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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.


PhD Funding in the Netherlands – A Guide for 2026

The Netherlands can be an affordable place for PhD study. The page will take you through all the information you need about PhD funding in the Netherlands.

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PhD Funding in New Zealand – A Guide for 2026

New Zealand is a beautiful and affordable destination for PhD study, with no additional fees for international students and a range of scholarships, graduate assistantships and other funding options.

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Top Universities for PhD Study in the Netherlands in 2026

Interested in studying your PhD in the Netherlands? In this guide we've collected some of the global university rankings to help you decide the best university to study at in Holland.

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Top Universities for PhD Study in Belgium in 2026

Interested in studying your PhD in Belgium? In this guide we've collected some of the global university rankings to help you decide the best university to study at in Belgium.

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Top Universities for PhD Study in South Korea in 2026

Interested in studying your PhD in South Korea? In this guide we've collected some of the global university rankings to help you decide the best university to study at in South Korea.

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Top Universities for PhD Study in Austria in 2026

Interested in studying your PhD in Austria? In this guide we've collected some of the global university rankings to help you decide the best university to study at in Austria.

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Top Universities for PhD Study in China in 2026

Interested in studying your PhD in China? In this guide we've collected some of the global university rankings to help you decide the best university to study at in China.

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How to Choose a PhD Topic

This our advice for finding a PhD research topic, with suggestions on identifying research opportunities and coming up with a thesis idea.

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Graduate Teaching Assistants

A graduate teaching assistant is a paid role for PhD students that provides them with extra teaching responsibilities within their department.

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How to Apply For a PhD: Step-By-Step

The PhD application process can be confusing. This page sets out a step-by-step guide to help you apply for a PhD.

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