How to apply

Step 1

Decide on the specific level of course you wish to apply for:

• MPhil
• PhD

Applicants for PhD or MPhil programmes should ideally apply at least four months prior to the date of registration.

Step 2

Decide on the project(s) that are most relevant to your research interests. Search our list of projects available. For UK/EU applicants interested in our funded studentships, search: Studentships for UK/EU students.

For international or UK/EU applicants with self-arranged funding, search: Self-funded projects for International or UK/EU students. You can also look at Our Research pages to gain an idea of the type of research being carried out by our supervisors.

In a small number of cases, it will not be possible to match you to one of your preferred projects. However, we will always endeavour to find you an alternative project by bringing your application to the attention of other potential supervisors.

Step 3

Once you have decided on your programme and project, please then apply using the online application form. Please make sure you read all instructions for completing the online application carefully. If you have any problems with the online form please contact us.

• Online application form

Please note:

For PhD and MPhil applications, please indicate your subject area of interest in the "Programme description" section of the application form. eg PhD Biochemistry, MPhil Immunology, etc.

For PhD and MPhil applications select “Postgraduate Research” as the “Academic Career” on the application form.

Step 4

Your application form must be accompanied by a number of supporting documents. These are:

• A short summary (100 word maximum) for each of the project(s)/supervisor(s) you have selected detailing why you are interested in that area of research.
• Two references from people who have knowledge of your academic ability. References must be signed, dated and on headed paper. References should be accompanied by a Referee Report Form.
• Certificates and transcripts from all your previous degrees.
• Official English Language transcript (IELTS or TOEFL).
• Current Curriculum Vitae (CV).
• A current photograph of yourself.

All supporting documents can be uploaded and submitted with the online application form or, alternatively, can be sent directly to the Faculty of Life Sciences Graduate Office. Your application can not be considered until all your supporting documents are supplied.

• See: Contact us

Step 5

For applicants whose first language is not English you must supply an official IELTS or TOEFL transcript to support your application.

For PhD and MPhil applicants we require a minimum IELTS score of 6.5 [or TOEFL (paper) 577, TOEFL (computer) 233, TOEFL (internet) 90]. For MRes/MSc applicants whose first language is not English we require a minimum IELTS score of 6.5 [or TOEFL (paper) 577, TOEFL (computer) 233, TOEFL (internet) 90]. The University of Manchester's TOEFL code is 0757.

Please also provide evidence of how you intend to fund your studies.

Step 6

Once submitted you will receive acknowledgement that your application has been received. Once all your supporting documents have been received your application will be reviewed by the relevant admission tutor and the proposed supervisor(s).

Step 7

You will be kept informed of the progress of your application throughout the application procedure. If appropriate, you will be invited for interview either in person or via the web.

Please note: If you are made a PhD or MPhil offer, you may need to apply for an ATAS certificate before applying for your visa. For more information see:

• Academic Technology Approval Scheme (ATAS)