Hello,
I'm currently completing my MA and narrowly missed out on AHRC PhD funding for this September. I was shortlisted but got some really useful feedback and got told not to give up, but to reapply next year, which is what I intend to do.
Anyway, I was thinking about applying to multiple institutions next time round in order to increase my chances of securing funding. However, I noticed on the application form that there was a section that asked if you had applied to other institutions, and I was wondering if this would go against me in any way?
I emailed two of my tutors and they said it shouldn't be a problem but I find it hard to believe that it won't affect my chances in some way. I'd like to know if other people applying for AHRC funding applied to multiple institutions? If so, what is a reasonable number to apply to? I am aware that each proposal needs to be tailored to a specific department and so applying to more will obviously take up more time. Is four a reasonable number (i.e. not seem too desperate/not taking on too much)?
Also, do you think it would be useful to apply to one very good institution (for English), then two good institutions, and perhaps one whose reputation is not quite as strong (so maybe less competition?).
In short, how do I increase my chances of securing funding next time around? I don't think I was ready this year and intend to make a much better proposal for next time, plus I will have a completed master's (I'm currently on track for a distinction).
Any help greatly appreciated :-)