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.

by Ademola Aiyenuro

What It’s Really Like Doing a PhD: My Honest Take

PhD Study Advice

PhD student Ademola's blog offers an honest glimpse into what the journey is really like.

by Charlotte Rye

How I’m (Sort of) Managing Work-Life Balance as a First-Year PhD Student

PhD Study Advice

Hear from first-year PhD student Charlotte on how to strike that delicate balance between your PhD and your life outside research.

by Holly Giles

An Average Week as a Third Year PhD Student Running a Consumer Trial

PhD Study Advice

Follow Holly through an average week as a third-year PhD student and get a behind-the-scenes look at the ever-evolving PhD life.

by Holly Giles

When Is Enough, Enough? Setting Timelines for Your Final Year

PhD Study Advice

Nearing the end of your PhD and starting to feel the pressure? Holly's got some advice on how to set realistic final year goals and transition smoothly from lab to laptop.

by Taru Medha

UK Visa Updates: What Does the Immigration White Paper Mean for You

United Kingdom Wales Scotland Northern Ireland England International Study Advice

The UK Government published an immigration white paper on 12 May proposing some significant changes to the student and graduate visas. Here's everything you need to know.

by Holly Giles

How Do You Write Up As You Go?

PhD Study Advice

What if we said you didn't have to wait till the last year to actually start writing your PhD thesis? Holly is writing hers as she goes and she's got some tips and tricks here for you!

by Holly Giles

Writing Your Thesis as a Collection of Papers

PhD Study Advice

Ever wondered if there are different ways to write your PhD thesis? Holly explores writing a thesis as a collection of papers, reflecting on some pros and cons and why it's the best option for her.

by Holly Giles

Need Money for a Conference? Top Tips for Writing a Travel Grant

Costs PhD Study Funding Advice

You could apply for a travel grant if you're going to a conference as part of your PhD! Here are some of Holly's top tips for making your grant application the best it can be.