By Dr Melody Smith, Clinical Psychologist
For many aspiring clinical psychologists, the Doctorate in Clinical Psychology (DClinPsy) is the ultimate goal. But if you are an international DClinPsy applicant – studying in the UK on a student visa or holding overseas fee status – the pathway can feel even more daunting. Most courses are funded by the NHS and reserved for applicants with the right to work in the UK, meaning self-funding routes are few and far between.
The good news is that there are a small number of universities that do accept self-funded, overseas-fee applicants. This blog takes you through the options for the 2026 intake, along with what you need to know about how to apply, fees, and deadlines.
Which courses accept international self-funded places?
As of the most recent Clearing House updates, the following courses are confirmed for 2026 entry:
University College London (UCL, North Thames) – Applications go through the Clearing House. UCL charges an additional £2,500 annual fee for overseas students on top of tuition, and notes that Home applicants are not able to self-fund.
King’s College London (IoPPN) – King’s does not use Clearing House. Applications are made directly through the King’s portal, and the 2025/26 international tuition fee is £35,800 per year. This is thought to be one of the most competitive courses in the country and the one of the only courses with a separate direct application system.
University of Manchester – Accepts a limited number of self-funded international applicants via Clearing House. Tuition details are not always published on the Clearing House page, so it’s important to check the university website directly.
University of Exeter – Offers overseas-fee places through Clearing House. Fees for 2025/26 are listed at £31,200 per year. Like all courses, applicants must hold Graduate Basis for Chartered Membership (GBC) of the British Psychological Society or demonstrate an equivalent.
University of East Anglia (UEA) – States that a small number of international self-funded places will be considered for 2026. However, applications go through Clearing House.
University of Bath – Bath has confirmed that it will accept overseas self-funded applications for September 2026 entry. Like UEA, fees have not yet been listed on the Clearing House site. However, applications are made via the typical Clearing House route.
University of Birmingham – Also tends to accept self-funded international students but you will need to visit their website and contact them directly for more information, as the application process is independent of Leeds Clearing House, and the number of places and fee details vary by year.
In addition, two universities are considering to opening up an international route:
- University of Hertfordshire is currently reviewing whether to accept self-funded applicants.
- University of Plymouth is expected to allow direct applications from self-funded international students for 2026.
What about other courses?
Many other programmes, including Oxford, Sheffield, Newcastle, UEL, Salomons (Canterbury Christ Church) and South Wales, explicitly do not accept self-funded or overseas-fee candidates. If you’re exploring options, it’s essential to check each individual course page on the Clearing House site for the most up-to-date information.
Deadlines and timing
If you are applying through Clearing House, the deadline for 2026 entry is 1:00pm UK time on Wednesday 19 November 2025. This applies to UCL, Manchester, Exeter, UEA and Bath .
For King’s College London, the deadline is separate. In 2025, applications closed on 9 March for October entry, and a similar timeline is likely to apply in future years. If you are considering King’s, keep a close eye on the IoPPN admissions page for the most accurate updates.
At the time of publication, information about Birmingham was still unavailable.
Is self-funding the right choice?
Self-funding a doctorate is a major financial and personal commitment. International fees range from around £30,000 to £36,000 per year, often with additional costs for placements, travel, or living in London or another university city. It’s worth reflecting on whether this investment is realistic and sustainable (and you may also be asked tonprovide evidence of financial means) and what supports you will need in place.
At the same time, gaining a place as an international applicant can be an incredible opportunity to train in the UK’s NHS context and bring those skills back to your home country or use them in international practice.
Final thoughts
For international applicants, the DClinPsy pathway is narrower and more complex, but not impossible. By understanding which universities accept self-funded places, keeping track of deadlines, and being realistic about fees and support, you can make an informed decision about your next steps.
Remember that the application is not only about your qualifications but also about your ability to reflect, demonstrate readiness for clinical training, and show awareness of what the role involves. If this is the path you are committed to, the journey can be challenging but deeply rewarding.
At ACPsych, we are here to support you at every stage. Whether you are just beginning to consider your options or preparing to submit your application, we provide resources, coaching, and a community that understands what you are working towards.
You don’t have to navigate this alone. Explore our Hub, join one of our memberships, connect with our resources and take the next step with confidence.
