Guide to Turing Scheme for PhD Students

If you’re a PhD student eyeing global research opportunities, the Turing Scheme could provide funding for placements in up over 160 countries. It covers travel, living costs, and accommodation, but your eligibility depends on your institution’s partnership status and meeting application deadlines. While the scheme encourages intercultural skills and academic collaboration, destination-specific funding tiers and post-placement reporting can add complexity to the process. How long can you stay abroad, and which institutions align with your research? This program is designed to push boundaries and expand your horizons—if you’re ready to navigate its challenges.

Key Takeaways

  • The Turing Scheme funds UK PhD students for international research placements lasting from 28 days to 12 months across 160+ countries.
  • Eligibility requires UK-registered PhD students aged 18+ who are not citizens of the destination country; remote placements are ineligible.
  • Applications are processed through universities with specific deadlines, including Turing PhD Studentships and PhD Placements.
  • Funding covers accommodation, meals, and local travel; enhanced support is available for underrepresented students.
  • Reporting requirements include confirming start dates, submitting post-mobility questionnaires, and maintaining documentation for potential audits.

What is the Turing Scheme for PhD students and how does it specifically support them?

The Turing Scheme supports UK PhD students by funding international research placements lasting at least 28 days, designed to enrich their doctoral studies through global exposure. These grants allow you to conduct part of your research abroad, giving you access to specialised facilities, methodologies, or academic networks unavailable in the UK.

These placements go beyond simply adding to your CV—they’re meant to genuinely enhance your PhD by immersing you in diverse research environments, developing intercultural skills, and broadening your academic outlook.

The scheme covers relocation and commuting costs, easing financial barriers to working overseas. If unexpected financial challenges arise during your placement, hardship funds are available so you can stay focused on your research without added stress.

But it’s not just about financial backing. Immersing yourself in a different academic culture builds adaptability and problem-solving skills—qualities that are highly valued in both academia and industry.

The Turing Scheme is committed to inclusivity, specifically targeting underrepresented groups and students from disadvantaged backgrounds. If you’ve faced socio-economic challenges, the scheme provides additional support to help you compete on a global stage. This is about recognising that innovation thrives on diverse perspectives.

Your placement can take various forms: a research traineeship at a partner lab, a collaborative study project, or fieldwork requiring unique resources. The scheme offers flexibility, but your goals should align with the capabilities of your host institution.

While the application process is competitive, the emphasis is on the practical impact of your proposal rather than past achievements. Clear, feasible plans stand out, so focus on demonstrating how your placement will add value to your research.

Who is eligible as a PhD student for the Turing Scheme, and what are the application requirements?

If you’re a UK-registered PhD student enrolled in a recognised program, you may be eligible for the Turing Scheme as long as you’ll be 18 or older by the time of departure and aren’t a citizen of your destination country. Your PhD must include an in-person study or work placement abroad—remote activities don’t qualify.

You can’t apply if you’ve already received Turing funding for another placement in the same academic year or if you’ve secured overlapping financial support for the same activity. Applications are made through your university, so check their specific deadlines and guidelines first.

Your application should include details about your placement, such as dates (which must fall between September 1 and August 31), destination, duration, and how you plan to use the opportunity to advance your research. You’ll need to justify the academic significance of your project, explaining how it supports your PhD goals. Typically, your supervisor will need to approve the placement, confirming its relevance. You’ll also be required to submit a risk assessment form addressing health, safety, and logistical concerns for international activities.

Applications are processed on a rolling basis, but universities may set their own internal deadlines based on your mobility start date. If you’re from a disadvantaged background, mention this early, as you may qualify for additional funding. However, keep in mind that specifics about extra support are covered separately.

It’s important to double-check citizenship requirements, as even dual nationals aren’t eligible for funding for placements in countries where they hold citizenship. Keep your application clear, focused, and aligned with your university’s expectations—this isn’t funding for general travel but a structured opportunity to enhance your research through targeted international collaboration.

What funding and financial support does the Turing Scheme offer for PhD student placements?

How much financial support can you expect from the Turing Scheme for PhD placements? The amount you receive depends on factors like the length of your placement, destination, and planned activities. For placements lasting eight weeks or more, you’ll receive a monthly rate, while shorter placements (28 days to under eight weeks) use a weekly rate. Funding amounts vary by country to account for differences in living costs, but they generally cover essentials such as accommodation, meals, and local travel. Note that travel days to and from your host country don’t count toward your placement duration.

You’ll need to apply for Turing Scheme funding through your university, which handles securing the funding. Your PhD placement must align with clear academic objectives, such as developing a thesis chapter, completing fieldwork, or acquiring specialist skills. The scheme prioritises placements that directly contribute to your research, so be sure to outline these goals clearly in your application.

If you come from an underrepresented background—such as low-income households, students with disabilities, or care leavers—you may qualify for enhanced funding. This can include additional travel grants for expenses like visas, insurance, or baggage costs. Let your university’s Turing Scheme coordinator know about your eligibility early on so they can guide you through the process of claiming extra support.

Keep in mind that Turing Scheme funding is not a salary. It’s designed to help offset placement-related expenses, and you won’t receive the money upfront. Payment timelines vary by institution, so check with your university and plan your budget carefully to account for potential delays.

Check your university’s Turing Scheme webpage for country-specific rates and examples of past placements to estimate your potential funding.

How long can PhD students study or conduct research abroad under the Turing Scheme?

After securing Turing Scheme funding for your PhD placement, you’ll need to plan your time abroad within specific limits. The scheme allows stays ranging from 28 days (minimum) to 12 months (maximum) for study placements, research traineeships, or internships. These durations apply to all activity types, so you’ll need to balance meaningful engagement with practical factors like thesis deadlines or personal commitments.

Your placement must fall within the September 1 to August 31 project cycle, even if it spans two academic years. For instance, a 10-month research stint starting in November must still finish by August 31. Universities and Turing Scheme guidelines enforce this rule consistently, so it’s crucial to confirm dates early with your coordinator to avoid scheduling conflicts.

The 28-day minimum ensures a substantial experience, while the 12-month maximum prevents overextension. If your project requires longer fieldwork, consider splitting it into phases or adjusting its scope, as extensions beyond 12 months aren’t allowed. To maximise the 12-month window, aim for a September start. A June start, by contrast, would limit you to 3 months.

Be sure to check your university’s deadlines for Turing Scheme applications and pre-departure requirements. While the framework is consistent, administrative timelines can vary. Adhering to the duration rules is essential for securing funding, so don’t assume there’s room for flexibility. Use the scheme’s predictability to structure your research milestones, but build in some buffer time for unexpected delays. The goal is to return with completed objectives, not unfinished tasks.

Which countries and institutions are accessible for PhD students through the Turing Scheme?

Spanning over 160 countries, the Turing Scheme lets PhD students access placements through UK universities and training providers, with 124 institutions approved.

Nearly 23,000 students benefit from these placements, with popular destinations including the United States (2,057 students), France (1,668), Spain (1,521), and Germany (1,105). A complete list of participating countries is available on the Turing Scheme website.

Your placement options depend on your institution’s partnerships. While all UK nations participate, regional variations exist. For instance, students in Wales can choose between the Turing Scheme and the Taith program. Scottish students can access Turing funding as Scotland develops its own exchange initiative, and Northern Irish students may benefit from both Turing and Erasmus+ by registering temporarily at a Republic of Ireland institution.

You don’t apply directly to the Turing Scheme—your UK university or training provider manages the placements. It’s important to check their approved partnerships to see which countries and institutions are available. Some placements focus on academic research collaborations, while others offer industry or public sector training opportunities. For example, a STEM PhD student might work with a lab in Japan, while a social sciences project could involve fieldwork in Brazil.

Reach out to your institution’s international office early to understand which of the 124 providers offer placements that align with your research goals. They can also explain regional funding variations and help you navigate options. Make sure to confirm visa requirements for your destination, as the Turing Scheme doesn’t cover these, though your institution may provide logistical support. While the scheme offers flexibility, your choices will ultimately depend on existing institutional agreements, so proactive communication is essential.

What is the application process and timeline for PhD students applying to the Turing Scheme?

To secure Turing Scheme funding for your PhD, you’ll need to follow specific steps based on whether you’re applying for a studentship, placement, or mobility opportunity.

1. Turing PhD Studentships: Apply directly through your university’s PhD program. You’ll submit applications between October and November.

Universities assess candidates by early February and refer top applicants to the Alan Turing Institute. Interviews occur in late February, with offers finalised by March.

Key Dates

  1. 📅 October–November: Submit your studentship application or placement proposal.
  2. 🎓 Early February: Universities shortlist studentship candidates for referral.
  3. 🤝 Late February: Attend interviews at the Alan Turing Institute if pursuing a studentship.
  4. 📩 By March: Receive studentship offers; placement outcomes arrive by 20 December 2024.

2. Turing PhD Placements: Submit a detailed proposal outlining your visit’s purpose, collaboration potential, and benefits to your research.

Include support statements from both home and host supervisors and a two-page CV. Applications open in October, close at the start of December, and decisions arrive by late December.

Placements start between February and August.

3. Postgraduate Research Mobility: Provide details about your visit, including its duration, the host institutions, and how the experience will advance your research. Applications are accepted on a rolling basis, but institutional nominations must be submitted at least two months before your mobility begins.

For mobility opportunities, stay proactive—flexible deadlines mean you can apply when your research plans solidify.

Always confirm institutional nomination deadlines early, as late submissions risk disqualification.

And double-check placement start and end dates to avoid visa or funding conflicts.

How does the Turing Scheme enhance research collaboration and academic development for PhD students?

The Turing Scheme amplifies your PhD research by fostering international partnerships and academic growth. By working abroad, you’ll can access expertise, facilities, or data unavailable in the UK, directly benefiting your thesis. Collaborating with international researchers also sharpens critical thinking, introduces diverse methodologies, and challenges assumptions, broadening your doctoral experience.

Grants cover travel and living costs, breaking down financial barriers to global engagement. You’ll build a professional network across institutions and disciplines, opening opportunities for co-authored papers, joint grants, or future postdoc positions. Exposure to different academic cultures enhances intercultural communication skills, making you more adaptable and employable.

Placements focus on clear goals, like conducting fieldwork or mastering specific techniques, ensuring your time abroad contributes directly to your thesis or publications. Partnering with global teams amplifies your research’s impact, embedding it within international scholarly discussions. For example, a linguist might refine analysis tools in Japan, while a climate scientist could model regional data in Brazil. These collaborations often spark innovative ideas by uncovering gaps in current approaches.

The Scheme also benefits your home institution, enriching staff development and curriculum design. Upon your return, your fresh insights can elevate seminars or supervision practices, fostering a more global academic perspective. By bridging international academic communities, you not only advance your research but also contribute to a broader exchange of knowledge.

What are the reporting requirements and post-placement obligations for PhD students participating in the Turing Scheme?

While participating in the Turing Scheme, you’ll need to submit Start Date documentation within 28 days of arriving and Departure documents confirming compliance. These verify your placement duration and ensure you’ve met grant requirements. Missing deadlines or submitting incomplete paperwork risks repayment of funding, so treat these steps as non-negotiable.

  1. 📅 Start Date Confirmation: Upload a signed letter from your host institution or a timestamped email from your supervisor within 28 days of arrival. Think of this as “clocking in” for your placement.
  2. 🛫 Departure Documentation: Submit a stamped departure form or final email confirmation from your host. This “seals” your compliance with the agreed timeline.
  3. 📝 Post-Mobility Questionnaire: Within one month of returning, complete an online form detailing outcomes like skills gained, research progress, and collaborations. Use specific examples—vague answers won’t cut it.
  4. 🔍 Audit-Ready Records: Keep digital copies of every document, email, and receipt. The Turing Scheme Agency (TSA) may request proof during audits, and your university relies on these to submit payment claims.

Your university handles final reports and payment requests to the TSA, but you’re responsible for providing accurate, timely inputs. Non-compliance—like skipping the Post-Mobility Questionnaire or altering your work plan without approval—triggers funding repayment.

Assessments hinge on how well your placement aligns with its original purpose, supervision quality, and tangible collaboration opportunities. Stay proactive: flag delays early, document changes formally, and treat reporting as part of the research process, not an afterthought.

Conclusion

The Turing Scheme offers funding for international research placements, providing global exposure and collaboration opportunities to enhance your PhD. Check your university’s eligibility requirements and apply early. Grants cover travel and living costs, varying by destination, for placements lasting up to 12 months in over 160 countries. After your placement, submit a report to highlight your outcomes and contribute to strengthening UK-international ties. This is a chance to expand your research impact while gaining valuable intercultural skills for academia or industry.

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