Posted in Education

University of Manchester Humanities Scholarship in UK 2026 | Fully Funded — How to Apply

   November 28, 2025
University of Manchester Humanities Scholarship in UK 2026

If you want a fully funded pathway to study Humanities at a world-class UK university, the University of Manchester Faculty of Humanities is offering a range of funded Master’s and PhD (1+3 / 1+4) scholarships and studentships for 2026 entry. These awards commonly cover tuition fees and provide a tax-free stipend (and sometimes additional research support), and they’re open to international applicants.

What the Humanities Scholarships/Studentships Cover

The Faculty of Humanities funds a variety of studentships and scholarships that typically include:

  • Tuition fees (home or international rate depending on the award)
  • A tax-free annual stipend at the UKRI (UK Research and Innovation) rate for the duration of the studentship
  • In some cases additional research or travel allowances and training support.

Specific benefits depend on the individual studentship advertised. See the Faculty’s full listing for precise award packages.

Who Can Apply (Eligibility Overview)

Most Faculty of Humanities studentships are open to all nationalities. General eligibility includes:

  • A relevant undergraduate degree (typically a 2:1 or equivalent) for Master’s-level and a good Master’s for direct PhD applicants, or applicants can join a funded 1+3 (taught Master’s + PhD) route when offered.
  • Meeting the academic entry requirements of the chosen programme.
  • Applicants must normally hold an offer of admission (or submit a programme application by the faculty deadlines) to be considered for many funding streams (some scholarships accept applications before an offer—check the specific opportunity).
  • Strong proposals for research studentships and clear motivation for taught Master’s awards.

Important Deadlines (2025 → 2026 cycles)

Deadlines vary by School within the Faculty. To be considered for funding you must hold an offer or submit your programme application by the dates listed below (these are the published programme/funding cut-offs for 2026 entry):

  • Alliance Manchester Business School: 1 December 2025.
  • School of Social Sciences: 1 December 2025.
  • School of Arts, Languages & Cultures: 12 January 2026.
  • School of Education, Environment & Development: 19 January 2026 (this is the latest general deadline highlighted for some awards).

In addition, some Faculty scholarship calls (for example, wider University humanitarian-type scholarships) may have later, separate application windows — for example a University “Humanitarian Scholarship” page lists an apply online opening (early Feb 2026) and a deadline of 31 March 2026 (5pm BST) for that specific award stream. Always confirm the deadline on the exact award page you intend to apply for.

NOTE: deadlines can differ between specific studentships. Always check the individual funding opportunity page for the precise closing date before preparing your application.

If you want a single quick start: open the Master’s & PhD funding page above, read the “how to apply” notes and follow the links to the specific studentship you are eligible for.

How to Apply — Step-by-Step

  1. Choose your programme (Master’s, 1+3 or direct PhD) in the Faculty of Humanities and check the programme entry requirements. Make sure the programme start date matches the funding cycle (usually September/October intake).
  2. Prepare your academic documents: transcripts, degree certificates, CV, research proposal (for PhD), personal statement (for taught Master’s), references, and proof of English language ability (if required).
  3. Submit your programme application via the University of Manchester’s postgraduate application portal before the programme deadline for your School (see deadlines above). Some funding selection panels require you to hold an offer by the funding cut-off.
  4. Check the individual funding opportunity you wish to be considered for — some studentships require you to complete a separate funding application form (downloadable from the funding listing), while others automatically consider all eligible applicants who hold offers. Follow the exact instructions on the award page.
  5. Submit any additional funding forms (if required) and supporting documents by the funding deadline. Keep a copy of everything you submit.
  6. Wait for notification: selection processes vary — some awards will notify successful candidates a few weeks after the closing date; for the University’s humanitarian scholarship (example), decisions were due by 29 May 2026.
  7. If awarded, accept promptly and complete any enrolment steps. Note: many studentships are not deferrable, so ensure you can start on the expected date.

What Selection Panels Look For

  • Academic excellence (transcripts, class of degree)
  • Fit between your proposed research / programme and the School’s strengths
  • For research studentships: a clear, feasible research proposal and supervisory fit
  • Evidence of potential impact, leadership, or relevant experience for taught scholarships
  • Full compliance with deadlines and required documentation.

English Language Requirements

  • If English is not your first language you will usually need to meet the University’s language requirements (IELTS, TOEFL, or accepted alternatives). Some funding pages note you don’t need to include an offer when applying for particular scholarship calls — but you still must meet language conditions before enrolment. Check the programme page for exact targets.

Practical Tips to Improve Your Chances

  • Apply early and secure an offer before the funding cut-off for your School.
  • Tailor your research proposal to supervisors in your School (name potential supervisors in your application).
  • Request strong academic references well in advance.
  • Apply to multiple funding streams (Faculty studentships + University scholarships) where eligible.

Contact & Enquiries

If you need help or have questions about eligibility and deadlines, contact the Faculty of Humanities doctoral admissions team:

FAQs

1. Do international students qualify for these Humanities studentships?

Yes — the Faculty funding opportunities are generally open to all nationalities, though certain awards may have specific restrictions. Always check the individual studentship page.

2. Do I need an offer of admission before applying for funding?

For many studentships you must hold an offer (or submit a programme application by the School’s deadline) to be considered; some specific scholarship calls allow applications without an offer — check the award instructions.

3. What are the key deadlines I must not miss?

School-specific cut-offs include 1 December 2025 (Alliance MBS & Social Sciences), 12 January 2026 (Arts, Languages & Cultures) and 19 January 2026 (Education, Environment & Development). Some University scholarships have later windows (e.g., March 31, 2026 for a specific humanitarian award). Confirm the exact date on the studentship page before applying.

Author: MYEDUPLUG

Bakare Sherifdeen is the founder and lead author of MyEduPlug.com, a trusted source for educational resources, study guides, and global learning opportunities. With over 6 years of experience in SEO and Digital Marketing, he combines his expertise in content strategy and search optimization to create valuable, student-focused content that informs, inspires, and empowers learners worldwide. His goal is to make education and career opportunities easily accessible to everyone through accurate and engaging content.