TV PhD FAQs
We want applying for TV PhD to be as straightforward as possible. If you have questions, we hope that we’ve answered them here. If there’s anything else you’d like to know, please contact us at tvfoundation@thetvfestival.com
TV PhD aims to attract talented people from all backgrounds. If you require this information in a different format or need to apply in another way, please email tvfoundation@thetvfestival.com
About TV PhD
TV PhD is a programme that gives AHRC-funded PhD students the opportunity to learn more about the TV industry. If you’re wondering how to work in TV, the PhD could be the perfect next step for you.
The final 15 applicants will also get a free pass and accommodation to the Edinburgh TV Festival – one of the key events for the industry.
TV PhD programme sessions take place via Zoom over four consecutive Fridays in July. You will then attend the Edinburgh TV Festival which will require being in Edinburgh from Tuesday 25 August – Friday 28 August 2026. You will need to be able to make all of these dates to take part in the programme.
TV PhD is funded by the AHRC and is free to participants – this includes a pass and accommodation for the Edinburgh TV Festival.
We do not cover the cost of travel to Edinburgh or your subsistence while you are there, but we do offer bursaries to cover these costs in certain circumstances.
Applying
Applications for TV PhD will open on Tuesday 10 February 2026. They will close on Thursday 26 March 2026, 11:59pm.
You can apply directly through the TV PhD page here.
The application form is made up of three sections: personal information (including a CV), application questions, and monitoring information.
In the first stage of assessment, we will only be reviewing your answers to the application questions. The information you provide in the personal details and CV will only be used to check eligibility.
You can choose to submit your answers to the application questions as either a written, audio, or video response. All answers are marked to the same criteria regardless of format.
If you do decide to submit an audio or video response, you should upload your answer as a private link on a platform such as YouTube or Vimeo and post this link in the entry box. Links must be accessible until the end of May so we can assess your entry.
We will be looking for evidence of the following things in your answers and at the interview stage:
- An understanding of how your research and/or your career might benefit from the programme
- A genuine interest in television and the TV industry
- A commitment to fully participating in the programme should you be selected
After the online application, shortlisted candidates will be invited to interview with the TV Foundation team. These will take place via Zoom throughout April and May.
Following this, you should hear from us on 18 May 2026 with an outcome. If you have applied and haven’t heard from us, please email tvfoundation@thetvfestival.com
Yes, candidates for our programmes are often successful after multiple tries.
Being on the programme
As well as receiving a full pass for the Edinburgh Festival, which gives you the same access and advantages of a full Festival delegate, we also produce a bespoke programme specifically for TV PhD.
The sessions are different every year but are always designed to introduce you to the various ways you might engage with the TV industry. The programme will also provide you with an introduction to developing ideas for television.
Following your participation in TV PhD, you’ll have the opportunity to sign up for our mentoring programme at a time that suits you.
You will then be paired with an industry mentor who will work with you on your TV goals for one year. During this time, you’ll have the opportunity to learn how to get into TV production, develop content, and more.
We are committed to making our programmes and the Festival as inclusive as possible. Read the Festival’s accessibility policies here.
If there are any reasonable accommodations you require to be able to participate in the assessment process or in the programme we will make them and cover the associated costs. If you have any questions about access or inclusion please email tvfoundation@thetvfestival.com