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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.
In your application, you must provide the name of the supervisor/group lead with whom you wish to work, as well as a research proposal. See "How to find a supervisor" below for more information.
We may request an additional third reference. For example, if you've only recently begun a Master's course, and your two references are from a previously completed Bachelor's, we may request a third reference from your current Master's programme.
Selection Process
Applications are considered as they are received, and a decision can often take two or three months. Decisions on applications are updated on the Applicant Portal/Self-Service account, and that should be your first point of call for the latest news on your application. If you are shortlisted for admission, we will contact you to arrange an interview.
**Please note that the admissions process is highly competitive and meeting the minimum entry requirement does not guarantee you will be offered an interview.
Further information on How To Apply
Things You'll Need
In order to apply for this course you'll need to think about getting a few things ready before you apply.
- Two academic references
- Transcript
- CV/resume
- Evidence of competence in English
If required - you can check using our tool - Multiple Proposed Supervisors (200 characters) (mandatory)
For more information on finding a Supervisor, see below. - Research Summary (2500 characters) (mandatory)
You must provide a research proposal describing the project you wish to undertake. Your research proposal should fall within the broad research area of the group you wish to work with. - Statement of Interest (1500 characters) (mandatory)
Why are you interested in this course, and why do you feel that you are a good fit for it? What do you plan to do with the degree once it's complete? - Reasons for Applying (1500 characters) (mandatory)
Why do you feel that Cambridge is the most suitable place to carry out your research and pursue an MPhil?
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
On your application, you must provide the name of the supervisor/group lead with whom you wish to work, as well as a research proposal. A list of possible groups and their leads can be found on the department website .
Before applying you must contact the group lead to obtain confirmation that they are accepting new students; not all groups are able to take on new students.
Your research proposal should fall within the broad research area of the group you wish to work with.
If accepted, you may be assigned to a different group, and in these circumstances you will be notified. Students are frequently accepted to work in a slightly different research area from their original preference.