Although we recognise that more needs to be done to financially support PhD students, the CDT-GIF welcomes UKRI’s recent news that they will be uplifting the stipend by 8% for 2025/2026 . From the 1st of October 2025, students can receive a stipend of £20,780 (and £22,780 for London students).

UKRI have also made changes to the terms and conditions of PhD funding and these include:

• allowing students to take up to 28 weeks medical leave
• making it easier for students who take medical or additional leave to get an extension to their studentship
• removing barriers that might prevent disabled students from getting support
• ensuring that students are treated in a way that is transparent and fair