RGS-IBG Postgraduate Research Awards in UK

Overview

To be eligible for the RGS-IBG Postgraduate Research Awards, applicants must be registered as PhD students at a UK Higher Education institution. They should demonstrate a clear research objective that aligns with the fields of physical environment, sustainability, and socio-economic studies. Preference is given to students without full funding from other sources to ensure that support is allocated to those in genuine financial need. Additionally, applicants are encouraged to submit proposals that involve innovative fieldwork or data collection, further enhancing the scope of their research.

About the Scholarship

The RGS-IBG Postgraduate Research Awards were established to assist PhD students in their research endeavors, particularly those involved in geographical fieldwork or data collection. The awards are aimed at students who are registered with a UK Higher Education institution and do not receive full funding from other sources, such as research councils or universities. These grants not only alleviate financial pressures but also encourage innovation in geographical research, thus contributing to the academic community and society as a whole. Preference is given to applicants whose research contributes to understanding and addressing pressing geographical challenges.

Eligibility Criteria

To be eligible for the RGS-IBG Postgraduate Research Awards, applicants must be registered as PhD students at a UK Higher Education institution. They should demonstrate a clear research objective that aligns with the fields of physical environment, sustainability, and socio-economic studies. Preference is given to students without full funding from other sources to ensure that support is allocated to those in genuine financial need. Additionally, applicants are encouraged to submit proposals that involve innovative fieldwork or data collection, further enhancing the scope of their research.

Benefits and Financial Coverage

The RGS-IBG Postgraduate Research Awards offer significant financial support to PhD students. The scholarship amount can go up to GBP 2,500, which can cover expenses related to research and fieldwork. This financial assistance aims to alleviate some of the costs associated with conducting geographical studies, enabling students to focus on their research without the burden of financial constraints.

How to Apply

Review the eligibility criteria to ensure you qualify for the scholarship. Prepare all necessary documents, including your research proposal and academic transcripts. Complete the application form available on the Royal Geographical Society's website. Submit your application before the deadline of 23 Nov, 2026. Await notification of the outcome of your application by mid-March 2027.

Application Timeline and Deadlines

The application deadline for the RGS-IBG Postgraduate Research Awards is set for 23 Nov, 2026. Applicants will be informed of the selection result by mid-March 2027. It is essential for candidates to prepare their applications well in advance to ensure all documents are ready for submission.

Selection Process

The selection process for the RGS-IBG Postgraduate Research Awards involves a thorough review of all applications submitted by the deadline. An external panel will assess the proposals based on the relevance, innovation, and potential impact of the research. Successful applicants will be notified in mid-March 2027, allowing them to proceed with their research activities.

FAQs

PhD students registered at UK Higher Education institutions can apply for the awards.
The scholarship offers partial funding of up to GBP 2,500.
The application deadline is on 23 Nov, 2026.
Applicants will be notified of the outcome by mid-March 2027.
The awards support geographical research, including fieldwork and data collection.
Yes, the scholarship is open to all nationals.
Applicants must be enrolled in a PhD program at a UK Higher Education institution and should not receive full funding from other sources.
Yes, as long as you meet the eligibility criteria and apply before the deadline.