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 will be considered on a rolling basis, with applicants applying before the early University funding deadline receiving a decision by mid-February. All other applicants should expect a decision by early June.
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.
-
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 - Statement of Interest (1500 characters) (mandatory)
The information you provide in the 'Statement of Interest' section should enable the Postgraduate Admissions Committee to understand your motivation for choosing your research interests. In addition to this motivation statement, please include as much information as possible about the type of work (e.g., observation-based, data-science/statistical analysis, computer simulations, theory) you plan for your MPhil thesis. - Core - Research Experience (1500 characters) (mandatory)
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
It is not necessary to contact a supervisor before applying. Instead, applicants should review the list of potential supervisors on the Institute of Astronomy website to gain an overview of the supervisors and research topics available. Applicants should then specify up to three preferred supervisors and their preferred research topic in their application.
Failure to identify at least one potential supervisor may disadvantage your application.
Please note: part-time study may not always be viable and will be considered on a case-by-case basis, so please discuss this option with your proposed Supervisor before applying for this mode of study.