Applications for the AIM: PhD programme are now open until Sunday 10 May 2026.
The 2026 programme is for applicants planning to apply to begin study in 2027-28.
What is AIM: PhD?
AIM: PhD is a free support programme to help PhD applicants prepare their application to the University of Cambridge.
Over 6 months, participants will receive personalised support through one-to-one mentoring and online group sessions.
The programme is open to PhD applicants to participating departments who meet the eligibility criteria.
AIM: PhD is separate from the admissions process, and participation in the programme does not guarantee acceptance onto a postgraduate course.
What to expect
AIM: PhD runs from July 2026 to January 2027.
During this time, you'll work with University staff and students to prepare your application for doctoral study.
One-to-one mentoring
At the start of the programme, you'll work with a mentor to set goals and create a personalised 6-month plan. This will ensure you receive the support you need and stay on track to submit your application by the deadline.
You and your mentor will have monthly meetings to check progress, get advice and ask questions. Regular communication between participants and mentors is encouraged throughout the programme.
Group sessions
Alongside mentoring, you'll be invited to join a series of online group sessions, covering topics such as:
- The PhD application process
- Funding your PhD
- Student life in Cambridge.
Visit to Cambridge
You'll also have the opportunity to visit Cambridge, explore University facilities, and meet staff and students in person.
Eligibility criteria
To take part in AIM: PhD, you must:
- Meet the core eligibility criteria for all AIM programmes
- Be planning to apply for a PhD at the University of Cambridge starting in 2027-28
- Not have received an offer for, be currently undertaking, or have already completed a PhD
- Not have received an offer for or going to be undertaking a research placement/internship during the programme period
- Make sure the department you're planning to apply to is participating in the programme
Departments NOT participating in AIM: PhD
Most departments are taking part in AIM: PhD. However, if the department you're planning to apply to is on this list, please contact them directly for application support.
- Applied Mathematics and Theoretical Physics
- Astronomy
- Earth Sciences
- Economics
- Geography
- Law
- Materials Science and Metallurgy
- Physics
- Pure Mathematics and Mathematical Statistics
- Politics and International Studies
How to apply
To apply, please complete the online application by Sunday 10 May 2026.
The application form will ask for:
- Your education history
- Why you want to do a PhD
- Your research interests
- Your motivation for joining the AIM: PhD programme
- Details of a referee
Referees
You’ll be asked to provide details of a referee when you apply. This should be someone who knows your academic or professional work, such as a tutor, lecturer, or manager.
Referees will be asked to comment briefly on your academic performance or intellectual ability.
We recommend speaking with your referee before applying to ensure they’re happy to support your application.
Your referee must submit their reference by 18 May 2026 or your application will be withdrawn.
Transcripts
If you are offered a place on AIM: PhD, we might ask to see a copy of your transcripts or certificates for all previous and current degree-level study (completed and incomplete), starting with the most recent.
Find out more
- Join our live typed chat on 10 April 2026, where AIM: PhD staff will be available to answer questions about the programme.
- Contact the AIM team at aim@postgraduate.study.cam.ac.uk if you have any further questions about AIM: PhD.