The South Coast DTP recognises that some advanced training needs may fall outside the scope of what is available through the DTP or its partner institutions. To help meet these needs, the Enhanced Student Training Fund (ESTF) provides targeted support for students seeking to attend specialist courses that offer substantial value to their doctoral research.
Each year, the SCDTP offers up to three bursaries, with each award worth up to £1,000. These bursaries are competitively allocated and intended to fund attendance at training opportunities that will meaningfully enhance a student’s research skills, knowledge base, or methodological toolkit.
What ESTF Can Be Used For
This funding is available for both UK-based and international training, where the content is demonstrably beyond what is provided within the existing DTP framework or by the student’s host institution. Examples include:
How to Apply
ESTF applications are reviewed by the SCDTP Senior Management Team and should include full details of the proposed training course, a clear justification of how it supports the applicant’s research, a supporting statement from the supervisor, and a detailed budget.
Applications are assessed based on the relevance, value for money, and feasibility of the proposed budget. Retrospective applications (i.e. for costs already incurred) cannot be considered.
When completing the estimated expenditure section, please refer to the Finance page for guidance on the standard arrangements and the items that may be included in your budget.
NB – For travel and accommodation quotes, please contact designated travel agent provider of the university to get quotes for budgeting purposes. For insurance purposes please make sure to book your travel and accommodation via the travel agency, or provide evidence why this cannot be done via the travel agency if they are not used. Funding for travel should originate near your RO distance, if otherwise, please explain in your justification.
Approval Process
You will receive written confirmation if approved, including an ESTF approval reference number. Keep this safe as you will need it to access the funds or for reference in your claims.
Need Help?
If you have questions or need support at any stage: 📧 scdtp@soton.ac.uk.
Please download the application form below. The form is provided in Word format and should be returned to SCDTP in the same format. Kindly ensure it is not converted to any other file type during editing or submitting. Refer to Finance page for guidance.
