The Keele University SURF Scholarship 2025, funded by the Leverhulme Trust, offers an extraordinary opportunity for students from underrepresented backgrounds in the UK to pursue a fully funded Master’s plus PhD journey. Designed to support aspiring rural researchers, the Sustainable Rural Futures Programme (SURF) aims to address pressing social and environmental challenges facing rural communities.
This is a unique five-year award that covers full tuition fees for both postgraduate taught and research degrees at Keele University, a campus-based university in Staffordshire, England, known for its interdisciplinary research and inclusive learning environment.
Students will benefit from a collaborative and vibrant research community while working on real-world rural development challenges.
Why the SURF Program Is Special
- Funded by the prestigious Leverhulme Trust
- Combines a 1-year Master’s program with 4 years of fully funded PhD study
- Supports underrepresented students from low-income and/or Black heritage backgrounds
- Encourages applicants to propose their own research ideas aligned with SURF themes
Benefits of the Keele University SURF Scholarship
This is a fully funded scholarship for five years, supporting both taught and research postgraduate study:
- Full Tuition Coverage for one-year Master’s and four-year PhD
- Living Stipend at the UKRI rate (currently ~£18,622/year)
- £10,000 Research Allowance for training, fieldwork, or conference participation
- Funding for Cohort-Building Activities
- Mentorship and Academic Supervision by experts in rural sustainability
The SURF scholarship not only removes financial barriers but also equips you to contribute meaningfully to community-led change.
Eligibility Criteria for Keele University SURF Scholarship
To qualify for this scholarship, applicants must:
- Be UK-domiciled
- Hold or be expected to achieve at least a 2:1 undergraduate degree
- Belong to at least one of the following groups:
- Black African, Black Caribbean, Black Other, or Mixed backgrounds including these heritages
- Have received a full maintenance loan or Special Support Loan during undergraduate study (low-income background)
- Demonstrate interest in conducting research in line with SURF themes:
- Landscape, Land Use, Lifestyle, and Livelihood
- Emphasis on community-led and more-than-human research principles
Applications are welcome from any relevant academic discipline.
Required Documents for the SURF Scholarship Application
Prepare the following documents when applying:
Mandatory:
- Completed SURF Masters Plus Application Form
- Curriculum Vitae (CV)
- Academic Transcripts and Certificates
- Valid Passport
- Contact Details of Two Academic Referees
Conditional:
- Language Certificate (only if applicable)
All documents should be submitted in PDF format. Early contact with potential supervisors is encouraged
Application Timeline for Keele SURF Scholarship 2025
- Applications Open: July 2025
- Deadline to Apply: August 18, 2025
- Program Start Date: October 2025
This is a fixed deadline application cycle. No late submissions will be accepted.
How to Apply for the Keele University SURF Scholarship
- Visit the SURF Application Portal
- Download and Complete the Masters+ Application Form
- Choose a Project or Propose Your Own: Based on SURF themes or current calls
- Contact a Supervisor: Use the SURF People directory or email surf@keele.ac.uk
- Prepare Required Documents
- Submit via Keele Online Portal before the August 18 deadline
Need help brainstorming a research project? Reach out to SURF program staff for guidance and feedback.
FAQs about the Keele SURF Scholarship
Is IELTS required?
No, not unless your prior education was not in English. Keele will guide you if a language certificate is needed.
Can I propose my own research topic?
Yes. You are encouraged to propose your own project that aligns with SURF themes.
What is the value of the stipend?
It aligns with UKRI rates (~£18,622/year in 2025).
Who funds this program?
The Leverhulme Trust, one of the UK’s most respected academic funding bodies.
Is this open to international students?
No. This scholarship is open to UK-domiciled students only.
Final Thoughts on the Keele SURF Scholarship
The Keele University SURF Scholarship 2025 is more than just a funding opportunity — it’s a commitment to transformative research, social equity, and the development of future leaders in rural studies. If you’re passionate about making a difference and ready to take your academic career to the next level, this is your chance.
Submit your application now before the deadline closes. Don’t miss this opportunity to study in the UK.