Apply using the Applicant Portal
The Apply Now button on the right will take you to the Applicant Portal. There, you can create and submit your application and supporting documents, and you can also request your references.
An application is only complete when:
- you have submitted your application and supporting documents via the Applicant Portal
- you have paid the application fee if applicable. For further information on application fees, and which courses require an application fee, see here.
- your referees have provided their references.
Applicants are encouraged to apply in good time before the funding deadline and the final application deadline.
Selection Process
Applications are considered as gathered fields in December and at the end of February.
The department will consider applications made at any time until 25 February 2027. Those who apply by the Postgraduate Funding deadline (8 December 2026) will receive a decision in late January/early February, those who apply by 25 February will hear by the first week in April.
Interviews
Shortlisted applicants are invited to participate in an interview (these will be held online) with a prospective Supervisor, pathway lead or other academic within the department.
Things You'll Need
You should start preparing the things that you'll need when you apply. These will be mandatory, unless specifically flagged as optional.
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Two referees willing to give you a reference
Either academic or professional – please see our References guidance for more information about which type you need. Your referees will need to have submitted their reference by the course deadline. - Transcript
- CV/resume
- Evidence of competence in English
If required - please see our Competence in English guidance for more information.
Gates Cambridge Scholarships
If you wish to be considered for a Gates Cambridge Scholarship you will also need to provide the following:
See Gates Cambridge for more information.
How to Find a Supervisor
Applicants need to name one or two possible Supervisors on the Applicant Portal. Places on the MPhil course are dependent on identifying a Supervisor able to supervise your topic. Applications without a named Supervisor are likely to be seriously disadvantaged or even rejected.
You should consult the Choosing a Supervisor and staff pages to find a suitable Supervisor and to check that the Supervisor you want to work with is still current in the department and taking students. Please include the prospective Supervisor's name within the appropriate box in the application form.
Please do not contact a prospective Supervisor in advance of making an application.
(Please note: Identification of a potential supervisor, while an essential requirement for application, does not imply any guarantee of admission and the full admissions procedure must be followed in all cases).