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 Holly Giles

Motivations for Completing a PhD: Looking Back from Third Year

PhD Study Advice

PhD student Holly takes a look back on what motivated her to do a PhD in the first place.

by Taru Medha

Should You Study at a Small University?

United Kingdom Rankings Advice

If you're looking for a more intimate and tight-knit postgraduate experience, small universities might be for you. We've taken a look at some pros and cons of smaller universities and the best small universities in the UK and worldwide.

by Vincent Hedman

What is the University Hierarchy Structure in The UK?

United Kingdom PhD Study Advice

Explore UK academic ranks: from Lecturer to Professor, understand the hierarchy and roles within universities in The UK!

by Holly Giles

Halfway Through My PhD: What I Wish I’d Known At The Start

PhD Study Advice

PhD student Holly gives her top tips for her past self of all the things she wishes she'd known on day one of her PhD.

by Taru Medha

What Can £5,000 Buy You as a Postgraduate Student?

Costs Scholarships Funding Advice

£5,000 can go a long way when you're a postgraduate student. We've taken a look at what 5K can really get you.

by Hazel Kirk

Like a Gap Year, Only Longer: Returning to Academia After an Extended Break

PhD Study Advice

PhD student Rachel talks about her experience coming back to postgraduate education as a mature student and how she got there.

by Holly Giles

What is a DTP and Why Do I Love Being Part of One?

PhD Study Advice

PhD student Holly talks us through what being on a Doctoral Training Partnership is like and the benefits of receiving extra training as part of it.

by Taru Medha

Postgraduate Child Support: Why There’s a Call for Change

United Kingdom Costs

Currently postgraduate students in England aren't eligible for childcare grants like at undergraduate level. But could this be about to change? That's what universities are asking for!