FAQ

The call for 2013 Applications is now closed

Do I need to apply to UCL through the admissions office when applying for a Grand Challenge Studentship?

You may wish to begin your application at this time, but it is not necessary. If you are successful you will be sent an offer letter conditional on you completing the UCL admissions procedure and fulfilling the normal criteria.

I am applying from overseas – what is the difference between the EU/UK fee and the International fee?

Information about fees for 2013/14 is available here.

When does the programme begin?

Grand Challenge Studentships 2013 will start on 1 October 2013, but you would be advised to arrive at UCL a little earlier to get yourself settled and oriented.

Are there any special eligibility criteria?

Only excellence! Please see the Prospectus for UCL’s general admissions requirements.

Is it possible/advisable to contact the individual project supervisors for further details on projects and labs?

Most potential GCS supervisors will welcome contact from potential students, if contact details are not provided, you should be able to find them in the UCL Staff Directory

The project I’m interested in is not listed what should I do?

Only the projects listed are available at this time.

Can I – or my supervisor – suggest new project titles?

No, the call for project proposals is closed for this year.

Can you give me any guidance on answering the question "what excites you most in science today?"

The question is deliberately left open for you to answer in the way you think is appropriate.

Is there any word limit on the application form requesting that I state my reasons for interest in particular projects?

There is no word limit per se, but reviewers will tend to prefer concision.

Do I have to choose 3 projects?

No, you do not, but you are more likely to be successful if you give yourself more options.

Will I need to attend an interview for the Grand Challenge Studentship?

If you are short listed, you will be contacted about an interview which is likely to be held in the period 8-26 April (nb where possible, Lab visits will be scheduled for the afternoon of your interview).

I've put in an application, but I haven't heard anything back, will I get confirmation that my application has been received?

Due to the volume of applications it is not possible to guarantee a confirmation of each one.  If you have not heard by the end of April then your application has not been successful.

Contact

Please contact the Grand Challenges Administrator, Anna Hindley, if you have any further queries.

Last updated 12 March 2013 by Anna Hindley