Eligibility and Funding

Find out who is eligible to apply for a PhD with the CDT and the funding available.

The CDT is committed to providing an inclusive environment in which diverse students can thrive, the CDT particularly encourages applications from women, disabled and Black, Asian and Minority Ethnic (BAME) candidates, who are currently under-represented in the sector.  We can also consider part time PhD students.

Who do we want?

  • A diverse group of talented individuals from a various backgrounds.
  • People with either an UG or MSc in a numerate subject.
  • People with ambition and interest in making a difference.

What experience is required?

Applicants should have, or be expected to obtain, a minimum of a 2.1 undergraduate degree and/or Masters qualification or hold exceptional work experience in a related field (Statistics, Data Science, Computer Science, Electronic Engineering, Mathematics, Physics, Engineering, or any other numerate subjects).

It is not necessary that an applicant has completed their current course of study before applying. If an applicant has not completed their current course of study, any offer may be conditional on the eventual degree classification.  

We welcome applications from those with non-standard qualifications who can demonstrate knowledge, experience and skills developed in the workplace, or elsewhere, relevant to the the CDT vision. Please use the DA CDT Application Instructions V6_2024 to complete your application.

Are international students eligible to apply?

Yes. The CDT can recruit international students. International studentships are competitive and limited to 30 percent of the total cohort (each year). We recommend international students apply early as places are limited. The CDT aims to recruit approximately 15 students each year. 

This quota does not apply to EU students with settled status. EU and EAA students are classified as international students if they do not meet the eligibility requirements.  Eligibility is based on residency not nationality.  EU students with settled status are classified as Home students and eligible to apply for a majority of the CDT projects.  For more info please refer to Annex B (pg 21) of this webpage for eligibility criteria.

Each project is co-funded by an external partner therefore each project has specific eligibility requirements. Please read the project description to find out if you are eligible to apply. 

If I'm successful, will my fees be paid for by the CDT?

Yes. All CDT students (regardless of nationality or residency) are awarded funds to pay for: PhD fees, stipend (to cover living costs) and individual research and training funds (for conferences, travel, consumables, etc).

What other financial support (other than fees) is offered?

The CDT provides each student with a stipend to cover rental fees, food and other personal expenses.  Current students agree the stipend is a sufficient amount to cover Liverpool living costs. Speak to an ambassador if you have any more questions about Liverpool life and the stipend suitability. 

In addition to a stipend, each student is provided with a training budget to attend conferences, bespoke training and cover travel and expenses related to personal training and event attendance.

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