To apply for a postgraduate research degree with BU, simply go to the course page that you’re interested in and click ‘Apply now’. You will then be taken to our online application portal, myHub.

You will need to create an account and complete the application form in full. You can save the form as you go, enabling you to return to it at as many times as you want before submitting. The form is split into tabbed sections. As you complete each of the tabbed sections they will turn green - only click submit once all of your tabs are highlighted green.

We will take the following factors into account when considering your application:

  • Academic qualifications
  • The nature and viability of your proposed research
  • The university's capacity to provide you with appropriate supervision throughout your research
  • English language proficiency
  • Evidence of access to appropriate resources to support your living costs and pay registration fees over the period of your research.

As part of your application, you will need to specify how you plan to fund your studies and provide a personal statement. Please be aware that CVs and academic profiles will not be considered unless they are accompanied by a completed application.

Please note that all research proposals will be screened for originality using Turnitin software.

Application guidance

What happens next?

We will keep you informed of the progress of your application throughout the process. It normally takes 4-6 weeks between application and the final decision.

Assessing your application

Once we have received your application form, research proposal and supporting documents, your application will be reviewed by relevant members of academic staff within the faculty to which you have applied.

Interview stage

If your application has met all the minimum entry requirements, you may be invited to an interview. Where possible, you should attend the University in person for this- however, if you are an overseas applicant or are unable to travel, you may be interviewed via video conferencing (e.g. Skype) or other suitable means.

The interview panel will normally include your potential supervisors and/or other relevant academics within the faculty.

Making an offer

If your application is successful, an offer will be made to you via your myhub account. You will be asked to confirm your acceptance within 14 days to secure your place on the programme.

Important information for international students

If you are an international student, it is important that you check whether you require a visa or entry clearance to study in the UK. It is your responsibility to arrange your student visa or to apply for entry clearance if required. Please note that the offer letter that will be sent to you cannot be used for visa purposes. A Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS) will be issued to you once your deposit has been received/verified by the relevant payment authority, and also when all conditions of your offer have been met.

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