St Leonard’s College World-Leading Doctoral Scholarships - Apply Now

Applications are now being accepted for the St Leonard’s College World-Leading Doctoral Scholarships. The scholarships are open to UK and international applicants looking to start a doctoral (PhD) degree with the School of Modern Languages.

Up to six full scholarships are available, funded by St Leonard's Postgraduate College, to support exceptional students undertaking doctoral research on a topic that would contribute to the world-leading theme of the University Strategy.

The scholarships comprise a full tuition fee award and an annual stipend paid at a rate set by the University of St Andrews for up to 3.5 years (full-time) or 7.0 years (part-time). For 2025-2026, the stipend is £19,775 p.a., with an annual uplift published by the University each academic year. Awards will be made on the basis of academic merit.

You can apply for the scholarship after you have submitted your application for a place at St Andrews. You do not need to wait until you have received an offer of a place before applying for the scholarship. See the scholarships catalogue for more information about the St Leonard’s College World-Leading Doctoral Scholarships.

Research degrees with the School of Modern Languages

The School of Modern Languages at the University of St Andrews is one of the largest and most diverse of its kind in the UK.

The School has an exceptionally broad variety of research interests ranging from the medieval period to the present day and engages with literatures and cultures from around the world. It was ranked first in Scotland in the most recent UK national research assessment exercise - more than 80% of the School's research and impact was judged to be world-leading or internationally excellent. The School of Modern Languages is home to three research centres and one research institute and the annual Byre World programme brings together staff, students, and guests in events that share the School's research with the wider University and the public.

As a doctoral student in the School of Modern Languages you will be part of a vibrant interdisciplinary research community. You will work with academic supervisors who will provide you with subject expertise and guidance to help you plan and manage your research while the University's researcher development programmes give you the skills you need as an independent researcher.

Learn more about research degrees with the School of Modern Languages.