How to Apply

FAQs for the online application process

• Can I apply for multiple projects?

  Once you have created an account on the applicant portal, you can create multiple applications.  The system will remember most of your details.

  You will still need to upload supplemental items for each application, including a unique research proposal for each project. You can manage your applications through the applicant portal.

• I don't currently hold a valid passport but the system requires me to complete these details

  If you don't hold a valid passport, you can simply type in dummy data to bypass this section of the application form.  You will require a valid passport by the time you need to apply for a visa but we can still assess your application without this.  Please use '0000' to bypass this field so that it is clear it is dummy information.

• Can I still apply without my English language proficiency evidence?

  You may still submit an application without your English language evidence, but we will require that you have passed any necessary tests and submitted certificates within a defined period (usually six weeks) from the closing date.  If you have booked a test, please upload this information in lieu of the certificate.

• I am completing the application but I can't find where to upload the supplemental items

  The supplemental items will only be requested once you have submitted your application.  This is because different programmes require different supplemental items.  You will receive an automated email upon submission prompting you to upload the required documents.  Please note that both the application and the supplemental items must be uploaded before the closing date or else your application will be automatically withdrawn.

• I'm trying to upload supplemental items but they are not saving

  Once you browse and select the files from your PC or device, you need to click on the small 'upload' button below the file to fully upload the file to the system.

• How can I attach references to my application?

  You do not need to attach references at the application stage.  Some of our research areas may require references to be submitted and if so, you will be advised by email to initiate the 'Recommendation Requests' section.  You simply need to enter details of two academic referees and the system will automatically invite them to complete a form.  You can manage this via the portal.

• My application has been withdrawn and I'm not sure why

  Once the closing date for applications has passed, those applications deemed 'incomplete' will be withdrawn by default.  This is usually because you have failed to upload a unique research proposal for the project in question or have other missing mandatory supplemental items.

  Your application will also be withdrawn if you are ineligible to apply for that particular project (e.g. if it's a funded project only open to home applicants or if previous study means that you are not eligible to apply for a funded PhD).

• I have not completed my degree/postgraduate degree so cannot upload the certificates

  We receive a number of applications from candidates who have yet to complete their degree programmes.  Although the system will initially require transcripts and degree certificates for both postgraduate and undergraduate courses, the Doctoral College team will waive these requirements once we could to assess your application (based on information provided in your CV).  We can process your applications through for consideration based on incomplete degrees, provided we have transcripts to date.

• I have been made a reserve offer - how should I proceed?

  If you have been listed as a reserve for a funded position, you should decline the offer of admission to self fund (unless you are able to switch to self fund your studies).  We will then retain you on the reserve list for a funded place and make a new offer if a position becomes available.  We work through reserve lists up until September each year, so you should continue to check your inbox.

• I have been made a conditional offer - how long do I have to meet the conditions of offer?

  If you have been made a conditional offer based upon receiving a particular grade in your degree or MSc programme, you will have until mid to late August to upload your certificates.  You will be unable to register without providing evidence of meeting the requirements.  In case of other conditions, such as English, you should upload your certificate as soon as you receive your test results so that your offer can be amended to unconditional.

Checklist of supplemental items required for application:

The following are mandatory items:

• Research Proposal

  If the advertisement for the project you are applying for requires a research proposal, please include the following:

  • Title of the topic
  • Background to the project including your research question(s), rationale and context, aims and objectives.
  • Overview of key literatures/theories relevant to the topic.
  • Proposed methodology including discussion of the research design, including the methodology to be adopted and the rationale for adopting it.
  • Ethical considerations related to the research.
  • Timeline of activities over three years (full-time) or six years (part-time)
  • Indicative Bibliography
• Your CV

  Use an existing CV, Ulster Employability and Graduate Future's CV template or one of many other CV templates available . Include details of any publications you have as well as any work experience related to the project area.

• Degree certificates and transcripts

  This is an official record from your University of modules and courses undertaken to date or as part of your qualification.  (Terminology - UG = undergraduate and PG = postgraduate).

  These are mandatory items and you will be required to provide certified English translations if appropriate.  If you have an award pending, simply upload the transcripts to date.  If you do not hold a postgraduate qualification, the administration team will waive this requirement when your application is due to be assessed.

• English Language Proficiency

  An approved document that provides evidence that you meet the English language requirements of the University.

  For UK students this will usually be a copy of your GCSE English certificate. If you require a Student Visa you should provide evidence in the form of a UK Home Office approved Secure English Language Test. Please note that a letter from your institution confirming that your degree was in English is not sufficient for Home Office purposes.

  If you have an English test booked, please upload these details.  You do not need to have your English certificate at the point of application, but any offer will be conditional upon you obtaining this before we can issue with the documentation required to obtain a Student Visa.

• Personal Statement

  Please tell us why you wish to study at Ulster University on this particular programme. For applicants requiring a Student Visa, this statement will be used to prove your 'Intent to Study' to the UK Home Office.

  Your personal statement must demonstrate:       

  • Why you wish to study your chosen PhD project;
  • Why you have chosen to study at Ulster University;
  • Why you would like to study this course in the UK (for international applicants only);
  • How this course relates to your previous studies;
  • How you plan to fund your studies in the UK;
  • How it will benefit you in your career plan, and;
  • What you intend to do after completing your research

  If you are an international applicant and have already provided this detail as part of your application form, the team assessing your application may waive the requirement for a further upload if they feel sufficient information has been provided.