Frequently asked Questions (FAQs)

1. How do I apply?

Please find information on how to apply here

2. Is there a deadline for applying?

There are no deadlines for submitting an application.

3. When can I apply?

Applications can be made at any time of the year.

4. What are the entry requirements?

A UK Bachelor's degree in an appropriate subject, awarded with first or upper-second class Honours, or an overseas qualification of an equivalent standard from a recognised higher education institute, or a recognised taught Master's degree is required.

5. What are the English language requirements?

All students whose first language is not English must be able to provide recent evidence that their spoken and written command of the English language is adequate for the programmes for which they have applied. This will take the form of either:

1. Substantial education (minimum twelve months) or work experience (minimum eighteen months) conducted in English and undertaken no more than three years prior to the proposed date of enrolment, or

2. A recently obtained acceptable English language qualification or test result. The qualification or test result must have been awarded no more than three years prior to the proposed date of enrolment.

6. Do both of my references need to be academic?

One of your references must be academic but the other may be from an employer or colleague who has worked with you closely.

7.Can I still apply if I do not have a relevant degree?

Applicants are strongly advised only to apply if they have a degree in a subject relevant to their proposed research area.

8. How much does the doctorate programme cost?

Fees

UK/EU

  • 2011/12 full-time: £4,000 per annum
  • 2012/13 full-time: £4,200

Overseas

  • 2011/12 full-time: £18,400 or £30,870 depending on level of clinical content
  • 2012/13 full-time: £19,250 or £32,500 depending on level of clinical content

See Fees and Costs section for further information on fees, including part-time fees

9. Are there any scholarships available for students?

Information on available scholarships can be accessed here -http://www.ucl.ac.uk/prospective-students/scholarships/graduate

10. What does the Admissions process involve?

The prospective student submits their application to Admissions. They will check that the application meets the general entrance requirements before forwarding the application to the Postgraduate Administrator who ensures that Divisional requirements have been met. Once all of the paperwork is in order it will be presented to the Postgraduate Committee whose decision it will be to approve the application. If approved, the application will be signed and returned to Admissions who will issue an offer letter. The student must then accept their offer and pre-enrol as directed by Admissions. The applicant will then be permitted to enrol in person.

If an application is rejected the applicant will be notified by Admissions.

11. When does the course start?

Students will usually commence their degree on the start date given on the offer letter. Students should ensure that they are fully enrolled before commencing their studies.

12. Can I study part-time?

Part-time study is available for research degree programmes.

13. Can I study by distance learning?

Students are permitted to register for non-resident PhD programmes. Further information can be found here

14. I am going to take an English test later in the year, can I still apply now?

It is possible to apply for your degree before taking a language test however your application will be kept on hold until a valid certificate is received.

15. What happens after I have been made an offer?

After receiving your offer letter you will need to accept a place on the programme by returning the acceptance form which will be sent to you by Admissions. Once you have received confirmation from Admissions that they have received your acceptance you will be sent a pre-enrolment email. This will need to be completed before you will be permitted to enrol in person. If you begin your studies at the start of the academic year (September) you will be asked to enrol on a specific date and time. At any other time of the year you will enrol as directed on your offer letter. Once you have enrolled you can begin your studies.

If you do not complete your enrolment within two weeks of the date of your offer letter, your start date will become invalid and you will need to request a  later start date.

16. How long is the course and what are the term dates?

MPhil/PhD

Full time = 3 years + 1 year CRS (writing up period)

Part time = 5 years + 2 years CRS

MD(Res)

Full time = 2 years + 1 year CRS

Part time = 2 years + 2 years CRS

Research degree programmes do not follow term dates as is the case with taught degrees. Students are expected to be in continuous attendance except during college closures and when a leave of absence has been agreed with their supervisor.

17. If I cannot take up my offer of a place this year, can I defer it to next year?

Offers can be deferred subject to approval by the Division.


For further information, please contact the Departmental Postgraduate Research Programme Administrator