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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.


TOEFL for PhD Study

Applying for an English-taught PhD and need to prove your language skills? Our guide to the TOEFL covers everything PhD students need to know about this English language test, from minimum scores and exam structure to typical fees.

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PhD Study in Estonia – A Guide for 2026

Interested in studying a PhD in Estonia? Our guide will help you make your decision, covering essential information on doctoral degrees and university rankings through to applications and student visas.

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Living in New Zealand – A Guide for PhD Students

What's it like to live in New Zealand during a PhD? Our guide covers accommodation, student living costs, working and other key information.

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Living in Australia – A Guide for PhD Students

What's it like to live in Australia during a PhD? Our guide covers accommodation, student living costs, working and other key information.

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PhD Study in South Africa – A Guide for 2026

Interested in studying a PhD in South Africa? Our guide will help you make your decision, covering essential information on doctoral degrees and university rankings through to applications and student visas.

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PhD Study in Romania – A Guide for 2026

Interested in studying a PhD in Romania? Our guide will help you make your decision, covering essential information on doctoral degrees and university rankings through to applications and student visas.

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Living in Romania - A Guide for PhD Students

What's it like to live in Romania during a PhD? Our guide covers accommodation, student living costs, working and other key information.

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Living in Iceland – A Guide for PhD Students

What's it like to live in Iceland during a PhD? Our guide covers accommodation, student living costs, working and other key information.

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Living in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) - A Guide for PhD Students

What's it like to live in the UAE during a PhD? Our guide covers accommodation, student living costs, working and other key information.

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PhD Studentships

A studentship is one of the most attractive sources of PhD funding. This guide explains how they work, what they cover and how to find and apply for one.

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