How to apply for your PhD

Our decision on whether to offer you a place will also be based on the research proposal or personal statement you submit, your degree transcripts (and certificates, if available), your masters dissertation/project (if applicable), your CV and academic references, and any interviews and additional tasks we ask you to complete. All documents need to be provided in English, including transcripts and references.

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Entry requirements

Make sure you have read the following entry requirements before you complete the form.

Mathematics and statistics PhD entry requirements

We usually ask for a first class BSc and a UK first-class or upper second class (2:1) MMath or MSc Merit (or international equivalent), in Mathematics or a relevant related subject.

Physics and astronomy PhD entry requirements

We usually ask for an upper second class (2:1) honours BSc or MSc degree in physics or engineering.

Chemistry PhD entry requirement

We usually ask for a first-class or upper second class (2:1) MChem or MSc degree, or equivalent experience, in chemistry, chemical physics, chemical engineering, materials, or a relevant biological science.

 English language requirements

You will also need to meet our English language requirements.  You can find out more about entry requirements as an international student on the International students pages.

The English Language Teaching Centre offers English language courses for applicants  who are preparing to study at the University of Sheffield.

International students

International applicants  may need clearance through the Academic Technology Approval Scheme (ATAS) before you can start your PhD. You will be given more guidance on the ATAS process if you receive an offer of a place.

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Completing your application

The following documents/ information must be provided as part of your application in order to be considered by our admissions team:

• Evidence of your English language qualifications.
• Details of your previous education and qualifications – transcripts and certificates must be provided as evidence of completed qualifications.
• Two academic references – provide contact details for your referees, as they will be contacted automatically for letters of support when you apply.
• Explain your motivation for studying for this PhD project with your proposed supervisor.
• What is your experience of research to date and how is this relevant to the proposed PhD project?
• Explain your motivation for studying for this PhD project with your proposed supervisor.
• What is your experience of research to date and how is this relevant to the proposed PhD project?
• If your proposed supervisor is unable to take you on, are there other projects and supervisors you would consider?

Mathematics and statistics PhD application

You should include a 500-word statement which answers the following:

• Explain your motivation for studying for this PhD project with your proposed supervisor.
• What is your experience of research to date and how is this relevant to the proposed PhD project?

You should also upload a copy of your CV.

Physics and astronomy PhD application

You should include a 500-word statement which answers the following:

• Explain your motivation for studying for this PhD project with your proposed supervisor.
• What is your experience of research to date and how is this relevant to the proposed PhD project?
• If your proposed supervisor is unable to take you on, are there other projects and supervisors you would consider?

Please also upload three slides that you have prepared. These may be used as visual aids if you are shortlisted for an interview. They should describe highlights of some project work, or other research which you have carried out as part of your studies.

Chemistry PhD application

You should include a 500-word statement which answers the following:

• Explain your motivation for studying for this PhD project with your proposed supervisor.
• What is your experience of research to date and how is this relevant to the proposed PhD project?

In 100 words or less, explain how you intend to fund your studies. For example:

• Which specific scholarships will you apply for?
• Are you looking to self-fund?
• Are you applying for a postgraduate loan or government funding scheme?

Upload three slides that you have prepared. These may be used as visual aids if you are shortlisted for an interview.

• On two of the slides, describe a chemistry-related project, research example or achievement from your studies that you are proud of.
• On the third slide, describe an area of recent chemical research that you have found interesting.

You can look at the projects on offer and find out more about our research to inform your statement. If you have your own idea for a PhD project, you can find a potential supervisor by contacting a member of academic staff to find out about PhD opportunities in their area.

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Interviews

Following submission of your application, our admissions team will review your eligibility and potential funding sources, and ensure that the supporting documentation we have requested has been provided.

Your application will then be reviewed by your proposed supervisors who will assess your suitability for postgraduate research and arrange a formal interview. Your interview may take place by video-conferencing or face-to-face. Please ensure you have a webcam for online interviews, as the panel are required to check the visual identity of students as part of the interview process.

During the interview, you will have an opportunity to ask questions about your application and studying for a PhD at the University of Sheffield. We would recommend that you make a note of questions that you would like to ask.

Interview styles will vary, tailored to what is important to the interviewers and what they have seen on your application. Most interviews last up to an hour. The interviewers may want to explore the following:

• Your motivation and suitability
• Past learning
• Technical questions
• Past project work you have done
• Your thinking on the subject

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Offers

If you are offered a place, this will be to study with a named supervisor, and a scope of research will be specified. The length of the period of study for fee-paying purposes (the 'funded period'), and the level of the fees will also be confirmed. It may take some time after your interview for an offer to be made depending on the progress of other offers.

Although we recommend you start in September/October, it may be possible to start postgraduate research at other points in the year. You can state your preferred start date in your application, although this will need to be confirmed by the academic discipline.

An offer of a place to study is separate to funding. You need to be aware of deadlines for any funding for which you wish to be considered. If you’re hoping to get one of the limited number of Engineering and Physical Sciences Research Council (EPSRC) Doctoral Landscape Awards, you can find out more about the deadline and how to apply here.