PhD Student Guides

As a prospective PhD student, you’re likely to have a lot of questions about the doctoral journey. Whether you’re keen to make your own research proposal or you’re applying for an advertised PhD project, the process is very different to what you may have experienced during your Bachelors or Masters degree.

Similarly, the funding situation can seem more complicated for doctoral candidates, with competition often tough for the most prestigious studentship schemes.

Over the years, we’ve written hundreds of guides on the topics that matter most to prospective PhD researchers. They cover everything from writing a research proposal and finding a supervisor to completing your thesis and acing your viva exam.

Grade Point Average – A Guide for PhD Students

PhD Study Advice

Grade Point Average (GPA) is one of the most common grading methods worldwide. In this guide, we cover how GPA works, when it matters for PhD applicants, and how it compares to some other grading systems around the world.

PhD Study in Ireland – 2025

Ireland

Detailed guides to PhD study in Ireland. Our guides have information on universities, courses, funding, student visas and life during a PhD programme in Ireland.

Top Universities for PhD Study in Ireland – 2026

Ireland Rankings Europe International Study

Interested in studying a PhD degree in Ireland? Our guide tells you all about the different universities that offer PhD programmes and how they rank on global tables so that you can make the best decision.

PhD Study in Italy – 2025

Italy

Detailed guides to PhD study in Italy. Our guides have information on universities, courses, funding, student visas and life during a PhD programme in Italy.

Top Universities for PhD Study in Italy - 2026

Italy Rankings Europe International Study

Interested in studying a PhD in Italy? Our guide tells you about the different universities that offer PhD programmes and how they rank on global tables so that you can make the best decision.

PhD study in Switzerland – 2025

Switzerland

Detailed guides to PhD study in Switzerland. Our guides have information on universities, courses, funding, student visas and life during a PhD programme in Switzerland

Student Visas for PhD in Switzerland

Switzerland Europe International Study

If you're planning to do a PhD in Switzerland, we have all the information on the kind of visa you need and what you require to apply for it.

Applying for a PhD in Switzerland

Switzerland Europe International Study Applications

This guide tells you everything you need to make an application for a PhD programme in Switzerland.

PhD in Switzerland – Fees and Funding Guide 2026

Switzerland PhD Study Europe International Study Funding

If you're interesting in studying a PhD in Switzerland, we have a details on how much it is going to cost you and where you can find the right funding for it.

Top Universities for PhD Study in Switzerland – 2026

Switzerland Rankings Europe International Study

Interested in studying a PhD degree in Switzerland? Our guide tells you about the different universities that offer PhD programmes and how they rank on global tables so that you can make the best decision.