Application process for students
The application process, review, and selection of students is managed directly by universities hosting a research placement. A full list of institutions hosting research placements in 2025 can be found below.
To apply, visit the web page linked below for your preferred placement host and follow the application instructions on the page. Please note that the opening and closing dates for applications will vary for each placement.
Institutions hosting placements in summer 2025
- Cardiff Metropolitan University (closing 19 March, 5pm)
- Queen Mary University of London (closing 28 February, 11.59pm)
- Swansea University (closing 14 March, 11:59pm)
- University of Birmingham (closing 31 March, 12pm)
- University of Cambridge (closed for applications)
- University of Edinburgh (closing 25 February, 11.59pm)
- University of Exeter (closed for applications)
- University of Liverpool (closing 28 February, 11:59pm)
- University of Manchester (opening soon)
- University of Nottingham (closing 12 March, 1pm)
- University of York (closing 21 March, 11.59pm)
Application process for host universities
Please note that the scheme is currently closed for applications from prospective host institutions.
All applications must be submitted via the online form in the Academy’s grant management system.
Applications should be submitted by the primary point of contact for the proposal.
Applicant guidance notes to support you in completing your application can be downloaded on the right-hand side of this page. We recommend reading the guidance notes in full before starting your application.
Application form completion tips
We recommend viewing the application form early on to understand what is required. You should also ensure that you have all the necessary documentation to hand when you start completing the application.
How to complete the application form
Once you have logged in to the grant management system, the application form can be found in the ‘start application’ section under ‘Research Ready’.
There are six sections to the application form to be completed, as below:
- Applicant and institution details
- Research placement details
- Case for support
- Funding requested
- Applicant declaration
- Marketing
At any stage in the application process, you can save your work and return to it later. You can answer the questions in any order you like.
There is only one application stage. Following the application deadline, those meeting the eligibility criteria will enter the assessment stage.