come across positions which sit slightly outside of this. As a general rule of thumb, STEM assistors are paid more than non-STEM assistors.

In the UK, PhD students can receive a stipend which varies between £15,000 and £18,000 per annum. As part of the studentship your stipend is provided under, your tuition fees will also be paid for. UK tuition fees will vary between universities but are approximately £4,500 per year for doctoral courses starting in 2021/22 as per the UKRI recommendations .

Although £15,000 to £18,000 per year is the typical range for a stipend, some can be far greater than this. For example, Wellcome Trust , a research-charity based in London, offers an annual stipend of up to £23,300 and £26,000 for doctoral students located outside and within London, respectively.

Are PhD Salaries Taxed?

PhD stipends are tax free. Therefore, you don’t need to pay any income tax nor do you need to make any national insurance contributions. This means you’ll keep all the money you receive from an annual stipend. However, this is not the case for Research Assistants.

In the UK, Research Assistants are employed as university staff members and are paid a direct salary as opposed to a stipend. As a result, it will require you to pay tax on your earnings and make national insurance contributions.

To put this into perspective, for the 2019/20 UK tax year, you’re required to pay a 20% tax on any income above £12,500 but less than £50,000. You’re also required to make national insurance contributions of 12% of your weekly earnings over £166 but less than £962. This means that an annual Research Assistantship salary of £30,000 will equate to a take-home salary of £23,938 per year.

How to Get a PhD Stipend

To find research positions which offer stipends, we recommend you search our PhD database and filter by ‘funded’ positions.

Besides this, you can also secure a studentship from UK Research Councils or directly from your university as a scholarship. Independent organisations, such as charities and research trusts, and innovative firms within your industry also offer funding. You can read our PhD studentship guide to see how these work or our Where to find a PhD guide for further ideas.

Finding a PhD has never been this easy – search for a PhD by keyword, location or academic area of interest.

How to Get a Research Assistantship PhD

Unfortunately, research assistantships opportunities aren’t as common to come across compared to PhD stipends. Besides this, when they are available, they’re predominantly in STEM subjects such as computer science and engineering. The reason for this is these subjects usually have access to greater research grants and have a greater volume of practical work available.

To find a research assistantship, we recommend that you contact the university departments who host the courses you’re interested in directly. This is because research assistantships help professors with their research, and while they may require help, they may not be openly advertising for it. They may, therefore, be able to create a role for you within their department or put you into contact with one of their colleagues who already has an open position.

International Students

It’s worth noting that international students will have a harder time securing a funded PhD position than UK ‘home’ students will. This is largely because there are usually fewer funding opportunities available to international students, which as a result also attract significant competition.

Besides this, if you’re an international student studying in the UK you will most likely than not be on a Tier 4 visa. Although a Tier 4 visa will allow you to work to earn an additional income alongside any studentship you may have, there will be certain restrictions on what you can and can’t do. For example, during term-time, you won’t be allowed to work more than 20 hours per week. For a full list of restrictions, please refer to the government website.

Browse PhDs Now

Join thousands of students.

Join thousands of other students and stay up to date with the latest PhD programmes, funding opportunities and advice.

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• Fund your research degree

This page provides information on research programme fees for home and international students. Refer to the information below for more detail about how much your programme is likely to cost.

2024/25 fees

Home students, 2024/25 home tuition fees for phd and mphil research degrees.

Annual tuition fees for each academic year must be paid in full at the start of each year.

Some research projects will be subject to additional project costs.

All MPhil/PhD projects are charged at the UK Research and Innovation indicative rate. The fee for the year 2024/25 is £4,786. Additional project costs may also be charged.

The table indicates the fee for programmes in each faculty.

Where additional project costs may be charged, the standard APC is listed first. Some projects may lead to a higher or lower APC, and these are also listed in the table.

Your offer letter will state the tuition fee and any APC for the programme.

Additional project costs (APC)

For some subjects, there will be an APC to run research projects that are in addition to basic classroom and lab-based costs. It will be clear where there are additional costs.  APCs for part-time researchers will be charged pro-rata at 50% of the rate shown.

2024/25 Home tuition fees for Masters by Research degrees

Masters by Research degrees fees vary by faculty. The table indicates the fee for programmes in the faculty.  Your offer letter will state the tuition fee for the programme.

2024/25 Home tuition fees for PhD by Published Works degrees

For PhD by Published Works, the tuition fee would be 50% of the fee noted (to reflect the standard six-month period of registration).

The full-time duration is six months, the part-time duration is 12 months. The fee is 50% of the fee for the year. For 2024/25, this is £2,425.

International students

2024/25 international tuition fees for research degrees (phd, mphil and masters by research).

Tuition fees for international students are categorised into five groups called ‘bands’. The tuition fee band reflects the resources that are needed for the research project. 

Please note from September 2021, EU students are classified as International students unless they have settled status in the UK.

This table indicates the fee for programmes within each faculty. Where different fees are charged according to the programme, these are listed in the table. Your offer letter will state the tuition fee for the programme.

2024/25 International tuition fees for PhD by Published Works degrees

International students undertaking a PhD by Published Works will pay band A international tuition fees. The tuition fee band reflects the resources needed for the research project.

For PhD by Published Works, the tuition fee would be 50% of the fee noted above (to reflect the standard six-month period of registration).

2023/24 fees

2023/24 home tuition fees for phd and mphil research degrees.

Annual tuition fees for each academic year must be paid in full at the start of each year. Some research projects will be subject to additional project costs.

All MPhil/PhD projects are charged at the UKRI indicative rate of £4,712 per year (full-time) for 2023/24. Additional project costs (APC) may also be charged.

The table indicates the fee for programmes in the faculty. Where APCs may be charged, the standard APC is listed first. Some projects may lead to a higher or lower APC, and these are also listed in the table below. Your offer letter will state the tuition fee and any APC for the programme.

For some subjects, there will be an APC to run research projects that are in addition to basic classroom and lab-based costs. It will be clear where there are additional costs.  APCs for part-time researchers will be pro-rata’d at 50% of the rate shown.

2023/24 Home tuition fees for Masters by Research degrees

Masters by Research degrees fees vary by faculty and programme.

The table indicates the fee for programmes in the faculty. Where different fees are charged according to the programme, these are listed in the table below. Your offer letter will state the tuition fee for the programme.

2023/24 Home tuition fees for PhD by Published Works degrees

The full-time duration is six months, the part-time duration is 12 months. The fee is 50% of the fee for the year, for 2023/24 this is £2,356.

2023/24 International tuition fees for research degrees (PhD, MPhil and Masters by Research)

Tuition fees for international students are categorised into five groups called bands. The tuition fee band reflects the resources needed for the research project.

2023/24 International tuition fees for research degrees (PhD by Published Works)

International students undertaking a PhD by Published Works will pay Band A international tuition fees. The tuition fee band reflects the resources needed for the research project.

2022/23 fees

2022/23 home tuition fees for phd and mphil research degrees.

The MPhil/PhD tuition fee for UK students for 2022/23 is £4,596 per year (full-time) and £2,298 per year (part-time).

The next PhD Education Research intake will be in 2023/24. 

The table indicates the fee for programmes in the faculty. Where additional project costs (APC) may be charged, the standard APC is listed first. Some projects may lead to a higher or lower APC, and these are also listed in the table. Your offer letter will state the tuition fee and any APC for the programme

For some subjects, there will be an APC to run research projects in addition to basic classroom and lab-based costs. It will be clear where there are additional costs.  APCs for part-time researchers will be pro-rata’d at 50% of the rate shown.

2022/23 Home tuition fees for Masters by Research degrees

2022/23 Home tuition fees for PhD by Published Works degrees

The full-time duration is six months, the part-time duration is 12 months. The fee is 50% of the fee for the year, for 2022/23 this is £2,298.

2022/23 International tuition fees for research degrees (PhD, MPhil and Masters by Research)

2022/23 International tuition fees for research degrees (PhD by Published Works)

For PhD by Published Works the tuition fee would be 50% of the fee noted above (to reflect the standard six-month period of registration).

Visiting students and general fee information

Visiting students.

Fees for visiting students wishing to undertake part of their postgraduate research at Manchester Metropolitan University are:

• Total visit length up to (but not including) two months: No fee
• Total visit length between two to six months (inclusive): £500
• Total visit length from six to 12 months, Home students: 25% of the MPhil/PhD home tuition fee
• Total visit length from six to 12 months, Overseas students: 25% of the band A overseas tuition fee. Please note from September 2021, EU students are classified as International students unless they have settled status in the UK.

Funding your research degree

In order to ensure you thrive during your research degree, it is crucial that you fully understand the costs of your project and have a clear plan in place to fund your research.

There are a number of funding sources to help you complete a research degree. Undertaking a research degree takes a lot of commitment, from a time and a financial perspective, so it’s important to have a clear plan in place as to how you will fund your research.

Research council scholarships

We are part of two research council-funded doctoral training partnerships (DTPs):

• TheWhite Rose DTP which funds projects at Manchester Met in education, health and wellbeing
• TheNorth West Consortium DTPwhich funds projects across the arts and humanities.

These partnerships offer scholarships to cover fees and an annual stipend of around £15,000 (UKRI indicative fee). Both run an annual open competition with a deadline in mid-January, as well as funding attached to specific projects ( sign-up to be alerted when these specific projects are advertised ).

University scholarships

We are committed to supporting innovative research projects that have a real impact on a local, regional and global scale. We offer a range of scholarships funded by the University and external partners. We advertise scholarships  when they are available, and we also post them on Twitter . 

Science and Technology Studies

STS offers degrees at each university level: undergraduate, masters, and PhD

• Funding Your Doctorate

PhD programme: fees and funding

Fees and funding.

Information on tuition fees: UCL Tuition Fees

Part-time fees are pro-rata of full-time fees.

Scholarships

UCL scholarships available to STS applicants

UCL Research Excellence Scholarship

Open to exceptional applicants from any country.  Up to 40 scholarships are awarded across UCL

DEADLINE FOR FUNDING APPLICATIONS: Friday 10th January 2025 (TBC)

If you are applying for UCL RES funding, you must also submit your PhD application by Thursday 2nd January 2025 23.59 GMT

UCL Research Opportunity Scholarship

UCL's Research Opportunity Scholarship (UCL-ROS) supports BAME postgraduate research degree students.  7 scholarships are awarded across UCL

If you are applying for UCL ROS funding, you must also submit your PhD application by Thursday 2nd January 2025 23.59 GMT

External scholarships for STS applicants:

London Arts and Humanities Partnership (LAHP)

The  LAHP AHRC Doctoral Training Partnership  funds up to 80 research studentships per year across all subject areas covered by LAHP. Applications for funding should be made directly to LAHP, and open on 25th November 2024 (TBC)

DEADLINE FOR APPLICATIONS TO FUNDER:   5pm 24th JANUARY 2025 (TBC)

UK students with excellent academic records in history of science or philosophy of science are encouraged to apply. Please note that in order to be eligible for this funding you must have established your supervisor before applying to LAHP for funding. We strongly recommend that interested individuals contact potential supervisors by late November, and you will need to have submitted a standard UCL PhD admissions application complete with references, by the STS January deadline. However you are advised to submit a complete application earlier if possible.

More information can be found on the  London Arts and Humanities Partnership website.

Economic and Social Research Council (ESRC)

The department has ‘+3’ and '1+3' recognition from the ESRC in the category of Science and Technology Studies. Studentships are available to UK and EU applicants intending to pursue a PhD and who have already received a foundation in research training (+3), or who wish to pursue a PhD after completing an ESRC-recognised MSc (including those within the department) (1+3). Applicants with such qualifications who are interested in the areas of public understanding of science, science policy research, social history of science, or the sociology of science and technology are encouraged to discuss the possibility of applying for an ESRC grant with the departmental graduate tutor at the time of their application. See the  ESRC Doctoral Training Programme website  for further details. You can also visit the  main ESRC Website  to find out more about the council itself.

DEADLINE FOR PRELIMINARY  APPLICATIONS    Monday 13th January 2025 23:59 GMT TBC  (Applications open October 2024).

If you are applying for ESRC funding, you must also submit your PhD application by Thursday 2nd January 2025 23.59 GMT

British Society for the Philosophy of Science

The British Society for the Philosophy of Science offers scholarships for doctoral work in the philosophy of science at a UK university. Scholarships are only available to students applying to degree programmes in philosophy or in philosophy of science. Further details are available from the  BSPS website .

The next scholarship competition will run in 2025

Overseas students are encouraged to apply for Commonwealth and British Council Scholarships in those countries where they are administered.

A list of other scholarships available to students applying to UCL is available via the  UCL Scholarships page.

Register your interest in studying at UCL and receive important information about open days, applications, and more.

Graduate Prospectus 2023/24

• Graduate Prospectus

How to Apply

Funding your phd, visiting doctoral students, support for current students: .

Can we help? support for current students  STS PhD Moodle site.

• Reading Groups

STS hosts a series of reading groups, run by current PhD students, to discuss interesting, thought provoking material in relevant fields.

STS Research Space

The STS Research Space is an initiative to assist PhD students with a wide range of academic and non-academic problems.

• The STS Research Space

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Postgraduate Study - PhD and Research Degrees

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Standard full-time postgraduate fees

The majority of tuition fees for postgraduate programmes are charged at our standard rate, however  many fees are non-standard so you will need to consult individual programme pages  to confirm .  If you are unsure if you will pay UK or international fees, fee status provides further details.

For those studying for more than one year, our fees are expected to increase modestly in line with Consumer Price Inflation measured in December each year. More information can be found on our Student Finance webpages .

Research programmes

Fees vary for some research degrees so do confirm the cost for your chosen degree by checking the Fees and funding section on the relevant research topic page . 

›  Additonal costs for international students.

When are fees due?

Tuition fees are typically payable in two 50% instalments, normally in September (at the start of your course) and January each year. See our   student finance pages   for more details.

Other course costs

In addition to tuition fees and   living costs , your programme of study may have other costs associated with it, such as laboratory equipment or field trips. 

Should your research be anticipated to incur additional costs then a bench fee may be chargeable; the amount of such a fee and it’s components will be detailed in your offer letter.

Will I pay the ‘Home’ or ‘International’ fee?

The fees charged for study at the University of Exeter fall broadly into two categories:

• International

Your fee status classification depends on whether you meet certain criteria such as having ‘settled status’ in the UK and meeting a three year ordinary residence requirement. Full information can be found on the UK Council for International Student Affairs (UKCISA) website .

From 1 August 2021 the eligibility rules for Home fee status have changed for EU Students. Please refer to the  UK Government website  to see how this change affects you. Where EU students are not eligible for Home fees, they will be required to pay International fees.

Due to the Common Travel Area arrangement, Irish Nationals living in the UK or Ireland will be eligible for Home fee status; further information around eligibility is available at the above UKCISA link.

Please note that the University is unable to determine the fee status of an individual until after an application has been received and we are in receipt of full information concerning individual circumstances. This will then inform the decision as to whether a fee status assessment should be conducted.

What happens if I think my fee status is incorrect?

If you have received an offer and you think your fee status is incorrect you have 28 days, from the date of your offer, to query your status. To query your fee status within the 28 day period please contact us at  [email protected]  stating your full name, Exeter Reference number (or UCAS personal ID), programme for which you have been made an offer and providing details of why you think the fee classification is incorrect.

I expect my circumstances to change prior to the first day of the first academic year of the course. Will my fee status change?

We base our decisions on an applicant’s residence status at time of application and do not hold applications or make offers conditional on fee status. If you are classified as an international student but your situation changes before you have received a decision on your application or after receiving an offer we will conduct a fee reassessment. You will need to submit your new information before 1 September in the year the programme starts, e.g. evidence of British Citizenship or Indefinite Leave to Remain being granted.

Can my fee status change after the course has started?

There are some circumstances where fee status can change in subsequent years, however this is very unusual. Please note that obtaining British Citizenship or Indefinite Leave to Remain part way through a course will not on its own result in a change in fee status. Meeting a three year ordinary residence requirement after starting a course is also not possible due to it needing to be the full three-year period before the first day of the first academic year of the course.

Further details about exceptions can be found on the UKCISA website under the heading ‘Becoming ‘home’ after the course has started’.

Information for Channel Islands/Isle of Man students

From the 2021/22 academic year, new and continuing students living in the Crown Dependencies (the ‘Islands’), who come to England solely for the purposes of higher or further education study, will be eligible for home fee status, on the basis of 3 years’ residency in the UK or the Islands. The UK Government confirmed this eligibility in December 2020 . For information on support available to you for tuition fees and living costs you should contact your island education offices.

Please visit our Student Finance webpage for Channel Islands students for more information.

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If the duration of your chosen programme of study spans more than one academic year, the tuition fees for future years are expected to rise by a modest amount to take account of inflationary pressures. You can view tuition fees for students already studying with us on our  Student Finance web pages .

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Politics latest: Starmer says he has uncovered more Tory 'mess'; Robert Jenrick joins Tory leadership race

Sir Keir Starmer and Ed Miliband are launching GB Energy today. Meanwhile, former Home Office minister Robert Jenrick joins the Tory leadership race. Last night, Tom Tugendhat also threw his hat into the ring.

Thursday 25 July 2024 22:16, UK

• General Election 2024

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• Keir Starmer launches GB Energy
• Prime minister hits out at 'mess' left by Tories
• Robert Jenrick joins Tory leadership contest
• Tory leadership hopeful Tom Tugendhat says he would be prepared to leave the ECHR
• Jon Craig: Starting gun fired on Tory leadership race
• Politics at Jack and Sam's : Keir partners with the King

A number of the newspapers are reporting that Chancellor Rachel Reeves is set to reveal a big black hole in the country's finances in a speech on Monday - with a suggestion this could equate to around £20bn.

Ms Reeves has been reviewing the economy since taking power.

A Labour source has told Sky News: "On Monday, the British public are finally going to see the true scale of the damage the Conservatives have done to the public finances. 

"They spent taxpayers' money like no tomorrow because they knew someone else would have to pick up the bill. 

"It now falls to Labour to fix the foundations of our economy and that work has already begun."

Labour promised not to raise income tax, VAT or National Insurance in the election - which leaves capital gains tax, pension tax relief and inheritance tax as potential options for Ms Reeves to raise in the budget.

Other options could include changing the fiscal rules, or reworking how the debt from quantitative easing is paid off.

A Treasury spokesperson said: "The chancellor has commissioned officials to provide an assessment of the state of the government's spending inheritance which will be presented to parliament before the summer recess."

By Jennifer Scott , political reporter

An ex-veterans minister has "provided further information" to the Afghanistan inquiry after a row over whether he would reveal the names of people who told him about alleged murders committed by UK special forces in the country.

Inquiry chair Sir Charles Haddon-Cave had repeatedly called on Johnny Mercer to name those who told him about the alleged killings by British troops, with the former Tory MP possibly facing jail if he does not comply.

But Mr Mercer, who is a former army officer, repeatedly refused to reveal the "multiple officers" who he claimed told him about allegations of murder and a cover-up while he was a backbench MP.

A statement from the inquiry released on Thursday said Mr Mercer had "provided further information in response to the section 21 notice [threatening action] and agreed to assist the inquiry further", adding: "The inquiry team will be taking this forward."

However, in a tweet, Mr Mercer said he had still not revealed the names, saying while he "noted" the inquiry's statement, his "position remains unchanged from the beginning of the year".

Read the full story below:

As it's Sophy Ridge's last show before the summer break, we're having an end-of-term quiz.

Count Binface is facing off against our panellists Nick Ferrari and Dawn Butler.

In what might come as a shock, the alien candidate manages to beat the two political veterans.

Mr Ferrari says the quiz competition is ridiculous in giving the Count easier questions - although he only raises this point when his team falls behind.

And with that, the Politic Hub with Sophy Ridge finishes.

Rishi Sunak is currently the leader of the Conservative Party, in a caretaker role, until his replacement is announced in November.

He has previously said he will stay as the MP for Richmond and Northallerton until the next election.

But Dawn Butler, the Labour MP, does not think the former PM will do.

She bets our other panellist, Nick Ferrari, £50 Mr Sunak will stand down as an MP at some point before the next general election.

The pair shake hands on the wager - pledging the winnings will go to charity.

On the leadership election, Ms Butler says it "doesn't really matter" who takes over - but the race will be "entertaining". 

"I'm looking forward to getting some popcorn and just sitting back," she says.

Mr Ferrari reckons the next leader might take up a "Michael Howard role" - and reform the party before being replaced by someone else who could win an election.

A current Labour donor and former support of Just Stop Oil, Dale Vince has been outspoken on his calls for action on green energy.

Speaking to the Politics Hub, he praises Labour's start in government.

But he calls for Sir Keir Starmer to go further on green energy and offshore wind.

He says: "I hope we actually build the projects ourselves as a nation and own them."

Mr Vince goes on to say that is the way to get "the real benefits from our natural resources", and "keep them for our country in perpetuity".

He says the government has pledged £8bn for offshore energy, and if this is used to borrow like it has done in the private sector, around £70bn to £80bn could be raised to invest.

The green campaigner says he backs Labour's plans to build more homes in the UK, as he says Labour are pursuing "green growth".

Asked about the expansion of Heathrow Airport with a third runway, Mr Vince says he hopes it does not get green-lit by the government.

Sarah Jones, the energy minister, has given Sophy a bit more detail about what GB Energy is really about.

The actual role of the body has been somewhat murky since Labour proposed it.

Ms Jones said: "So you won't be buying your energy directly from GB Energy - that is something that a whole different set of companies do. 

"Where GB Energy will be, is in the business of generating the energy in the first place."

She adds that the body will do things like study the seabed around the UK - which is owned by the Crown - to provide information for wind farms and the companies that will build them.

Moving onto the wider brief on green policy, Ms Jones is asked about a report last week saying that the UK is not on track to meet the net zero by 2030 policy.

Ms Jones says the government will need to "work really hard to meet these changes" - and says the actions of the previous government have had some impacts.

She highlights the ban on the sales of new petrol and diesel cars by 2030 - which was scrapped by the Conservatives.

Ms Jones says reinstating this target straight away would cause issues for automotive companies, and so they can't rush putting the target back.

One of the topics up for discussion tonight is reporting about tomorrow's deadline for countries to confirm challenges against the International Criminal Court's arrest warrants for Israel's Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu.

There is a suggestion Sir Keir Starmer might drop the UK's objection to the warrant - launched under the last government.

The deadline to confirm the appeal is tomorrow.

Dawn Butler, the Labour MP, tells Sophy it's important to get the decision "absolutely correct".

She adds: "I believe that there will be some announcements made, and I also believe that there may be, publishing the legal advice as well.

"I think it is important if there's legal advice that it is published.

"It's important, if there's been any breaches [of law] that's then tackled. 

"And I also think it's important the ICC ruling isn't actually challenged because we take the rule of law seriously. 

"And I think the prime minister, Sir Keir Starmer, has said that he does, so I'm hoping that would be the outcome."

Tonight's episode of the Politics Hub with Sophy Ridge is under way.

Follow along with us live.

The guests include Dale Vince, the Labour donor who used to support Just Stop Oil, and energy minister Sarah Jones.

Meanwhile, our panel will include broadcaster Nick Ferrari and Labour MP Dawn Butler.

And Count Binface will be joining us for a special segment during the programme. 

Watch  Politics Hub With Sophy Ridge  from 7pm on Sky channel 501, Virgin channel 602, Freeview channel 233, on the  Sky News website  and  app  or on  YouTube .

By Serena Barker-Singh , political correspondent

When Labour got into government, they described prisons as a powder keg ready to blow.

Ministers blamed the previous Conservative administration for pushing the prison system almost to breaking point, and they acknowledged something campaigners had been saying for years - the entire system is in crisis.

But now Labour are in government and it is their responsibility to fix the entire justice system. Today, they made their first step.

Justice Secretary Shabana Mahmood brought legislation to the House of Commons that will allow some prisoners to be released early.

Approved by MPs today and starting from September, it will kickstart Labour's plan to release thousands of non-violent prisoners who have served 40% of their sentences in the hope it frees up spaces for more violent offenders.

The government says certain crimes will be excluded, including those sentenced for serious violent offences of four years or more and all sex offences.

Read Serena's full analysis below: 

Following our earlier reporting of an update from the Afghanistan inquiry, we've now heard from Johnny Mercer himself.

Mr Mercer has been threatened with prison time if he does not hand over the name of former service people he spoke to about the actions of special forces in Afghanistan.

While the inquiry says they have received new information, Mr Mercer says he will not be handing over the names.

He said on social media: "As I have repeatedly stated, it remains entirely inappropriate to name those who confided in me without their consent. 

"For the avoidance of doubt: I have not and I will not. I will always assist the inquiry, outside of those parameters. 

"This process has placed an unacceptable strain on me and my family. I am no longer a public figure; I will not be commenting further."

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