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Do’s and don’ts in your PhD application

Young woman busy working on laptop at home

When writing your PhD application, there are several things you can do to help it stand out.

In this article, we shall look at the do’s and don’ts in your PhD application.

A well-written application tells a story about the candidate’s background. This story can be supported by the courses they have taken, the qualifications they have gained, the progression in their careers, and their interests.

Think of each PhD application as a job application. You will need to tailor your application documents to the specific university. Submitting high-quality, bespoke applications will take a significant chunk of time. You may need to submit a research proposal, explore your research questions and locate them in academic literature. In addition, you might be asked to submit an essay as well as a personal statement, and copies of your academic transcripts.

What to do in your PhD application?

Make it bespoke –I have encountered many applicants who submitted generalised CV templates and applications for academic programmes and wondered why they failed to receive interviews. From the university’s perspective, it is very easy to see if you have not tailored your application materials to the university and the doctoral programme.

Ask yourself the below questions:

  • In what way is the doctorate programme a good match with your interests?
  • How does your research interest align with the selected university and your supervisor?
  • Why is now the best time to apply?
  • In what way does your background enable you to contribute to the success of research within the selected university?

Think of your PhD application as a marketing tool– The purpose of the application is to give your future supervisor and academic staff a taste of your skills and experience. Cramming too much into a CV is a common mistake. This approach often leads to creating generalised, vague and confusing applications. The more clear, structured and bespoke your CV is, the more likely that you will receive an interview invite and take the next steps in your academic career. Your application will need to stand out from the crowd. Ask yourself: What is it that makes your application different? Is it your academic qualifications or your proposed research area? Have you done some outstanding research which could help you stand out?

Do polish your application materials – Make sure that your application form exudes professionalism. You will need to avoid grammar and spelling mistakes because it is most likely that your application will be disregarded. Have you used a professional e-mail address? Have you accurately described your responsibilities and academic qualifications without being dishonest?

Submit a carefully written research proposal – Your research proposal needs to be clear, focused and coherent, and show lots of evidence of research. You need to communicate in precise language what it is exactly that you wish to research, outline the context, and include research questions, literature review, methodologies etc. For more details on how to write a successful research proposal, you might find it helpful to refer to Brighton University’s website.

What not to do in your PhD application?

Do not send random e-mails to potential supervisors – Before you apply for a doctoral programme, you will need to research your supervisor carefully. Some supervisors are happy to meet prior to submitting your application and to communicate via e-mail. If you do get in touch with a possible supervisor, your communications need to be professional and polite. You would need to make a good impression from the start. Do explain why your research interests would match the supervisor’s experience and provide a brief overview of your proposed research topic. Do not get disheartened, however, if you approach several supervisors and you do not hear from them. While some academics like to communicate with applicants, others may not have the capacity to do so. The Oxford University offers some helpful advice on how to approach potential supervisors.

Do not include ‘filler’ words- Do avoid using vague and broad language when describing your previous roles. You might want to eliminate generalised or over-used expressions such as ‘many’, ‘lots of’, frequently’, ‘always’, ‘team player’, ‘extensive’, ‘hardworking’, ‘various’, several’, ‘different’.

Do not rely only on your perspective- Whether you are a confident writer or lack some experience, you could find it helpful to ask for feedback on your application. If you are still completing higher education studies, the careers department of your university may be able to offer some 1-2-1 support and give you further guidance on how to submit a successful application. You could also approach a senior lecturer or researcher to ask for feedback. Alternatively, you could ask family members, friends or colleagues to have a look at your CV and your application materials. This could help you notice mistakes you may have made or reassure you that your application is well-written. If you would like to see some more tips on PhD applications, visit the jobs.ac.uk’s website.

Do not submit incomplete applications – It is essential that you only submit your application once all the documents are carefully attached. If you need to get your transcripts officially translated (as they are not in English), it is best to apply once you have the translated copies with you. You need to ensure that you use the required file format when attaching documents. Make sure that you complete all the fields accurately in the application form and that you provide detailed responses.

Checklist

  • Is your application in a consistent and readable format?
  • Does the application emphasise your skills, experience, knowledge and achievements?
  • Have you attached all the required documents and completed the relevant fields?
  • Is your research proposal the best version it can be?
  • Have you used clear, precise and coherent language?
  • Is the spelling and grammar accurate?
  • Have you asked your referees if it is OK to give their names before you include them?
  • Have you asked someone to proofread your CV and application materials?
  • Have you told the truth?
  • Have you kept a copy?

How to Write a Cover Letter for PhD Applications

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Henrietta Nagy

Henrietta Nagy is a seasoned portfolio worker with over 10 years’ experience in the UK education sector. Henrietta writes educational content, designs academic courses, delivers university lectures, mentors entrepreneurs, and provides career development coaching. One of Henrietta's recent organisational clients is the Oxford University where she has facilitated over 100 hours of learning events. With 9 years of higher education studies internationally (including an MBA), she has worked with CEOs, academics, scholars, managers, women entrepreneurs, academic administrators and other consultants.

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