The SOAS University of London MPhil/PhD Scholarship 2026/2027 offers an exceptional fully funded doctoral opportunity for outstanding students interested in Pan-Africanism, global justice, and international political transformation.
This prestigious studentship is part of the UKRI Future Leaders Fellowship project titled “Pan-African Frontiers: Reparative Futures and the Reimagining of Global Order.” The research initiative is led by Dr. Daniel Mulugeta and hosted at the SOAS Centre for Pan-African Studies (CPAS) within the Department of Politics and International Studies.
The project critically explores Pan-Africanism as a transcontinental political and intellectual movement, connecting Africa, the Caribbean, and global diaspora communities. It focuses on how historically marginalized societies are shaping new narratives around global justice, reparations, and institutional reform, especially in response to current challenges in global governance and multilateral systems.
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About the Research Programme
This studentship forms part of a broader international research collaboration, bringing together scholars, policymakers, and practitioners from:
- Africa
- The Caribbean
- Europe
- North America
The programme investigates how Pan-African ideas and networks continue to influence debates on:
- Historical justice and reparations
- Global inequality and systemic injustice
- International institutional reform
- Political solidarity across continents
Successful candidates will join a dynamic and interdisciplinary research environment, contributing to cutting-edge discussions on African politics, diaspora relations, and global governance.
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Scholarship Benefits
This fully funded scholarship provides comprehensive financial and academic support, including:
- Full tuition fee coverage
- Annual maintenance stipend (minimum of £20,622 for 2026/27)
- Access to doctoral training and research development opportunities
- Opportunity to gain teaching experience through the SOAS Teaching Scholarship scheme
- Exposure to an international academic and research network
The programme runs for three years (full-time), offering scholars the resources needed to successfully complete their doctoral studies.
Research Areas
Applicants are encouraged to submit research proposals aligned with the project’s themes. Suggested areas include:
- Reparations and historical justice (slavery, colonialism, racial inequality)
- Role of African, Caribbean, and diaspora actors in global governance
- Pan-Africanism and global political order
- Regional cooperation in Africa and the Caribbean
- Diaspora engagement and transnational political networks
- Comparative studies on justice and reconciliation
- Geopolitical transformations involving African and Caribbean states
- Institutional responses to global inequality
Proposals may adopt political, historical, sociological, or interdisciplinary approaches.
Eligible Programme
- Full-time MPhil/PhD in Politics and International Studies
- Start date: 2026/2027 academic session
Eligibility Criteria
To be eligible, applicants must:
- Be applying for a new admission starting in 2026/2027
- Hold (or expect to obtain) a Master’s degree in a relevant field
- UK degree: Minimum Merit or Distinction
- Non-UK degree: Must demonstrate top academic ranking
- Meet SOAS English language requirements (if applicable)
- Be eligible for Home or Overseas fee status
Application Process
Step 1: Apply for Admission
Applicants must first apply for the MPhil/PhD programme and submit the following:
- Personal Statement (max 1 page)
- Research Proposal (max 4 pages)
- Curriculum Vitae (CV) (max 2 pages)
- One Academic Reference
- Academic Transcripts & Certificates
- Proof of English Proficiency (if required)
Step 2: Apply for the Scholarship
- Deadline: 15 May 2026 (12:00 noon UK time)
- Applications must be submitted via the SOAS admissions portal
👉 Note: You must apply for admission first to gain access to the scholarship application portal.
If the scholarship does not appear in your portal, ensure you meet all eligibility requirements. For inquiries, contact: scholarships@soas.ac.uk
Why You Should Apply
This scholarship is ideal for candidates who want to:
- Conduct impactful research on global justice and Pan-Africanism
- Study at a world-renowned institution in London
- Gain teaching and academic experience
- Join a global network of scholars and changemakers
Official Website
Use the official SOAS scholarship portal link here
The SOAS University of London MPhil/PhD Scholarship 2026/2027 is more than just funding—it is a gateway to academic excellence, global influence, and meaningful research impact.
If you are passionate about reimagining global systems and advancing justice for historically marginalized communities, this opportunity provides the perfect platform to pursue your goals.