Dear All,

I am wondering what is the difference between a funded phd and unfunded phd (in terms of future career value)? I have applied for several funded studentships, but been rejected and told to reapply to the same institution for an unfunded phd. I am wondering if getting a first peer reviewed journal publication would help (currently preparing same). I already have an MSc with ESRC research training and three years experience as a research assistant. A lot of questions, but any feedback would be much appreciated.

Anna.

What are the reasons for you being turned down for the funding? It must be due to not meeting the requirements of the particular research council, are you an international student?

I'm not an international student (I am Irish, but I was born in England, UK). I will just keep trying (maybe it is more difficult to obtain a funded PhD in Psychology). Many thanks for your response. Anna

Anna,
I enquired about funding for a ESRC validated PhD in education. The administrator told me that the only way to get funding was with a first and a distinction at masters level. She said she had seen others who got funding without these, but they always had exceptional references.

H - Fulfilling the research council's basic criteria for funding does not guarantee funding. In most cases they simply have more applications than funds. In some subject areas a first and a masters with distinction provides the only hope of funding.

Anna - As long as your project supervisor has a good reputation in his or her field, whether or not it was funded shouldn't make much difference (except to your pocket).