Here are some frequently asked questions. Click on the question to see answer.
Who is eligible to apply for the INSIGHT programme?
The INSIGHT programme is open to undergraduate students, postgraduate students, and early career professionals who are working towards or have recently completed their professional registration with one of the approved regulatory bodies (listed below) with up to five years full time work experience.
Which regulatory bodies are recognized for eligibility in the INSIGHT programme?
The recognized regulatory bodies include:
- Academy for Healthcare Science
- General Chiropractic Council
- General Dental Council
- General Medical Council
- General Optical Council
- General Osteopathic Council
- General Pharmaceutical Council
- Health and Care Professions Council
- Nursing and Midwifery Council
- Social Work England
- UK Public Health Register
- Check out the NIHR Webpage for further detail – INSIGHT: inspiring students into research | NIHR
What career stage is the INSIGHT programme designed for?
The programme is designed for students and professionals at an early stage of their practitioner career, typically with up to 5 years of full-time equivalent practice in their profession.
Are there any exclusions for the INSIGHT programme?
This programme is not available to doctors and dentists. Alternative opportunities are available for these professions through other NIHR programmes. Check out NIHR Resources for Doctors and dentists
Are international students eligible to apply for the INSIGHT programme?
Eligibility for international students requires registration with one of the approved regulatory bodies, current residency and be employed in England. International students who meet these criteria may be eligible to apply. However, it is recommended to check specific eligibility requirements with the programme administrators.
I am a dentist or doctor, can I apply?
Sorry, the INSIGHT programme is not meant for dentists or doctors, but other research funding programmes do exist. Check out NIHR Resources for Doctors and dentists
I have more than five years full time experience but am really keen to be more engaged with Research, what can I do?
If you have more than five years experience, please have a look at the NIHR Health Care Professionals Internship pages, as this might be a good alternative for you. Check out our Career Resources page as there are some helpful links to resources there too.
When will the interviews be?
We are currently expecting to interview for 2026/2027 studentships from April 2026.
Are Interviews in person or online?
Interviews will be held online.
How do I apply?
Applications for NIHR INSIGHT South West Studentships starting the 2026/2027 academic year are now open until 15th of March, Apply here: INSIGHT Application 2026. Please note you will need to apply for both the studentship AND the MRes Programme at your chosen university.
How do I get more information?
Please watch the webinar, linked below, and then consider booking in for a mentoring session during February and early march More information: INSIGHT Application 2026
If this doesn’t answer your question, please feel free to email us at insight.swcentral@uwe.ac.uk
Please watch the 2026 webinar below to learn more about the NIHR INSIGHT South West Central programme and studentship