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.
Selection Process
Applications are considered on a rolling basis (as they are received) until the course deadline of 25 March 2027 and are usually processed within 12 weeks of submission. The funding deadline falls earlier than the course application deadline, so applicants who wish to be considered for funding should ensure that they submit a complete application by the funding deadline of 8 December 2026.
Please be aware that there are a limited number of places on the MPhil in Digital Policy course. Acceptance on the course is very competitive, and the course may be filled before the published deadline. We therefore welcome and encourage early applications where possible.
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 - Sample of Work (1) (document upload) (mandatory)
Please upload a 1,000-word writing sample for which you are the sole author. The writing sample should be about a current policy issue of interest at either a local, national or global level. It should clearly identify the issue, explain why the issue is important, and how it might be tackled from a policy-making perspective. This can be presented in the format of a policy brief or as a conventional essay. The sample of written work is more about showing your academic abilities and style of writing. Where references are used they should be appropriately cited. A reference list or bibliography will not be included in the word count; however, footnotes will be included in the word count. - Core - Statement of Interest (5000 characters) (mandatory)
Provide a statement of interest of no more than 800 words. Your statement of interest should capture more broadly why are you interested in digital policy research (for example: What are the digital policy themes or issues that attract you, and why); and outline some of your reasons for wishing to study digital policy topics at this level. You should mention specific academic interests you have in the field of digital policy, and how you see these fitting in with your medium and long-term plans.
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
Supervisors will be allocated by the Department once you have met all your offer conditions and you are admitted on the course. While we will endeavour to allocate your first choice of supervisor, this may not always be possible.