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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.
Please note: part-time study may not always be available 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.
Selection Process
The department will consider academic results, the content of references, and prior relevant research or work experience when deciding whether or not to shortlist a candidate. All shortlisted candidates will be interviewed by telephone, in person, or online as part of the final selection process.
Decisions on any conditional offers of admission are made on a rolling basis, although a 'gathered field' system may operate for specific studentships – usually those advertised with guaranteed funding.
Applicants should expect to hear whether they have been shortlisted for an interview within twelve weeks after submitting their completed application and required supporting documents.
It is important to note that limitations on space, equipment, and research facilities mean that we cannot always make an offer, even to a well-qualified applicant.
Further information on How To Apply
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
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Evidence of competence in English
If required - please see our Competence in English guidance for more information. - Materials Science - Supervisors
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Research Proposal (7500 characters) (mandatory)
Please provide a statement of your research interests and relevant experience. There is no need to provide a fully worked-up research proposal at this stage, but please include a few sentences on your area(s) of research interest and any experience you have that is relevant. -
School of Physical 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
The Department's research activities are summarised here. Prospective applicants are encouraged to make contact with academic staff in their area of interest to discuss the research opportunities available before making an application. You will be asked to identify at least one, and up to four, potential supervisors in your application form.
The purpose of this initial contact is to discuss research proposals, inquire about the supervisor's capacity and willingness to supervise, and determine if there is a good fit between your interests and theirs. When contacting a supervisor, it is recommended that you consider their research profile. You should also include your CV so they can assess your academic background and research experience.
Please note: part-time study may not always be available 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.