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.
Applications are usually only considered for October entry.
Selection Process
Applicants who apply by 8 December 2026 are considered together. Those who pass the first stage may be interviewed in December 2026 and will get a decision in February 2027. Applicants who apply after this date will normally get a decision within six weeks of submitting a complete application.
Interviews last about 30 minutes and can be held in person or on Zoom, MS Teams, or similar platforms. Phone interviews are possible if video is not available. Each applicant is interviewed by at least two academic staff, including the potential supervisor.
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. - Core - Project Title (250 characters) (mandatory)
- Core - Research Summary (2500 characters) (mandatory)
- Core - Proposed Supervisor (200 characters) (mandatory)
Before making an application, contact a Supervisor and secure their support. For more information on finding a Supervisor, see below. - Core - Research Experience (2500 characters) (mandatory)
- Biology - Statement of Interest (mandatory)
- Core - Research Proposal (document upload) (mandatory)
Upload a copy of the research proposal. This should consist of about two sides of A4, including references and it should include: a clear empirical objective, some idea of the research methods you would use and relevant theoretical background. - School of Biological Sciences - Widening Participation Questionnaire
Applicants to this course are being asked to complete an additional form to provide contextual information about their previous study. Find out more about our use of contextual information here: https://www.postgraduate.study.cam.ac.uk/apply/how/contextual-data
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
You should look at the department’s research and research groups to see the current research groups. See a list of potential PhD Psychology supervisors to name on your application.
You must contact this supervisor before applying and get their support. This support does not guarantee a place or funding.
Applications will not be considered without a named supervisor.
Admission decisions are made by the Admissions Committee, not by the prospective supervisor.