Applying for a

PhD
Guidance for
Applicants
Fair Admissions in
Postgraduate Research
Introduction

Pursuing a PhD is a significant and transformative milestone in a research

career. However, applying for a PhD can often feel like navigating a maze.
The process requires not only an understanding of formal application
requirements but also an awareness of some unwritten rules. While the
journey can be challenging, the right preparation can help you navigate it
successfully.
In this guide:

Before you apply: Reflect on your reasons for pursuing a PhD, how it
aligns with your career goals, and recommendations for choosing a
programme.

Preparing your application: Find guidance on approaching and

communicating with potential supervisors, crafting a personal statement,
and writing a research proposal.

What to expect after you apply: Gain an overview of the doctoral

admissions process, strategies for preparing for PhD interviews, and an
understanding of application outcomes.

This guide offers general advice. Individual disciplines and departments may
have specific criteria, processes and expectations. Please refer to the
requirements and deadlines on your chosen programme's website and in the
course directory, to ensure you have all the necessary information.

Close the Gap

Before you apply

Thinking of Applying for a

PhD?
Are you passionate about research and ready to take the next step in
your academic journey? Applying for a high-level programme
requires some advanced strategic planning and a thorough
understanding of the specific requirements of your desired
programme.
This guidance outlines key factors to consider before applying for a
PhD course and a brief overview of the application process.

What are my motivations for pursuing a PhD?

There can be many drivers for pursuing a PhD. Some are extrinsic, such as
the rewards associated with the prestige of a PhD degree or the institution.
However, working towards a PhD is a long-term commitment and a
demanding endeavour. In many cases, as a PhD student, you are an
independent researcher and much of the work is your responsibility. To stay
motivated, it is crucial to have an internal drive and a passion for research.
Ask yourself, do you truly enjoy doing research work? If you are unsure,
consider talking to current PhD students or trying to take up a research role
to gain a sense of the nature of the work.

Close the Gap

Before you apply

What are my career goals?

Determining the type of degree needed for your desired career is the initial
step in narrowing down your options for postgraduate research programmes.
Reflect on the nature of the work you aspire to do and the type of degree that
will best help you achieve your goals. Is a PhD a necessary step for the career
change or progression that you envisage for yourself? If your career
aspirations lie in academia or research more broadly (since not all PhD
researchers work in academia), pursuing a doctoral degree may be the right
path for you.

Having a clear understanding of what doctoral education entails is crucial not

only for deciding your path, but also for signalling your readiness for doctoral
study and awareness of its demands. Academic assessors will consider this
when making admissions decisions.

How can I fund a PhD?

Funding considerations are particularly crucial for PhD Apply for several
programmes due to the substantial costs involved. The scholarships or
costs associated with PhDs are tuition fees and living
grants to increase
costs for each year of study. If you are self-funding your
your chances of
studies, you will need to cover both of these costs
yourself.
securing financial
support.
However, there are numerous funding sources available,
To get you
both internal and external to the University, which offer
varying levels of support. Some scholarships and grants
started in that
cover full tuition fees and living expenses, whilst others search, check the
may contribute to a portion of these costs. Postgraduate
These funding opportunities have strict deadlines and, in Funding Search.
some cases, you may need to apply for them separately.
You should look carefully at the postgraduate study
website and your department’s webpages to understand
the different funding sources and their respective
deadlines.
Close the Gap
Before you apply

Do I need to have research experience?

Typically, PhD offers are made to applicants

who already have some level of research If you are passionate
experience. This experience is often acquired about a particular topic
during the final year of undergraduate studies, but think that you don’t
through Master's level programmes, or have enough experience
or lack some specific
additional research opportunities. In some
skills, there are many
fields applicants may also have relevant
ways of developing your
technical skills, such as advanced statistical
academic skills or
methods, technical software proficiency or
increasing your research
other specialised competencies.
experience. You could
If you don’t have extensive research work as a research
experience, you can still highlight your assistant in a field that
professional background by showcasing how interests you, or
participate in a research
you have worked with data, used various
experience placement.
research methods, or applied research
The University of
approaches in your professional roles.
Cambridge offers a
Additionally, consider acquiring specific skills
number of research
that may be essential for your desired
internships for
programme. Spend time exploring various
undergraduates from
opportunities and devise a plan to strengthen underrepresented groups
your profile, knowledge, and skills for future who are interested in
applications. pursuing postgraduate
studies.

Close the Gap

Before you apply

What is the right programme for me?

When selecting a PhD programme, In relation to potential supervisors,
it is crucial to familiarise yourself supervision structures vary across
with the department’s research disciplines and departments. For
centres and areas of expertise. In instance, in STEM subjects,
order to support your research, it is applicants might apply to work
important that the department has within specific projects or labs, and
supervisors with knowledge of your you will likely apply to work with
field. Unlike programmes in other (and for) a particular academic or
countries which may include Principal Investigator (PI) who will
structured classes or research serve as your supervisor. In the
rotations during the first year, UK social sciences, arts, and humanities
PhD programmes generally expect applicants generally apply to the
you to begin your research shortly programme, and may select a
after starting. Therefore, finding a supervisor either before submitting
research environment that aligns their application or upon
with your research goals is acceptance.
particularly important.
Take the time to immerse yourself in When looking for potential
the department’s website to supervisors:
determine if it is the right
environment for you. Some identify supervisors who are
departments offer online or in- actively engaged in teaching and
person opportunities such as open research within your field of
days where you can gain insights interest;
into the research environment and seek supervisors whose
available opportunities. expertise aligns with your
research interests (although it
doesn’t have to be a perfect
Check carefully if you need to contact a match);
supervisor prior to submitting your formal review their recent publications
application, as this can have an impact on
your application. and ongoing research projects
Note that a supervisor's willingness to on departmental websites and
supervise your project does not guarantee social media platforms for
admission to the PhD programme. You will
still need to receive an offer for study from insight.
the University.
Close the Gap
Preparing your application

Preparing your Application

When preparing to apply, you are strongly advised to thoroughly explore the
course directory, postgraduate admissions website and departmental pages.
While it may seem like a lot of preparation, this is where you will find
important information to help with your application. Understanding the entry
requirements, deadlines, and application processes for both funding and
admissions is crucial.
Begin your preparations months in advance, as crafting a compelling
application takes time. Start developing your research proposal early and
consider asking an academic in your current institution (if available) to review
it. Allocate sufficient time to carefully write and review all components of your
application, avoiding last-minute submissions. If possible, seek feedback from
individuals who have previously applied for PhD study.

While there is significant variability, most PhD programmes typically

require the following:

01 Personal Statement 02
Application Form

Pay close attention to each Tailor your personal statement

section and avoid leaving to each programme,
this task until the end. highlighting your fit and
alignment with the
department’s expertise.

Writing Sample(s) 03 References 04

Carefully select work that best Notify your referees in advance

showcases your abilities and to ensure timely submission of
that broadly aligns with the recommendation letters
programme’s research
themes.

Transcripts 05 CV 06

Make sure you have them, and in CV formats vary, and you might
the correct format. be given a template or
structure to follow.

Close the Gap

Contacting a supervisor

Contacting a supervisor
For many programmes, contacting a potential supervisor before
submitting your formal application is an important part of the
application process. Establishing early contact can provide insights
into the compatibility of your research interests and the supervisor’s
expertise, and it can also help you understand the nuances of the
programme’s expectations. This guide provides advice for
prospective applicants on how to effectively reach out to a potential
supervisor.
Note that this is general advice; you should refer to your
programme’s website and the course directory for more detailed
guidance.

Do I have to contact a supervisor before

applying?
Some programmes require applicants to contact supervisors before
submitting a formal application through the portal, while others do not.
Before you start, carefully review the application requirements on your
specific programme’s website and in the course directory.

Close the Gap

Contacting a supervisor

Usually, contacting a supervisor will either be:

Required: for some programmes, you will need prior

agreement from a supervisor to supervise your work. Some
programmes stipulate that applications made without having
a potential supervisor will be rejected.

Recommended: for other programmes, informal contact is

suggested but not mandatory. However, not discussing your
application with a potential supervisor beforehand may put
your application at a disadvantage. Additionally, contacting a
supervisor can help you gain a better understanding of the
application process.

Not needed: For certain programmes, applicants are only

required to name a supervisor that they wish to work with,
which is taken into consideration by the department when
allocating supervisors. If you do not name a supervisor, your
application might enter a general pool for allocation to a
supervisor.

Close the Gap

Contacting a supervisor

What is the purpose of contacting a supervisor?

The purpose of this contact is to explore the possibility of academic staff
supervising your research. These conversations help determine if there is a
good fit between your research interests and theirs. It is an opportunity for
potential supervisors to assess if they have the expertise to guide your
research and there might be discussions around your preparation for PhD
study. Additionally, supervisors can provide valuable insights into the
application process and, in some cases, offer advice on how to develop or
improve your research proposal. Ultimately, these discussions aim to
establish whether they would be able to supervise your research if your
application is successful.

There are disciplinary variations in how you approach working with

supervisors. For example, in STEM areas, applicants might apply to work on
specific projects, often alongside an academic or PI who will serve as their
supervisor. Therefore, it is essential to be aware of the current research
projects of PIs.

In the social sciences, arts, and humanities, applicants usually apply to the
programme, and may select a supervisor either before submitting their
application or upon acceptance. Here, determining if there is a good fit
between the supervisor’s expertise and the applicant’s research interests is
essential.

If a supervisor is willing to supervise me, does that mean I

have an offer?
No. Receiving an indication that a supervisor is willing to supervise your project
does not guarantee an offer of admission. Potential supervisors cannot
independently make final admission decisions for PhD programme; they can
only express their willingness to supervise you.

Close the Gap

Contacting a supervisor

What should I do to contact a Supervisor?

01
Background research

Familiarise yourself with the research conducted by the

department and take the time to assess whether it aligns with
your research goals. This critical self-assessment will ensure that
you choose the right academic environment for your doctoral
studies.

02
Identify potential supervisors

Check academic staff information webpages and supervisors'

personal webpages to see whether your research interests align
with their expertise. Identify projects or topics outlined and
consider how your ideas could contribute to, extend, or build
upon their work. Alternatively, you may want to start with your
own ideas and explain how their work could overlap with yours.

03
Prepare your email

Prepare a concise and tailored email to each potential

supervisor. Send your enquiry well in advance of the deadline;
you have a better chance if you contact a supervisor several
months in advance.

04
Follow up

Supervisors receive a large number of emails, so it may take

some time for them to respond to you. Please be patient.

If you do not receive a response after two to three weeks, you

may consider sending a polite follow-up email. If you still don't
receive a reply, it might be best to explore other options.

Close the Gap

 Contacting a supervisor

A final note
Your email should include: Please do not be discouraged
a brief introduction, including your academic if you don’t receive a positive
background and research interests; response from a supervisor.
a summary of your proposed research Applications for doctoral
project; studies at Cambridge are
why you are interested in their work and how highly competitive, and the
you see your project fitting within their number of available places
research area; for each programme is
your motivations for pursuing a doctoral limited. Supervisors also have
degree. limited capacity for taking on
new students each year. Even
You may like to enquire about their availability if your application is strong, it
for supervision and include any relevant may not be possible for your
questions about their research group or the chosen supervisor to
programme. supervise you.

Attachments:
Think about documents that could support your
application. This could include a CV, a brief
research proposal outline or a short statement.
Check the programme website for this
information, but if not explicitly stated, the
supervisor might reply to request further
information.

Tone:
Use a formal and polite tone throughout the
email. Address the recipient by their
academic title (e.g., Dr, Professor).
Convey your genuine interest and enthusiasm
for research.
Avoid long and unnecessary details.
Demonstrate that you have done your
research by mentioning specific aspects of
their work that align with your research Close the Gap
interests.
Personal statement

Writing a Personal
Statement
A personal statement is often a required component of doctoral
programme applications. It provides assessors with an insight into your
motivation for pursuing doctoral study, as well as your skills and
background. This statement offers you the opportunity to make your
case for admission.
Before crafting your personal statement, carefully review the
programme's website to determine if this document is required. You
should also pay attention to any instructions regarding length, format,
and topics to address. If the website does not provide specific guidance,
consider addressing the following points.

1. Why you are interested in PhD study

Give a sense of your trajectory and what led you to pursue PhD study.
Reflect on your academic/ professional background and how it relates to
your proposed research.

Highlight your passion and motivation for your proposed research

study. You may have professional, academic or personal motivations for
wanting to conduct this research.

You should also provide a sense of what you hope to achieve during
the programme (e.g. conducting research on a specific topic, acquiring
critical skills, collaborating with research teams, etc.) and possibly
beyond your PhD. Showcase your readiness for PhD studies by
demonstrating preparedness and commitment to your goals.

Close the Gap

Personal statement

2. Why you are a strong candidate for PhD

study

Craft your statement to explain why you are a strong candidate for
success on the programme. Provide evidence of how your past
experiences have prepared you for success in this field. Discuss your skills
and educational trajectory, emphasising academic experience such as
research or teaching assistantships or practical experience with relevant
topics or groups.

If you lack direct experience, present alternative competencies that

demonstrate your potential for success and highlight transferable skills
such as critical thinking, problem-solving, or project management. For
example: “My role as a project manager in a tech company allowed me to
develop critical thinking and problem-solving skills. I successfully led a
team to develop and implement a new software solution, which required
meticulous planning, coordination, and execution”.

You can also outline a personal development plan to maximise your

chances. For example: “To bridge the gap between my current skills and
the demands of a PhD programme, I have enrolled in advanced online
courses in research methodologies and statistics. Additionally, I plan to
attend relevant workshops and seek mentorship opportunities within the
university”.

Address any potential issues that assessors may have questions about,
such as gaps in your employment or academic history, or lower grades. As
long as you feel comfortable disclosing this information, addressing
these issues can demonstrate to assessors your ability to overcome
challenges. You don't need to provide full details of the challenges
themselves; assessors will be interested to hear about the impact of the
challenges and how you overcame them. You can use this opportunity to
demonstrate your personal growth and progress over time.

Close the Gap

Personal statement

3. Why this programme is a good fit for you

Reflect on why this programme is the

ideal environment for your academic Style and format:
growth and development of your
research. Mention how your work will Carefully check the guidance
align with research already taking provided by the department
place in the department. Consider and ensure that you address
mentioning courses or training the points raised.
opportunities that align with your
research interests.
Aim for clarity, conciseness,
and professionalism when
Ensure that you tailor your
writing your personal
statement to each programme you
statement. Use plain
are applying to; generic statements
can reduce your chance of success. language and maintain a
You want to signal your seriousness, balanced tone; avoid either
which means researching the underselling yourself or
department beforehand to overstating your
understand what it offers. Make a achievements.
clear case for why you are applying to
each programme. Focus on effectively
highlighting your strengths
and achievements.

Close the Gap

Research proposal

Tips for Writing a Research

Proposal
The research proposal is a crucial component of a PhD application,
providing insights into your potential for research and the strengths of
your proposed work. It is important to note that research proposals vary
significantly across disciplines, so it is essential to adhere to the
conventions of your field. Some departments provide guidelines or
examples of successful proposals; if available, closely follow this
guidance alongside the following general advice.

Overview of the research proposal

The research proposal outlines the research question you intend to address or
the hypothesis you plan to test. It also details the methods you will employ to
collect and analyse data, and explains the significance of your work within
your academic field.
Key elements to include:

Introduction: Provide background information on the topic and

rationale for your research.

Research question or hypothesis: Clearly state the question

your research seeks to answer or the hypothesis it aims to test.

Methodology: Explain the sources, methods and techniques you

plan to use for data collection and analysis.

Significance: Explain the potential contributions your research

will make to your field of study and its broader implications.

Timeline: Outline a proposed schedule for completing the

research.

Close the Gap

 Research proposal

When to start Format

Writing a compelling research Write your proposal in clear, jargon-
proposal is a time-intensive free language. While technical
process that requires thorough terminology may be necessary for
preparation. It involves reading your project, remember that your
extensively to identify gaps in the proposal might be reviewed by
literature, exploring potential new assessors who are not specialists in
methodologies, and/or your field. Revise your proposal
determining suitable sources for multiple times and seek feedback to
your research. Therefore, it is ensure your writing maintains an
advisable to begin the process well appropriate academic tone while
in advance of your application remaining clear and accurate.
deadline. Starting early allows you
time for reflection, iterative
drafting, and seeking feedback
from mentors and peers.

Statement of Interest

Some programmes may require a concise

'statement of interest'. In the statement of interest,
you should focus on elaborating your research
interests and how they align with the programme
you are applying to.

You should avoid listing personal interests unrelated Close the Gap
to academia.
After Applying

What to Expect After you

Apply
Once the University has received your application, the department will
begin the assessment process. While specific details may vary by
programme, the key stages typically include initial application review,
interviews, and final decisions. Be sure to thoroughly check university
and departmental webpages for precise information about deadlines
and the steps following your application submission.
This section provides general information to help you understand the
steps following your application, including timelines, interview advice,
and what to expect regarding application outcomes.

Close the Gap

After Applying
2024

Stages of the application process

The assessment process

Submission: Applicants must submit all required materials
for applications, including by the deadline specified. Please note that there is no
application fee for PhD programmes at the University of
the instruments used and Cambridge.
the number of individuals
involved, can vary
significantly by discipline
and even by programme.
Initial Screening: Applications undergo an initial review to
ensure they meet the minimum academic and programme-
specific requirements.
Please review, What
Happens After Applying?
for further details.

Here is a general overview Shortlisting: After an initial screening, a shortlist is created

of candidates who meet the eligibility criteria and
of the typical stages in the demonstrate potential.
application process:

Interviews: Shortlisted candidates are invited to interviews

to further explore candidates’ qualifications and potential for
PhD study

Assessment: Applicants are assessed on various criteria

such as academic achievement, skills, research potential, and
alignment with the department's research priorities.

Final decision: Applicants are notified of the outcome of

their application, which could be an offer of admission, a
conditional offer, placement on a waiting list, or rejection.

Close the Gap

Interviews

Preparing for you PhD

Interview
Interviews are a critical part of the admissions process. Adequate
preparation and a clear understanding of the interview's purpose is
crucial.
This style of interview may be unfamiliar to you if you have not
previously been in a similar academic environment. This guide is
designed to assist all applicants in navigating the interview process, with
a particular focus on supporting applicants from underrepresented
backgrounds. It includes practical advice on how to prepare and what to
expect. Please carefully review University and departmental webpages
for any specific guidance they may provide.

Purpose of the Interview

These interviews provide an opportunity for the academic staff to gain deeper
insights into your research interests, motivations, and skills. They allow you to
discuss your academic background, previous research and professional
experiences, and how you envision your future research.

Interviews also allows assessor to

consider whether academic staff
within the department can
effectively engage with and
supervise your proposed doctoral
project. Therefore, during the
interview, expect questions that
probe alignment with the
programme, previous experience,
research proposal, enthusiasm
and motivation for doctoral
study, as well as your knowledge
and skills.
Close the Gap
Interviews

Interview Format
Interviews may be conducted online or in person, and you will be notified
accordingly. For online interviews, ensure you are in a quiet location with a
stable internet connection. For in-person interviews, arrive early to allow
yourself plenty of time.
The number of academic staff conducting the interview can vary by
department. For some programmes, you may be interviewed by your
prospective supervisor(s) or the PI along with other academics. In other cases,
the interview may be conducted by a panel that does not include your
prospective supervisor.

Preparing for the Interview

1. Complete your background research

Potential supervisors and PIs: It is essential to research potential

supervisors and PIs to understand their work and see how your research
interests and skills might align with and complement their existing
research agendas. Ensure you are familiar not only with your
prospective supervisors but also with other PIs in the department, as
they may be part of your interview panel and the academic community
you aim to join.

The department and programme: Understanding the strengths of the

department is crucial. You should be familiar with its research priorities
in order to determine how your interests align with its broader agenda
and capabilities. Most programmes, research projects, and labs have
websites that showcase their research outputs and focal areas.
Additionally, familiarise yourself with the structure of the programme to
effectively discuss how it meets your training and learning needs.

Close the Gap

Interviews

2. Know your application

Interviewers will refer to your application materials during the interview, and it
is likely that questions will stem from these documents. Interviewers meet
numerous applicants and might not recall the specifics of your application,
therefore you should be prepared to explain them in detail.

3. Prepare for the questions that you might be asked

Preparation is crucial for presenting yourself confidently during the interview;

it can make all the difference in helping you stand out as a successful potential
PhD student. Consider the following tips when anticipating questions:

Introductions: Be ready to introduce yourself. Prepare a concise

introduction focused on your academic interests and experience.
Highlight your past experience and explain how it has led you to pursue
research into your chosen topic.

Relevant experience: Assessors aim to evaluate your potential for

conducting and completing PhD research. They often do this by
examining your past experiences. Reflect on your academic trajectory,
professional experience, and how your skills have prepared you for your
desired PhD project.
If transitioning from a professional background, explicitly connect your
experiences to the skills that make you well-suited for the PhD
programme. Emphasise specific skills such as research methodologies,
data analysis, project management, or any other relevant expertise
gained through your professional journey.

Research proposal and research skills: Thoroughly review and

understand every aspect of the research proposal you submitted with
your application. Anticipate potential questions on the rationale,
methodologies, expected outcomes, and the potential impact and
significance of your proposed research. Be prepared to discuss technical
aspects and key research articles. Demonstrate an understanding of the
practicality and feasibility of your project, including a clear grasp of
timelines and potential challenges.

Close the Gap

Interviews

Compatibility with the department: Be prepared to discuss how your

research aligns with and contributes to the ongoing research within the
department and by the potential supervisor. Reflect on the unique
aspects of the lab or department that make it the optimal environment
for the development of your research and professional growth.

Articulate your motivations: Thoughtfully prepare answers to

questions about your motivations and what you hope to achieve
through the programme. Why do you want to do a PhD? Why do you
want to research the topic you are proposing? What do you hope to
achieve? The interviewers want to understand your motivation and
ensure that you recognise the commitment involved in signing up for a
PhD programme.

Training needs and funding: You are not expected to be an expert in

the field yet; gaps in your skills and knowledge are normal and expected.
Consider your training needs and how they align with the resources and
expertise available within the department. Be prepared to discuss your
funding plans during the interview.

Do you have any questions?: The panel will often invite you to ask
questions. Use this opportunity to gain an insight into the department's
resources, collaborative opportunities, and research experiences. Asking
questions signals your enthusiasm and interest.

4. Mock interviews

Practice being asked questions by conducting practice interviews with people

you know or with the careers service in your current institution. When
answering questions, provide detailed responses and cite specific and relevant
examples where appropriate.

Be mindful of your tone and aim to strike a balance between professionalism

and authenticity. Approach the interview as an opportunity to share your
research passions and interests with individuals who share similar interests.

Close the Gap

Interviews

5. Sample Questions

Introductions Tell me about yourself.

Relevant Can you discuss a project you've worked on that relates to this field?
Experience How has your previous research prepared you for this PhD?

What drives your interest in science?

Research Which theoretical/methodological approach are you interested in?
Proposal and Describe your current research project.
Academic Skills Can you discuss a specific challenge you faced during your previous
research and how you overcame it?

Why are you interested in this programme?

Alignment with How do your research interests align with our department's expertise?
the Department Which PI or professor are you interested in working with?
How does our specific programme fit into your long-term career plans?

Articulate your
Why do you believe pursuing a PhD is necessary for your career goals?
Motivation

Training Needs What training do you feel you need to succeed in this programme?
and Funding How do you plan to seek funding or grants to support your research?

Do you have any How does the department support students' professional development?
questions? What resources are available to support research in this department?

Additional Resources
Ransey, E., et al. (2023). A practical guide to graduate school interviewing for
historically excluded individuals. American Journal of Physiology-Heart and
Circulatory Physiology 2023 324:6, H786-H790.
Close the Gap
 2024
The Outcome of Your
Application
Around 90% of applications are considered by the department within 12
weeks. Some departments wait until the course deadline has passed and
consider all applications together, while other departments will consider
applications as soon as they are received. If you application is submitted by
the December or January funding deadlines, you should receive a formal
decision on your application before the end of March. The majority of offers
are made in February and March. A final decision on your application will be
sent to you by email.
Please, refer to the Postgraduate Study website.

Dealing with Rejection

Rejection, unfortunately, is a common
outcome in the application process. While AIM: PhD

it is natural to feel disappointed by this AIM: PhD is a 6-month, online programme

to assist applicants from
decision, it is important to remember that underrepresented groups with their
it does not reflect your self-worth or application to doctoral study at the
University of Cambridge.
research abilities.
The programme offers applicants
personalised support from University
Admissions decisions are complex and admissions staff and PhD students. We
influenced by various factors, some of aim to support participants to submit a
competitive application that reflects their
which may have nothing to do with the potential for doctoral study.
quality of your application. Rejection
Benefits for participants include:
could be due to limited supervisor One-on-one mentoring from a current
PhD student in your subject area.
capacity or your research topic not Group sessions covering topics
aligning with the department’s focus. related to the application process
Insights into student life at Cambridge
Practical tips for enhancing your
Keep an open mind, try other application
programmes, or reapply later. Finding For more information, eligibility, and
the right programme for you might application details, please visit:
postgraduate.study.cam.ac.uk/aim-phd.
require more than one attempt.

Other Resources

Jessica McCrory Calarco. 2020. A Field Guide to Grad School: Uncovering the Hidden Curriculum. Princeton.
Gardner, S. K., & Holley, K. A. (2011). “Those invisible barriers are real”: The Progression of First-Generation Students
Through Doctoral Education. Equity & Excellence in Education, 44(1), 77–92.
https://doi.org/10.1080/10665684.2011.529791
 Good luck
Close the Gap is supported by the Office for Students and Research England under
the ‘Improving Black, Asian and minority ethnic students’ access to postgraduate
research projects’ funding stream. Oxford and Cambridge have also contributed
support for this project.

The focus of Close the Gap is on organisational change that will shift the admissions
cultures in Oxford and Cambridge to reduce the offer gap and to promote a socially
just and inclusive environment for world-leading research.

Website closethegap.ox.ac.uk