phd requirement in uk

How to apply for a PhD in the UK

Applying for a phd is not quite as daunting as you might think. a postgraduate student recruitment officer from the university of sussex shares his tips for putting together a phd application.

Ben Osborne

There are many different reasons for wanting to pursue a PhD – to move into an academic role at a university, to continue studying a subject you are passionate about or to further your career.

Whatever your motivation, many students are now choosing to pursue a PhD abroad. This guide will help you understand how to apply for a PhD at a UK university and answer any questions you might have around doing PhDs.

How to apply for a PhD

Application rules and methods vary for each university. The number of courses that you can apply for in a year will vary. For example, at the University of Sussex , you can apply for up to three postgraduate courses per year using the postgraduate application system.

If you are applying for more than one degree, you must submit a research proposal/statement specific to each area of study you apply for.

You can also apply to different universities to improve your chances of being accepted to a PhD course of your choosing.

What qualifications do I need?

Each PhD will have specific entry requirements and you will also need to meet a university’s general entry requirements. This may be an upper second-class undergraduate honours degree (2:1) or an equivalent international qualification. For some PhDs you may need a master’s qualification, and you may be asked to attend an interview.

International students may also be required to prove language proficiency. This will vary across institutions so do check what level universities expect before starting your application.

Applicants should always check the specific entry requirements in a university’s online prospectus before making an application.

When should I start applying?

This will depend on when your term start date is. Most research degrees will start in September but some courses offer additional entry points in January or May.

You can apply all year round for research degrees starting in September, January and May, and the deadlines for applying are usually one month before the course start date for UK applicants, and three months before for international applicants.

If you’re applying for funding from an external organisation you’ll need to be aware that they may have different deadlines for the funding application. So give yourself plenty of time to research your funding options, and ensure you know how long the application process takes.

Many universities offer a number of funded PhD opportunities and PhD scholarships for UK and international students, and it’s always worth investigating funding routes such as research councils and other organisations, both in the UK and overseas.

In some cases, it may be possible to study a PhD by distance which means you’ll be able to learn online and have virtual meetings with your supervisor.

If this is something you would be interested in doing you should check before applying whether your university can accommodate this option.

Nine things to know before doing a PhD Starting a PhD during the pandemic Studying for a part-time PhD: the challenges and the benefits Is it possible to do a three-year PhD as an international student?

How should I look for a supervisor?

Usually if you are applying for a funded project, or to a research centre or group, you will normally be asked to provide a statement explaining your suitability for working in that area, and if successful you will be allocated a supervisor.

If you wish to propose your own area of research, you need to decide on a research topic, and you will be expected to write a research proposal. In some cases you may only be required to provide a summary of academic interests and this can be used to match you to a researcher that suits you.

If you are proposing your own research topic, there may be a research database at your university that you can search, or your university will match you with a supervisor during the assessment of your application. It may be possible to request supervision by a particular member of faculty – this will be considered but not all requests can be accommodated.

If you do find a potential supervisor who matches your research area, check their online profile for indications of their doctoral supervision capacity. If they are open to doctoral applications, you can contact them directly to check their availability for supervising you.

It is a good idea to draw up a shortlist of two to three potential supervisors, and take an in-depth look into their research history. You can also find out more about your potential supervisors by looking in the reference sections of academic textbooks and searching for articles in research databases and academic blogs.

When you contact your potential supervisor, it is important to tell them something interesting about yourself, and explain your research interests and how you feel your research proposal matches their expertise.

How do I write a research proposal?

If you are proposing your own research you will need to write a strong proposal that formulates a precise, interesting research question, and establishes the relevance and value of the proposed research question in the context of current academic thinking.

You’ll need to make sure your proposal describes the data or source material your research requires, and outlines a clear and practical methodology that enables you to answer the research question and that states clearly what you hope to discover at the end of your research, and what new areas it might open up.

The precise content and structure of your research proposal will depend on your subject area, and the University of Sussex has some helpful resources on our website to guide you through the process.

How long does the application process take?

Completing an application and writing a research proposal may take some time and should not be left until just before the application deadline.

It’s not easy to give a definite idea of how long it takes to hear if your application has been successful, as it will depend on when the application is made and the nature of the specific PhD, and you would need to meet any conditions contained within the offer before you can start the PhD.

What are the associated costs?

There won’t typically be an application fee for PhDs but there are tuition fees. If a university does charge application fees they will usually be between £50-£100.

The tuition fees for students studying in the UK are set by UK Research and Innovation . Fees for international students are £18,975 for non-lab-based subjects, and £22,975 for lab-based subjects per year.

You’ll also need to factor in living costs, but there are a number of funding routes you can apply for to help with this. As well as PhD scholarships and funded research projects there are research council awards, PhD loans for those eligible, and various organisations to which international students can apply for funding, such as The Gen Foundation and Open Society Foundations.

It’s important to be aware of the costs involved, but it’s also worth remembering that the educational, career and personal benefits of PhD study can be worth it.

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Discover more about this subject area

PhD Education / Overview

Year of entry: 2024

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Bachelor's (Honours) degree at 2:1 or above (or overseas equivalent); and
Master's degree in a relevant subject - with an overall average of 60% or above, a minimum mark of 60% in your dissertation (or overseas equivalent)

Full entry requirements

Apply online

Please ensure you include all required supporting documents at the time of submission, as incomplete applications may not be considered.

Application Deadlines

For consideration in internal funding competitions, you must submit your completed application by 19 January 2024.

If you are applying for or have secured external funding (for example, from an employer or government) or are self-funding, you must submit your application before the below deadline to be considered. You will not be able to apply after this date has passed.

For September 2024 entry: 30 June 2024

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The University holds regular open days, where you will have the opportunity to tour the campus and find out more about our facilities and programmes. On this day, you will find out more about the School of Environment, Education and Development (SEED) and meet academic and admissions staff who will be able to answer any questions you have.

For more information, see Open days.

We will be conducting our PGR virtual open week in October 2024. Find out about future events and postgraduate research sessions by signing up for our email alerts.

For entry in the academic year beginning September 2024, the tuition fees are as follows:

PhD (full-time) UK students (per annum): £6,000 International, including EU, students (per annum): £21,500
PhD (part-time) UK students (per annum): £3,000 International, including EU, students (per annum): £10,750

Further information for EU students can be found on our dedicated EU page.

Your fees will cover the cost of your study at the University, as well as charges for registration, tuition, supervision, examinations and graduation (excluding graduation robe hire).

Payment of tuition fees will also entitle you to membership of The University of Manchester library, the Students' Union and the Athletic Union.

Scholarships/sponsorships

There are a range of scholarships, studentships and awards to support both UK and overseas postgraduate researchers, details of which can be found via the links below.

To apply University of Manchester funding, you must indicate in your application the competitions for which you wish to be considered. The deadline for most internal competitions, including School of Environment, Education and Development studentships is 19 January 2024.

All external funding competitions have a specified deadline for submitting the funding application form and a separate (earlier) deadline for submitting the online programme application form, both of which will be stated in the funding competition details below.

For more information about funding, visit our funding page to browse for scholarships, studentships and awards you may be eligible for.

ESRC North West Social Science Doctoral Training Partnership (NWSSDTP) PhD Studentships - Competition Closed for 2024 Entry
School of Environment, Education and Development Postgraduate Research Studentships 2024 Entry - Competition Closed for 2024 Entry
China Scholarship Council - The University of Manchester (CSC-UoM) Joint Scholarship Programme - Competition Closed for 2024 Entry
Commonwealth PhD Scholarships (Least Developed Countries and Fragile States)
President's Doctoral Scholar (PDS) Awards - Competition Closed for 2024 Entry
Trudeau Doctoral Scholarships 2024 Entry
Commonwealth PhD Scholarships (High Income Countries)
School of Environment, Education and Development Enhancing Racial Equality (SERE) Studentship - Competition Closed for 2024 Entry
Humanities Doctoral Academy Humanitarian Scholarship 2024 Entry

Contact details

Programmes in related subject areas.

Use the links below to view lists of programmes in related subject areas.

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The University of Manchester is regulated by the Office for Students (OfS). The OfS aims to help students succeed in Higher Education by ensuring they receive excellent information and guidance, get high quality education that prepares them for the future and by protecting their interests. More information can be found at the OfS website .

You can find regulations and policies relating to student life at The University of Manchester, including our Degree Regulations and Complaints Procedure, on our regulations website .

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The degree of Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) is the University's principal research degree for graduate students and is available in all faculties and departments.

A Cambridge PhD is intellectually demanding and you will need to have a high level of attainment and motivation to pursue this programme of advanced study and research.

In most faculties, a candidate is expected to have completed one year of postgraduate study, normally on a research preparation master's course, prior to starting a PhD.

Completion normally requires three or four years of full-time study, or at least five years of part-time study, including a probationary period.

Terms of research are normally consecutive and, for full-time students, require residency in Cambridge. Not all departments offer part-time research degrees.

Various routes to the PhD are possible and, if you are made an offer of admission, it will be made clear whether you are required to study for a master's degree or certificate in the first instance, or will be admitted directly to the probationary year for the PhD. You are registered for the PhD only after a satisfactory progress assessment at the end of the probationary year (five terms for part-time degrees). The assessment is designed also to focus your mind on the stages necessary for the completion of your research within the normal time limit and to address any structural problems that have arisen during the first year. Students must pass the first year assessment in order to continue their PhD study.

During your PhD, your effort will be focused on writing a dissertation. The word count of the dissertation is dependent on the department and the Student Registry or Educational Student Policy will be able to tell you the maximum word limit. This must represent a significant contribution to learning, for example through the discovery of new knowledge, the connection of previously unrelated facts, the development of a new theory, or the revision of older views, and must take account of previously published work on the subject. Some Cambridge dissertations go on to form the basis of significant publications.

Although you will spend long hours working independently, your department and College will both support you throughout your PhD. You are also able to attend regular seminars in your subject area and could be involved in teaching, perhaps giving seminars or supervising, or in the social life of your department and College.

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Go to the Course Directory and filter courses using the relevant checkboxes.

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How to apply for a PhD

We are looking for ambitious, talented and motivated students. You'll have the passion to make new discoveries, the drive to test new theories, and the willingness to go above and beyond.

PhD student looks through a microscope in a science lab at the University of Sussex

How do I apply?

To find out more about our degrees see our PhD degrees . You apply using our postgraduate application system.

Choose your PhD

Sussex is the perfect place to find a postgraduate research course that allows you to follow your passion and develop your research interests.

a Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) and a Master of Philosophy (MPhil). There are more than 50 degrees to choose from
Integrated PhDs in the University of Sussex Business School
full-time or part-time PhDs
all courses start in September and some courses offer additional entry points in January or May
the opportunity for research students registered elsewhere to visit Sussex . For more information see our handbook .-->

Distance learning may be available for some PhD courses. Before applying, you should check whether this mode of attendance is supported for the PhD you wish to undertake with the relevant School.

Find out more about our PhD degrees

Check our entry requirements

Our specific entry requirements are listed with each PhD degree .

You also need to meet our general entry requirements, usually an upper second-class undergraduate honours degree (2:1) or equivalent international qualification.

You may also be required to have a Masters qualification. If you are applying to the University of Sussex Business School, you may wish to choose the Integrated PhD, which contains an initial year of rigorous training in the research skills needed to become a skilled practitioner. If you are unsure which route to apply for, please apply for the Integrated PhD.

If you are an international student, you need to meet our English language requirements , or successfully complete our Pre-sessional English course .

You may also be asked to attend an interview.

Find out more about our entry requirements for UK applicants

Find out more about our entry requirements for international applicants

Choose a research topic or project

If you apply for one of our funded projects or to a research centre or group you will normally be asked to provide a statement explaining your suitablility for working in that area.

If you wish to propose your own area of research, you need to decide on a research topic and you will normally be expected to write a research proposal. Some areas may only require a summary of academic interests and they will use this to match you to potential supervisors. Before applying check the requirements for your subject area .

Find a supervisor

If you are joining a funded project at Sussex, you will already have a supervisor allocated to you.

If you are proposing your own research topic , you can find a supervisor to support and advise you.

If you think you have found a potential supervisor who matches your research area, check their online profile for indications of their doctoral supervision capacity. If they are open to doctoral applications, you can contact them to check their availability for supervising you

You can either ask a member of our faculty to be your supervisor if you think they have the expertise to support you or we will match you with a supervisor during the assessment of your application. If you ask to be supervised by a particular member of faculty, this will be considered but not all such requests can be accommodated.

Apply to Sussex

You apply directly to Sussex using our postgraduate application system .

You can apply for up to three postgraduate courses. If you are applying for more than one degree, you must submit a research proposal/statement specific to each area of study you apply for.

You must submit the following documents when you apply:

research proposal/research statement
summary of academic interests (this is optional depending on the subject area you are applying for)
degree certificates and transcripts. If the originals are not in English, certified translations must be provided
your English language qualification, where applicable
two academic references – including one from your most recent university. Or you can provide contact details for your referees and we will email them.

Follow our tips for applying to Sussex

Find out about our admissions policies

Deadline for applications

You can apply all year round for research degrees starting in September, January and May.

The recommended deadline for applications are:

International applicants: Three months before course start date Home/EU applicants: One month before course start date.

PhD applications received after these deadlines may be considered, but we cannot guarantee you will be able to commence your studies at your requested entry point.

Where you are applying for funding or scholarships, check the deadlines for your application. In some cases, you may need to have an offer from us before you can apply for funding.

Check fees, funding and support

We have a number of PhD funding and scholarship opportunities.

If your application is successful, you will have your fee status assessed . If your fee status is unclear, we will ask you to complete a questionnaire . If you disagree with the outcome of your fee status assessment, you can appeal .

Fees information is listed with each PhD degree

Receiving an offer

We will notify you through our postgraduate application system if we decide to offer you a place .

Your offer may include conditions – for example, completing your undergraduate or Masters degree with a certain grade or meeting our English language requirements . In the University of Sussex Business School, your offer may be for the Integrated PhD rather than the PhD. This will happen if the School feel you need the additional training in research skills which the initial year of the Integrated PhD provides.

If you are an international student studying a certain science- or engineering-based course you must apply for Academic Technology Approval Scheme (ATAS) clearance after you receive your offer.

Find out about ATAS clearance on the Student Hub .

If you decide to accept our offer, you can notify us using the postgraduate application system .

You can still accept your offer even if you have not yet secured funding. However, you should have funding in place when you start at Sussex.

Confirming your place

If your offer is unconditional, we may still need to verify your qualifications .

If your offer is conditional, you should send in your results by email as soon as they are available, so that your place can be confirmed.

If you are unable to take up your place, you can request to defer your entry to another available entry point (up to a maximum of 12 months).

If your application is unsuccessful and you are not sure why, you can request feedback .

Before you start at Sussex

You will be sent information about joining us in the months before you start your research.

For most students, the registration process is completed online. Registration opens in:

early September, if you are starting at Sussex in September
December, if you are starting at Sussex in January
early April, if you are starting at Sussex in May.

If you are an international student and you need a visa to study in the UK , you complete most of the registration process online. To register, you need to attend in person, so we can take a copy of your passport and visa.

Finding and Applying for a PhD

The process of applying for a PhD is different to other university courses. In this section you'll find out how to apply and where to find a PhD.

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Entry requirements

Each PhD will have specific entry requirements. Applicants should always check the specific entry requirements online before applying.

You will usually need at least an upper second-class undergraduate honours degree (2:1). International students will need an equivalent international qualification. For some PhDs you may need a Master’s qualification, and you may need to attend an interview.

International students may also need proven language ability. This will vary across institutions. Check what level your university expects before applying.

When to apply for a PhD

Application timings will depend on when your term start date is. Many research degrees start in September. Some will begin in January or May. Some PhD positions and funding opportunities are available to apply for year-round.

However, most UK PhD application deadlines are between late December and mid-January.

This is because of deadlines set by UKRI Research Council funding bodies. Most students will begin work on their application in the autumn. Completing an application and/or writing a research proposal will take time. We recommend you don’t leave it until the last minute!

UK applicants will usually need to apply at least one month before the course start date. International applicants will often need to apply at least three months ahead.

External organisations may also have different deadlines for funding applications. You will need time to research your funding options. Make sure you know how long the funding application process takes.

Finding an advertised PhD

Most universities will advertise PhD opportunities in their website. You can check the websites of any universities that have a relevant department.

The following external websites also advertise PhD opportunities:

Postgraduate Studentships.co.uk

Writing a research proposal

For an advertised PhD, you won't usually need to submit a research proposal. The broad aims and objectives for your PhD will already be set.

If you're choosing your own research topic within a university's PhD programme, you will need to write a proposal.

Research proposals need be persuasive. Potential supervisors and funders will need to believe your work is worth supporting.

A research proposal usually:

is between 1,500 and 3,000 words long
needs to have a clear, original, precise, interesting research question
explains the relevance and value of your proposed research
describes the data or source material your research requires
outlines the methods you will use to answer the research question
states what you hope to discover at the end of your research

Check any guidelines offered by your chosen institution. These can vary and include word limits, suggested structure etc.

We offer feedback on applications for postgraduate study but can’t do so for research proposals. We advise seeking guidance from a prospective supervisor or other academic related to your chosen field, before submitting your proposal.

The following websites offer advice on putting together a research proposal:

How to write a great PhD research proposal – advice from find a PhD.com
Guidelines for producing a Research Proposal (PDF: 42KB) – guidance from Newcastle University
How to write a successful research proposal – tips from Prospects

Some universities provide examples of research proposals for specific subjects. These include:

The Open University - Social Policy and Criminology
University of Sheffield - Sociological Studies
University of Sussex
University of York - Politics

Finding a PhD Supervisor

You will need to begin by identifying universities that offer the specialism that you want to research.

What is a PhD Supervisor?

A PhD supervisor is an academic who to uses their expertise to support you with your project. They should have interest in your project and provide regular feedback on your work. Each person's supervision experience depends on their university, department, and personal preferences.

An advertised funded PhD will usually have a supervisor allocated. If you want to propose your own area of research, you will need to write a research proposal and find a supervisor.

Your supervisor will:

play an important role in your PhD. They should support you from starting your research to submission of your thesis
have responsibilities towards you and your project. They will meet to discuss your work
read drafts of your work
respond to emails and other forms of contact, though this might not be immediate
be an expert in your academic field. They will have recognised research experience, and relevant publications. They may have supervised other students working on related subjects

Your supervisor won’t be an expert in your exact topic. If they were, you couldn’t research it as an original PhD.

Some universities formalise these commitments in a research degree handbook. Other universities leave the specific details to the student and supervisor to arrange.

How to find a supervisor

Some universities have a database that you can search for supervisors. This can be helpful if you want to propose your own research topic.

Otherwise, your university may match you with a supervisor during your application assessment. Sometimes they will use a summary of your academic interests to match you to a supervisor.

It is possible to request supervision by a particular member of academic staff. Be aware that the university will consider this but may not accept your request. Carry out research to find a potential supervisor who matches your research area:

start by shortlisting of two to three potential supervisors
explore their research history
find out more by looking in the reference sections of academic text books
search for articles in research databases and academic blogs

You can check academics online profiles to find out about their doctoral supervision capacity:

If they are open to doctoral applications, you can contact them to see if they will supervise you.
when you contact your potential supervisor, explain your research interests.
show how you feel your research proposal matches their expertise

It may also be possible to study your PhD by distance learning. This would mean you’d learn online, and your supervisor meetings would be virtual.

Find out more about finding a supervisor below:

What to expect from a PhD supervisor
Choosing your PhD supervisor | Prospects.ac.uk

Postgraduate research

Apply to a research degree

Find out how and when to apply to a research degree at York (PhD, MPhil and MA/MSc by research). Discover what happens after you apply.

Top tip - apply early and make sure you check the funding deadlines. If you're an international student, it's best to apply at least three months prior to your intended start date to avoid any delays in applying for your accommodation and/or visa.

1. Identify a research area of interest

Read extensively around your subject and think about how you can best capitalise on your skills.

Find out whether our departments offer an advertised project which fits your interests. If you’re generating your own research project, seek guidance on its suitability and find out about funding opportunities.

Search courses
See all departments

2. Check the entry requirements

Typically you’ll need at least the equivalent to a UK upper second-class (2:1) honours degree and, in some cases, a Masters degree. Actual requirements vary by course.

See the entry requirements for your course
International applicants

If you're an international applicant, you may also need to consider some additional factors including:

English language requirements
Visa requirements , including how to get your Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS).

3. Contact a potential supervisor

Decide which academic to contact to discuss the research area you are interested in.

4. Check the application deadlines

In most cases, applications can be submitted year-round. However, we recommend that you apply as early as possible as some areas are particularly competitive.

Check the deadline for your course

5. Complete your application

Submit an online application. You don’t need to complete your application all at once: you can start it, save it and finish it later.

If you're applying to an advertised project make sure you follow the specific instructions.

Find your course and apply

Supporting documents

We’ll let you know which documents you need to supply at the start of your online application. This will include a research proposal. You can prepare in advance using our supporting documents guide .

Paper applications

You’ll receive a quicker response from us if you apply online. However, if you are unable to do so, you can submit a paper application .

6. After you apply

Find out what happens after you've applied , including how to:

Track your application
Upload additional supporting documents
Accept your offer

7. Apply for funding

You normally need to have received an offer before you apply for funding, so be sure you check the funding application deadlines . They usually fall between January and March.

UK Government loans : you may be entitled to a loan to help fund your research degree.

8. Get ready for your arrival

Now is the time to research your accommodation options and start planning for your arrival .

Admissions policy

We consider all applications in a fair, transparent and consistent way. Find out more about our admissions policy .

Got a question about applying to York? Email our friendly Admissions Team for advice and support.

If you've already applied to study at York please use You@York to upload any documents. Please do not email documents to us.

[email protected] +44 (0)1904 322142

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Postgraduate
Research degrees

Applying for a PhD

Considering applying for a PhD? Explore our advice below and see what sort of things you need to consider – from finding a supervisor to drafting a research proposal – we've got tips and advice to help you begin your PhD journey at Queen Mary.

One of the most important things to do before filling out an application is to find a good match with a supervisor or existing research group. Most Schools advise that you make contact with a supervisor via email before submitting an application. If you're applying for entry via a MRes programme, then this is not necessary.

To learn more about our PhD programmes, check entry requirements and find the applications forms, select your subject from the drop-down menu below.

If you applying to come as a visiting/associate student for part of your PhD, you need to apply via this page https://www.qmul.ac.uk/postgraduate/associate/

Step 1: Identify a research match

Before submitting an application, we encourage you to contact a potential supervisor via email. When you write to them, they will be looking for certain things to ensure you are a suitable PhD candidate and will consider the following:

Is the proposed project suitable for PhD study?
Do you have the academic strength to complete your project?
Can the project be completed within the required time?
Do they have the relevant knowledge to supervise your project?
Can the School/Institute support your project and do they have the facilities and resources?

If you cannot find the research area you are looking for, or have any queries about the application process, you can either contact the School or our fill out an enquiry form and our PhD team will be in touch.

Step 2: Review our entry requirements and funding

Entry requirements

Typically, the minimum entry requirement is an UK upper second class honours degree (2:1). Some Schools/Institutes require a first class honours degree and/or a masters degree. If your qualifications are not from a UK university, Queen Mary also considers recognised equivalent qualifications from accredited overseas institutions and equivalent professional qualifications. Relevant work experience may also be taken into account.

If English is not your first language, please check your programme's English language requirements . You do not need to meet this at the point of application. You may provide evidence of your English level at a later date.

Funding You should ensure that you have a realistic plan to secure sufficient funding to complete the research and writing-up process within the normal time period. This is usually three to four years for full-time programmes, and six to seven years for part-time programmes. Many of our PhD students are funded by Queen Mary or one of the Doctoral Training Programmes. Studentships cover your tuition fees and normally include an allowance towards living costs. Studentships are advertised on our School/Institute websites, our Postgraduate Research Studentships page , Jobs.ac.uk and Findaphd.com . Read more about PhD funding at Queen Mary.

Step 3: Prepare a research proposal

If you are applying for an advertised project, you may not need to submit a proposal. But if you are proposing your own project idea you will and this is a key part of your application.

Before submitting your application, it is likely that you will need to revise your proposal several times. Whilst your potential supervisor will help you do this, it is important that you present them with as clear a proposal as you can when you first make contact with them.

Tips for writing a strong research proposal include:

Formulate a precise, interesting research question; this may take the form of a hypothesis to be tested, or a more open-ended inquiry.
Establish the relevance and value of the proposed research question in the context of current academic thinking. Is there a knowledge gap?
Outline a clear and practical methodology which enables you to answer the research question, and to describe and evaluate any data or source material you will draw upon.
Suggest what you hope to discover at the end of your research and what new areas it might open up.
Demonstrate that your research will not take longer than three years.

Check the specific requirements (e.g. word count) on the School/Institute webpages.

Step 4: Gather your documents and apply online

To get to the online application form, select your research area from the list above. You will then be able to select an online application button specifically for your start date (e.g. Semester 1, September 2021).

Each application should include the following:

A completed application form
Transcripts for all higher education studies - this includes any undergraduate and postgraduate study
Proof of English language ability for overseas applicants from non-English speaking countries
Curriculum Vitae (CV)
Your research proposal
A one-side A4 statement of purpose. This should set out your previous academic or other experience relevant to the proposed research; why you wish to undertake this research at QMUL; your previous research or professional training and what further training you think you will need to complete a PhD; and what ethical issues you will need to consider in undertaking this research.
Two references. At least one reference must be from an academic referee who is in a position to comment on the standard of your academic work and suitability for postgraduate level study. Where appropriate, a second referee can provide comment on your professional experience.

Note: If you don't yet have your final degree certificates or proof of English then you can apply and upload these missing documents at a later date. Include all the information you can at the time of applying.

We will contact your referee(s) by email to supply a reference. However, a scanned colour copy of a reference provided on paper can also be provided either at the point of application or in response to the reference request email your referee will receive.

If your referee emails your reference to us we can only accept it if it is sent from a university or company email address (ie not Hotmail, Gmail etc). Paper reference forms should be endorsed by an appropriate official stamp or on institution/company letterhead. Alternatively, if your referee has agreed to provide an open reference letter, you can scan this and upload it in the upload document section of the online form.

What about international applicants? International applicants are welcome to contact one of our authorised local representatives if they feel they need assistance in submitting their PhD application. Our representatives can help you apply, ensuring you submit all of the requisite documents whilst also supporting you through the immigration process. To find your local Queen Mary representative, see our country/region specific information .

Step 5: What happens next?

Once processed, the School/Institute may get in touch with you directly to discuss your application and arrange an interview. Those not short-listed for interview will receive a rejection message via the applicant portal.

The entire process from the submission of your application, to an invitation to discuss further, interview or decision, typically takes between six to eight weeks. But if you applying for advertised funding, this Schools will not look at your applications until the deadline has passed. If you need a decision by a given deadline in order to apply for external funding, please make this clear in your application.

Admissions Policy

You can download and read our Admissions Policies on the Policyzone.

Can I apply for more than one programme of study? You may apply for a maximum of two taught programmes or one taught and one research programme at QMUL. If you are applying online, you will need to submit two applications. Please note: although you may apply for two programmes, under QMUL regulations you can only study for one qualification at a time. If you receive offers for both programmes, you will be required to accept one and decline the other.

Is there a deadline for receipt of applications? There is no fixed closing date for applications but you should remember that decisions on applications will be made as quickly as possible. Students seeking financial support from Research Councils or other award giving bodies are asked to apply as early as possible and make it clear in their application the Research Council deadline. Additionally students applying for QMUL Studentships are reminded that their applications must be in line with Research Degrees Office deadlines. Please see our Postgraduate Research Studentship page and Postgraduate Research Deadlines page .

Is there an application fee? No, QMUL does not charge an application fee.

Is my qualification recognised? Our International Office has a list of countries/regions for which we have published admissions information online. Please see our international students section. Alternatively we use UKNARIC to check the equivalency of international and European qualifications: www.naric.org.uk What happens after I submit my form? All complete applications will be considered by Admissions Tutors. Providing you have included all the required documentation, we aim to inform you of a decision on your application within six to eight weeks of receipt. Please note this can vary during peak application times (January – April).

Where can I find out more about English language requirements? Read more about our English language requirements page .

Is there any help for applicants with disabilities? Queen Mary University of London has a dedicated Disability and Dyslexia Service which offers advice, support and guidance for disabled students, including those with mental health difficulties and specific learning difficulties (eg dyslexia), from the point of application through to graduation. This advice covers issues such as agreeing to the provision of reasonable adjustments, as well as accessing external sources of funding and support, such as the Disabled Student’s Allowance. Our Disability and Dyslexia Service is represented at the various open days held across the year, but if you would like to discuss any aspects of support, you can contact the service at any time to request an appointment, either in person or over the phone. Fill out our online form or contact us on the details below: Web: www.dds.qmul.ac.uk Tel: +44(0) 207 882 2756 Email: [email protected]

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Application process

Applying for a phd, introduction.

Known as a research degree, the PhD is usually a four year (full-time) or five to seven year (part-time) course of independent and original research which is supervised by an academic specialist in the subject area.

You will contribute new research in the form of a thesis suitable for publication which is usually around 100,000 words. It is examined by two examiners, one internal and one external who read your work and then ask you to defend it in an oral exam, the viva voce.

PhDs are traditionally research based, although the integrated PhDs, also known as New Route PhDs, combine research with more vocational training. Increasingly taught courses are compulsory in the first year.

Professional doctorates are useful for students interested in careers outside academia and consist of a taught core and incorporate both professional practice and academic knowledge. They are available in education (EdD), engineering (EngD or DEng) and business (DBA).

Why do a PhD?

People complete PhDs for a variety of reasons:

love of a particular part of their subject

springboard into a new career

access to excellent resources/training useful for non-academic careers

as a pre-requisite for academic careers.

As well as planning then conducting research and writing the thesis, PhD students will often teach undergraduate or master’s students, support more senior academics in their research work, publish articles, attend and present at conferences, work with business or other organisations to explore the value of their research in other fields outside academia (impact), collaborate with organisations or individuals (knowledge exchange) and contribute to their field in voluntary capacity (for example, as a reviewer, event organiser, network co-ordinator).

When can I do a PhD?

You can do a PhD if you have at least an Upper Second relevant first degree or a relevant master’s. You must have in-depth knowledge of your subject area and be able to present a comprehensive research proposal. Some people start the PhD straight after completing a master’s, other people work outside academia for a few years and then apply for the PhD.

Before starting a PhD you could apply for a job as a graduate research assistant where you would support the research of an academic in your department, teach, take part in laboratory work and complete your own research. You could also consider completing a PhD part-time whilst in a job.

Researching into PhDs

Choosing the right programme takes time and research. It is important to apply to departments that specialise in your topic. Check the research quality assessed in the Research Excellence Framework (REF 2014) and also the quality of the teaching in the department via the Teaching Excellence Framework (TEF) ratings.

Talk to people who know the field about where they recommend is a good place to study.

You can apply in one of two ways. You create the topic yourself, pitch it at your preferred institution in a Research Proposal and hope to gain funding via the institution. Alternatively, you can apply to work on a topic which has been agreed between a funding council and an institution and then advertised as a PhD position. If you are accepted funding will be assured.

We recommend you take time to:

ask for help from a current or recent academic tutor

think about the people whose work you like, or who you read regularly, look at their department

speak to the PhD administrator in departments that you think interest you

use information on Find a PhD

book on to a LSE Careers further study event

talk through your options with a careers consultant

use the LSE Careers blog , So you’re thinking about a PhD? 5 tips for prospective PhDs .

Making an application

Read the LSE guidance on applying for a PhD .

You will need to write a research proposal, personal statement and have a CV.

The referees you choose are important as they will write about your academic achievements and potential. Get in touch with them early and ask for their advice too.

Search programmes with spaces at LSE .

Useful publications in the LSE Careers physical library

Your PhD Companion, Stephen Marshall and Nick Green, 2004.

The PhD Application Handbook, Peter Bentley, 2006.

How To Get a PhD: third edition, Estelle Phillips and Derek Pugh, 2001.

Useful online information

Prospects.ac.uk: postgraduate study and research .

Find a PhD .

The Fulbright Commission for applications and funding in the USA.

Watch our latest session on thinking about doing a phd, explore our further study events, book a one-to-one appointment to discuss your application.

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5 routes to getting a Doctorate

While most of those studying for a PhD take the PhD by thesis pathway, there are five viable routes to achieving a Doctorate degree

PhD by thesis

This is the most common means of getting a Doctorate degree. Over the three or four years of research at university, your PhD supervisor will support you as you aim to produce a thesis based on your research proposal .

A thesis is typically 60,000-90,000 words in length - although this can vary between institutions. For instance, the University of Glasgow's College of Social Sciences expects a thesis to be 70,000-100,000 words including references, bibliography and appendices, while the University of Cambridge has set an upper limit of 80,000 words.

Once completed, you'll need to defend your PhD thesis in front of a panel of examiners during your viva voce .

PhD by publication

This route involves submitting previously published work - such as books, book chapters and journal articles, which together form a coherent body of work and show evidence of an original contribution to a particular field of study.

It's often taken by mid-career academics that haven't had the opportunity to undertake a standard Doctorate degree.

Generally, a minimum of five to eight published pieces are required, but this varies between institutions and depends on their length. The published work will be assessed to the same rigorous standards as a traditional PhD by thesis.

You must also provide a written supporting statement, which can range from 5,000 to 20,000 words, and present your work to an academic committee. A supervisor will assist you with selecting which publications to submit and with the supporting statement.

Some universities accept only their own graduates for a PhD by publication, while others restrict this route to their academic staff. In general, you should have graduated from your first degree at least seven years ago to be eligible.

For example, The University of Manchester has published its own Guidance for the PhD By Published Work , with eligibility only extending to current members of staff.

Professional Doctorate

Geared primarily towards current professionals in vocational sectors such as healthcare , teaching and education , and engineering and manufacturing , this type of Doctorate degree includes a significant taught component and a smaller research project.

Professional Doctorates are often taken on a part-time basis and can last between two and eight years. Like their standard PhD counterparts, they usually begin in October or January.

While you won't typically be looking to get an academic job , your research is expected to contribute to theory as well as professional practice. Projects often revolve around a real-life issue that affects your employer.

Several professional Doctorates, such as the Doctorate in Clinical Psychology (DClinPsy), are accredited by a professional body - for instance, the Health & Care Professions Council (HCPC) and The British Psychological Society (BPS) - and may also lead to a professional qualification .

Common titles for graduates of professional Doctorate degrees include:

Doctor of Business Administration (DBA)
Doctor of Education (EdD)
Doctor of Engineering (EngD)
Doctor of Medicine (MD).

Unlike many professional Doctorates, the EngD is typically offered as a full-time course and is aimed at young engineering graduates with little or no professional experience.

Explore what's currently available at Find a Professional Doctorate .

Integrated PhD

This four-year qualification, also known as the New Route PhD, involves studying a one-year research Masters degree (MRes) before progressing onto a three-year PhD.

Offered by a select number of universities across the UK, integrated PhDs are supported by the government and the British Council through UK Research and Innovation (UKRI) . Visit Research Council funding for further information on research and funding for different types of PhD.

The integrated PhD involves a combination of taught materials, practical experience and advanced research. This allows you to learn subject-specific methodologies, while building the transferable skills that will enable you to become a leader in your chosen profession.

Institutions can also develop personalised integrated PhD programmes to meet each student's needs. For example, universities may offer you the opportunity to gain a postgraduate certificate (PGCert) in Learning and Teaching in Higher Education - perfect if you're considering a career as a higher education lecturer .

As PhDs are based primarily on independent research rather than time spent in lectures and seminars, distance learning has always been a viable route for many Doctoral students.

PhDs by distance learning offered by course providers such as The Open University are therefore a good option to consider if you've got family or work commitments or are an international student - as this gives you the chance to undertake Doctoral research without having to live close to your chosen institution. It's also a suitable mode of study if your subject requires you to be based in a specific location away from the university.

For the most part, you'll be in touch with your supervisor by phone, email or Skype/Zoom. You'll need to bear in mind that even if you opt for this form of research, you'll generally still need to attend university for one or two weeks of each academic year for meetings and to receive research skills training. Your final examination may be undertaken either face-to-face or virtually.

With online PhDs, you can usually register as a full or part-time student. The level of fees you pay varies between institutions - some charge the same as for a standard PhD while others offer a reduced rate.

Check that any funding you plan to apply for is available to distance learning students, as this isn't always the case.

Search for distance learning PhDs .

Find out more

Explore what is a PhD?
Sort out funding for postgraduate study .
Consider what to do after completing your PhD .

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Choose start date: Start date: September 2024 Duration: Five to six years Deadline: Applications are now closed Fee: Fully funded Location: London, UK Funding and scholarships Career impact

Applying for the Doctoral programme

Are you ready to ignite your extraordinary potential within a forward-thinking Business School? At Imperial we take a holistic approach to admissions, attracting a diverse range of individuals with varied backgrounds to foster an enriching learning experience. Looking beyond your professional qualifications, we also consider who you are, what motivates you and how you collaborate with others.

How to apply

Who are we looking for?

At Imperial, we are looking for well-rounded candidates with the aptitude and ambition to thrive in our PhD programmes and make a global impact as future leaders of business and society.

Entry requirements

Academic achievement.

A PhD at Imperial College London is a demanding academic qualification. We therefore look for evidence of strong and consistent academic performance and expect applicants to have high grades at undergraduate and Master’s level, including a strong dissertation.

From graduates of UK institutions, this would normally equate to a combination of at least an Upper Second Class Honours degree at undergraduate level and a Master’s degree awarded with Merit or Distinction. Please see the College Country index for the international equivalent of these qualifications, though please bear in mind that the Business School may ask for higher grades than the College minimum.

In exceptional circumstances, we will consider candidates holding a strong First Class Honours undergraduate degree, without a Master’s, if accompanied by very strong academic references and outstanding CV and personal statement.

For general enquiries, please contact us at [email protected]

What to expect – pre-requisite knowledge and training

As a PhD graduate of Imperial College Business School, you will be expected to have a solid foundation in quantitative research methods, understand the breadth of your research area and have in depth knowledge of your specific field demonstrated through your own original research. Graduates who are working in primarily qualitative fields are still expected to undertake core quantitative methods training.

To be able to succeed in the formal courses, as a minimum, you should have knowledge of:

Topics include functions, limits and continuity, differentiation, applications of the derivative, curve sketching, and integration theory, methods of integration, applications of the integral, Taylor’s theorem, infinite sequences and series.

Matrix Theory/Linear Algebra

Topics include matrix algebra, systems of linear equations, determinants, vector algebra and geometry, eigenvalues, eigenvectors, vector spaces, subspaces, bases, and dimension, linear transformations, representation by matrices, nullity, rank, diagonalization, inner products, adjoints, unitary, and orthogonal transformations.

Topics include fundamentals of probability theory, confidence intervals, and tests of hypothesis for normal distributions, one- and two-sample tests and associated confidence intervals for means and proportions, analysis of variance, F-tests, correlation, regression, contingency tables, and statistical analysis using the computer.

Data analysis and programming

During your courses and research, you will use a variety of analysis tools and programming languages, including R, STATA, MATLAB, Python – applicants who are not confident with programming should learn before enrolling. There are many open online courses available that make it feasible to learn. This Data School web page gives a good round up of some available resources as a starting point.

Statement of purpose

One of the most important parts of our application form is the Statement of Purpose section. Although you are not expected to have your whole thesis planned at this stage, it is important to articulate your knowledge and ideas. It should include the following:

Your motivation for undertaking the MRes and PhD
A discussion of possible research areas that you might pursue
Business School faculty you have identified that align with your research interests
What interests you most about your chosen field of study

Relevant past study or research projects – in particular those completed with faculty

GMAT or GRE requirement

A GMAT or GRE score is a compulsory requirement to be considered for entry into the Doctoral programme at Imperial College Business School. This GMAT/GRE score must be submitted before we will consider an application. Please note that we do not make offers on the condition that a candidate achieves a satisfactory GMAT/GRE score.

There are only a few test dates per year in some countries or testing centres. It is highly recommended that applicants arrange a GMAT or GRE test at the earliest possible opportunity to ensure that they can submit a timely application.

To locate your nearest GMAT test centre, visit www.mba.com or for your nearest GRE test centre visit www.ets.org/gre/ . Our GRE code is 0121.

Preferred scores

No preference between GRE and GMAT:

Innovation and Entrepreneurship

Strategy & Organisational Behaviour

GRE preferred:

Economics & Public Policy

All applicants are free to take either test and we understand that there are some countries where only one of these tests is available.

We expect applicants to have obtained strong scores across all elements of the exam. We consider strong scores to be in the 90th percentile or higher in either test.

For the GMAT Exam , our preferred total score is 700 or above. From the different test elements, scores in the 90th percentile roughly equate to: 50/60 in quantitative reasoning, 39/60 in verbal reasoning, 6/6 in analytical writing and 8/8 in integrated reasoning.

We also accept the GMAT Focus Edition (available from 7 November 2023). If taking this test, our preferred total score is 655 or above. We would also be looking to see scores in the 90th percentile in the Data Insights, Verbal Reasoning and Quantitative Reasoning components. Scores are valid for five years from your appointment date.

From the different test elements, scores in the 90th percentile roughly equate to: 165/170 in quantitative reasoning, 163/170 in verbal reasoning and 5/6 in analytical writing.

English language requirement

All Doctoral students must meet our English language entry requirements. If you have a degree taught in English within the following countries, you meet the English requirement automatically: Australia, Canada, Guyana, Ireland, New Zealand, South Africa, United Kingdom, United States of America, West Indies. This applies only to degrees that were studied entirely and awarded in the relevant country.

For all other applicants, a full list of acceptable English language qualifications and our required scores can be found on our detailed English language requirement page .

Most applicants meet the requirement in one of the following ways:

IELTS (academic): A minimum score of 7.0 with minimum scores of 6.5 in all elements. The IELTS indicator test will be accepted for admissions to the 2023/24 academic year.

TOEFL iBT: A minimum score of 100 overall with minimum scores of 22 in all elements. The ETS at Home test will be accepted for admission to the 2023/24 academic year.

Duolingo English Test: 125 Overall with no less than 115 in any band score.
IELTS, TOEFL and Duolingo scores are only valid if they are less than two years old on the programme start date
TOEFL: You must meet the entry requirement in one test from your scaled scores ( ‘My Best Scores’ reported by TOEFL will not be considered ). For more information regarding TOEFL please visit the ETS website . Please note if you would like ETS to send your TOEFL scores directly to the College, our TOEFL Institution Code is 0891.

You may submit your online application prior to meeting the English language requirement.

Start your application

Applications are made through our online application system, which gives you the flexibility to complete your application in your own time and save your progress. The form includes questions about you and your educational history to date.

If you wish to be considered for the Doctoral programme, please follow the steps below:

Start a new application and search for “Business”. Select either Business (MRes 1YFT) or (MRes 2YFT) depending on which pathway you wish to apply for.
Applicants applying for the Marketing or Analytics and Operations pathways will need to select Business (MRes 1YFT). Applicants applying for the Economics and Public Policy, Finance, Strategy and Organisational Behaviour or Innovation and Entrepreneurship pathways will need to choose Business (MRes 2YFT). You must only select Business [LISS DTP 1+3] (MRes 1YFT) if you are also planning on completing a LISS Case for Support.
Once you have chosen either the Business (MRes 1YFT) or Business (MRes 2YFT) programme, you will need to select which pathway you wish to be considered for based on your research area of interest.
You will also need to provide a brief outline of your primary research interest and indicate a potential supervisor.

Submit your supporting documents

Once you have submitted your application form, you will need to upload the following supporting information to complete your application in time for the application deadline you want to be considered by.

Current resume/CV
Complete degree transcripts
Contact details of two academic referees
GMAT/GRE test scores: you should have sat and have a valid test score that meets our requirements at the point of entry
Evidence of English language qualification

It’s essential we receive your supporting documents and reference information before midnight (UK time) on Monday 8 January 2024. Until we have received all the necessary documents, your application will not be complete and will not be processed.

Once the following information is uploaded, the Doctoral Admissions Team will assess your application and you will be contacted if any additional documents are required. Complete applications will then be considered by the Academic Selection Committee. Applications submitted without a GMAT or GRE score or without references will be considered incomplete and will not be considered.

If you are shortlisted by the Academic Selection Committee, you will be invited to an interview with a panel of faculty before a final decision is made. In the case of overseas candidates, we will arrange an interview by telephone or via Skype.

Shortlisted candidates will normally be invited to interview by Friday 1 March 2024 at the latest.

Admissions decision

You will be notified of your application result by email as soon as possible after your interview. Following this, you will receive official notification via your Imperial Gateway account from the College Registry team. If you have been granted a place on the programme the official offer notification will let you know of any conditions that you need to complete to take up your place.

If you have any further questions about the application process, please see our FAQs.

Start your Doctoral journey today

Key dates and deadlines.

Applications for 2024 are now closed. Sign up to our mailing list to receive updates.

Funding your PhD

We offer a funded Doctoral programme at the Business School. This includes a full tuition fee waiver (Home/EU or Overseas fees) plus a living stipend for up to five years through the Business School Graduate Teaching Assistant Scholarship. Funding for a sixth year can be considered on a case-by-case basis, with the potential to undertake a teaching or research assistant studentship with one of the Business Schools research centres.

Some of our scholarship funding comes from EPSRC and ESRC for candidates who meet Research Councils UK’s academic and residential eligibility conditions. During the MRes you will have a discussion with our team to find out whether you are eligible to move onto any of these awards.

Funding and scholarships

The fees for both UK and international students are the same.  

Frequently asked questions

How do i apply and what documents do i need to submit with my application.

All applications to the Doctoral programme are made via our online platform. You will either need to select 'Business (MRes 1YFT)' or 'Business (MRes 2YFT)' based on your research area of interest. Further information can be found on our Doctoral programme page .

Please refer to the 'How to apply' section of this page to see application deadlines, what documents you are required to submit with your application and to view the selection process.

When is the application deadline?

To find out more about application deadlines for our Doctoral programme please visit the 'How to apply' section of this page.

What do I need to include in my statement of purpose?

One of the most important parts of our application form is the ‘statement of purpose’ section. It should be no more than one or two A4 pages and should cover the following points:

Your motivation for undertaking the programme
A discussion of possible research areas that you might pursue and how these are a good fit for Imperial College Business School
Relevant past study, industry, or research projects

Long-term career goals

I haven’t decided what area I want to specialise in for my PhD, what should I do?

You should browse the description of the different research groups in the Business School and the webpages of faculty members. This will give an overview of their research interests and current projects. The MRes gives you an opportunity to pursue potential interests through courses and a project prior to committing to the PhD.

Do I need a willing supervisor prior to application?

No, although in your application you should list a member of faculty you have identified as a potential supervisor. You can demonstrate in your statement of purpose how your research interests are aligned to a potential supervisor and the Business School.

Checking the research profiles of faculty members and Business School projects will give you an indication of whether the Business School is a good fit for you. If no faculty are working in your area of interest it is unlikely that you would be shortlisted, as we may not be able to provide supervisory support during your PhD.

During the MRes year, you will become part of the research community at Imperial College Business School and interact with faculty and other PhD students during taught courses and at seminars, which we hope will influence and help shape your research ideas for the PhD.

Are all applicants interviewed?

Not all applications progress to the interview stage of the selection process, however we interview all shortlisted candidates before making an offer. In the case of overseas candidates we will arrange an interview by telephone or via Skype.

Is GMAT/GRE a compulsory requirement?

Yes. A GMAT/GRE score must be submitted before we will consider an application. Any applications submitted without a GMAT/GRE score will be considered incomplete until we receive a score. Please note that we do not make offers on the condition that a candidate achieves a satisfactory GMAT/GRE score.

Do you offer Doctoral funding and stipend?

We offer a fully funded Doctoral programme at Imperial College Business School – this includes a tuition fee waiver and a stipend for up to five years. The 2024-25 rate of the Graduate Teaching Assistant scholarship stipend is £25,000. Rates are reviewed annually and are expected to increase for 2025-26 in line with Research Council UK rates. Stipends are tax-free and the continuation of the stipend will depend on your satisfactory progress on the programme.

What living costs should I allow for in London?

Living costs vary considerably depending on the area of London you choose to live in and your choice of accommodation.

Read more about estimated London living costs and accommodation for postgraduates .

Do you offer Doctoral scholarships?

Within Imperial, we also have funding opportunities from various external studentships, including EPSRC, ESRC, and the Imperial College President’s PhD Scholarships .

Students who are eligible for other PhD funding opportunities that may be available to them are expected to apply for them.

How long does it take to complete the Doctoral Programme?

The Doctoral programme is structured to take between four to six years full-time. In the first year, all students undertake a one or two year MRes programme depending on their chosen research area specialism. Subject to satisfactory academic progress, students then progress to the PhD which takes between 3-4 years.

When does the academic year start?

The Doctoral programme has one intake each year in September and is spread over four to six years.

Do you offer any distance learning or part-time research programmes?

It is not possible to enrol on the Doctoral programme on a part-time or distance learning basis. Students must be in attendance throughout the full period of study.

Can I transfer from my current Doctoral programme to Imperial College Business School's Doctoral programme?

It is not usually possible to transfer onto the Doctoral programme as it is unlikely that previous studies would perfectly overlap with the School’s expertise.

Can I come to Imperial College Business School as a visiting student?

Imperial College Business School does not accept visiting student applications. On rare occasions students are invited to visit by an academic and are dealt with individually.

Can I have a part-time job whilst enrolled in the programme?

The Doctoral programme is full time. Students are able to undertake part-time work if this does not break any relevant visa and/or scholarship conditions, however the programme offers a living stipend to support students during their studies.

How many students do you accept onto the Doctoral programme every year?

Admission onto the Doctoral programme is highly competitive as we accept around 15 students each year, from a total of approximately 200 applications.

Is there a workspace assigned to Doctoral students?

There is a designated workspace which includes a computer and relevant software assigned to all enrolled Doctoral students. You will share working space with other PhD students in your cohort.

When will I receive my official offer?

When the Business School recommends an offer, the College Registry team will perform a final review of your application to make sure that all College entry requirements are met before making an official offer. This process can take up to three weeks from Business School recommendation.

Do I need to pay a deposit to secure my place?

No. This is not required as all places on the Doctoral Programme come with full funding.

How do I show that I’ve met the academic condition of my offer?

You will receive an email detailing what you are required to submit and where you need to submit relevant documents.

How do I show that I’ve met the English language condition of my offer?

IELTS and TOEFL certificates should be scanned and emailed to [email protected] . If you have not yet received your certificates, you can email your IELTS Test Report Number or TOEFL 16 digit registration number to the Registry team.

If you have completed the Pearson Test of Academic English, please ensure you have sent your scores to Imperial via your PearsonPTE account.

If you have completed another one of Imperial’s accepted English language qualifications, you will need to post the original, physical document to the Registry team to support this qualification. You will receive an email with more information and the address that the document will need to be posted to.

How do I find the Business School?

The Business School is located on the South Kensington Campus of Imperial College London.

“The programme structure is different from many other business schools because during the first year at Imperial we study the Master’s of Research (MRes), which is focused on developing strong foundations before continuing to the PhD programme. This also gives us additional time to discover opportunities and find the right paths for our research. ”

The programme

Funding and scholarships, career impact, attend an event.

Postgraduate study
Applying essentials – PhD study

How to apply – PhD study

You can apply for postgraduate research using our Postgraduate Online Application Form:

Postgraduate Online Application Form

The form has comprehensive instructions for you to follow, and pop-up help is available on each page.

Medicine graduates

If you are a graduate in Medicine and wish to apply for an MD research degree, you'll need to apply via a different route. To make an MD research application, please visit the Medical School webpages:

Medical School

Completing your application

The form is divided into two parts. Part 1 is for personal information, including English language ability, and previous education and employment. You have to complete all of the mandatory fields in this part (marked with a *) before you can go on to Part 2. Part 2 is where you select the course or courses you want to apply for. You can apply for a total of three different postgraduate courses.

Supporting documents

You'll need to include certain documents to support your application, for example evidence of your previous qualifications and a personal statement. You can supply these simply by uploading them to the relevant sections of your online application.

You can find more information about the supporting documents you'll need, and how to supply them, on our Supporting Documents webpage:

Submitting your application

Your application will only be submitted to us when you click the 'Submit Application' button. If you've forgotten to fill in any sections, you'll be prompted to go back and complete them at this stage. When you've successfully submitted the completed form, we'll confirm this on-screen. We'll also send you an email confirmation.

If you want to apply for more than one course, you don't need to submit them all at the same time. Each course choice has its own 'Submit Application' button.

If you have any problems completing your online application, please contact us:

Contacts for prospective students

See our key dates webpage for application deadlines:

Deadlines for postgraduate courses

After you've applied

When we've created your applicant record, we'll send you a second email to confirm this. This email will include your applicant and choice numbers, as well as information about what happens next.

You can find more information about what happens after you submit your application, and about preparing to study at the University of Sheffield, on the After You Apply webpage:

After you apply

Ask a question

Start a conversation with us

Related information

Applying Essentials

Search for PhD opportunities at Sheffield and be part of our world-leading research.

Studying medicine
How to apply to medical school in the UK
Entry requirements for 2024 start

Medical school entry requirements for 2024 start

Standard Entry Medicine
Graduate Entry Medicine
Medicine with a Preliminary Year
Medicine with a Gateway Year

Select a course type above then use the filters below to learn about the courses. This information is provided directly by the medical schools but can change. Always confirm the information on medical schools’ websites. You can see when this information was last updated under the name of each course.

This information relates to entry requirements for entry into medical school in Autumn 2024, with UCAS applications to be submitted by 16 October 2023.

A PDF version of this information can be downloaded here: Entry requirements for UK medical schools: 2024 entry.

Competition ratios

Degree (graduate applicants), a levels and scottish highers, gcses and scottish nationals, international baccalaureate, access to he diplomas, admissions test, personal statement, interview method, work experience, widening participation, contextual admissions, additional information, university of aberdeen medical school, mbchb medicine (a100).

Last updated: June 2023

Number of applicants per interview: Home: 2 | International: 3

Number of applicants per place: Home: 6 | International: 19

Graduates must hold at least an upper second class honours (2:1 Hons degree) or equivalent. Chemistry to at least B grade in Scottish Higher or B grade in GCE A-Level examinations is required also, although this requirement may be satisfied in individual cases by appropriate courses of study and achievement during the first degree.

A levels - AAA including Chemistry and one from Biology, Maths or Physics, and one other subject

S5 - AAAAB in Chemistry and two of Maths, Biology/Human Biology or Physics plus two other subjects. S6 - BBB at Higher/Advanced Higher

36 points. Three subjects at Higher level at grade 6 or higher including Chemistry and one of either Biology, Physics or Maths. Three appropriate subjects at standard level with average grade 6 including one science if three not offered at Higher level.

GCSE Grade 6 passes in English Language and Maths are required. Biology is recommended; Physics is recommended (or Dual Award Science) A combination of Grade 6-9 passes at GCSE is expected, especially in science subjects.

National 5s: English and Maths are required (Grade B minimum); Biology and Physics are recommended but not compulsory (Grade B minimum). A combination of Grade A & B passes at Standard Grade / National 5 is expected, especially in science subjects.

Access to Medicine Higher Education Courses that are approved by AQA

All Personal Statements will be reviewed prior to interview invites being sent out. If candidates are invited to interview, their Personal Statement will be assessed during the interview.

Multiple mini-interviews

Candidates may draw from their work experience to answer questions at the MMI.

We consider a range of criteria for widening participation such as your home postcode, whether you are a carer or care experienced and we support applicants enrolled on the REACH program . See website for details.

See website for details.

Anglia Ruskin University School of Medicine

Mb chb primary medical qualification (a100).

Number of applicants per interview: Home: 3

Number of applicants per place: Home: 15

Minimum 2:1 honours degree awarded within the last five years. The degree must be in a biological, biomedical, chemistry or health science subject.

AAA at A Level taken within two academic years prior to the time of application, to include Chemistry or Biology and one of either Biology, Chemistry, Maths or Physics. For the third A Level*, please note that we do not accept General Studies and Critical Thinking. For Biology, Chemistry and Physics A Levels, we require a pass in the practical element. Applicants who meet the criteria of our Widening Access to Medicine Scheme are eligible for a lower entry requirement of ABB.

Advanced Highers: ABB from Scottish Advanced Highers with grades AB to come from Biology and/or Chemistry and another science subject.

Highers: AAAAA at Higher Grade including Biology and/or Chemistry and another science subject. We also require National 5 Grade B or above or GCSE grade B (5) or above in English Language, two science subjects and Maths.

A minimum of 36 points is accepted. 666 at Higher Level in Biology and/or Chemistry plus one other science and including Mathematics or English.

GCSEs: A minimum of 5 GCSEs at grade A*-B (9-6) required including English Language, Maths and two science subjects. Scottish Nationals: Grade 5 or above in English Language, two science subjects and Maths.

We currently accept any QAA accredited Access to Higher Education Diploma (Medicine) qualification.

We do not weight the personal statement in the selection process, but applicants should be prepared to discuss or use aspects of the statement at interview.

It is desirable for applicants to have undertaken work experience in the healthcare sector, whether that be shadowing, volunteering, paid-work or observing.

Applicants who meet the criteria of our Widening Access to Medicine Scheme will, if successful at interview, be eligible to receive an offer based on grades ABB rather than the usual AAA grades. See website for details .

Aston University Medical School

Mb chb medicine (a100).

For graduate applicants, normally a minimum of an upper second class Honours degree (2:1) in any discipline plus three A Levels at grades ABB to include Chemistry and Biology with either at grade A. The university degree must be from a recognised UK or UK ENIC approved university. In addition, applicants will normally be required to have the same GCSE requirements as other applicants.

A Level: A*AA which must include Chemistry and Biology (including passing the practical elements). Scottish Advanced Highers: AAA to include Chemistry and Biology.

Normally applicants are required to have a minimum of six grade 6 (B) at GCSEs, or equivalent for international qualifications. Compulsory subjects are Maths, English Language, Chemistry, Biology or Double Science.

37 overall where applicants must have 7,6,6 at Higher Level consisting of 7 in Chemistry or Biology, 6 in Chemistry or Biology and 6 in another subject and the remaining from Standard Level subjects and Core.

All personal statements are read but not scored or used in ranking of applicants.

Multiple Mini Interviews

We do not require applicants to have healthcare related work experience but do expect them to have some exposure to a work place. Clinical work experience is not a requirement to apply for this course however, applicants are expected to have knowledge of studying and practising medicine.

In keeping with our vision of being a socially inclusive medical school, we aim to offer up to 40 per cent of our UK places to students who meet specified widening participation criteria. See website for details.

Bangor Universit y, North Wales Medical School

Bmbs medicine (a100).

Last updated: September 2023

If you are a graduate applicant, you must have or be working towards a 2:1 (Hons) in your degree and have BBB/ABC at A-level (or equivalent), including subject requirements and meet the minimum GCSE requirements (or equivalent qualifications). If you have completed an MSc / PhD, the minimum A-Level requirement is BBC and all other criteria listed for graduates must be met.

A Levels - AAA required. This must include Biology and an additional science from the list below:

Chemistry
Economics
Maths / Further Maths / Statistics

You will need to pass the science practical element of the A-Level if this is part of your programme of study.

Other non-standard subjects may not be accepted.

36 overall (excluding Theory of Knowledge and the Extended Essay) including 19 at Higher Level. Must include grade 6 in Biology and Chemistry. Grade 7 in SL Biology or Chemistry can be taken in place of Higher Level Biology or Chemistry if you also have grade 6 in HL Maths, Physics or Statistics.

English Language or Welsh Language at grade B/6 and,
Double Science at grades BB/66 (or grades B/6 in both Biology and Chemistry) and,
Maths grade B/6 and,
Five other GCSEs at grade B/6

You must demonstrate an awareness of the healthcare system in the UK and the nature of the medical training in your personal statement. If you are a first language Welsh speaker then please make this clear within your personal statement.

You must achieve UCAT prior to submitting your application. You must sit the UCAT in the year of application. We do not have a minimum threshold score; however, we will use UCAT scores as part of our selection process.

Should you be selected, you will be invited to attend an interview. We use the multiple mini interview (MMI) format, which is a series of short, carefully timed interview stations that you will rotate around in turn. All applicants must attend for interview if invited.

No specific requirements.

A contextual offer of AAB may be made to Welsh speaking students or those who meet our contextual offer requirements , which for the purpose of application to Medicine must also include having gained a Welsh Language (first language) GCSE qualification.

University of Birmingham School of Medicine

Mbchb medicine and surgery (a100).

Last updated: July 2023

Number of applicants per interview: Home: 2.2 | International: 5.35

Number of applicants per place: Home: 8.4 | International: 21.9

Achieved or predicted first or upper second class degree in any subject from a recognised institution. We expect that no more than five years will have elapsed between the most significant and relevant qualification and the start date of the course. If more than five years have elapsed since your degree, then your work since your degree will be considered.

The standard offer is A*AA at A-Level, including Biology/Human Biology and Chemistry. Applicants must be predicted a minimum of AAA. Contextual applicants may receive an alternative offer of AAA and those on a recognised widening-participation programme may receive an offer of ABB.

A total of seven GCSEs must be offered, and these will be used to calculate an applicant score (see website for details). The required subjects are: English Language at grade 6/B or higher (English Literature is not required but is one of the identified subjects that we will score); Mathematics (or one of Methods in Mathematics and Applications of Mathematics) at grade 6/B or higher; and Biology and Chemistry or dual award science at grade 6/B or higher.

Higher level: 7,6,6 from Chemistry and Biology and one other approved subject. A minimum of 32 points must be attained.

The personal statement is not scored but sufficient evidence of commitment to medicine must be described.

Relevant work experience (including voluntary roles and shadowing opportunities) can offer great insight of the complexities, demands and strategies of current healthcare practice and the benefits they obtain from caring for people and working in teams. However, we recognise that arranging, undertaking and effective reflection on face-to-face experiences requires a great deal of time and effort, and may not have been possible during the recent pandemic disruptions, so it is not mandatory.

Students who successfully complete a Pathways to Birmingham programme and apply to the University of Birmingham will receive special consideration from admissions tutors. For Year 12 programmes (e.g. Routes to the Profession), this includes the offer of a guaranteed place at interview.

If their application is successful, they will receive two offers from the University of Birmingham - the standard offer and a Pathways to Birmingham offer. The Pathways to Birmingham offer is currently three grades below the standard offer, as advertised in the prospectus (so currently ABB at A level). Students may also be eligible to receive the Pathways to Birmingham financial support. Birmingham Medical School is also part of the UKWPMED collaboration, offering recognition of the partner institutions' own widening-participation programmes.

This course offers contextual admissions. An application score is comprised of various elements including a contextual score based on school attended and POLAR4 quintile. The medical school considers the following contextual measures:

School's GCSE performance
School's A level performance
Care experienced

Brighton and Sussex Medical School

Bm bs medicine (a100).

2:1, in a science degree with GCSE Maths & English at grade 6 (B) and BBB at A level to include Biology and Chemistry.

A Level: AAA - Biology, Chemistry and one other (AAB with CD)

Scottish Highers: AAA to include Biology and Chemistry. Or pass Advanced Higher Biology and Chemistry with grades A with at least grades A in two additional Higher Subjects. English and Maths requirements: grades B or above in National 5s English and Maths.

36 points including Biology and Chemistry at Higher level at grade 6.

We require all applicants, without contextual data, to have obtained at least a grade 6/B in English (Language or Literature) and Maths GCSEs. For applicants with contextual data, we will accept English (Language or Literature) and Maths GCSEs at a grade 5/C. Please note we do not take any other GSCEs into consideration during our admissions process.

Scottish National 5s - English and Maths at grade B or above, or grade C for applicants meeting BSMS's contextual admissions criteria.

BSMS accepts the following Access to HE qualifications:

East Sussex College Access to Medicine and Dentistry Diploma
City and Islington Medicine & Medical Bio Sciences – Access to HE Diploma
College of West Anglia Access to Medicine and Dentistry
Distance Learning Centre's online Access to HE Diploma in Medicine

The personal statement is not used in any part of the selection process.

Multiple mini-interviews

Not required but must have suitable understanding of medicine.

University of Bristol Medical School

2:1 in first degree with ABB at A Level including A in Chemistry and B in one of Biology, Physics or Mathematics (or in equivalent level 3 qualifications). Any degree subject is accepted if applicants meet the above level 3 requirements.

AAA at A level including A in Chemistry and A in one of Biology, Physics or Maths.

AA at SQA Advanced Higher including A in Chemistry and A in one of Biology, Physics or Maths with with AAAAB in Scottish Highers.

36 points overall with 18 at Higher Level, including 6, 6 at Higher Level in Chemistry and one of Biology, Physics or Mathematics (either Analysis and Approaches or Applications and Interpretations)

Advanced numeracy requirement (7 or A in GCSE Mathematics or equivalent) and Standard literacy requirement (4 or C in GCSE English or equivalent).

Life Science, Medicine or Science. Must include a minimum of 15 level 3 credits in Chemistry and 15 level 3 credits in one of Biology, Physics or Mathematics.

We no longer use the personal statement as a weighted component of our selection criteria.

Multiple mini-interviews (online)

While not a requirement for the course, we encourage applicants to obtain a minimum of two weeks’ work experience. This enables the applicant to gain some insight into their potential vocation. Applicants may be asked to reflect on their work experience at interview.

This course offers contextual admissions. For applicants that are eligible for contextual admissions, this may result in a reduced predicted grade requirement for interview and a reduced academic grade offer (e.g. A levels, IB, Highers).

Brunel Medical School Currently only open to international students. It is our aim to open our admission to home (UK) students at the earliest opportunity.

Medicine mbbs (a100).

Upper second-class degree or equivalent in a subject relevant to Medicine. Applicants presenting university degree qualifications will be considered on a case-by-case basis.

AAB at A-Level to include Chemistry or Biology and a second science (chemistry, biology, physics) or maths and a third subject (not general studies) or international equivalent.

At least Grade B (5) in Maths and Grade C (4) in English Language or equivalent qualification.

36 points (including Theory of Knowledge and Extended Essay) and must include Higher Level 6 in either Chemistry or Biology and Higher Level 5 in Mathematics or in a second science (Chemistry, Biology, Physics).

The personal statement will be used as part of the selection process for the MBBS programme. The personal statement should be 750 words, please refer to our website to review what we are looking for.

Multiple Mini Interviews (Virtual)

Work experience, with dates: this should include a caring or service role, such as paid employment for a healthcare organisation, volunteering for a community organisation or caring for a family member. Focus on what you have gained from these activities in terms of your personal development and insights into a caring profession.

University of Buckingham Medical School AWAITING 2024 ENTRY UPDATES

Mb chb medicine (71a8).

Last updated: June 2022

For applicants offering a degree – they should have a Bachelor degree in a subject cognate to Medicine, and have or be predicted a minimum classification of 2.1.

ABB at A level including Chemistry and Biology.

BBB at Advanced Highers to include Chemistry and Biology.

In the specific case of the International Baccalaureate, they should be expected to achieve or to have achieved a total score of at least 34 points with Higher Level 6 in Chemistry & Biology. Please note that the overall point score does not include theory of knowledge or extended essay.

The medical school may consider all the information provided within a candidates application including academic qualifications, personal statement and references before a final decision is made to interview or offer a place on the course.

Multiple mini-interviews.

Not considered.

The University of Buckingham is a not-for-profit educational charity that receives no government subsidies. More information on fees. Please note the application deadline for this course is 31 August of each year. This course is 4.5 years and the term starts in January 2021.

University of Cambridge School of Clinical Medicine

Mb bchir medicine (a100).

Number of applicants per interview: Home: - | International: -

Number of applicants per place: Home: 6 | International: 20

Typical offers are A*A*A at A level, or A1A1A2 in Scottish Advanced Highers. On entry, applicants must have A level passes in Chemistry and at least one of Biology, Physics, Maths (two required by some colleges). Please note that the success rate for students offering three or more Science/Maths A levels has often been higher than for those without.

40–42 points, with 7,7,6 at Higher Level. On entry, applicants must have Higher Chemistry and at least one of Higher Biology, Physics, Maths (two required by some Colleges).

Personal statement is reviewed prior to interview but not scored.

Panel interview/s (usually two interviews lasting 25–30 minutes at one College).

To develop understanding of what a career in medicine involves and suitability for your intended profession, candidates are strongly advised (though not required) to undertake some relevant work experience (either paid or voluntary) in a health or related area. The medical school is not prescriptive about how this is obtained and recognises the widely differing opportunities available.

Contextual data is considered within the admissions process; relevant applications receive contextual flags based on individual, socio-economic and educational disadvantage. This information is fully considered as part of a holistic admissions process to aid in the fair assessment of applicants, but does not result in systematic lower grade offers. The university delivers a Medicine Summer School with the Sutton Trust, alongside a number of other subject-specific outreach interventions.

See website for more details.

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PhD Study in the UK
You may be able to get a PhD loan of up to £27,892 for a UK doctorate. Our guide explains eligibility, applications and repayments. Our guide explains the best ways to fund international PhD study in the UK, with information on all the main scholarships available to you.
PhD Education
English language. International applicants must provide one of the following: IELTS test minimum score - 7.0 overall, 7.0 in writing, 6.0 in other sections. TOEFL (internet based) test minimum score - 100 overall, 25 in all sections. Pearson Test of English (PTE) UKVI/SELT or PTE Academic minimum score - 76 overall, 76 in writing, 70 in other ...
Entry requirements for UK applicants : How to apply for a PhD
Specific entry requirements for UK students. You must also meet our specific entry requirements for each research programme. These are listed with each PhD degree. Check: the grade required for your PhD; if you need to have a Masters qualification.
How to apply for a PhD in the UK
Each PhD will have specific entry requirements and you will also need to meet a university's general entry requirements. This may be an upper second-class undergraduate honours degree (2:1) or an equivalent international qualification. For some PhDs you may need a master's qualification, and you may be asked to attend an interview.
PhD
A PhD (Doctor of Philosophy) is the most common type of doctoral degree and the highest level of academic qualification you can achieve. It normally takes between three and four years of full-time work to complete. It is also possible to undertake a PhD part time, over five to six years. The main activity of a PhD is to carry out an original ...
PhD Education (2024 entry)
Full entry requirements. How to apply. Apply online. Please ensure you include all required supporting documents at the time of submission, ... PhD (full-time) UK students (per annum): £6,000 International, including EU, students (per annum): £21,500 PhD (part-time)
Doctor of Philosophy (PhD)
In most faculties, a candidate is expected to have completed one year of postgraduate study, normally on a research preparation master's course, prior to starting a PhD. Completion normally requires three or four years of full-time study, or at least five years of part-time study, including a probationary period.
How to apply for a PhD : PhD : Study with us : University of Sussex
Find out more about our PhD degrees. Check our entry requirements. Our specific entry requirements are listed with each PhD degree. You also need to meet our general entry requirements, usually an upper second-class undergraduate honours degree (2:1) or equivalent international qualification. You may also be required to have a Masters ...
Finding and Applying for a PhD
Entry requirements . Each PhD will have specific entry requirements. Applicants should always check the specific entry requirements online before applying. You will usually need at least an upper second-class undergraduate honours degree (2:1). International students will need an equivalent international qualification.
Applying
Check the deadline for your course. 5. Complete your application. Submit an online application. You don't need to complete your application all at once: you can start it, save it and finish it later. If you're applying to an advertised project make sure you follow the specific instructions. Find your course and apply.
Applying for a PhD
Typically, the minimum entry requirement is an UK upper second class honours degree (2:1). Some Schools/Institutes require a first class honours degree and/or a masters degree. If your qualifications are not from a UK university, Queen Mary also considers recognised equivalent qualifications from accredited overseas institutions and equivalent ...
Studying A PhD in the UK
Popular PhD course: Management MRes + MPhil/PhD. Entry requirements: A first-class Bachelor's degree from a UK university or an equivalent overseas qualification. UCL encourages applicants from various disciplines to apply and requires them to have taken the GMAT or GRE General Test. International fee: £29,000.
Applying for a PhD
Before starting a PhD you could apply for a job as a graduate research assistant where you would support the research of an academic in your department, teach, take part in laboratory work and complete your own research. ... UK . LSE is a private company limited by guarantee, registration number 70527. +44 (0)20 7405 7686. Campus map. Contact ...
Study in the UK: the ultimate guide for a PhD in 2024
Commonly accepted UK language tests: IELTS. You'll get a score of 0 to 9 for each category (Listening, Reading, Writing, and Speaking), as well as an overall band score. Generally, UK universities ask for a minimum score of 6.0 or 6.5, with some more reputed universities requiring 7.0 or 7.5. TOEFL.
5 routes to getting a Doctorate
This is the most common means of getting a Doctorate degree. Over the three or four years of research at university, your PhD supervisor will support you as you aim to produce a thesis based on your research proposal. A thesis is typically 60,000-90,000 words in length - although this can vary between institutions.
Applying essentials
Entry requirements vary depending on what you study - some subjects require a masters degree, others ask for a good undergraduate degree (a 2:1 or a First). Links to departmental webpages are provided on the Find A PhD page. Our English language requirements for postgraduate courses are available on our English Language Requirements webpage:
PhD admissions
We offer a fully funded Doctoral programme at Imperial College Business School - this includes a tuition fee waiver and a stipend for up to five years. The 2022-23 rate of the Graduate Teaching Assistant scholarship stipend is £20,000 in year one, rising to £20,500 in subsequent years.
PhD entry criteria
Entry criteria for applicants to Doctoral Study (including PhD and Professional Doctorates) A minimum of a 2:1 first degree in a relevant discipline/subject area with a minimum 60% mark in the project element or equivalent with a minimum 60% overall module average. In the event of a first degree classification of less than 2:1, a Masters Degree ...
How to apply
Completing your application. The form is divided into two parts. Part 1 is for personal information, including English language ability, and previous education and employment. You have to complete all of the mandatory fields in this part (marked with a *) before you can go on to Part 2. Part 2 is where you select the course or courses you want ...
UCAS Postgraduate entry requirements
Some entry requirements are applicable for all postgraduate qualifications. This helps both you and your chosen university check you're ready for the level of study a postgraduate qualification requires. MA/MSc/MRes/MPhil - You will normally need at least a 2:2 in a relevant degree.
Entry requirements for 2024 start
The university degree must be from a recognised UK or UK ENIC approved university. In addition, applicants will normally be required to have the same GCSE requirements as other applicants. ... If you have completed an MSc / PhD, the minimum A-Level requirement is BBC and all other criteria listed for graduates must be met. ...

How to apply for a PhD in the UK

Ben Osborne

How to apply for a PhD

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How do I write a research proposal?

How long does the application process take?

What are the associated costs?

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