If you’re looking for a fully funded Master’s + PhD scholarship in Artificial Intelligence (AI), the ADA Masters Plus PhD Studentships 2026 at the University of Surrey is one of the most exciting opportunities currently available in the UK.
This prestigious program is part of the Leverhulme Trust Doctoral Scholarships Network for AI-Enabled Digital Accessibility (ADA) and offers a complete academic pathway from MSc to PhD with full funding.
In this guide, you’ll find everything you need to know — eligibility, benefits, application steps, and deadline.
Overview of ADA Masters Plus PhD Studentships 2026
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Host Institution | University of Surrey |
| Sponsor | Leverhulme Trust |
| Program Type | Masters + PhD (Fully Funded) |
| Study Level | Postgraduate (MSc + PhD) |
| Field | AI, Translation, Accessibility, Digital Media |
| Duration | 1-year MSc + up to 4-year PhD |
| Funding | Full tuition + stipend |
| Eligible Country | UK (with specific criteria) |
| Application Deadline | 10 July 2026 |
About the ADA Scholarship Program
The ADA (AI-Enabled Digital Accessibility) Network is hosted by the Centre for Translation Studies (CTS) at the University of Surrey.
The program focuses on using Artificial Intelligence alongside human expertise to improve accessibility to digital content—especially for individuals with language, sensory, or cognitive barriers.
Students will work across multiple disciplines including:
- Artificial Intelligence
- Translation and interpreting
- Media accessibility
- Computer science and engineering
- Social and cognitive sciences
This interdisciplinary approach aims to create high-quality, accessible digital content at scale.
Scholarship Benefits
Successful applicants will receive a fully funded studentship, which includes:
- Full Master’s tuition fees covered
- Full PhD tuition fees covered
- Monthly stipend at UKRI standard rates
- Access to world-class research facilities and mentorship
This funding provides a complete academic journey from MSc to PhD, making it one of the most valuable scholarships in AI and accessibility research.
Program Structure (Masters + PhD Pathway)
The scholarship follows a structured pathway:
- MSc Phase (1 year)
- Study the AI for Translation and Interpreting Studies MSc
- Build foundational knowledge in AI and accessibility
- PhD Phase (Up to 4 years)
- Conduct advanced research within the ADA Network
- Work on real-world accessibility challenges using AI
The full program can last up to 5 years depending on progression.
Eligibility Criteria
To qualify for the ADA Masters Plus PhD Studentship, applicants must:
Core Requirements:
- Be a UK-domiciled student
- Not already hold a Master’s degree from the host institution
- Come from a low-income household background (e.g., received maintenance loan)
OR meet ethnicity criteria:
Applicants from the following groups are encouraged:
- Black African
- Black Caribbean
- Black Other
- Mixed (White & Black Caribbean / African)
- Other mixed backgrounds including Black heritage
These criteria are part of the Leverhulme Trust’s commitment to widening participation in higher education.
How to Apply (Step-by-Step)
Follow these steps carefully:
Apply for admission into the AI for Translation and Interpreting Studies MSc at the University of Surrey
Complete the ADA studentship application form
Send the following documents via email:
- CV
- Academic transcript
Email: cts@surrey.ac.uk
Note: Applications without a valid student ID will NOT be considered.
Application Deadline
- Deadline: 10 July 2026
- Applications are reviewed monthly
- Selection is first-come, first-served
Shortlisted candidates will be invited for an online interview.
Why You Should Apply
Here’s why this scholarship stands out:
- Fully funded MSc + PhD pathway
- Study at a top UK university
- Work in cutting-edge AI research
- Focus on real-world impact (digital accessibility)
- Join an international research network
The ADA program is especially valuable for students interested in AI for social good, accessibility, and inclusive technology.
Contact Information
For inquiries, contact: Centre for Translation Studies (CTS) Email: cts@surrey.ac.uk
FAQs
1. Is the ADA Masters Plus PhD scholarship fully funded?
Yes, it covers full tuition fees for both MSc and PhD, plus a stipend.
2. Can international students apply?
This specific studentship is primarily for UK-domiciled applicants, based on funder requirements.
3. Do I need to apply for the MSc separately?
Yes, you must first secure admission into the MSc program before applying for the studentship.
4. What is the duration of the program?
Typically 5 years (1-year MSc + up to 4-year PhD).
5. What field is the scholarship focused on?
It focuses on AI, translation, and digital accessibility research.
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