Are you a passionate PhD researcher eager to enhance your academic journey at one of the world’s top-ranked universities? Applications are now open for the Imperial College London Global Development Fellowship 2026, a fully funded research fellowship designed for international PhD students from Least Developed and Lower Middle Income Countries (LDCs & LMICs).
This prestigious program allows selected fellows to spend 2 to 4 months at Imperial College London, conducting collaborative research under expert supervision while strengthening global academic networks. With full financial support, including stipend, airfare, visa, and accommodation allowance, this fellowship provides an exceptional opportunity to advance your research career in the UK.
Details About the Imperial College London Global Development Fellowship 2026
- Host Country: United Kingdom
- Host Institution: Imperial College London
- Duration: 2 to 4 months
- Funding Type: Fully Funded
- Application Deadline: 28th November 2025
This fellowship aims to empower researchers from developing nations by facilitating research collaboration, skill enhancement, and knowledge exchange between Imperial and international academic institutions.
MUST VISIT: Harvard LEAD Fellows Program 2026/27, USA (Fully Funded)
Financial Benefits
The Imperial Global Development Fellowship 2026 offers full financial coverage, ensuring fellows can focus entirely on their research work without financial stress.
The fellowship covers:
- Monthly Stipend: £1,900
- One-Time Arrival Allowance: £200
- Return Airfare Tickets
- Visa Application Costs
- Biometric Residence Permit (BRP) Fees
This comprehensive funding package ensures participants can live and study comfortably during their stay in the UK.
Eligibility Criteria
To be eligible for the Imperial College London Global Development Fellowship 2026, applicants must meet the following criteria:
- Must be a current PhD student.
- Must be a passport holder and permanent resident of a Least Developed Country (LDC) or Lower Middle Income Country (LMIC) as per the DAC List of ODA Recipients 2024–2025.
- Must be enrolled in a PhD program at an institution located in an LDC or LMIC.
- Must have completed at least 12 months of PhD studies before the fellowship placement.
- English language proficiency is required (no formal test like IELTS/TOEFL needed).
Required Documents
Applicants must prepare the following documents before applying:
- Letter of Support from an Imperial College host supervisor.
- Letter of Recommendation from the applicant’s current PhD supervisor.
- Proof of English proficiency (informal confirmation accepted).
Finding a Host Supervisor at Imperial College
A critical part of the application is identifying a suitable host supervisor at Imperial College London whose research aligns with your PhD project.
Steps to find a supervisor:
- Visit Imperial’s Department or Institute webpages.
- Explore research profiles of academics whose expertise matches your research area.
- Contact potential supervisors directly to discuss collaboration using the official template letter.
- Review the full list of Imperial’s departments and institutes on their official website.
MUST VISIT: Humboldt Research Fellowship 2026 in Germany (Fully Funded)
How to Apply for the Imperial College London Global Development Fellowship 2026
The application process is straightforward and entirely free of charge.
Application Steps:
- Prepare your Letter of Support and Letter of Recommendation.
- Email both documents directly to: gdhfellowsfund@imperial.ac.uk.
- Visit the official website for further details and to confirm all requirements.
For more scholarship opportunities, please visit International Scholarships.
