Full-time students in the doctoral phase of their award may apply to the SCDTP for overseas fieldwork expenses where the fieldwork is an integral part of the PhD and was outlined in the original SCDTP application.
Funding is limited and will only be agreed for reasonable, well-justified requests.
Students are normally expected to conduct the research themselves while overseas. The use of research assistants will only be considered in exceptional circumstances (e.g. language requirements or cultural sensitivity).
Fieldwork will normally last up to 12 months. In exceptional cases, and with a strong justification, a period of up to 18 months may be approved.
Students who remain in the field beyond their approved duration will not be able to claim retrospective costs or request an extension to their award or thesis submission date.
Time spent overseas does not extend the studentship or submission deadline.
The SCDTP will not fund visits to destinations where the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) advises against travel. Students must check FCDO advice before applying.
How to Apply
To apply for overseas fieldwork support, students must submit an Overseas Fieldwork Application Form to scdtp@soton.ac.uk. Applications must include:
An overview of the fieldwork (location, duration, activities, methods)
A justification of why the fieldwork is essential to your PhD
A supporting statement from your supervisor (signature or email confirmation)
A detailed budget with itemised costs and explanations
Only one claim for overseas fieldwork can be made during the lifetime of the award.
Application Process
Applications should be made using the SCDTP OFW Application Form.
Students are strongly encouraged to discuss their plans with the SCDTP Manager (scdtp@soton.ac.uk) at an early stage
Applications are reviewed by the SCDTP Senior Management Team (SMT) and assessed against:
– Academic value of the fieldwork
– Feasibility and planning
– Safety and compliance with FCDO guidance
– Value for money
Retrospective claims cannot be considered. Approval must be obtained before making any bookings or incurring costs.
Approved Budget Reminder
All expenditure must follow your University’s Financial Regulations and Travel & Business Expenses Policy.
A realistic, itemised budget is required, supported by quotes where applicable.
Unspent funds cannot be repurposed; if your research needs change, a revised application must be submitted.
Keep all receipts and records to support claims.
Approval Process
You will receive written confirmation if approved, including an OFW 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.
