ESRC Doctoral Training Partnership (DTP) Oxford

What the ESRC DTP Oxford gives you

You get a fully funded PhD place in the social sciences at the University of Oxford. The award covers your tuition fees and pays a yearly living stipend (a fixed maintenance payment). It is set at the UK research council minimum, around EUR 22,500 (about £19,237) per year for full-time study. Funding normally runs for three to four years. The exact length depends on whether your route includes a taught master's year first. The money comes from the Economic and Social Research Council (ESRC), part of UK Research and Innovation (UKRI). Several universities award these doctoral places together.

Who can apply

• Level: You are applying for a PhD, either on its own or with an integrated master's year.
• Field of study: Your subject is in the social sciences, for example economics, sociology, politics, geography or psychology.
• Where you study: You do your doctorate at the University of Oxford.
• Nationality: UK students and students settled in the UK can apply. International students may also be eligible, but their funding can cover the fees only.

How to apply

You apply through the University of Oxford's graduate admissions for a place starting in autumn. The deadline usually falls between January and March before you start.

How realistic are your chances?

These are fully funded PhD places at one of the most sought-after universities in the world, so competition is strong. A top academic record is the baseline, not the edge. Your prospects rest on a sharp, well-defined research proposal in a social science field and on finding an Oxford supervisor who wants to work with you. If you fit the subject scope and can show research strength, apply early and target the right department.