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This page gives a detailed view of the application process for 2010 entry. Please study it carefully - a PDF version is available.
There is also a timeline with dates for applicants hoping to start in October 2010, but bear in mind that self-funding students may apply at any time and there is no absolute cut-off for applications (we will continue to consider all applications submitted until all places are filled).
Start dates can be flexible, particularly for overseas students who have to obtain visas.
1. Think carefully about what areas of research, supervisors or projects most interest you.
Start here to find out about the groups and projects.
A detailed research proposal is NOT needed.
If you have several areas of interest it is more likely you will find a funded place.
Please feel free to contact academics directly or discuss with the PG Admissions Tutor if you are unsure.
You will be able to discuss research topics again if you are interviewed.
2. Make an electronic application.
All applications MUST be made using the University's online postgraduate application form.
For suggestions on how best to fill out the "supporting information" and "funding" sections, check this presentation.
Pages 16-18 relate specifically to the form with MSc and PhD suggestions in purple or green respectively.
You will be able to further discuss funding for your studies if you are interviewed.
The deadline for receipt of applications for round 1 interviews is January 8th 2010.
An email with a CV does NOT constitute an application.
3. Supporting documents, including two academic references, will be required.
It is your responsibility to make sure references are sent correctly and on time.
References must be either be on official letter-headed paper or sent electronically by secure link emailed to your nominated referees.
Official degree transcripts will be required once you have graduated.
If your first language is not English, you will also need to send a certificate of English language competence.
The university's application procedure page gives more details of the documentation required.
Scanned or electronic copies may in the first instance be uploaded with your application but will NOT be acceptable for a formal offer.
You MUST submit paper originals of degree / language certificates in order to receive an offer or confirm a conditional offer.
Paper originals can be sent to either of the Postgraduate Admissions contacts (details found here) should it be more convenient for you.
Note: Internal candidates from the Physics department can obtain paper and/or pdf copies of their interim transcripts from Dr Ben Parkinson.
4. How will you fund your studies?
UK students will normally be funded by a Research Council studentship (exceptional students may apply for a WPRS - consult the PG Admissions Tutor).
EU students are eligible for some Research Council and other studentships - consult the PG Admissions Tutor.
If you are planning to apply for a Graduate School PhD scholarship you should check with the PG Admissions Tutor first and already have an application ID number from the university standard application. The WPRS application use a separate WPRS electronic form. Round 2 of the WPRS scheme opens on Feb. 1st 2010.
If you are an overseas applicant planning to apply for an International Office MSc Fees Scholarship, you should consult with the PG Admissions Tutor. You need not take further action at this stage: applicants who have accepted an offer from Warwick will be considered at the end of April 2010.
If you are applying for (or have sucessfully obtained) external funding you should inform the PG Admissions Tutor, even if this is after you submitted your application.
5. We will arrange interviews for the most promising candidates.
Overseas candidates may be interviewed by telephone by the Admissions Tutor and potential supervisor.
UK candidates will usually be invited for an interview and visits to the research groups in which they are interested.
Dates for group interview days (e.g. for all Round 1 Particle Physics candidates) will be announced well in advance.
6. Offers will be made after the first round of interviews.
Offers are normally conditional on degree result for candidates yet to graduate.
The offer of a place will be made along with a guarantee of funding (e.g. Research Council studentship for a UK student).
The start date can be flexible but most students will begin in October 2010.
7. Remaining places will be allocated in a second round of applications and interviews.
The deadline for applications for Round 2 interviews is 24th February 2010.
Further interviews will take place during March and April 2010.
We will continue to consider applications until all places are filled.
8. Additional information for overseas applicants
An ATAS statement will be required for your visa application. This can be produced once your area of study and project are defined.
The univeristy's unconditional offer can ONLY be made once official degree transcripts (or certified copies thereof), English language certificates and references have been verified by the University.
The University, not the department, makes the offer of a place and produces formal offer letters so it is essential they receive all the necessary evidence of your academic achievements.
For authoritative advice on visa requirements, please contact the university's International Office; specific information is available here.
