An Overview of PhD Application for International Students
June 10, 2025 at 1:00 PM
Researcher in a lab coat working on a scientific experiment with a petri dish and protective gear.

Applying for a PhD in the UK is an exciting step for students who are passionate about research and academic advancement. We would like to to provide you with a simplified overview of the UK PhD application process, covering the basic entry requirements, how to find a supervisor, and what steps to take to begin your journey.

1. Basic Requirement

In general, a relevant Merit master degree plus 2:1 undergraduate degree. For most international students , you will also need a IELTS certificate , with at least 6.5 in each sub-skill.

2. Choosing a Research Topic

In many cases—especially in the arts, humanities, and social sciences—you’re expected to propose your own research topic. A strong research proposal typically includes:

  • A clear research question
  • Background and context
  • Methodology
  • Timeline and expected outcomes

For STEM subjects, you may apply to pre-defined research projects or doctoral training programs, where the topic is already set.

3. Find a Supervisor

Choosing the right supervisor is one of the most important parts of the application. Getting approval or interest from a supervisor often strengthens your application significantly.

  • Identify target universities: Look for universities with strong departments in your area of interest.
  • Explore faculty pages: Check the profiles of potential supervisors. Read their recent work to ensure your interests align.
  • Email the supervisor: Politely introduce yourself, explain your research idea briefly, and attach your CV and research proposal. A tailored, clear message is more likely to receive a response.

4. Submit your Application

Once a supervisor agrees to support your application, you can formally apply through the university’s online portal. Most PhD applications require:

  • Personal Statement
  • A research proposal
  • Academic transcripts in English
  • A CV/resume
  • 2 Academic References
  • IELTS Certificate
  • A completed application

You may also need to prove that you have sufficient funding for the program. For most international students, national funding or scholarships are not available, so you will need to demonstrate that you have financial support from other sources.

Lastly, if you are looking for pre-defined oppoturnities , you may want to check out this website Find-A-Phd