LONDON — UK Research and Innovation (UKRI), the country’s main public funder of research and doctoral training, has announced a nearly 5% increase in the minimum stipend for PhD students funded through its programs, effective from Oct. 1, 2026.
The base stipend will rise from £20,780 to £21,805 per year for full-time doctoral researchers outside London, a 4.9% uplift described as above inflation. For those based in the capital, where living costs are higher, the stipend — including London weighting — will increase from £22,780 to £23,805, a 4.5% rise.
The adjustment follows a significant 8% real-terms increase implemented in 2025 and reflects UKRI’s ongoing commitment to easing financial pressures on doctoral students amid rising living expenses, particularly in major cities. Stipends are tax-free and intended to cover basic living costs while students focus on research.
UKRI also raised the minimum fee paid to universities per funded student by 4.6%, from £5,006 to £5,238, providing institutions with additional resources to support research quality and sustainability.
Additional measures to bolster student welfare include provisions allowing up to 28 weeks of medical leave for doctoral researchers, making it easier to extend studies during health-related absences without losing funding eligibility.
The changes aim to improve accessibility and affordability for doctoral education, addressing concerns raised by student groups about the cost-of-living crisis impacting postgraduate researchers.
For international students, including the large cohort from India pursuing PhDs in the UK, the higher stipends offer greater financial security and reduced barriers. Many Indian doctoral candidates secure UKRI-funded positions or scholarships, benefiting from the tax-free support that helps offset expenses in high-cost areas like London. The updates make the UK more competitive as a destination for advanced research, alongside post-study work options via the Graduate visa.
UKRI officials emphasized that the increases support long-term investment in talent and research excellence. Prospective applicants should check specific funding calls and university programs for eligibility, as not all PhDs receive UKRI stipends—some are self-funded or supported by other sources.
Students and supervisors are advised to consult the latest UKRI guidance on its website for details on stipend application, London weighting, and welfare policies. The announcement signals continued efforts to attract and retain global researchers in a competitive international landscape.
