Research funding categories explained

When searching for funding, you will come across some common terms for the categories and descriptions of funded/advertised projects.

Funded projects are most common in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Medicine) subjects, but they can sometimes be available for pre-defined research projects in the arts, humanities or social sciences. Below is a guide to the terminology used in advertised PhDs, which should help you in your search for the project and funding that suits you.

Directly funded project 

This type of research project will have funding attached. Some projects, such as those funded by charities, jointly with other universities, or by the University of Birmingham ourselves, may have more specific restrictions. Usually, the project will specify one of the following restrictions: 

UK students only

The funding is only available to UK citizens or those who have been resident in the UK for a period of three years or more.

European students only

Funding for this project is available to citizens of a number of European countries (including the UK). In most cases this will include all EU nationals, however full funding may not be available to all applicants and you should read the full department and project details for further information to ensure you understand the restrictions.

Students worldwide

Applications for this project are welcome from suitably qualified candidates worldwide. Funding may only be available to a limited set of nationalities and you should read the full department and project details for further information.

Competition-funded project

This research project will be one of a number of projects offered by the University of Birmingham. It will be in competition for funding with one or more of these other projects. Usually the project which receives the best applicant will be awarded the funding and this is usually decided by a panel, who will consider all applications and the associated projects.

UK students only

The funding is only available to UK citizens or those who have been resident in the UK for a period of three years or more. 

European students only

Funding for this project is available to citizens of a number of European countries (including the UK). In most cases this will include all EU nationals, however full funding may not be available to all applicants and you should read the full department and project details for further information to ensure you understand the restrictions.

Students worldwide

Applications for this project are welcome from suitably qualified candidates worldwide. Funding may only be available to a limited set of nationalities and you should read the full department and project details for further information.

Self-funded students

If you have the correct qualifications and access to your own funding, either from an employer or your own finances, you can apply directly to your chosen PhD once you have spoken with, and agreed the support from, your chosen supervisor.