The James McCune Smith Scholarship 2026 is a prestigious, fully funded PhD scholarship offered by the University of Glasgow. It is specifically designed to support Black UK-domiciled students who wish to undertake doctoral research in any academic discipline where the University can provide supervision. More than just financial support, the scholarship delivers a comprehensive and enriched doctoral experience that focuses on academic excellence, leadership development, mentorship, and community building.
Applications are now open for 2026 entry, and prospective candidates are encouraged to submit an Expression of Interest to begin the application process.
Overview of the James McCune Smith PhD Scholarships
The James McCune Smith Scholarships were established to address the under-representation of Black students at the doctoral research level in the UK. Named after James McCune Smith, a pioneering intellectual and abolitionist, the scholarship reflects a strong commitment to equity, inclusion, and academic advancement.
Each year, the University of Glasgow awards 12 James McCune Smith PhD Scholarships, fully funded by the University. The scholarship supports PhD research in any discipline, giving applicants the freedom to pursue research aligned with their academic interests and career goals.
What the Scholarship Covers
Successful applicants to the James McCune Smith Scholarship 2026 receive a generous funding package that supports them throughout their doctoral journey.
The scholarship includes:
- Full tuition fees for up to four years of PhD study
- A tax-free stipend, estimated at £19,795 per year (based on 2025 entry rates)
- A £3,000 annual training grant to support professional and academic development
This funding ensures scholars can focus fully on their research without financial strain.
Also Apply For: Applied Implementation Science Fellowship Program 2026 – $150,000 Funding
Additional Benefits and Enriched Experience
Beyond financial support, the James McCune Smith Scholarship offers an enhanced PhD experience that goes far beyond traditional doctoral funding.
Scholars benefit from:
External Mentorship
Each scholar is paired with an external mentor from outside academia, providing broader perspectives, career guidance, and access to professional networks beyond the university environment.
Six-Month Paid Placement
All scholars complete a six-month placement with an industry partner, government body, non-governmental organisation, or other employer. The University of Glasgow guarantees a suitable placement for every scholar, regardless of research discipline.
Leadership and Community Development
The program includes leadership training, cohort-based learning, and community-building activities designed to foster collaboration, confidence, and long-term professional relationships.
Conferences and Networking Support
Scholars receive funding and support to attend academic conferences, workshops, and networking events, helping them build visibility and connections within their field.
JMS Learning Hub and Annual Conference
Scholars also engage with the James McCune Smith Learning Hub and participate in the annual JMS Conference, which brings together current scholars, alumni, and academic leaders.
Eligibility Criteria
To be eligible for the James McCune Smith Scholarship 2026, applicants must:
- Be UK-domiciled
- Identify as:
- Black African
- Black Caribbean
- Black Other
- Mixed White and Black African
- Mixed White and Black Caribbean
- Or another mixed background that includes Black heritage
- Meet the academic entry requirements for a PhD program at the University of Glasgow
Applicants are allowed to apply for other funding opportunities simultaneously, as applying for this scholarship does not restrict access to other schemes.
Research Areas and Supervision
One of the key strengths of the James McCune Smith Scholarship is its discipline-wide flexibility. Applicants may propose PhD research in any academic field, provided suitable supervision is available at the University of Glasgow.
Prospective applicants are encouraged to:
- Review the research interests of academic staff
- Identify potential supervisors
- Discuss research ideas collaboratively with supervisors
If applicants are unable to find a supervisor on their own, the University is willing to provide guidance and support.
How to Apply for the James McCune Smith Scholarship 2026
The application process involves several important steps:
- Identify a Research Area and Supervisor
Explore academic staff profiles and identify a potential supervisor aligned with your research interests. - Submit an Expression of Interest
Complete and submit the Expression of Interest form so the University can support your application journey. - Contact Potential Supervisors
When contacting supervisors, clearly state your intention to apply for a James McCune Smith Scholarship as a funding option. - Prepare a Research Proposal
Where required, follow the official Guidance for Applicants and Research Proposals. - Submit a Personal Statement
Upload a 500-word personal statement via the Scholarship Portal, outlining your research interests and motivation for becoming a James McCune Smith Scholar. - Apply via MyCampus
Submit a full PhD application through the University of Glasgow’s MyCampus system, listing the James McCune Smith Scholarship under the Finance section.
Applicants who need support at any stage are encouraged to contact the scholarship team directly.
Email: JMSPhD@glasgow.ac.uk
Why Choose the James McCune Smith Scholarship?
The James McCune Smith Scholarship 2026 is more than funding; it is a transformational doctoral program. It empowers Black scholars, builds strong academic and professional networks, and provides real-world experience through mentorship and placements. By combining research excellence with leadership development, the scholarship prepares scholars for impactful careers in academia, industry, policy, and beyond.
For more information, visit the James McCune Smith Scholarships.
