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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 Study in Hungary – A Guide for 2026

With 600 years of academic history and a range of specialised universities, Hungary has a lot to offer international PhD students. Our guide explains how Hungarian doctoral programmes work, with information on fees, funding and applications.

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PhD Study in Finland – A Guide for 2026

Finnish universities offer unique PhD research opportunities in a striking location, with no fees for EU or international students. Our guide explains applications, funding and more.

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PhD Study in Greece - A Guide for 2026

Greek universities inherit a proud tradition of academic inquiry and offer a striking location for modern PhD research. Our guide explains fees, funding and more.

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Living in Greece – A Guide for PhD Students

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

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Living in Finland – A Guide for PhD Students

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

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PhD Study in Denmark - A Guide for 2026

Historic universities, low fees and a culture of innovation and exploration make Denmark an exciting choice for PhD study. Our guide explains the Danish university system and provides information on applications, visas, funding and everything else you'll need to know as an international student.

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PhD Study in the Czech Republic - A Guide for 2026

With historic universities, unique research opportunities and free tuition (for some programmes) the Czech Republic has a lot to offer international PhD students. Our guide introduces the opportunities available.

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The MPhil to PhD Upgrade

It’s common for new PhD students to be registered for an MPhil before ‘upgrading’ to become a candidate for a full doctoral degree. Our guide explains how the MPhil upgrade or confirmation review works and what to expect from yours.

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Living in Austria - A Guide for PhD Students

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

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PhD Study in Saudi Arabia - A Guide for 2026

Economic wealth and technological innovation make Saudi Arabia a strong choice for international PhD study, with full scholarships available to students who win places at its universities. Our guide covers doctoral programmes, universities, visa requirements and funding opportunities.

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