How to apply for a PhD

Ensure you meet the following criteria before applying:

• PhD: You should normally hold a first or upper second class honours degree from a UK university or an equivalent qualification. We also accept a lower second class honours degree with a Masters degree at Merit level from a UK university or an equivalent qualification.
• Professional Doctorates:  You will be well-qualified in your chosen field and will normally have a related Masters degree or equivalent qualification, together with sufficient professional experience in the relevant field.
• English language requirements: If English isn't your first language, you will need an overall IELTS (International English Language Testing System) score of 6.5 with minimum sub-scores of 6.0 in all component sections (writing, reading, listening and speaking). Find out more about the English language requirements for undertaking research at NTU.

Full details about the criteria for doctoral study at NTU can be found in Quality Handbook Section 11 - Research Degrees.

When you're ready, submit your application using the NTU Doctoral Admissions application system.

You will need to create an NTU Doctoral Admissions account to begin your application. You can save your progress at any time and return later to complete the application.

Helpful tips:

• If you're new to the system, click Register for an NTU Doctoral Admissions Account to set up your account.
• Save your progress frequently to avoid data loss.

During this stage, please provide comprehensive details about your academic and professional background.

The form will request the following:

• Qualifications: Upload evidence of your academic degrees. If your degree is pending, include the most recent provisional transcript or similar documentation.
• Professional experience: Share records of relevant work, publications, or accomplishments.
• English language proficiency: Submit IELTS or equivalent test results if applicable.
• Supervisor: Fill in your proposed supervisor, academic school, or research centre alignment.
• Research proposal: Complete your research proposal where required (maximum 1,500 words or 500 words for Science and Technology). Read our guide on writing research proposals for your own or advertised projects.
• Competency-based questions: Answer the competency-based questions in relation to your proposed research or the research project you are applying for.

You’ll need to provide contact details for two referees who are not your proposed supervisors.

References can be submitted after your application has been submitted but must arrive promptly.

Along with your application, you can submit supporting documents as appropriate. This might include:

• Appendices and references
• Certificates and transcripts: Provide degree certificates and academic transcripts. If not in English, include certified translations.
• Pending qualifications: If your degree is incomplete, upload provisional evidence such as an up-to-date transcript.
• Proof of English proficiency: Ensure that test results (e.g., IELTS) are valid and meet NTU’s requirements.
• Professional achievements: Attach any certifications, reports, or publications relevant to your field.

Before submission, double-check all sections for accuracy and completeness:

• Read and agree to the Terms and Conditions.
• Complete the Equal Opportunities section, which is confidential and doesn’t impact the assessment process.
• Sign the application form. If edits are made post-signature, you’ll need to re-sign before submission.

Once submitted, your application is ready for review and will no longer be editable.