This Algerian Ministry of Higher Education and Scientific Research is pursuing its commitment to place 500 English PhD scholars in the UK in a five-year period. The students come from the top six masters (maitrise) holders from universities across Algeria following the new LMD system.

Over the past year 52 Algerian PhD scholars from the first cohort selected in 2014/15 have been placed in UK universities (Brunel University, Canterbury Christ University, Coventry University, Middlesex University, Northampton University, University of Exeter, University of Leeds, University of Leicester, University of Southampton, University of West of Scotland, and York University). For the second 2015/16 cohort, 70 students have been selected and are currently doing a pre-sessional English and study skills course at Canterbury Christ Church University. These students are now looking for supervisors across UK universities in various programmes including English language, linguistics, literature, ‘civilisation’ (including e.g. history, politics) and education. They are all eligible for funding from 2015/16 (i.e. their funding will be carried forward as necessary) if they meet the criteria and find a placement in a UK HEI in the coming year.

On 26 February, a third cohort of 100 students were also selected to study in the UK. The Ministry have not yet confirmed yet when preparatory workshops for these candidates will take place. The British Council in Algeria will share more information with interested universities as soon as available.

Meanwhile, the British Council in Algeria would like to share key information on PhD opportunities available at UK Universities with the candidates both at Canterbury and in Algeria, as well as their professors and the Ministry of Higher Education in Algeria.