Hey, really appreciate the replies.

I've got a few questions, though. Shani - were you really caught up with applying for funding in your first year? How much research did you get done in the first year? I am hoping to put in place a well-structured research plan with my supervisor so that i am in as strong a position as possible for funding. Also, on the question of deferring until funding is secured, couldn't i be waiting year after year? I'm 25 now and i realise i can't hang around too long before i start my PhD if i want to get on with my career. So i'm thinking that if i don't get funding next year i'll finish it p/t.

It's a case of damn if you do, damned if you don't really. Which ever option I choose there will drawbacks, at least if i start now, i'll be on my way.

Swantjie - never heard about that possibility. There is a highly-regarded scholar working in my field based in the Netherlands, i'll make inquiries...

Thanxs,

Well, I say "advised". What i mean is that after considering all the permutations of trying to fund a PhD - p/t, f/t, grants, self-funded etc., and following discussion with my supervisor, I think it is perhaps the best option (for me at least). Having been offered a place to do research, I've missed out on AHRC funding this year owing to the new 'quota' system and my only fallback option is the university studentship. What i am trying to do is put myself in the best possible position for funding next year - a self-funded year would definitely help in that regard. The alternative is to do it p/t, which lessens the 'window of opportunity', so to speak.

Obviously, if you have reservations, i'd be grateful if you shared them.

thnx Nadia,

If you not get the university studentship, have you thought about doing a year self-funded so that you increase your chances of being successful the next year? That's what i've been advised to do. It's gonna be hard - raiding my savings, loans, and handouts from family - but i think it is doable.

I guess what you've gotta ask yourself is how badly do you really want to do a PhD?

Anyway the best of luck to you

Has anyone been successful in applying to local charitable organisations or trusts for funding, or help with other costs, i.e. books purchases or other bits and bobs? I ask particularly those of you pursuing a doctoral research in arts & humanities since funding outside research council or faculty scholarship seems pretty scarce. Also, has it helped anyone secure funding later on? I'm in a situation where i'm trying to find any means of making my funding applications appear more attractive... Ho hum,