Hi,

I'd really like to study a PhD in the UK (full time) but my main concern is how do people afford to live while doing so (plus tuition fees). E.g. Rent, bills etc etc.

Here in Australia they offer APA scholarships to study as an Australian resident which is $25,392 AUD = 14,283.56 GBP for living costs (not incl. tuition fees).

So I'm trying to find something equivelent that will allow me to study abroad in the UK and was wondering if anyone has any experience with this?

I have a first class honours degree in Science which makes us eligible to study a PhD here. But I have not done a masters so not sure if this matters or not for entry into PhD programs in the UK?

As a bit of background: I'm 35, my fields of interest are ecology, zoology, genetics. I have 7 years experience working in industry also as a medical scientist all in genetics based work and a ton of field research experience working on marine mammals (sea lions) and sea birds. My primary interests are wildlife forensics/conservation/ecology but overall I love a variety of zoological based fields. So looking for a PhD in these areas.

I'm just not sure how to be able to support myself doing a PhD in the UK but would really like to for the opportunity and experience.

Thanks for your help!