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.

The Daily Life of a PhD Student

PhD Study Advice

This page will give you an idea of what to expect from your routine as a PhD student, explaining how your daily life will look at you progress through a doctoral degree.

Not Just a PhD: The Other Types of Doctorate

PhD Types Advice

The PhD is the most common variety of doctorate, but others are awarded in specific disciplines or sometimes particular countries.

How to Choose the Right PhD Programme: A Comprehensive Guide

Applications Advice

Don't rush into PhD study. Read our comprehensive guide to comparing different projects and how to choose a PhD programme.

Joint PhD and Cotutelle Programmes – A Guide

PhD Types Advice

Joint PhD programmes involve collaboration between two (or more) different universities. So how does that work? Who can apply? And what are the advantages (and disadvantages) of researching in this way?

by Mark Bennett

How to Find a PhD With International Funding

International Study Funding

Did you know that you can use the FindAPhD search to uncover PhD projects with funding for international students? Here's how.

Centres for Doctoral Training (CDTs) and Doctoral Training Partnerships (DTPs)

United Kingdom UKRI Funding

Centres for Doctoral Training (CDTs) and Doctoral Training Partnerships provide UK Research Council funded PhD studentships to postgraduate students

How Much Does a PhD Cost in the UK (2025)?

United Kingdom Europe Costs PhD Study Advice

PhD fees can vary based on subject, university and location. Use our guide to find out the PhD fees in the UK, as well as doctoral living costs.

by Ben Turnbull

Paying for a PhD – The Cost of Self Funding

Funding

Thinking of self-funding a PhD? It's important to know what you'll actually have to pay for and to spare a thought for how you'll do so.

Bench Fees for PhD Students

Costs Funding

Bench fees cover the costs involved in laboratory research during a PhD. This page is a guide to what they are used for, how much they cost and how you can pay for them.