Applications are now open for the Routledge/Round Table Commonwealth Studentship Awards 2026-2027. The programme offers funding of up to £5,500 to support PhD students conducting research on Commonwealth-related issues.
The studentships aim to encourage high-quality research that explores challenges, opportunities, and developments across Commonwealth countries. In addition, recipients will gain mentorship opportunities and contribute to academic discussions through publications and podcasts.
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About the Routledge/Round Table Commonwealth Studentship Awards
The Routledge/Round Table Commonwealth Studentship Awards support doctoral researchers whose work examines themes relevant to the Commonwealth.
Each year, the programme provides two studentships:
- One award for PhD students enrolled at UK universities
- One award for PhD students studying at universities in other Commonwealth countries
The programme is funded by The Round Table: The Commonwealth Journal of International Affairs and Routledge in partnership with the Association of Commonwealth Universities (ACU).
Commonwealth Research Funding for PhD Students
The award supports research projects that:
- Focus on the Commonwealth as a whole
- Examine Commonwealth institutions or organisations
- Compare two or more Commonwealth countries
- Address issues that affect multiple Commonwealth nations
Furthermore, applicants do not need to be conducting a Commonwealth-focused PhD. The funding can help researchers add a Commonwealth dimension to their existing work.
Preference may be given to projects in:
- Politics
- International Relations
- Economics
- International History
- Geography
- Law
- Development Studies
- Area Studies
However, studies related to science policy and health policy are also welcome.
Who Can Apply for the Commonwealth Studentship Awards?
Applicants must fall into one of the following categories:
UK University PhD Students
The first studentship is open to registered PhD students studying at UK universities, regardless of nationality.
Commonwealth University PhD Students
The second studentship is available to:
- Students enrolled at ACU member universities outside the UK
- Chevening Scholarship alumni pursuing PhD studies at Commonwealth universities outside the UK
- Commonwealth Scholarship alumni studying at eligible Commonwealth universities
Mentorship Requirement for Successful Applicants
A unique feature of the programme is its mentorship component.
Applicants must identify a mentor from a university in a Commonwealth country different from their own. The mentor should have expertise related to the applicant’s research area.
Before applying, candidates should contact a potential mentor informally. If selected, they must obtain a formal letter of support before the award is confirmed.
Mentor Responsibilities
Mentors will:
- Hold at least two virtual meetings with the student
- Provide professional guidance and advice
- Share opportunities for publishing and networking
- Contribute to the student’s final article or podcast
In addition, mentors receive an honorarium of £500 upon completion of the programme.
Benefits of the Routledge/Round Table Commonwealth Studentship Awards
Successful applicants will receive several benefits, including:
- Funding of up to £5,500
- Access to expert mentorship
- Opportunities to expand Commonwealth-focused research
- Increased academic visibility
- Networking opportunities across Commonwealth institutions
Additionally, recipients can contribute to one of the leading journals focused on Commonwealth affairs.
Post-Award Requirements
Awardees must complete the following activities within twelve months of receiving the award:
Publish a Research Article
Recipients must submit an article between 4,000 and 6,000 words based on their research for consideration in The Round Table journal.
Produce a Research Podcast
Students must also create a podcast discussing their research findings for publication on the journal’s website.
The programme releases the final £1,500 of funding after these requirements are completed.
How the Studentship Funding Is Paid
The funding is distributed in two stages:
- £4,000 upon announcement of the award
- £1,500 after completing the article and podcast requirements
This structure encourages participants to complete the programme’s research dissemination activities.
How to Apply for the Routledge/Round Table Commonwealth Studentship Awards
Interested applicants should:
- Download the official application form.
- Complete all required sections.
- Submit the application via email to [email protected].
Applicants should also begin identifying a suitable mentor before submitting their application.
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Application Deadline
The deadline for applications is 31 July 2026.
Successful applicants are expected to receive notification in September 2026.
Researchers interested in Commonwealth-focused studies should consider applying early to maximize their preparation time and mentorship arrangements.
