The Routledge/Round Table Commonwealth Studentships 2025 present an incredible opportunity for PhD students engaged in research related to the Commonwealth. These prestigious scholarships are designed to support students working on topics that have a significant impact on global issues, particularly those related to the humanities and social sciences. If you are a PhD student or planning to apply for this award, understanding the eligibility criteria, application process, and key details will set you on the right path. This article serves as a detailed guide for applicants and provides all the necessary information to help you navigate this opportunity effectively.
Routledge/Round Table Commonwealth Studentships 2025
| Key Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Eligibility | Open to both UK-based and Commonwealth-based PhD students |
| Research Focus | Humanities and social sciences with a focus on Commonwealth-related topics |
| Award Amount | £5,500 (split into two payments) |
| Application Deadline | July 31, 2025, 15:00 UTC |
| Mentorship Requirement | Applicants must work with a mentor at a university in a Commonwealth country |
| Final Decision | Notification in mid-September 2025 |
| Official Website | ACU Routledge Studentships |
The Routledge/Round Table Commonwealth Studentships 2025 present a unique opportunity for PhD students conducting research in humanities and social sciences related to the Commonwealth. This award not only offers financial support but also provides access to a global network of experts and mentors, fostering meaningful academic collaboration. By following the step-by-step application process outlined in this article, you can maximize your chances of securing this prestigious scholarship.
For detailed information on the application process and to download the form, visit the official website of the Association of Commonwealth Universities.
What Are the Routledge/Round Table Commonwealth Studentships?
The Routledge/Round Table Commonwealth Studentships are designed to provide financial support for PhD students pursuing research projects related to the Commonwealth, which includes member countries across the globe. The studentships are sponsored by Routledge, in collaboration with the Round Table journal, which focuses on political, economic, and historical topics relevant to the Commonwealth.
These awards are open to students conducting research that touches on global issues such as politics, economics, international relations, law, development studies, health policies, and education. Through this program, the aim is to foster intellectual exchanges, enhance scholarly research, and contribute to the shared vision of the Commonwealth.
Why Should You Apply for the Routledge/Round Table Commonwealth Studentships?
These studentships offer a unique opportunity for PhD students to advance their research in a global context. The key benefits include:
- Financial Support: The £5,500 award helps fund your research activities, travel, and academic expenses.
- Global Recognition: Being a recipient of this prestigious scholarship can enhance your academic profile and connect you with scholars and experts worldwide.
- Mentorship Opportunity: Applicants must work with a mentor at a university in another Commonwealth country, providing access to international networks and guidance.
Who Can Apply? Eligibility Criteria
The Routledge/Round Table Commonwealth Studentships are open to PhD students who meet specific eligibility requirements. Here’s a breakdown of who qualifies for these awards:
1. UK-Based PhD Students
This category is open to any PhD student currently enrolled at a UK-based university. The award is available regardless of the applicant’s nationality. UK-based students pursuing research in the humanities and social sciences with a focus on the Commonwealth are encouraged to apply.
2. Commonwealth-Based PhD Students
Students enrolled in PhD programs at universities in Commonwealth countries (other than the UK) are also eligible. This includes:
- Students registered at ACU member universities across the Commonwealth.
- Chevening and Commonwealth Scholarship alumni who are pursuing their PhD at any Commonwealth university outside the UK.
3. Research Focus
The studentships are specifically for research related to the Commonwealth. Preferred disciplines include politics, international relations, economics, international history, geography, law, development studies, health and education policies, and area studies. Although the program mainly targets the humanities and social sciences, STEM students can apply if their research is directly relevant to a policy-related theme concerning the Commonwealth.
4. Mentorship Requirement
An interesting feature of this scholarship is the requirement for mentorship. Applicants must identify a mentor at a university in a Commonwealth country other than their own. This mentor should be an expert in the research area and be willing to guide the student throughout the studentship. Mentors are expected to hold at least two virtual meetings with the student during the course of the award and contribute to either a podcast or article summarizing the research.
How to Apply for the Routledge/Round Table Commonwealth Studentships
The application process for these studentships is straightforward but requires careful attention to detail. Below is a step-by-step guide to help you navigate the application process:
Step 1: Download the Application Form
First, you need to download the application form. The form is available in both PDF and Word formats from the official ACU website.
Step 2: Complete the Application Form
The form asks for key details about your research and its potential impact. You will need to provide:
- A summary of your proposed research topic (100–400 words)
- A summary of the intended outcomes if successful (100–400 words)
- A summary of the research’s impact and its importance (100–400 words)
- A summary of how the award would benefit your research (100–400 words)
- The name and contact details of your proposed mentor
- Two references, one of which should be from your current PhD/DPhil supervisor
Step 3: Submit the Application
Once the application form is complete, send it along with your current CV to the designated email address: [email protected].
Step 4: Wait for the Results
The application deadline is July 31, 2025, at 15:00 UTC. After the submission, applicants will be notified about the outcome in mid-September 2025.
Mentorship: A Key Component of the Award
One of the unique features of the Routledge/Round Table Commonwealth Studentships is the mentorship requirement. This sets it apart from other studentships and offers invaluable international exposure.
- Why Mentorship Matters: The mentor’s role is crucial. They are expected to provide guidance, advice, and expertise that enhances the student’s research. The collaboration not only helps the student but also enriches the mentor’s work.
- Honorarium for Mentors: To recognize the time and effort mentors contribute, they receive a £500 GBP honorarium at the completion of the studentship.
Award Payment Breakdown
The total amount of the award is £5,500, which is disbursed in two installments:
- £4,000 is paid upon announcement of the award.
- £1,500 is paid upon the completion of the studentship requirements.
This payment structure ensures that the award continues to support the student’s research throughout the course of the program.
FAQs about Routledge/Round Table Commonwealth Studentships 2025
Q: What happens if I’m not from a Commonwealth country?
A: If you are a UK-based student, you can still apply for the studentship, even if you are not from a Commonwealth country.
Q: Can my mentor be from any university?
A: Your mentor must be based at a university in a Commonwealth country, different from your own, and should be an expert in your research area.
Q: What if my research doesn’t directly focus on the Commonwealth?
A: While the award encourages research related to the Commonwealth, applicants can still apply if they are planning to incorporate a Commonwealth dimension into their research.
Q: How do I know if I’m eligible?
A: Check the eligibility section above to ensure that your current status, university location, and research focus meet the criteria.
Q: Can the award be used for travel or other research-related expenses?
A: Yes, the award can be used to cover a range of research-related expenses, including travel, fieldwork, and other academic needs.
Q: Is there any other funding or support provided with this studentship?
A: The primary benefit of this studentship is the £5,500 award, but the mentorship and international collaboration are also vital forms of support that can enhance your research experience.
