What to expect after applying
Apply to a research degree
Find out how and when to apply to a research degree at York.
Applying for a postgraduate research degree is different applying for an undergraduate or taught postgraduate course - but don’t worry, you’re in the right place to learn more.
Our step-by-step guide will walk you through the process of applying for a PhD or Masters by Research at York. And if you’ve still got questions, we’re here to help — just get in touch.
Top tip: Apply early
We recommend applying for a research programme early. Some of our applicants chose to apply up to nine months before the start of their programme, but at a minimum you should apply at least three months before your proposed start date. This is especially important if you are an international student travelling to the UK who will need to allow time to arrange your accommodation and your visa.1) Choose your area of interest
Start by identifying a research area you're passionate about — ideally something you already have some skills or experience in. But also consider practical factors like your career goals, emerging trends, or gaps in the field.
Once you’ve identified a research area, take the time to explore it in depth. Reviewing existing literature, speaking with experts, and connecting with researchers in the field can all help shape and strengthen your ideas.
Your research topic doesn’t have to match your previous qualifications exactly, but most courses will expect you to have a degree in a relevant subject. This helps ensure you have the background needed to study the topic at an advanced level.
Next, check whether any of our departments offer an advertised research project that aligns with your interests. If you’re proposing your own research project or PhD topic, seek guidance on its suitability — and look into funding opportunities early on.
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2) Your research project
There are two main types of research project: defined and self-proposed. Understanding the difference will help you focus your search.
Defined projects
A defined project has a pre-determined scope, objectives, and methodology. When you apply, you're joining a team of researchers — including staff and other research students — working on the same or related topics.
These projects often come with funding, which may help cover your course fees and living costs.
- explore the research pages of your proposed academic department to see what funding is available, or
- look for a doctoral training award with one of our current doctoral training entities.
Self-proposed
With a self-proposed project, you’ll develop your own research idea and identify a suitable supervisor to work with. You may also want to apply for funding — this is usually done with your supervisor’s support.
Start planning at least a year before your intended start date. The application process will centre on your research proposal, so you’ll need to demonstrate both originality and the academic value of your topic.
3) Check the entry requirements
Once you've found a project that interests you, check the entry requirements listed on the relevant course page.
International applicants
If you're an international applicant, you’ll also need to consider:
- the equivalent academic qualifications for your country (see our country pages)
- whether you meet the English language requirements
- the student visa process, including obtaining your Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS).
See country-specific entry requirements
4) Check the deadline
You can apply to most research degrees throughout the year. However, applying early gives you the best chance — especially for competitive subjects and funding.
5) Find and contact a potential supervisor
Your supervisor will be key in guiding your research journey. Reaching out informally to potential supervisors early on can help shape your ideas and application.
If you’re applying for a defined project, the academic leading the project will be named in the advert.
If you’re proposing your own research, you’ll need to find a supervisor whose expertise aligns with your topic. A good place to start is our our research database. You can use this to find research we've done that aligns with your interests, and see who was responsible for it. Use this in conjunction with our department and academic units pages, which include staff profiles, to find researchers who would be a good match.
Once you’ve found someone whose research aligns with yours, consider sending them a short, polite email. Introduce yourself, outline your research interests, and explain why you're interested in working with them — many supervisors appreciate this kind of early contact.
6) Explore funding options
There are various ways to fund your research degree, including scholarships, studentships and doctoral training programmes. Some funding is attached to specific projects or departments, while others are open to all applicants based on merit or need.
Start exploring funding options early — deadlines can be much earlier than course deadlines.
7) Prepare your research proposal
If you’re proposing your own research project, your proposal is a crucial part of your application. It should clearly outline:
- the research question or problem you want to address
- why this topic is important and original
- your intended approach or methodology
- how your project fits within current knowledge or debates
Take time to draft a clear, focused proposal and seek feedback from potential supervisors or academic contacts before submitting. A strong proposal increases your chances of securing funding and acceptance.
8) Complete your application
Once you have your project and supervisor lined up, complete your online application via the course page. In most cases you'll need to:
- provide personal details and academic history
- upload your research proposal (if self-proposed)
- submit references and transcripts
You may also be asked:
- how you intend to fund your studies
- to upload supporting documents
Advertised projects can also ask for specific things. Our course pages will provided details of what to expect for each application.
Make sure you double-check your application before submitting. Incomplete applications may delay processing or reduce your chances of success.
Find your course and apply online Submit a paper application
9) Apply for funding
You normally need to have received an offer before you apply for funding, so be sure you check the funding application deadlines. They usually fall between January and March.