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Doctor of Philosophy (PhD)

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The degree of Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) is the University's principal research degree for graduate students and is available in all faculties and departments.

A Cambridge PhD is intellectually demanding and you will need to have a high level of attainment and motivation to pursue this programme of advanced study and research.

In most faculties, a candidate is expected to have completed one year of postgraduate study, normally on a research preparation master's course, prior to starting a PhD.

Completion normally requires three or four years of full-time study, or at least five years of part-time study, including a probationary period.

Terms of research are normally consecutive and, for full-time students, require residency in Cambridge. Not all departments offer part-time research degrees.

Various routes to the PhD are possible and, if you are made an offer of admission, it will be made clear whether you are required to study for a master's degree or certificate in the first instance, or will be admitted directly to the probationary year for the PhD. You are registered for the PhD only after a satisfactory progress assessment at the end of the probationary year (five terms for part-time degrees). The assessment is designed also to focus your mind on the stages necessary for the completion of your research within the normal time limit and to address any structural problems that have arisen during the first year. Students must pass the first year assessment in order to continue their PhD study.

During your PhD, your effort will be focused on writing a dissertation. The word count of the dissertation is dependent on the department and the Student Registry or Educational Student Policy will be able to tell you the maximum word limit. This must represent a significant contribution to learning, for example through the discovery of new knowledge, the connection of previously unrelated facts, the development of a new theory, or the revision of older views, and must take account of previously published work on the subject. Some Cambridge dissertations go on to form the basis of significant publications.

Although you will spend long hours working independently, your department and College will both support you throughout your PhD. You are also able to attend regular seminars in your subject area and could be involved in teaching, perhaps giving seminars or supervising, or in the social life of your department and College.

PhD course search

Go to the Course Directory and filter courses using the relevant checkboxes.

Term Information

Fee terms 9 terms
Research terms 9 terms
Thesis terms 12 terms
Fee terms 15 terms
Research terms 15 terms
Thesis terms 21 terms

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How to apply for a PhD in the UK

Applying for a phd is not quite as daunting as you might think. a postgraduate student recruitment officer from the university of sussex shares his tips for putting together a phd application.

Ben Osborne's avatar

Ben Osborne

Pad of paper with PhD written on

There are many different reasons for wanting to pursue a PhD – to move into an academic role at a university, to continue studying a subject you are passionate about or to further your career. 

Whatever your motivation, many students are now choosing to pursue a PhD abroad. This guide will help you understand how to apply for a PhD at a UK university and answer any questions you might have around doing PhDs.

Free study abroad guide

Download your Study Abroad Guide for FREE!

How to apply for a phd.

Application rules and methods vary for each university. The number of courses that you can apply for in a year will vary. For example, at the University of Sussex , you can apply for up to three postgraduate courses per year using the postgraduate application system.

If you are applying for more than one degree, you must submit a research proposal/statement specific to each area of study you apply for.

You can also apply to different universities to improve your chances of being accepted to a PhD course of your choosing. 

What qualifications do I need?

Each PhD will have specific entry requirements and you will also need to meet a university’s general entry requirements.  This may be an upper second-class undergraduate honours degree (2:1) or an equivalent international qualification. For some PhDs you may need a master’s qualification, and you may be asked to attend an interview.

International students may also be required to prove language proficiency. This will vary across institutions so do check what level universities expect before starting your application. 

Applicants should always check the specific entry requirements in a university’s online prospectus before making an application.

When should I start applying?

This will depend on when your term start date is. Most research degrees will start in September but some courses offer additional entry points in January or May.

You can apply all year round for research degrees starting in September, January and May, and the deadlines for applying are usually one month before the course start date for UK applicants, and three months before for international applicants.

If you’re applying for funding from an external organisation you’ll need to be aware that they may have different deadlines for the funding application. So give yourself plenty of time to research your funding options, and ensure you know how long the application process takes. 

Many universities offer a number of funded PhD opportunities and PhD scholarships for UK and international students, and it’s always worth investigating funding routes such as research councils and other organisations, both in the UK and overseas.

In some cases, it may be possible to study a PhD by distance which means you’ll be able to learn online and have virtual meetings with your supervisor.

If this is something you would be interested in doing you should check before applying whether your university can accommodate this option. 

Nine things to know before doing a PhD Starting a PhD during the pandemic Studying for a part-time PhD: the challenges and the benefits Is it possible to do a three-year PhD as an international student?

How should I look for a supervisor?

Usually if you are applying for a funded project, or to a research centre or group, you will normally be asked to provide a statement explaining your suitability for working in that area, and if successful you will be allocated a supervisor.

If you wish to propose your own area of research, you need to decide on a research topic, and you will be expected to write a research proposal. In some cases you may only be required to provide a summary of academic interests and this can be used to match you to a researcher that suits you.

If you are proposing your own research topic, there may be a research database at your university that you can search, or your university will match you with a supervisor during the assessment of your application. It may be possible to request supervision by a particular member of faculty – this will be considered but not all requests can be accommodated.

If you do find a potential supervisor who matches your research area, check their online profile for indications of their doctoral supervision capacity. If they are open to doctoral applications, you can contact them directly to check their availability for supervising you.

It is a good idea to draw up a shortlist of two to three potential supervisors, and take an in-depth look into their research history. You can also find out more about your potential supervisors by looking in the reference sections of academic textbooks and searching for articles in research databases and academic blogs.

When you contact your potential supervisor, it is important to tell them something interesting about yourself, and explain your research interests and how you feel your research proposal matches their expertise.

How do I write a research proposal?

If you are proposing your own research you will need to write a strong proposal that formulates a precise, interesting research question, and establishes the relevance and value of the proposed research question in the context of current academic thinking.

You’ll need to make sure your proposal describes the data or source material your research requires, and outlines a clear and practical methodology that enables you to answer the research question and that states clearly what you hope to discover at the end of your research, and what new areas it might open up.

The precise content and structure of your research proposal will depend on your subject area, and the University of Sussex has some helpful resources on our website to guide you through the process.

How long does the application process take?

Completing an application and writing a research proposal may take some time and should not be left until just before the application deadline.

It’s not easy to give a definite idea of how long it takes to hear if your application has been successful, as it will depend on when the application is made and the nature of the specific PhD, and you would need to meet any conditions contained within the offer before you can start the PhD.

What are the associated costs?

There won’t typically be an application fee for PhDs but there are tuition fees. If a university does charge application fees they will usually be between £50-£100.

The tuition fees for students studying in the UK are set by UK Research and Innovation . Fees for international students are £18,975 for non-lab-based subjects, and £22,975 for lab-based subjects per year.

You’ll also need to factor in living costs, but there are a number of funding routes you can apply for to help with this. As well as PhD scholarships and funded research projects there are research council awards, PhD loans for those eligible, and various organisations to which international students can apply for funding, such as The Gen Foundation and Open Society Foundations.

It’s important to be aware of the costs involved, but it’s also worth remembering that the educational, career and personal benefits of PhD study can be worth it.

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How to apply for a PhD

We are looking for ambitious, talented and motivated students. You'll have the passion to make new discoveries, the drive to test new theories, and the willingness to go above and beyond.

PhD student looks through a microscope in a science lab at the University of Sussex

How do I apply?

To find out more about our degrees see our PhD degrees . You apply using our postgraduate application system.

Choose your PhD

Sussex is the perfect place to find a postgraduate research course that allows you to follow your passion and develop your research interests.

  • a Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) and a Master of Philosophy (MPhil). There are more than 50 degrees to choose from
  • Integrated PhDs in the University of Sussex Business School
  • full-time or part-time PhDs
  • all courses start in September and some courses offer additional entry points in January or May
  • the opportunity for research students registered elsewhere to visit Sussex . For more information see our handbook .-->

Distance learning may be available for some PhD courses. Before applying, you should check whether this mode of attendance is supported for the PhD you wish to undertake with the relevant School.

Find out more about our PhD degrees

Check our entry requirements

Our specific entry requirements are listed with each PhD degree .

You also need to meet our general entry requirements, usually an upper second-class undergraduate honours degree (2:1) or equivalent international qualification.

You may also be required to have a Masters qualification. If you are applying to the University of Sussex Business School, you may wish to choose the Integrated PhD, which contains an initial year of rigorous training in the research skills needed to become a skilled practitioner. If you are unsure which route to apply for, please apply for the Integrated PhD.

If you are an international student, you need to meet our English language requirements , or successfully complete our Pre-sessional English course .

You may also be asked to attend an interview.

Find out more about our entry requirements for UK applicants

Find out more about our entry requirements for international applicants

Choose a research topic or project

If you apply for one of our funded projects or to a research centre or group you will normally be asked to provide a statement explaining your suitablility for working in that area.

If you wish to propose your own area of research, you need to decide on a research topic and you will normally be expected to write a research proposal. Some areas may only require a summary of academic interests and they will use this to match you to potential supervisors. Before applying check the requirements for your subject area .

Find a supervisor

If you are joining a funded project at Sussex, you will already have a supervisor allocated to you.

If you are proposing your own research topic , you can find a supervisor to support and advise you.

If you think you have found a potential supervisor who matches your research area, check their online profile for indications of their doctoral supervision capacity. If they are open to doctoral applications, you can contact them to check their availability for supervising you

You can either ask a member of our faculty to be your supervisor if you think they have the expertise to support you or we will match you with a supervisor during the assessment of your application. If you ask to be supervised by a particular member of faculty, this will be considered but not all such requests can be accommodated.

Apply to Sussex

You apply directly to Sussex using our postgraduate application system .

You can apply for up to three postgraduate courses. If you are applying for more than one degree, you must submit a research proposal/statement specific to each area of study you apply for.

You must submit the following documents when you apply:

  • research proposal/research statement
  • summary of academic interests (this is optional depending on the subject area you are applying for)
  • degree certificates and transcripts. If the originals are not in English, certified translations must be provided
  • your English language qualification, where applicable
  • two academic references – including one from your most recent university. Or you can provide contact details for your referees and we will email them.

Follow our tips for applying to Sussex

Find out about our admissions policies

Deadline for applications

You can apply all year round for research degrees starting in September, January and May.

The recommended deadline for applications are:

International applicants: Three months before course start date Home/EU applicants: One month before course start date.

PhD applications received after these deadlines may be considered, but we cannot guarantee you will be able to commence your studies at your requested entry point.

Where you are applying for funding or scholarships, check the deadlines for your application. In some cases, you may need to have an offer from us before you can apply for funding.

Check fees, funding and support

We have a number of PhD funding and scholarship opportunities.

If your application is successful, you will have your fee status assessed . If your fee status is unclear, we will ask you to complete a questionnaire . If you disagree with the outcome of your fee status assessment, you can appeal .

Fees information is listed with each PhD degree

Receiving an offer

We will notify you through our postgraduate application system if we decide to offer you a place .

Your offer may include conditions – for example, completing your undergraduate or Masters degree with a certain grade or meeting our English language requirements . In the University of Sussex Business School, your offer may be for the Integrated PhD rather than the PhD. This will happen if the School feel you need the additional training in research skills which the initial year of the Integrated PhD provides.

If you are an international student studying a certain science- or engineering-based course you must apply for Academic Technology Approval Scheme (ATAS) clearance after you receive your offer.

Find out about ATAS clearance on the Student Hub .

If you decide to accept our offer, you can notify us using the postgraduate application system .

You can still accept your offer even if you have not yet secured funding. However, you should have funding in place when you start at Sussex.

Confirming your place

If your offer is unconditional, we may still need to verify your qualifications .

If your offer is conditional, you should send in your results by email as soon as they are available, so that your place can be confirmed.

If you are unable to take up your place, you can request to defer your entry to another available entry point (up to a maximum of 12 months).

If your application is unsuccessful and you are not sure why, you can request feedback .

Before you start at Sussex

You will be sent information about joining us in the months before you start your research.

For most students, the registration process is completed online. Registration opens in:

  • early September, if you are starting at Sussex in September
  • December, if you are starting at Sussex in January
  • early April, if you are starting at Sussex in May.

If you are an international student and you need a visa to study in the UK , you complete most of the registration process online. To register, you need to attend in person, so we can take a copy of your passport and visa.

You might also be interested in:

  • student support
  • applying for accommodation
  • visas and immigration information on the Student Hub .
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PhD studentships

If you're looking to get PhD funding for a specific research project or field of study, Doctoral studentships can provide you with either a partially or fully-funded PhD

Who awards PhD studentships?

PhD studentships are most commonly awarded by the UK's seven Research Councils in the form of Research Council grants , with research funding overseen by UK Research and Innovation (UKRI) .

Individual UK universities also offer scholarships and bursaries to PhD students, while many professional bodies fund Doctoral research in collaboration with these academic institutions.

For instance, research awards are offered by the following engineering organisations:

  • Institution of Civil Engineers (ICE) - QUEST scholarships
  • Institution of Mechanical Engineers (IMechE)
  • The Institution of Engineering and Technology (IET)
  • Royal Academy of Engineering (RAEng)

Additionally, CASE studentships (formerly known as Cooperative Awards in Science and Engineering) can be part-funded by any non-academic body in partnership with the Natural Environment Research Council (NERC) . These four-year PhDs require the student to work at the organisation for at least three months.

You can also apply for funded PhD opportunities through many charities, foundations and trusts, including:

  • Action Medical Research
  • Alzheimer's Society
  • British Federation of Women Graduates (BFWG)
  • British Heart Foundation (BHF)
  • Cancer Research UK
  • Diabetes UK
  • Rosetrees Trust - PhD Plus
  • The Leverhulme Trust
  • Wellcome Trust

Before you start applying for a funded PhD, it's always a good idea to discuss this with a prospective supervisor first, as they're often able to provide tips on maximising the likelihood of receiving financial support.

How much can I receive?

Many PhD studentships, including those offered by universities, professional bodies, or charities, foundations and trusts, provide three years' funding paid at a similar rate to the Research Council grant:

  • Fees-only studentship - These cover a student's tuition fees, plus any associated project and training costs (a minimum of £4,786 per year in 2024/25).
  • Full studentship - These add a non-repayable, tax-free maintenance grant known as a 'stipend'. In 2024/25, this is worth a minimum of £19,237 and it can be used towards living costs - see UKRI - Find studentships and Doctoral training .

For example, at The University of Manchester, the School of Social Sciences PhD studentship includes tuition fees for three-and-a-half years and a maintenance grant of £18,622 (2023/24 rate) per year for living expenses, plus associated research costs - such as fieldwork and attending conferences - from the Research Training Support Grant.

However, you should be aware that some PhD studentship recipients are required to teach undergraduates. While this provides an excellent opportunity to gain vital employability skills, it can also be hugely time-consuming. You must be satisfied that tutoring won't negatively affect the quality of your research before accepting your place.

Is my programme eligible for a PhD studentship?

PhD studentships can start at any time of the year, but most begin in September, October or January.

Certain types of PhD, for example professional Doctorates, may not be eligible for a PhD studentship. The same applies to part-time or distance learning options.

Am I eligible?

PhD studentships typically demand that applicants have a Bachelors degree at 2:1 or above, plus a relevant Masters degree or professional experience at that level of study.

Those who already possess a PhD are often ineligible, while some PhD studentships are limited to students fitting certain criteria - for example, those from a disadvantaged background, from a certain country or of a certain ethnicity.

If you're a European Union (EU) national, you'll need to have settled or pre-settled status under the government's EU Settlement Scheme to be eligible for student finance in this country - and this includes PhD studentships.

How do I apply for a PhD studentship?

The application process can be lengthy, and competition is fierce.

Some PhD students will be automatically considered for financial support once they've been accepted by an institution, but many are required to make separate PhD funding applications. These are usually made directly to the university - even for those studentships from Research Councils, professional bodies, or charities, foundations and trusts.

You'll typically be asked for your PhD application form, a research proposal , a cover letter and your references. After the institution has reviewed your application, you may be invited to interview.

Throughout this process, the university will scrutinise what you'll bring to the institution. Applicants at Liverpool John Moores University (LJMU), for example, are judged on:

  • the quality of their research project and how it connects with research currently being undertaken at the institution
  • how appropriate the supervisory team is
  • their calibre, academic qualifications and academic/research experience
  • whether the research can contribute towards the Research Excellence Framework (REF), meaning that interdisciplinary research will be preferred.

How do I increase my chances of getting a PhD studentship?

You can improve your chances of success by:

  • asking a friend or family member to proofread your application
  • carefully choosing your referees, ensuring that they'll speak positively of you
  • discussing your draft application with a relevant academic
  • explaining how your work will be unique and innovative
  • following the funding body's guidance regarding word counts and formatting.

What other PhD funding is available?

If you're unsuccessful with your PhD studentship application, you could consider:

  • crowdfunding
  • employer sponsorship
  • PhD loans .

Find out more

  • Explore 5 routes to getting a Doctorate .
  • Read about 5 challenges faced by PhD students .
  • Consider what to do next after completing a PhD .

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PhD Education / Overview

Year of entry: 2024

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  • Bachelor's (Honours) degree at 2:1 or above (or overseas equivalent); and
  • Master's degree in a relevant subject - with an overall average of 60% or above, a minimum mark of 60% in your dissertation (or overseas equivalent)

Full entry requirements

Apply online

Please ensure you include all required supporting documents at the time of submission, as incomplete applications may not be considered.

Application Deadlines

For consideration in internal funding competitions, you must submit your completed application by 19 January 2024.

If you are applying for or have secured external funding (for example, from an employer or government) or are self-funding, you must submit your application before the below deadline to be considered. You will not be able to apply after this date has passed.

  • For September 2024 entry: 30 June 2024

Programme options

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Programme overview

  • 2nd in the UK for Education (Complete University Guide 2024).  
  • The University of Manchester was ranked in the top 10 in the UK for Education research (overall GPA, REF2021).
  • Learn with research-active experts in the field of education and work with highly diverse cohorts of students and staff.
  • Contribute to improvements in the overall wellbeing of students, their families and communities throughout the world through research.

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The University holds regular open days, where you will have the opportunity to tour the campus and find out more about our facilities and programmes. On this day, you will find out more about the School of Environment, Education and Development (SEED) and meet academic and admissions staff who will be able to answer any questions you have.

For more information, see Open days.

We will be conducting our PGR virtual open week in October 2024. Find out about future events and postgraduate research sessions by signing up for our email alerts.

For entry in the academic year beginning September 2024, the tuition fees are as follows:

  • PhD (full-time) UK students (per annum): £6,000 International, including EU, students (per annum): £21,500
  • PhD (part-time) UK students (per annum): £3,000 International, including EU, students (per annum): £10,750

Further information for EU students can be found on our dedicated EU page.

Your fees will cover the cost of your study at the University, as well as charges for registration, tuition, supervision, examinations and graduation (excluding graduation robe hire).

Payment of tuition fees will also entitle you to membership of The University of Manchester library, the Students' Union and the Athletic Union.

Scholarships/sponsorships

There are a range of scholarships, studentships and awards to support both UK and overseas postgraduate researchers, details of which can be found via the links below.

To apply University of Manchester funding, you must indicate in your application the competitions for which you wish to be considered. The deadline for most internal competitions, including School of Environment, Education and Development studentships is 19 January 2024.

All external funding competitions have a specified deadline for submitting the funding application form and a separate (earlier) deadline for submitting the online programme application form, both of which will be stated in the funding competition details below.

For more information about funding, visit our funding page to browse for scholarships, studentships and awards you may be eligible for.

  • ESRC North West Social Science Doctoral Training Partnership (NWSSDTP) PhD Studentships - Competition Closed for 2024 Entry
  • School of Environment, Education and Development Postgraduate Research Studentships 2024 Entry - Competition Closed for 2024 Entry
  • China Scholarship Council - The University of Manchester (CSC-UoM) Joint Scholarship Programme - Competition Closed for 2024 Entry
  • Commonwealth PhD Scholarships (Least Developed Countries and Fragile States)
  • President's Doctoral Scholar (PDS) Awards - Competition Closed for 2024 Entry
  • Trudeau Doctoral Scholarships 2024 Entry
  • Commonwealth PhD Scholarships (High Income Countries)
  • School of Environment, Education and Development Enhancing Racial Equality (SERE) Studentship - Competition Closed for 2024 Entry
  • Humanities Doctoral Academy Humanitarian Scholarship 2024 Entry

Contact details

Programmes in related subject areas.

Use the links below to view lists of programmes in related subject areas.

Regulated by the Office for Students

The University of Manchester is regulated by the Office for Students (OfS). The OfS aims to help students succeed in Higher Education by ensuring they receive excellent information and guidance, get high quality education that prepares them for the future and by protecting their interests. More information can be found at the OfS website .

You can find regulations and policies relating to student life at The University of Manchester, including our Degree Regulations and Complaints Procedure, on our regulations website .

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PhD Study in the UK

What is a phd.

A PhD is a research degree and is the highest award available at universities in the UK. The study is based on a substantial research project on an area of academic interest, typically up to 100,000 words in length, written as a thesis, which then must be defended in an oral examination in front of a panel of experts. Students are assigned a supervisor, and a PhD duration is typically three years full-time and six years part-time.

Very few research degrees feature taught modules, so students are expected to take more responsibility for their work and schedule.

PhD Eligibility

UK universities are free to admit anyone, with PhD admission generally conditional on the prospective student having completed an undergraduate degree with at least upper second-class honours and a master's degree . English language ability must be proved; a minimum IELTS score of 7.0 is generally required.

PhD Research Proposal

All students who apply for a PhD must submit a research proposal ( example ). The proposal should address the research you wish to undertake, how you will do it, and why it is important. A panel of experts must accept the proposal before your programme can begin.

Other types of Research Degree

Mphil (master of philosophy).

If you wish to study for a PhD, you may first need to begin an MPhil and then transfer to a PhD programme after 12-18 months. An MPhil is also a qualification in its own right and is generally thesis-only, lasting one year full-time and two years part-time. The thesis must present the results of a study and research and be a maximum of 60,000 words.

Students choose to study an MPhil if the proposed research has insufficient scope for a full PhD.

MRes (Master of Research)

An MRes is an advanced postgraduate research degree in the areas of art, humanities, and social sciences. Some Ph.D. Programs require an MRes qualification before beginning a PhD. The programme proper, and the student is required to complete a 40,000-word dissertation.

An MRes is a good way to see if you enjoy conducting research without fully committing to and funding a full PhD.

Professional Doctorate

Professional doctorates are similar to PhDs but are intended to advance professional practice rather than improve academic ability. Joint professional doctorates include law, education, business, engineering, and medicine.

How long does a PhD last?

A PhD in the UK usually takes three to four years if you study full-time. However, it can vary depending on the subject and how quickly you make progress. If you study part-time, it may take longer, typically five to seven years.

How much does a PhD cost?

Funding and researching a PhD can be expensive, with EU students paying up to £6,000 per year, and international students more.

It is rare for a PhD student to not be supported by some form of bursary, grant or scholarship  though, and many universities and research councils provide monetary support for part or all of a PhD programme.

PhD admission - how do I apply?

Once you have decided on an area of research and have looked into how you will fund your study, you will need to fill out several documents required when submitting your application. They can include:

  • Academic transcripts
  • Academic references
  • Personal statement
  • Research proposal ( example )

Students will also need to identify a supervisor who will oversee their PhD.

Top PhD Programmes in the UK

- university of oxford.

The DPhil in Computer Science at Oxford University offers students the chance to do advanced research in a beautiful setting. You can study topics like linguistics, biology, medicine, and quantum computation alongside computer science, get one-on-one guidance from experienced supervisors, attend lectures, and gain transferable skills.

  • Popular PhD course: DPhil in Computer Science
  • Entry requirements: A first-class or strong upper second-class undergraduate degree with honours in a four-year undergraduate degree (equivalent to a master's degree) in a relevant subject, or a first-class or strong upper second-class undergraduate degree with honours in a three-year BSc/BA degree and a master's degree with merit or distinction in a relevant subject.
  • International fee: £29,700

- University of Cambridge

The PhD in Computer Science at Cambridge University is research-focused. Students work on their research projects under the guidance of a supervisor for three to four years. When admitted, students undergo a probationary period and are registered for the Certificate of Postgraduate Study (CPGS).

  • Popular PhD courses: PhD in Computer Science
  • Entry requirements: A UK First class Honours Degree or international equivalent. Additionally, having a master's-level degree or equivalent postgraduate work is highly desirable. 
  • International fee: £35,673

- Imperial College London

The Imperial College Business School offers a Master's in Research (MRes) that introduces students to theory and research methods in Finance, Economics, and Management, providing a solid foundation for future doctoral studies. Depending on the chosen research area, the MRes programme can be completed in one or two years.

  • Popular PhD course: One year Master’s in Research
  • Entry requirements: A high academic standing (such as a distinction or merit), or a first-class or upper second-class honours undergraduate degree.
  • International fee: £17,500

- University College London

The Management MRes + MPhil/PhD programme at UCL School of Management offers a prestigious research experience for students seeking scholarly careers in management studies. With a strong reputation for world-leading research, the programme provides rigorous academic training and personalised research mentorship.

  • Popular PhD course: Management MRes + MPhil/PhD
  • Entry requirements: A first-class Bachelor's degree from a UK university or an equivalent overseas qualification. UCL encourages applicants from various disciplines to apply and requires them to have taken the GMAT or GRE General Test.
  • International fee: £29,000

- University of Edinburgh

The University of Edinburgh’s PhD in Informatics focuses on training researchers with comprehensive knowledge in their discipline and a specialised area. During the first year, you will attend relevant lectures, submit a thesis proposal, and receive annual progress reviews. Successful completion of a thesis and oral examination leads to the award of a doctorate. Regular talks and seminars provide additional learning opportunities.

  • Popular PhD course: Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Informatics
  • Entry requirements: A degree in an Informatics-related field like Artificial Intelligence, Cognitive Science, or Computer Science. Proficiency in computer programming is required. 

Study a PhD in the UK

If you are interested in studying for a research degree in the UK, arrange a free consultation today. The PhD Service  can also help you apply with expert application advice, interview practice and research proposal editing.

PhD Admission FAQ

Is a phd fully funded in the uk for international students.

PhD funding for international students in the UK varies. Some universities offer full funding, while others require students to find funding. Scholarships, grants, and assistantships are available, but not all PhD programmes are fully funded.

What are the requirements for studying for a PhD in the UK?

To study for a PhD in the UK, you generally need a master's degree or an equivalent qualification in a related field. You'll also need to write a detailed research proposal explaining your research objectives and academic references that assess your research abilities. Additionally, you must secure funding to cover your tuition fees and living expenses, which can come from scholarships, grants, personal funds, or sponsorship. Requirements may vary, so it's best to check with individual universities.

Can international students apply for a PhD in the UK?

international students can apply for a PhD in the UK. UK universities accept applications from students worldwide. 

How much does a PhD cost for international students in the UK?

PhD tuition fees for international students in the UK depend on factors such as the university, field of study, and location. On average, fees range from £15,000 to £35,000 per year. However, it's important to note that actual fees can vary significantly .

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Doctor of Philosophy (PhD)

What is a phd.

A PhD is a Doctorate of Philosophy, a prestigious qualification which is the highest level of degree that a student can achieve, demonstrating talent, academic excellence and a thirst for knowledge. In a modern knowledge-based economy, highly educated and skilled people such as doctoral graduates, are in great demand. They form the most highly educated and skilled group in the UK and internationally. Many will go on to use their skills within academia or in research-intensive occupations in industry. However, there will be others who will draw on their research background and the skills gained through a doctoral degree in a wide variety of other occupations. Examples of the type of employment opportunities taken up by PhD holders can be found at Vitae: researcher careers .

What will I get from a PhD?

You will get a huge sense of personal achievement. Our doctoral training programme will help you develop transferable skills that will be invaluable in your subsequent career. The research techniques and methodologies you master will enable you to make a direct contribution to the advancement of knowledge in your particular subject area.

Successful candidates are awarded the degree of Doctor of Philosophy and are permitted to use the title ‘Dr’.

How does it work?

The maximum registration for a PhD programme is four years with full-time study, or eight years with part-time study.

All PhD students are initially registered for a Master of Philosophy (MPhil), and the PhD registration is confirmed after the successful completion of an upgrade assessment (at the end of year 1 for full-time students and year 2 for part-time study). You will be registered for a PhD when you pass this upgrade. Your academic progress will be monitored throughout your degree studies, via formal progress reports and regular meetings with your supervisors.

You complete a body of primary, novel research and submit a doctoral thesis of up to 100,000 words, which you then defend via an oral examination (the viva) to the satisfaction of the examiners. Your thesis must meet the expectations specified in the Quality Code .

Entry requirements

Entry requirements vary according to the research topic and/or specific studentships. The normal minimum entrance requirement is an upper second class honours degree or masters degree, relevant to the proposed area of study, from a recognised higher education institution in the UK or other recognised degree-awarding body. The comparability of qualifications from outside the UK with The Open University requirements will be determined through reference to UK ENIC .

The research topic pages (within research areas ) give details of specific entry requirements, and provide contact details to discuss your suitability for the PhD.

English language proficiency

To study with us, you will need to have a good command of English. If your first language is not English, you will need to demonstrate your competence in the English Language in all four elements (reading, writing, listening and speaking). The University requires a minimum IELTS score of 6.5 with no less than 6.0 in any of the four categories (or approved equivalent). If you are an overseas student, you must have your level of proficiency certified through a provider approved by UK Visas and Immigration and provide your certificate and grade with your application.

Application closing dates

Entry may be permitted for direct registration with The Open University at the following points of year: October and February. This ensures that students benefit from development and training in peer groups. For further information on how to apply, see our Application process section. Application deadlines may differ between research topics and studentships; full details of topic application period is detailed in the topic page (within research areas ).

OU PhD student, Hannah Sargeant.

PhD student, Hannah Sargeant. Her research is focussed on water production from Moon rocks as part of the ProSPA instrument that will be flown to the Moon in 2025.

My PhD journey so far has been a wonderful learning experience that made me reflect upon my beliefs and stretch my thinking.

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The sweetest thing about the PhD is that you’ve worked hard for it. It is an opportunity to make an original contribution to an academic area I have always found fascinating.

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For advice about applying for a research degree, or sponsoring a research student, email the Graduate School or call +44 (0)1908 653806.

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7 Ways to Get a PhD Scholarship in the UK

As a result, there is always a lot of interest in the scholarships available to study in this country. In this article, we have attempted to provide the information about the major sources of funding available for studying a PhD in the UK.

Check out PhDs worldwide

University scholarships

1. Check our portal where you can find around 400 PhD scholarships in the UK alone. 

2. If you would like to apply for a specific university in the UK, a good option is to start searching for scholarships on their websites. Finance and scholarship offices have information about different funding opportunities that they provide and/or the links to the external funding opportunities. A lot of universities give PhD scholarships to a limited number of students on an annual basis. The types of scholarships may vary and be aimed at both UK/EU and overseas students. Such scholarships are highly competitive, and potential candidates should demonstrate strong academic background and motivation for studying to be able to get them.

3. Another great resource for finding scholarships in the UK is this website: http://www.jobs.ac.uk/phd .  A lot of academic positions, including PhD scholarships, are advertised on this website. You may find it useful to subscribe to the updates to make sure you do not miss any relevant positions.

4. There is a new opportunity available from British Council that coordinates the Newton Fund that is aimed at strengthening the relations between the UK and overseas institutions. A number of PhD scholarships will be allocated through this fund. For more information check:  http://www.britishcouncil.org/education/science/current-opportunities.

5. A lot of the students who write to us on PhD portal receive scholarships from the governments of their own countries. Make sure to check funding opportunities available in your own country!

6. Funding may also come through direct contact with a potential supervisor. Quite often researchers have funding that has to be allocated for a specific PhD project, and they may be looking for candidates. That is why it is important to try to get in touch with potential supervisors when looking for PhD opportunities.

7. Try to join as many research newsletters, mailing lists from research societies etc. in your area. Quite often, these channels are used to advertise potential PhD positions.

Apply right now for the Studyportals Scholarship

You can also apply for our scholarship. It is available to students interested in Bachelor's, Master's and even PhD programmes. Check out the admission requirements and apply for the Studyportals Scholarship .

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Studentships and doctoral training

Get a studentship to fund your doctorate.

UKRI studentships offer funding for doctoral research. They also offer you access to training, networking and development opportunities to help you build a research and innovation career.

Our expectations for research organisations, supervisors and students are set out in the statement of expectations for doctoral training .

You could get:

  • a minimum stipend of £19,237 per year for your living costs, which is paid to you in regular instalments
  • support for your tuition fees (minimum £4,786 per year)

The stipend is usually non-taxable and does not need to be paid back. Some research organisations may offer more if you study in London, or they or one of their collaborators might decide to top up the payment. This will be outlined in the studentship advert from the research organisation.

We normally pay the support for tuition fees directly to your research organisation.

The levels given here are for the academic year 2024 to 2025. UKRI’s approach to doctoral stipend and fee levels will be reviewed through the  new deal for postgraduate research .

Additional support for your doctoral studies

As a UKRI-funded doctoral student, you may be able to access additional funding to cover the cost of other related training and development opportunities.

This could include:

  • conference attendance
  • language training
  • overseas research visits
  • internships or placements with a non-academic partner

The availability of support will depend on the research organisation and the training grants they have on offer. You should contact the research organisation you are interested in applying to, to find out what you could get.

Extra support if you have a disability

If you have a disability, you may be entitled to a Disabled Students’ Allowance (DSA) on top of your studentship.

You should speak to your research organisation’s disability advisor to assess your needs. They can help put the right support in place, including a DSA application if necessary. You cannot claim DSA directly from UKRI.

DSA helps to cover the cost of any additional support that a person studying for a doctorate might need as a result of a disability, mental health problem or specific learning difficulty.

The allowance covers:

  • non-medical personal assistance
  • specialist equipment
  • extra travel costs
  • general expenses

Find out more about DSA in our framework .

If you are a research organisation you can download claim forms and guidance for DSA .

Who can apply

Any prospective doctoral student wishing to study at a UK research organisation, including prospective international students, can apply for a UKRI studentship.

All UKRI-funded doctoral students will be eligible for the full award, both the stipend to support living costs, and home-level fees at the UK research organisation rate.

How to find opportunities

Many UK research organisations offer some form of studentship funding from UKRI. These opportunities will depend on the subject you want to study and will normally be advertised by the research organisations.

Research organisations may have additional opportunities that do not involve UKRI. UKRI supports around 20% of all UK-based postgraduate researchers. You should speak to the research organisation you are interested in to find out what studentships are available.

You could also consider using a specialist website like   FindaPhD  to look for opportunities.

When to apply

Research organisations set their own deadlines for applications.

Many open for applications early in the academic year and close in January or February. This is not a hard and fast rule. It is important that you check the deadlines for the research organisation where you want to study.

How to apply

You cannot apply to UKRI for a studentship. You must contact the research organisation you are interested in studying with and use their application process.

For doctoral students who are already studying with a studentship, there are opportunities to get additional funding to support placements that are separate from your doctorate.  Find training and development opportunities .

Last updated: 14 February 2024

This is the website for UKRI: our seven research councils, Research England and Innovate UK. Let us know if you have feedback or would like to help improve our online products and services .

  • Top 20 UK Universities for PhD Study in 2024

Written by Marcus Holt

The United Kingdom has a world-famous higher education system and a large range of degree programmes, making it a very popular destination to study in. So, it’s no surprise that British universities are some of the highest ranking in the world.

But how do you choose the best university to study your PhD at?

It’s not always as straightforward as you might think but you can start by looking at the rankings. These tell you which UK universities are the most internationally respected and renowned.

Top 20 UK Universities in 2024
University THE 2024 QS 2024 ARWU 2023
1 3 7
5 2 4
8 6 23
22 9 17
=30 22 38
=38 40 59
46 45 151-200
51 32 41
81 55 88
=87 =76 101-150
=97 =81 151-200
101 =84 151-200
105 104 151-200
=106 67 101-150
129 75 151-200
=130 =100 101-150
135 =145 201-300
147 167 301-400
155 122 301-400
=168 =176 101-150
World University Rankings, and . Visit their websites for more information.

So, how good are the top universities in the UK for PhD study?

The short answer is: very good! With 11 universities in the top 100 THE ranking, the UK has more top-ranked universities than any other European country.

In fact, the only other country to beat the UK globally is the USA. But, unlike the USA, all the UK’s top universities are publicly funded, reflecting their substantial investment in higher education.

Here we’ve given a brief introduction to university rankings. For a more detailed overview of how the system works and how to get the best out of it, check our guide to PhD rankings .

Search for a PhD in the UK

Ready to start looking for your ideal study abroad opportunity? Browse PhDs in the UK on FindAPhD.com.

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How To Get A PhD

Find your perfect postgrad program search our database of 30,000 courses.

How to get a PhD

Do you want to study a PhD? Studying a PhD is a big commitment in terms of time and money – but is thoroughly worthwhile if it's the right path – and the right time – for you.

Let’s take a look at how to get a PhD.

Are you ready to do a PhD?

The first thing you need to ascertain is whether you are ready to study a PhD .

The usual first step in gaining a PhD is to have a relevant undergraduate degree completed to a sufficiently high enough quality. You will usually also have had to complete a masters-level degree in a related subject, preferably with a substantial piece of research included.

Can you fund your PhD?

PhDs in the UK are funded in two ways, and this pattern of funding is fairly similar around the world.

The first way to fund your PhD is through PhD studentships , these are part of larger research projects. In the UK there are seven research councils in the UK that can provide this type of funding for PhD students, these are:

  • Arts and Humanities Research Council
  • Biotechnology and Biological Sciences Research Council
  • Economic and Social Research Council
  • Engineering and Physical Sciences Research Council
  • Medical research Council
  • Natural Environment Research Council
  • Science and Technology Facilities Council . 

The other way is by choosing your own topic of research and finding funding or providing funding yourself. And once you have been accepted onto a PhD you are eligible to apply for one of our Postgrad Solutions Study Bursaries worth £500.

Applying for a PhD studentship

Studentships for doctorates are advertised on university websites and places where other academic jobs are advertised, such as the Times Higher Education website in the UK. Applications for these PhD studentships are in many ways similar to job applications . They are usually very competitive.

Find a PhD supervisor

If you are self-proposing your PhD, then you will have to write your research proposal, find an institution to support you during your research and an academic to supervise you. This is a difficult process and requires you to have spent time networking and meeting other people in the same field of research as you.

It's vital to the success of completing your PhD that you find a supervisor and institution that you will work well with.

PhD interview

To gain a place on a PhD course you are likely to have to attend a PhD interview .

At the PhD interview your potential supervisor(s) will ask you a number of questions to enable them to get to know you better and have a good understanding of your area of interest and research and ascertain whether you’d be a good fit for the PhD program.

The PhD interview will also give you the opportunity to ask questions about the program, department and university to make sure it’s the right place for you to undertake your doctoral studies.

Complete an MRes or MPhil firss

Most universities require their PhD students to complete an MRes (Masters by Research) or an MPhil (Master of Philosophy) in the first year and then progress onto a PhD. This provides proof that the PhD student is academically capable of high-level research and original ideas.

It also means that if after their first year the student decides that studying a PhD is not the right path for them, they will still leave university with a good qualification.

Choose your PhD study mode

Another decision that you will have to make to get a PhD, is whether to study full time, part time or via distance learning.

One of the main influencing factors in this decision is the amount of time the mode of study makes completing the PhD take.

Full- or part-time PhD study

Most PhD candidates study full time, this is mainly because if they opt for part-time study, it will make a three- or four-year process take eight years. This is a serious time commitment.

However, many students who are self-funding their PhD may undertake their PhD on a part-time basis before they get more funding in place so they can work alongside their studies.

Distance learning PhD

Many PhD students choose to undertake their PhD via distance learning .

This option can make the actual researching much easier, as the student can live near the source of their research while keeping in contact with their supervisor online.

Studying a PhD via distance learning is not usually available for those undertaking their PhD through a studentship as they will usually being lab work and have other academic obligations at their university department.

However, it is suitable for PhD candidates who do not need to regularly attend their institution.

How to get a PhD

Research your PhD subject properly

Researching into a PhD will involve many steps including reviewing all the literature written about your chosen research subject and exploring the intricacies of gathering the data that will ultimately form the basis of your research.

How you gather your research will depend greatly on your research subject – and this is something that you need to give a lot of consideration.

Writing up your PhD research

The PhD thesis is the research project that results from your research argument, data compilation and any conclusions you have come to after reviewing all of your research.

It will depend on your subject area and your research methods as to whether you have been writing your PhD thesis as you go, or if you  have to write it up fully after all the research has taken place.

Once your PhD thesis has been written up it is likely to be between 70,000 and 100,000 words long.

Do you have any additional responsibilities?

Whilst researching and writing up your PhD thesis, many PhD students take on additional responsibilities in their academic department. These responsibilities can include helping professors and lecturers with their classes, or marking and evaluating undergraduate work.

If you are studying your PhD in the UK, then you will find there are regulations that govern what you must be paid for by the UK Research Council. In other countries, some PhD students can be asked to undertake a variety of tasks without payment.

If you are an international student studying your PhD in the UK, there may be limitations as to how much work you can undertake whilst living in the UK on a student visa. It’s important to check what your restrictions are, so you don’t break the terms of your student visa.

A PhD viva is an oral exam that takes place at the end of the PhD program, during which the PhD student will present, discuss and defend their PhD thesis with fellow academics.

Some students find this an intimidating prospect whereas others are excited about the possibility of discussing their PhD with professionals who are truly interested in their research.

There is no set time limit for a PhD viva – they can last anything from one to three hours, but to ensure success it’s imperative that the student knows their work inside out and is fully prepared for the viva.

The word ’viva’ is a shortened form of the Latin term ‘viva voce’ which means ‘live voice’.

Different ways of getting a PhD

There are several different ways to study a PhD – here is a summary of them.

1. PhD by Thesis

A PhD by Thesis is the most common way to study a doctorate program, and this will take three to four years to study full time at university and up to eight years if studied part time. Throughout your studies you will be supported by a PhD supervisor who will be there to advise you while you are writing your research-based thesis, which will be between 70,000 and 100,000 words long. Upon completion of the thesis, you will need to defend your research in front of a panel of academic experts in an oral examination known as a viva.

2. Integrated PhD

An Integrated PhD usually takes four years of full-time study. This timeframe includes studying a one-year MRes (Masters of Research) as part of the Integrated PhD program. Integrated PhDs are a particularly good idea for students who haven’t previously undertaken much research-based academic work, as essential research skills can be learnt whilst studying the MRes. The research undertaken during the MRes can then be used as the basis for the PhD research project.

3. PhD by Publication

A PhD by Publication is a postgraduate research degree based on previously published pieces of work, for example journals and articles. These are submitted by the student as a body of work. In addition to this, the student needs to demonstrate evidence of original thought and unique contribution to their specific field of study with an extensive supporting statement. A PhD by Publication is often the chosen PhD pathway by mid-career academics that didn’t undertake a PhD before embarking on their career. Some universities only accept academic staff or their own graduates for a PhD by Publication.

4. Distance Learning PhD

Online PhDs provide students with a good, flexible option as there is no need for relocation for their doctorate studies. As a large proportion of any PhD course is spent doing independent study and research, unless regular access to a science lab or other specialised facilities is necessary, PhDs are ideally suited to distance learning, with students able to maintain regular contact with supervisors online. Distance learning PhDs are a good option for people with family or work commitments, or for international students who want to study their PhD at a particular university without the upheaval or expense of moving overseas. When studying an online PhD, it is likely that the student will have to be onsite at the university for a few days each academic year to meet with their supervisor and get any necessary training.

5. Professional Doctorate

Professional Doctorates are aimed at professionals working in vocational sectors, for example those working in healthcare, education and engineering. Professional Doctorates are often accredited by a professional body, making them a great way to advance your career path. Professional Doctorates tend have a greater taught element and a smaller thesis than other types of PhD and will lead students in a career-focussed direction rather than along an academic pathway.

What countries have the most PhD graduates?

Universities on countries all over the world offer PhD programs. This table illustrates the countries with the highest number of PhD graduates in 2014 – and how many PhD graduates they had.

PhD

USA

67,449

Germany

28,147

UK

25,020

India

24,300

Japan

16,039

France

13,729

South Korea

12,931

Spain

10,889

Italy

10,678

Australia

8,400

Canada

7,059

Turley

4,516

Indonesia

3,591

Russia

2,223

South Africa

2,060

Related articles

PhD Interview Questions

How Long Is A PhD?

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Why is it so hard to get PhD funding in the UK for international students?

In general, it's fairly difficult to get a funded PhD position in the UK, if you're an international student.

An international grad student in the UK has essentially a few options, such as: (1) ultra-prestigious scholarships like the Rhodes scholarship, (2) external funding, e.g. from industry or their home country's government (this is common for students from many Asian countries), or (3) compete for a very small number of department or university funded positions/scholarships open to internationals.

This is very different from the situation in the US and most of continental Europe, where a PhD position always comes with a salary, and where there's typically no discrimination between domestic and international applicants.

Are there historical reasons why the UK PhD system is like this? It seems strange, especially given that the UK is a wealthy country strong in scientific research. Why don't they reform their system to better attract international talent?

(My field is physics, but I think the same is true across other STEM subjects.)

  • united-kingdom

Aqualone's user avatar

  • 7 Almost all public (i.e. state-funded) universities in the US discriminate against international applicants; this is just not made obvious. –  Alexander Woo Commented Mar 24, 2022 at 19:54
  • 2 @AlexanderWoo That is debatable. A lot of the discrimination against foreign students is indirect, because non-US universities are less well known, and because a certain country's education system might be perceived negatively. In any case it is nowhere nearly as extreme as in the UK. –  Aqualone Commented Mar 24, 2022 at 20:00
  • 6 The situation at Berkeley was (and I would think still is) the following: the department covered the tuition for all students out of its budget. Domestic students could become in-state residents and have paid on their behalf a much cheaper rate after one year; international students continued to be charged at the out-of-state rate throughout. In addition, some grant funds could only be used for domestic students. The result was that one needed much stronger test scores, grades, and recommendations to be admitted as an international student (even if you came from a US undergrad school). –  Alexander Woo Commented Mar 24, 2022 at 20:36
  • 5 @AlexanderWoo. funding is a different issue than "discrimination". Any tax supported institution may validly want to use the majority of its funds for residents (i.e. taxpayers). That may also reflect the UK situation as well. –  Buffy Commented Mar 24, 2022 at 20:47
  • 3 @Buffy - I think it's clear this question is about funded positions for graduate students. –  Alexander Woo Commented Mar 25, 2022 at 0:56

3 Answers 3

The big difference between the UK system and some other systems is that in the UK a PhD student is primarily regarded, at least by the system (even if not always by the supervisor) as a student who is there to learn, whereas, at least in the EU system, PhD students are primarily regarded as researchers who are there to perform a role.

The OP asks "Why don't they reform their system to better attract international talent?". This assumes that students are regarded as something you want to attract in order to benefit the country. But officialdom in the UK regards students as people who take benefit, rather than give it. A student is receiving a service, not providing one. To a British official, asking why they don't fund overseas PhD student is the same as asking why they don't pay for the undergraduate tuition fees of international students.

So, the British government sets aside a certain amount of money each year from its education/training budget to train PhD students. As it sees its job to educate British people, it would usually only pay for the PhD education of British people - it is other people's governments' job to pay for the education of their own people.

All of this is at least partly related to the superiority of the Arts and Humanities in British culture as the place where real intellectuals come from - at least in the minds of those in power, who almost without fail have humanities degrees from elite universities. In the arts and humanities, this view that PhD students are not part of a research workforce is closer to the truth.

All of this should not be taken as an endorsement of this situation, which I think is terrible.

All hope is not lost though. While with the UK leaving the EU, students from the EU became international students, the government has partially offset this by saying that up to 30% of students recruited to the main government-funded PhD programs (UKRI DTPs/DTCs) can be overseas students. In practice, I've found that this cap hasn't been a limitation, and we've been able to admit all the overseas students that ranked high enough in open competition in our DTP.

Peteris's user avatar

  • “… the self-proclaimed superiority of…” Unfortunately there’s an oversupply of demand for UK degrees (and from some other countries as well) so that international grad. students are seen as an income stream to make up for administrative overspending. –  ZeroTheHero Commented Mar 27, 2022 at 13:35
  • 3 "Self-proclaimed" is not my experience - its not the humanities PhDs themselves proclaiming their superiority, but more the gatekeepers of British society/culture, who are not generally humanities PhDs. I don't really buy into the whole two cultures thing. I also think that the tendency of universities to abuse international students as an income stream is separate from the government's decision to not fund them. –  Ian Sudbery Commented Mar 27, 2022 at 17:16

Funding of international students in the UK is a lot more difficult than places like the US because the UK research organizations (UKRI and the various research councils underneath it) have very strict rules about which type of award can and cannot support students, and how the money should be allocated to students.

The first major difference is that grants from the UK research councils (such as EPSRC/BBSRC/ESRC/etc.) can not be used to fund any student fees, so when a professor gets a new grant, they can't use it for students they have to use it for research staff (such as post-docs) [1]. This is very different from the US system, where grants from bodies like the NSF/NIH can be used to fund students.

Instead, the UK research councils have special "Doctoral training" grants and "PhD Studentships" that are meant for funding PhD students. Even these are limited though, with the current UKRI rules [2] saying that no more than 30% of the UKRI-funded portion of a cohort on a training grant (e.g. Centre for Doctoral Training, training grant programs awarded to universities, etc.) can be international students, and even then, the UKRI-provided money can only be used to cover the amount of the home fees for the student. This means that those international students still must pay the difference between the international and home fees amount (although the university can cover the difference from other sources, such as internal funding or company support).

Both of these restrictions means that the main funding source available to support PhD students in countries like the US (e.g. government grants and centers) is not easily available to support international students in the UK, forcing the reliance on the private programs and university-level programs where the individual charities/universities set the rules and not the government.

[1] RGC 4.5 in https://www.ukri.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/08/UKRI-170821-FullEconomicCostingGrantTermsConditions-Aug2021.pdf

[2] https://www.ukri.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/03/UKRI-170321-InternationalEligibilityImplementationGuidance.pdf

mcianster's user avatar

  • 1 I think the question was why does the UK have policies that lead to this situation in general, not what are the details of the funding restrictions that lead to this. –  gib Commented Mar 26, 2022 at 8:54

Different countries give different answers to the basic question

Why would a society (country) fund someone from outside that society for getting some academic degree?

Some of the reasons can be:

  • pure altruism,
  • seeing it as development aid (which will be politically desirable),
  • expectation that the person will stay and work for a domestic company, thus strengthening the economy,
  • strengthening the domestic research community (in international competition),
  • lack of own personnel capable of doing important research.

Alas, societies often are only willing to invest resources (money) if the can clearly see a good return-on-investment. And the UK seems to be a bit more sceptical here than other countries.

Ralf Kleberhoff's user avatar

  • 1 This doesn't directly address the question. Also, the points you raise only partially apply since a PhD is a job in additional to being an academic course. (indeed, in some places in continental Europe, PhD positions are essentially jobs, with the degree awarded in the end being almost like a side-effect) –  Aqualone Commented Mar 25, 2022 at 12:24
  • 1 @Aqualone See my answer, below, but I think the key point you are missing is that in the UK a PhD is not regarded as a job in addition to being an academic course. At least not in the minds of those that make the policies. –  Ian Sudbery Commented Mar 26, 2022 at 23:56

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  • How Long Does A PhD Take?
  • Doing a PhD

Sometimes, just knowing how long a PhD takes can be enough to sway your decision on whether a research degree is for you. So with that in mind, exactly how long does a PhD take?

In the UK, a full-time PhD takes 3 to 4 years to finish whilst a part-time PhD takes twice as long at 6 to 7 years. Alongside these average durations, there are time limits on how long you can be enrolled on to a PhD programme. To discover these limits, the factors which most influence doctoral degree durations and how the UK durations compare to international PhDs, continue reading on.

How Long Does It Take to Get a Full-time PhD?

In the UK, a full-time PhD will typically take you 3 to 4 years. You will usually spend the first three years on the technical aspects of your doctorate. This includes undertaking independent research, designing your research methodology and collecting and analysing data. You will then spend an additional academic year on writing up your PhD thesis and sitting your viva.

How Long Does It Take to Get a Part-time PhD?

In the UK, a part-time PhD will typically take you 6 to 7 years; twice as long as doing a full-time PhD. The reason for this is that as a part-time PhD student, you would dedicate around 20 hours per week to your PhD as opposed to the typical 40 hours full-time students would put into their subject.

How Long Does a Distance Learning PhD Take?

Similarly, distance learning PhD’s take an average of 6 to 7 years to complete. This is because the vast majority of students who undertake a distance learning PhD do so because they can’t relocate closer to the university. Although these commitments will differ, they often mean the student isn’t able to dedicate 40 hours per week to their studies.

Students in STEM disciplines will often take longer to finish a distance learning doctorate degree than those in non-STEM disciplines. This because the progress of a STEM PhD student will be limited by how often they can access a laboratory for experiment work.

How Does Funding Impact a PhD’s Duration?

In reality, the actual time it will take you to complete your PhD degree will depend on your funding situation.

If you’re receiving  funding , it will usually only cover you for 3.5 years if you’re studying full-time or for 7 years at half the stipend if you’re studying part-time. Although this could vary slightly, most PhD funding providers, e.g. Engineering and Physical Sciences Research Council (EPSRC), follow this timescale as indicated on their ‘ length of PhD studentships’ page. Because of this, most students who obtain scholarships try to complete their PhD within the timeframe of their funding so they don’t incur additional fees which they need to cover themselves.

It’s also worth noting that some funded PhD positions have additional conditions attached to them as part of their eligibility requirements. For example, they may require teaching undergraduate students, hosting laboratory sessions or attend presentations and conferences. This will be especially true if you’re on a Graduate Teaching Assistantship (GTA). Although these shouldn’t add considerable time to the length of a PhD programme, they have the potential to do so if they aren’t managed properly.

As self-funded students cover their own annual tuition fees and other associated costs, how long they’ll spend to complete their PhD project will largely depend on their own personal financial situation. Because of this, most self-funded PhD students find it best to complete their PhD study in the shortest time-frame they can manage.

Are There Deadlines?

Yes – unfortunately, all good things must come to an end! Within the UK, the deadline for your PhD is defined as the last date which you must submit your final thesis by. This date is set by your university’s overall regulations and varies depending on the arrangements of your PhD, e.g. whether it’s full or part time. In the vast majority of cases, the adopted deadlines are four years for full-time PhDs and seven years for part-time PhDs from the date you were officially registered onto your programme, as shown below from the University of Leicester’s registration guidance page .

Registration for Length of a PhD_ How long does it take to get a PhD

This time-frame may vary from university to university. For example, the University of Sheffield adopts an additional year for part-time PhDs as shown below.

Programme time for PhDs - How long is a PhD

Can I Complete It Faster?

Although it’s possible to complete a full-time PhD in under 3 years, it’s a significant feat that’s rarely heard of. When these feats occur, they’re usually where the doctoral student already has extensive knowledge and experience in their field before undertaking their PhD.

Whilst it’s possible to complete a part-time PhD in under 6 years, it largely depends on your commitments outside your studies. For example, if you have a part-time career alongside your PhD, it’s unlikely that you’ll be able to commit the additional hours required to complete your doctorate a year faster.

However, if instead of a steady part-time job you take on occasional work as a freelancer, you’ll be able to set aside many more hours towards your doctoral degree.

Will Having only A Bachelor’s Degree or Being an International Student Limit My Rate of Progression?

Not at all. While there are benefits to having a Master’s degree such as an additional year of learning and greater research experience due to your fourth-year dissertation project, this doesn’t mean not having one would limit you. A PhD is very different to both Bachelor and Master degrees due to being heavily research-based, therefore, both types of students will have just as much to learn on their way to completing their doctorate.

Similarly, whether you’re an international student will bear no influence on the duration of your PhD.

Finding a PhD has never been this easy – search for a PhD by keyword, location or academic area of interest.

How Does This Compare to the Duration of EU and US PhDs?

PhD hosted by universities within the EU, such as those in France, Norway and Spain, have the same programme structure as those within the UK. As a result, there are no noticeable differences in the time to complete a doctorate between UK and EU institutions.

However, this is not the case in the US. Compared to PhDs conducted within the UK or EU, PhDs conducted within the US take considerably longer to obtain. According to a  2017 study conducted by the National Science Foundation, a US government agency which supports research and higher education, the average time to get a PhD within the US is 5.8 years. Besides this, the average completion time can further increase depending on the disciplines. For example, they found doctorates within the humanities and arts to take an average of 7.1 years to achieve.

The primary reason for this difference is the way PhD degrees are structured within the United States. As mentioned previously, PhDs conducted within UK and EU universities are essentially broken into two sections – one covering the analytical aspects and the other covering the writing up aspects. However, within the US, doctorate programmes comprise additional sections. PhD students are first required to undertake 2 to 3 years of courses, which cover a broad range of topics related to their schools’ discipline. This is then followed by coursework and several examinations, which only once passed can the PhD candidate then start working on their research project and dissertation.

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All About Kieran Brown, Emma Watson’s New Boyfriend

preview for Proof That Emma Watson is an Actual Princess

Watson has spent this year largely out of the spotlight. In December 2023, the actress spoke about her decision to go back to school for a M.A. program to British Vogue . “Because I’m in a career that moves very quickly, the decision to take time to do these things felt like a very big decision,” she said. “[Choosing] to go back and write and study and get behind the camera was terrifying for me because I’d never done it before. I had always been in front of the camera; I’d always been an actor.”

Watson was last romantically linked to Brandon Green , the son of fashion entrepreneur Sir Philip Green. News of their relationship broke in August 2022, and reports of their breakup surfaced in May 2023.

Not much is known about Brown, who is not a celebrity, but a little has come out about him and his connection to Watson. Here, what to know about him and their relationship.

Watson met Brown, a PhD student, while studying in England.

The Sun reported that Brown is pursuing a PhD in 19th century literature and economics at the same U.K. university where Watson is doing her master’s degree. A source claimed to the outlet, “Emma is studying creative writing, and his thesis is all about literary theory—so they have a lot to talk about. She looks so loved up with Kieran.”

The couple was photographed on two dates in July 2024.

Brown and Watson first sparked dating rumors when photos of them kissing came out in early July. Both Brown and Watson wore light blue tops.

emma watson kissing kieran brown

They were photographed again on a date at a Gail’s Bakery location close to their school on July 5. Watson was in a tan sweater and brown scarf, and Brown wore glasses and a gray button-up.

An eyewitness told Daily Mail of that outing, “ They were chatting together in the queue, they seemed to have quite a nice vibe.”

It’s unclear when the couple started dating and will likely remain so as Watson has kept her love life generally private.

Watson spoke about how she views being single in December 2023.

Watson hasn’t ever really talked about her boyfriends in interviews. But she has, from time to time, discussed her views on dating.

Most recently, Watson revisited her famous 2019 “self-partnered” remark during her December 2023 interview with British Vogue . She told the magazine that the comment was not “necessarily about me celebrating being single. Getting to the point when I was 30, I was realizing, ‘Oh, maybe I’ve figured out some things about how to care for myself better—maybe quite well, actually.’ And taking pride in that.”

While she didn’t address her love life beyond that, she did speak about how much she values her relationships with her tight-knit friends and family, saying, “Coming out of COVID, I really understood the importance of building community, having community and investing, very intentionally, time and energy into that.”

In her December 2019 British Vogue interview, Watson offered a little more on her dating outlook, saying, “Dating apps are not on the cards for me. I’m very lucky in the sense that because I went to university and because I’ve done these other things outside of film, my friends are really good at setting me up. Really good. And what’s really nice is some of my best friends are people I got set up on a date with and it didn’t work out.”

“I didn’t think it was possible,” Watson continued. “And it really is possible. And it’s actually great.”

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2024 Friedrich von Recklinghausen Award

08 July 2024

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We were delighted to hear of the well deserved award and recognition bestowed upon Professor Rosalie Ferner, Trustee and Member of the Nerve Tumours UK Medical Advisory Board, at the 2024 Global NF Conference, held in Brussels. 

The award was presented by annette bakker phd, ceo ctf.

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Congratulations Ros!

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Nerve Tumours UK are looking for at least two new trustees to join the Board. Find out more

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Masterclasses in NF: Constitutional Mismatch Repair Deficiency Syndrome as Differential Diagnosis to NF1/Legius Syndrome - Prof. Dr. Katharina Wimmer

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Masterclasses in NF: Surgery in NF2 - Michel Kalamarides & Andrew King

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Thomas Pletschko, PhD, Medical University of Vienna, Austria

Verena Rosenmayr, Clinical Psychologist, Medical University of Vienna, Austria

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Rianne Oostenbrink, MD, PhD, Erasmus University Medical Center, Rotterdam, Netherlands

Masterclasses in NF: Associated Glioma in Children - the Optic Pathway and Beyond - Amedeo Azizi

Masterclasses in NF: Associated Glioma in Children - the Optic Pathway and Beyond

Amedeo Azizi, MD, PhD, Head of the Paediatric Neurofibromatosis Program and Paediatric Neuro-Oncology Program, Medical University of Vienna, Austria

Masterclasses in NF: NF1 Orthopedic Manifestations - Eric Legius and Christophe Glorion

Masterclasses in NF: NF1 Orthopedic Manifestations

Eric Legius, MD, PhD. Head of Clinical Genetics Department of the University Hospital Leuven, Belgium

Christophe Glorion, MD, PhD, Department of Paediatric Orthopedic and Traumatologic Surgery, Hopital Necker-Enfants Malades, Paris, France. 

Masterclasses in NF: NF1 Malignant Peripheral Nerve Sheath Tumours - Rosalie Ferner and Viktor-Felix Mautner

Masterclasses in NF: NF1 Malignant Peripheral Nerve Sheath Tumours

Prof Rosalie Ferner, Consultant Neurologist and Lead Clinician for Neurofibromatosis, Guy's and St. Thomas' NHS Foundation Trust, London. Member of the MAB of Nerve Tumours UK and Trustee of Nerve Tumours UK

Viktor-Felix Mautner, MD, PhD. University Medical Centre in Hamburg-Eppendorf, Germany. Head of NF Outpatient Department

Masterclasses in NF - Neurofibromatosis Type 1: Cutaneous Neurofibromas - Pierre Wolkenstein and Sirkku Peltonen

Masterclasses in NF - Neurofibromatosis Type 1: Cutaneous Neurofibromas

Pierre Wolkenstein, MD, PhD. Hopital Henri-Mondor, Paris, France. Head of the Department of Dermatology

Sirkku Peltonen MD, PhD. University of Gothenberg, Sweden. Professor of Dermatology

INFER (International NF Educational Resources) is a series of online educational lectures for medical professionals by leading neurofibromatosis experts. The Masterclasses take place online approximately once a month, each on a different topic, and include real-time interaction between the expert presenter and the participants. The presentations are conducted in English, with real-time audio interpretation available in 6 additional languages: French, German, Italian, Portuguese, Russian, and Spanish. A recording of each INFER masterclass is then be made available online in each language for those who could not attend an event. INFER is an initiative of Children’s Tumor Foundation Europe, supported by an educational grant from AstraZeneca. https://ctfeurope.org/research/masterclasses-in-nf

BPNA Keynote Lecture - Prof Rosalie Ferner - Neurofibromatosis 1 in the 21st Century

‘Neurofibromatosis 1 in the 21st Century’

Keynote Lecture at the 48th  British Paediatric Neurology Association  Annual Scientific Meeting on 21st January 2022

Prof Rosalie Ferner, Consultant Neurologist and Lead Clinician for Neurofibromatosis, Guy's and St. Thomas' NHS Foundation Trust, London. Member of the MAB of Nerve Tumours UK and Trustee of Nerve Tumours UK

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  1. PhD Programmes, Research Projects & Studentships in the UK & Europe

    You haven't completed your profile yet. To get the most out of FindAPhD, finish your profile and receive these benefits: Monthly chance to win one of ten £10 Amazon vouchers; winners will be notified every month.*; The latest PhD projects delivered straight to your inbox; Access to our £6,000 scholarship competition; Weekly newsletter with funding opportunities, research proposal tips and ...

  2. Applying for a PhD in the UK

    There are over 150 universities in the UK. The vast majority are public universities, meaning that they receive funding (including budgets for PhD studentships) from the UK Government.All British universities are free to pursue their own research objectives, but the amount of funding each institution receives is partly based on regular assessments of its performance as part of the Research ...

  3. PhD Study in the UK

    The length of a UK PhD thesis varies by subject. Dissertations in the Arts, Humanities and Social Sciences tend to be between 60,000 and 100,000 words. Dissertations in STEM subjects are shorter, as much of the information is conveyed through graphs and data tables.

  4. Doctor of Philosophy (PhD)

    In most faculties, a candidate is expected to have completed one year of postgraduate study, normally on a research preparation master's course, prior to starting a PhD. Completion normally requires three or four years of full-time study, or at least five years of part-time study, including a probationary period.

  5. Find PhDs

    Architecture, Building & Planning 5. Biological Sciences 73. Business & Management Studies 24. Computer Sciences 172. Creative Arts & Design 5. Economics 10. Education Studies (inc. TEFL) 2. Engineering & Technology 330. Health & Medical 64.

  6. 5 routes to getting a Doctorate

    PhD by thesis. This is the most common means of getting a Doctorate. Over the three or four years of research at university, your PhD supervisor will support you as you aim to produce a thesis based on your research proposal. A thesis is typically 60,000-90,000 words in length - although this can vary between institutions.

  7. Study in the UK: the ultimate guide for a PhD in 2024

    Commonly accepted UK language tests: IELTS. You'll get a score of 0 to 9 for each category (Listening, Reading, Writing, and Speaking), as well as an overall band score. Generally, UK universities ask for a minimum score of 6.0 or 6.5, with some more reputed universities requiring 7.0 or 7.5. TOEFL.

  8. How to apply for a PhD in the UK

    There won't typically be an application fee for PhDs but there are tuition fees. If a university does charge application fees they will usually be between £50-£100. The tuition fees for students studying in the UK are set by UK Research and Innovation. Fees for international students are £18,975 for non-lab-based subjects, and £22,975 for ...

  9. How to apply for a PhD : PhD : Study with us : University of Sussex

    Apply to Sussex. You apply directly to Sussex using our postgraduate application system. You can apply for up to three postgraduate courses. If you are applying for more than one degree, you must submit a research proposal/statement specific to each area of study you apply for. degree certificates and transcripts.

  10. Get PhD funding in 2024

    Full studentship - These add a non-repayable, tax-free maintenance grant known as a 'stipend'. In 2024/25, this is worth a minimum of £19,237 and it can be used towards living costs - see UKRI - Find studentships and Doctoral training. For example, at The University of Manchester, the School of Social Sciences PhD studentship includes tuition ...

  11. PhD Education (2024 entry)

    PhD (full-time) UK students (per annum): £6,000 International, including EU, students (per annum): £21,500 PhD (part-time) UK students (per annum): £3,000 International, including EU, students (per annum): £10,750 Further information for EU students can be found on our dedicated EU page.

  12. Studying A PhD in the UK

    PhD tuition fees for international students in the UK depend on factors such as the university, field of study, and location. On average, fees range from £15,000 to £35,000 per year. However, it's important to note that actual fees can vary significantly. Register for Free Consultation.

  13. How to Find a PhD in the UK

    After receiving the QS Academic Scholarship (worth US$10,000) in 2012, Indian student Rajesh Kumar headed to the UK's University of Glasgow to complete an MRes in Biomedical Science. Having thoroughly enjoyed both the course and the wider research environment offered by the UK, he was keen to stay on and find a PhD program.. He's spent the past six months immersed in researching PhD ...

  14. PhD

    The comparability of qualifications from outside the UK with The Open University requirements will be determined through reference to UK ENIC. The research topic pages (within research areas) give details of specific entry requirements, and provide contact details to discuss your suitability for the PhD. English language proficiency

  15. Search 375 online PhD programmes in United Kingdom

    26,193 EUR / year. 3 years. The Teaching English to Speakers of Other Language PhD programme from University of York emphasises state-of-the-art second and foreign language research, and is designed to enhance specialised knowledge through academic study and research. Ph.D. / Full-time, Part-time / Online, On Campus.

  16. 7 Ways to Get a PhD Scholarship in the UK

    University scholarships. 1. Check our portal where you can find around 400 PhD scholarships in the UK alone. 2. If you would like to apply for a specific university in the UK, a good option is to start searching for scholarships on their websites.

  17. Get a studentship to fund your doctorate

    Our expectations for research organisations, supervisors and students are set out in the statement of expectations for doctoral training. You could get: a minimum stipend of £19,237 per year for your living costs, which is paid to you in regular instalments. support for your tuition fees (minimum £4,786 per year)

  18. Top 20 UK Universities for PhD Study in 2024

    You haven't completed your profile yet. To get the most out of FindAPhD, finish your profile and receive these benefits: Monthly chance to win one of ten £10 Amazon vouchers; winners will be notified every month.*; The latest PhD projects delivered straight to your inbox; Access to our £6,000 scholarship competition; Weekly newsletter with funding opportunities, research proposal tips and ...

  19. How To Get A PhD

    The first way to fund your PhD is through PhD studentships, these are part of larger research projects. In the UK there are seven research councils in the UK that can provide this type of funding for PhD students, these are: Arts and Humanities Research Council. Biotechnology and Biological Sciences Research Council.

  20. PhD Salary in UK

    The average cost of undertaking a PhD in the UK is approximately £20,000 per academic year for UK students and £40,000 for international students. To help offset the cost of this, many students question whether undertaking a doctorate comes with a PhD salary. The salary of a PhD student is governed by three factors: whether they're ...

  21. How Much Does a PhD Cost in the UK?

    UK Fees. For UK 'home' students, the tuition fee for a PhD varies between £3,000 to £6,000 per academic year. For 2023/24 programmes, most universities opt for £4,712 per year within this range. Although this number may seem a little odd, it's commonly adopted due to being the indicative rate set by UK Research and Innovation (UKRI ...

  22. Why is it so hard to get PhD funding in the UK for international

    In general, it's fairly difficult to get a funded PhD position in the UK, if you're an international student. An international grad student in the UK has essentially a few options, such as: (1) ultra-prestigious scholarships like the Rhodes scholarship, (2) external funding, e.g. from industry or their home country's government (this is common ...

  23. How Long Does A PhD Take?

    In the UK, a full-time PhD will typically take you 3 to 4 years. You will usually spend the first three years on the technical aspects of your doctorate. This includes undertaking independent research, designing your research methodology and collecting and analysing data. You will then spend an additional academic year on writing up your PhD ...

  24. The final examination of the UK PhD: fit for purpose?

    The UK's final PhD examination, however, has changed little in response and as a result has been called into question: does the current model - thesis evaluation followed by a viva voce examination - adequately assess the candidate, their achievements and their potential? This article includes data from a larger study that included live ...

  25. Who Is Kieran Brown?

    Watson met Brown, a PhD student, while studying in England. The Sun reported that Brown is pursuing a PhD in 19th century literature and economics at the same U.K. university where Watson is doing ...

  26. 2024 Friedrich von Recklinghausen Award

    Member of the MAB of Nerve Tumours UK and Trustee of Nerve Tumours UK. Viktor-Felix Mautner, MD, PhD. University Medical Centre in Hamburg-Eppendorf, Germany. Head of NF Outpatient Department. Masterclasses in NF - Neurofibromatosis Type 1: Cutaneous Neurofibromas - Pierre Wolkenstein and Sirkku Peltonen.

  27. Porn-Site Age Verification Law Will Get Supreme Court Scrutiny

    The US Supreme Court will scrutinize a Texas law that requires porn sites to verify the age of users, agreeing to hear an industry trade group's contentions that the measure violates the ...