£5,500 Routledge/Round Table Commonwealth Studentships 2025

About the Routledge/Round Table Commonwealth Studentships

The Routledge/Round Table Commonwealth Studentships are jointly offered by:

The Round Table: The Commonwealth Journal of International Affairs

Routledge (Taylor & Francis Group)
The Association of Commonwealth Universities (ACU)

The scheme is designed to support two PhD students each year whose research is directly related to Commonwealth themes. These studentships aim to encourage bold and impactful academic work by providing up to £5,500 GBP per student to support fieldwork, data collection, travel, or other research-related activities.

But the support doesn’t end with funding. This program offers a comprehensive academic development experience, including:

Cross-Commonwealth Mentorship: Work with a senior researcher from another Commonwealth country and gain international perspective on your research.
Publication Opportunity: Submit an article (4,000–6,000 words) for potential publication in The Round Table: The Commonwealth Journal of International Affairs.

Podcast Feature: Get the chance to present your research to a global audience through a dedicated podcast interview.
Networking & Exposure: Be part of a growing network of researchers and academics across the Commonwealth.

Are you a PhD student undertaking research related to the Commonwealth? Do you have a passion for global development, international affairs, or cultural history within the Commonwealth context? If yes, then the prestigious Routledge/Round Table Commonwealth Studentships could be the ideal funding opportunity for you.

Applications are now open for the 2025 edition of this highly competitive program, designed to support outstanding doctoral students in the humanities and social sciences. This is more than just financial aid — it is an opportunity to grow as a scholar, connect with experts across the globe, and amplify your research on an international platform.

Eligible Fields

The studentships are open to a wide range of disciplines within the social sciences and humanities. However, preference is given to research in the following fields:

Politics

International Relations
Economics
International History

Law
Development Studies
Geography

Area Studies

Note for STEM students: Applications from STEM disciplines will only be considered if the proposal includes a strong policy-related Commonwealth focus.

Eligibility Criteria

To be eligible for this studentship, applicants must:

Be currently enrolled in a PhD program at a recognized institution, and
Be studying at:
- A UK university, or
- An ACU member university located in a Commonwealth country outside the UK

Students can be of any nationality, as long as they meet the enrollment criteria above.

Selection Criteria

Applications will be assessed based on the following:

Relevance to Commonwealth Issues: Does your research contribute meaningfully to understanding issues, history, or development within the Commonwealth?
Quality and Originality: Is your research concept strong, well-structured, and unique?
Impact Potential: Could your research influence policy, public understanding, or academic discourse?

Clarity of Purpose: How well have you articulated how the studentship will benefit your research?
Mentorship Feasibility: Can your proposed mentor effectively contribute to your development?

Important Note:
Shortlisted candidates will be asked to submit:

Two academic references, including one from your current PhD supervisor.
A letter of support from your proposed mentor (if your application is successful).

Benefits of the Routledge/Round Table Commonwealth Studentship

The Routledge/Round Table Commonwealth Studentships are designed to provide meaningful support and opportunities that go far beyond financial assistance. Successful applicants will receive:

Up to £5,500 GBP to support your PhD research
A £500 honorarium for your mentor
One-on-one mentorship with a senior researcher based in another Commonwealth country

The chance to publish your work in a respected international journal
An invitation to participate in a podcast interview based on your research
Access to global academic networks and Commonwealth-wide exposure

How to Apply

Follow these steps carefully to complete your application:

1. Review the Application Guidance

Before applying, carefully read through the application guidance notes. This will help ensure your submission meets all requirements.

2. Download and Fill the Application Form

You can download the application form in either format:

PDF Version

Word Document Version

Prepare the following as part of your application:

A summary of your research project (100–400 words)

Your intended research outcomes and goals
The expected impact of your research
A description of how this award will support your academic journey

The name and affiliation of your proposed mentor

3. Submit Your Application

Send the completed application form and your updated CV to:
📧 secretary@commonwealthroundtable.co.uk

Also, make sure that your two academic referees email their reference letters directly to the same address before the deadline.

Note: Opening Date: 12 May 2025

Deadline for Submission: 31 July 2025 at 15:00 UTC

This is a rare opportunity for emerging scholars to fund their research, grow their academic network, and make a significant contribution to the global understanding of the Commonwealth. Don’t miss your chance — apply before 31 July 2025!