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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.
If you miss the deadlines specified in this section, you will not be able to submit your application.
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 26 February 2026. Those who apply by the Postgraduate Funding deadline (2 December 2025) will receive a decision in late January/early February, those who apply by 26 February will hear by early April.
Interviews
Applicants are not usually interviewed, though this is a requirement for part-time applicants. Potential supervisors may also ask for an interview if they have queries relating to the research proposal or academic background.
Further information on How To Apply
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
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Evidence of competence in English
If required - please see our Competence in English guidance for more information. -
Research Proposal (document upload) (mandatory)
A research proposal of around 1,000 words. Special formatting is not required. Your proposal would generally contain: ’ A clear, well-motivated and viable research question ’ A brief review of the literature, covering the theoretical basis for your research, the current state of knowledge in the field, and details of what your research will add ’ The research methods you propose to use ’ You may also want to explain the reasons for your own interest in the subject, and any previous work you have done in the area The word limit includes footnotes, appendices, figures, tables, etc, but does not include references. -
Sample of Work (1) (document upload) (optional)
Applicants may submit written work. This can be an essay written for your previous course, a published academic article or another piece of writing that you feel shows your suitability for the course.
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.