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Postgraduate Study

Teaching

One to one supervision

The University of Cambridge publishes an annual Code of Practice which sets out the University’s expectations regarding supervision.

The number of hours of supervision will vary from supervisor to supervisor.

Taught/Research Balance
Entirely Research

Feedback

The University of Cambridge publishes an annual Code of Practice for Research Students which sets out the University's expectations regarding feedback.

​Students should expect to receive ongoing feedback from all supervisors involved in their research project. This could take place during one-on-one meetings or during lab meetings. In addition, students can expect to receive a written online report each term.

Assessment

Thesis / Dissertation

All PhD students are required to submit a thesis of no more than 60,000 words within a maximum of four years of study (full-time). This is examined at a viva by two examiners, usually one internal and one external.

Other

All PhD students are required to undergo formal assessment (by written report and viva) at the end of their first year which they must pass. If successful, the student moves from being 'probationary' to being formally registered for the PhD, and can proceed with their project.

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Key Information


Lent 2026 (Closed)
Applications open
Sep. 4, 2024
Application deadline
Oct. 2, 2025
Course starts
Jan. 5, 2026
Some courses can close early. See the Deadlines page for guidance on when to apply.
Easter 2026 (Closed)
Applications open
Sep. 4, 2024
Application deadline
Jan. 14, 2026
Course starts
Apr. 17, 2026
Some courses can close early. See the Deadlines page for guidance on when to apply.
Michaelmas 2026
Applications open
Sep. 3, 2025
Application deadline
May. 14, 2026
Course starts
Oct. 1, 2026
Some courses can close early. See the Deadlines page for guidance on when to apply.
Lent 2027
Applications open
Sep. 3, 2025
Application deadline
Oct. 1, 2026
Course starts
Jan. 5, 2027
Some courses can close early. See the Deadlines page for guidance on when to apply.
Easter 2027
Applications open
Sep. 3, 2025
Application deadline
Jan. 14, 2027
Course starts
Apr. 17, 2027
Some courses can close early. See the Deadlines page for guidance on when to apply.
Funding Deadlines
Course Funding Deadline
Jan. 7, 2026
Gates Cambridge US round only
Oct. 15, 2025

These deadlines apply to applications for courses starting in Michaelmas 2026, Lent 2027 and Easter 2027.

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