How to apply
Information on your application, our PhD timeline and entry requirements.
Application process
Normally, you would apply for a study place offer before you apply for scholarship funding (if this is desired).
Unless you are applying for an advertised project (where the title and description is already given), you will need to:
- identify a potential supervisor and
- prepare a research proposal that outlines the topic and programme of research you intend to undertake.
- ensure you meet relevant entry requirements.
Where you have identified a staff member who you would like to work with as a supervisor, you can approach them directly by email to discuss your research ideas prior to making a formal application.
We always interview applicants (normally online) prior to making an offer. Interviews last around 30 minutes, and are typically held with the Director of PhD research and a member of your intended supervisory team.
These interviews aim to explore your proposed research topic, its quality, coherence and fit within our school research interests.
Required documentation
In order to assess your application, we will require the following documentation:
- Your research proposal (or cover letter when you are applying for a pre-defined project)
- Two letters of reference (preferably from academics who can judge your ability to research and write, eg a dissertation supervisor)
- Transcripts of previous qualifications; your CV; an indication of how you intend to fund your studies
- For international students, evidence that you meet the English language requirements for Doctoral study
Apply
Apply using our online application form, where you can upload your research proposal and supporting documentation.
Remember to specify your project title, proposed supervisor and any sources of funding you intend to seek (eg specific scholarship schemes, or self-funding).
Key dates
We accept applications at any time of year, although most University of Sheffield-based studentships have application deadlines in January (which means that you need to be discussing your project ideas with potential supervisors before Christmas).
If successful in your application, you will usually be expected to start your studies at the beginning of the Autumn Semester (from mid-September), although it is possible to arrange a cross-sessional start.
International applicants should take account of the time needed to obtain the necessary documentation, permissions and visas, which can take several months.
Fees and funding
A study place offer does not constitute an offer of funding.
The University of Sheffield tuition fees information lays out current fees for Home and overseas postgraduate research students.
Offer Holders - Deferring the start of your programme
There is no automatic right to defer the start of your programme, however you can request to defer your study place under certain circumstances.
Please note that the School of Geography and Planning has specified start dates for Postgraduate Research cohorts: 1st October and 1st February. It may not be possible to defer your application to a non-standard start date.
Each deferral request will be considered on a case-by-case basis, though there should be firm justifications for the deferral. These may include (but are not limited to):
- You have been awarded funding for your project, but the funding agreement stipulates that a later start date is required
- Exceptional circumstances have arisen in your personal life which require a later start date to allow for a resolution
- Visa complications have delayed you from commencing your studies as planned and so a later registration date is required
- You have not been able to complete a prior qualification on schedule and require additional time to complete this
Deferral requests will specifically not be granted where you have been unsuccessful in applying for funding in the current period and wish to apply again in the next cycle.
You can make your request to defer your study place by logging in to your initial application and clicking on the 'Request Deferral' link in the 'Your Applications' section. Please ensure you provide sufficient detail on the reasoning for your request in the section provided. Your request will be considered by the School and an outcome should normally be expected within 3-4 weeks.
If there are insufficient grounds to grant a deferral request, you will be welcome to withdraw your application and reapply at a more suitable time.