or
Continue with FacebookLooking to list your PhD opportunities? Log in here.
What Should I Ask Universities at a Study Fair?
Written by Taru Medha
If you’re thinking of doing a Masters or PhD, a study fair is the perfect opportunity to meet university representatives and find out more information to help you make a decision! Be sure to come prepped with questions so you don’t miss out on anything important.
You’re bound to already have so many questions, but we’ve listed a few we think you shouldn't miss out on asking universities if you’re attending a study fair. These questions will help you get the information you need and ensure you make the most of your time on the day.
About the PhD programme
What is the overall structure and duration of the PhD?
During a PhD, you’ll be expected to carry out independent research, but you’ll still need to meet specific review and submission deadlines. It’s important to understand how much time the university expects you to dedicate to your PhD, how long the programme typically lasts, and how often your progress will be formally reviewed.
How are students assigned supervisors?
You should find out how many supervisors you’ll be assigned, when they will be allocated, and the best way to communicate with them. It’s also worth asking about additional pastoral or academic support available within the department or university if you encounter issues you don’t feel comfortable discussing with your supervisor.
Are there any requirements outside of the thesis to complete the PhD?
While your thesis will be the main focus of your PhD, some universities require additional activities for completion. These may include participation in professional development programmes, teaching or work experience, or attending and presenting at conferences, so it’s helpful to be aware of these expectations in advance.
What are the ongoing research groups in the department?
Although most PhD research is conducted independently, many departments offer research groups you can join. These may be department-specific or cross-departmental groups where academics and students meet to discuss research, share ideas, and explore new developments in a particular field.
About applications
What are the entry requirements for the programme?
While entry requirements are usually listed on programme pages, this is a good opportunity to ask follow-up questions. Doing so can help you confirm that you meet all the criteria and understand if there’s anything additional you should prepare before applying.
#2 What can I do to improve my chances of getting onto a PhD?
Does it feel wrong to ask this? It shouldn’t. Ask about resources you can use to write your research proposal (even if it’s for an advertised project, you may still be asked for a proposal) or if they prefer you to have work experience or certain technical skills before applying.
Will I need to attend an interview after submitting my application?
It’s useful to know whether an interview is part of the application process and if you’ll need to travel to campus. If you’re an international student, you may also want to ask whether virtual interviews are available.
About costs and funding
What does it cost to study at your university?
Although tuition fees are usually listed on programme pages, this is a good opportunity to ask about any additional administrative or course-related costs. If you’re an international student, you should also ask how your fee structure may differ from that of home students.
What internal funding options are available at your university?
Many universities offer scholarships, grants and bursaries for postgraduate students, which may be means-tested or merit-based. A study fair is a great way to get a list of all funding options that might apply to you. PhD students can also ask whether budgets are available for research equipment, conference travel, or other project expenses, and clarify any requirements tied to the funding.
What Research Council funding is available at your university?
Research Council studentships are among the most popular sources of funding for postgraduate study in the UK. You can ask how much funding the department typically receives, the number of funded positions available, and the process or criteria used to decide between applicants.
Are there any assistantship positions available in the department?
PhD students often work as teaching assistants to earn extra income and gain teaching experience. You can ask whether assistantships are available in your department, whether they are optional or compulsory, and whether research assistant positions exist, noting that these are usually tied to larger ongoing projects.
About graduate careers
What have previous graduates from the programme gone on to do?
It’s worth asking about alumni outcomes, including graduate destinations, employability survey results or testimonials from former students. You can also ask whether the university can connect you with student ambassadors or alumni who can share insights into how well the programme prepares graduates for their chosen careers.
Does the university have links with specific employers?
Some universities have strong links with particular employers, which may include placements, internships or collaborative projects. Asking about these partnerships can help you understand what work experience opportunities might be available to you during your studies.
About accommodation
Does the university offer on-campus postgraduate student accommodation?
If you’re relocating for postgraduate study, it’s useful to ask what on-campus accommodation is available, whether there are options specifically for postgraduate students, and what the typical costs are. This can help you decide whether on-campus living is right for you.
What support is available if I decide to live off-campus?
Even if you choose not to live in university accommodation, student services often provide support such as contract checks, housing advice and recommendations for trusted estate agents. This can be particularly helpful if you’re unfamiliar with the local area or moving from another country.
How can you apply for accommodation?
Accommodation applications are often separate from course applications, so it’s important to understand the process and key deadlines. Asking in advance can help ensure you don’t miss out on a place due to a simple administrative detail.
About student life
What student support is available at the university?
Student support extends beyond academic teaching, so it’s worth asking about mental health services, wellbeing support and help available for international students. You may also want to find out how active the Students’ Union is and what role it plays in supporting the wider postgraduate experience.
What facilities are available on campus?
To understand the overall study experience, ask about access to facilities such as laboratories, specialist equipment, libraries and study spaces. It can also be useful to know opening hours and whether facilities are available 24/7, particularly if you prefer studying outside standard hours.
What are the best things about studying here?
This is a great opportunity to hear what the university believes sets it apart. Their answer may highlight unique features, strengths or opportunities that help you decide whether the institution is the right fit for you.
As an international student
What are your language requirements?
Many universities require language test results if you’ll be studying in a non-native language. Representatives can advise on accepted tests, required scores and any preparation resources available. This is also a good opportunity to ask about language courses designed specifically for international students.
How can you support me with my visa and accommodation applications?
As an international student, it’s important to know what specialist support is available. You can ask whether the university has a dedicated International Office to assist with visa and accommodation queries, and whether there are regional or overseas offices you can contact for more local support.
What’s the international postgraduate student experience like?
Moving to a new country can be challenging, so it’s worth asking about the support available for international postgraduates. This might include online forums, buddy schemes, or student societies for specific nationalities that help you connect with other international students.
Find a PhD
Browse thousands of PhDs in our programme finder
Our postgrad newsletter shares courses, funding news, stories and advice
Sign up for free
Taru Medha
Taru joined FindAPhD as a Content Writer in 2022. She creates well-researched, thorough content for our guides and blogs, as well as short video content for our social profiles. She has a Bachelors degree in Journalism and Mass Communication from Bennett University in India and completed a Masters degree in Global Journalism from the University of Sheffield in 2021, giving her personal experience with postgraduate study as an international student.
Why Do a PhD? 4 Reasons to do a PhD
If you’re wondering whether you should do a PhD, this page will walk you through a selection of the most common reasons for pursuing one, along with some of the benefits that a PhD can give you.
Read more
How to Write a Great PhD Research Proposal | FindAPhD.com
Understand what a successful PhD research proposal needs to include and how to go about writing one for your project application.
Read more
Finding and Contacting a PhD Supervisor: Writing Emails and Asking the Right Questions
Our guide explains how to contact a potential PhD supervisor to discuss your proposal or ideas with them before applying.
Read more
PhD Employability, Salary and Earnings
Will a PhD help you get a job or earn a better salary? We look at what starting salary you could get after a PhD in the UK.
Read moreLoad more...
Last Updated: 09 January 2026
