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 Funding in the USA – A Guide for 2026

USA North America International Study Funding

Our guide to PhD funding in the USA has information on fully-funded PhD scholarships, as well as other funding options for international and domestic students.

Guide to Student Visas in the USA

USA International Study

Our guide tells you exactly what kind of visa you need to study a study in the USA and what you need to apply for it.

Living in the USA – A Guide for PhD Students

USA International Study

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

Applying for a PhD in Canada

Canada International Study Applications

This guide tells you all about everything you need to apply for a PhD programme in Germany.

PhD Funding in Canada – A Guide for 2026

Canada International Study Funding

Canada is a popular and surprisingly affordable destination for PhD study, with comparatively low fees and a range of fellowships, graduate assistantships and other funding options.

Guide to Student Visas for PhD Study in Canada

Canada International Study

Want to study a PhD in Canada? This guide gives a detailed introduction to the kind of visa you need to study in Canada and how to apply for it.

Living in Canada – A Guide for PhD Students

Canada North America International Study

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

Comparing Post-Study Work Visas in Popular Study Destinations

United Kingdom New Zealand USA Canada Germany PhD Study Masters Study Australia Australia & Oceania North America Europe International Study Careers Advice

A quick guide to post-study work visas in top countries so you know where you can stay and work after graduation.

The Fastest Growing Research Destinations for Physics

United Kingdom China USA Belgium Austria Physics International Study Advice

Interested in studying Physics but not sure where to go? We've taken a look at the fastest growing countries for this research around the world to help you decide!