How can I apply for a studentship/scholarship at the University of Westminster?

Please click here to see our fees and funding webpage.

When can I start my research degree?

The arrangements for the consideration and admission of applicants for research degrees at the University of Westminster are designed to ensure that students are provided with the best possible start to their research degree studies. The University considers it essential to successful research degree study that new students are provided with robust arrangements for induction; research training; mechanisms for monitoring and progression; and a strong research culture and community. To ensure that all new students benefit fully and equally from these arrangements, the University admits new research students at the beginning of October each year and requires that their initial enrolment and induction are completed by this time.

Is it possible to start my research degree at other times of the year?

Exceptionally, it may be possible to start your research degree in February. In such cases, specific plans will need to be made by the accepting School to ensure that February entry students have access to the requisite training at the appropriate time during their first year of study. February starts are therefore discouraged except in the most exceptional circumstances and you are strongly recommended to apply for entry in the following October.

The exceptional circumstances are:

(a) If you are currently studying for a Masters degree for which you will not find out your final results until the Autumn term. You need not worry if your Masters results will not be available until after the applications deadline for February entry has passed, as it will be possible for the University to consider your application on the basis of your current transcript, and in appropriate cases to issue a conditional offer provisional upon your final Masters results.

(b) If you have secured funding for your research degree programme but the funding will commence at a time other than October, it might be possible to start in February. This typically applies to students who are joining a Knowledge Transfer Partnership (KTP) programme or to students who are being sponsored by their home government or other external funding body, or who are being recruited to an established funded research project.

Why can’t I start my research degree at any time of the year?

The arrangements for the consideration and admission of applicants for research degrees at the University of Westminster are designed to ensure that students are provided with the best possible start to their research degree studies.

The University considers it essential to successful research degree study that new students are provided with robust arrangements for induction, research training, mechanisms for monitoring and progression, and a strong research culture and community. To ensure that all new students benefit fully and equally from these arrangements, the University admits new research students at the beginning of October each year and requires that their initial enrolment and induction are completed by this time.

By starting in October, rather than at any other time of the year, you will become part of a cohort of up to 80 or 90 new research students who will attend training sessions together and pass through all the key academic stages at the same time.

Exceptionally, it may be possible to start your research degree in February but certain criteria have to be met and these are explained here

Can I study part time?

If you are a Home student for fee paying purposes you may study part time.

Can I study by distance learning?

If you are an Overseas student you can apply for a place under the External Research Degree Study Scheme (ERDS). For further details click here

Can I apply if I don’t yet have my IELTS test result?

Yes, you can. However, if you are offered a place you must have received your result by the time of enrolment. When making your application please let us know when you will be taking your test.

Can I apply if I don’t yet have my Masters results?

Yes, you can. When you make your application you should include a transcript of your marks so far and let us know when you will be receiving your results.

If you will not be receiving your Masters results in time for enrolment in September you may be able to exceptionally apply for entry in February.

What teaching opportunities are there and is there any teacher training available?

Schools endeavour to provide research students with as many teaching opportunities as possible, as gaining experience of teaching forms an important part of research students' professional and academic development.

All research students awarded a University Research Studentship are obliged, in recognition of the award, to undertake 6 hours a week of teaching and academic–related duties throughout the duration of their studentship.

Research students' teaching activities are supported by appropriate training which may take the form of, for example, two-day Introductory Workshops in Teaching and Learning or attendance at a one-year programme leading to the award of the Certificate of Special Study in Supporting Learning.

Do I have to attend classes?

Yes, elements of the University Research Training Programme are mandatory.

What information should be provided in my references?

Your referees should comment on your academic background and achievements so far, your motivation and your potential to become a successful Doctoral level Research Student.

Is there a reference form for my referees to complete?

No.

Is there an application fee?

No.

Can I be an ERDS student if I am a Home Student?

No.

Further enquiries

If you have any further enquiries, please do not hesitate to contact us by email at researchadmissions@wmin.ac.uk