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 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.

by Taru Medha

A Checklist for the First Semester of Your Postgraduate Degree

PhD Study Masters Study Advice

We have an easy checklist of things you should get sorted in the first semester of your degree to set you up for a smooth journey ahead.

by Holly Giles

Help! I’ve Run Out of Money For My Research!

Costs PhD Study Funding Advice

What do you when you run out of money mid-research? PhD student Holly has created a battle plan for when you need more research money.

by Hazel Kirk

A Latecomer to the Lab: Switching from Humanities to Science

PhD Study Environmental Sciences Biological Sciences Advice

PhD student Hazel, who switched to science after doing a history undergraduate degree, shares how she made the shift and why it's never too late to take on the course of your dreams!

by Taru Medha

Postgraduate Loans in England and Wales: 2025 Updates

Student Loans Funding Advice

The Masters and PhD loan amounts are changing for 2025! This blog has all the information you need about the recent changes to the English and Welsh loans and the Disabled Students' Allowance.

by Holly Giles

Critique Is Not Criticism: Dealing With Peer Reviewers’ Comments on Your Paper

PhD Study Advice

Have you just got some peer review comments back on a paper? PhD student Holly talks you through what you should do, how you should approach these comments and what your replies should look like.