A Master’s degree (Merit or Distinction) in Chemical Engineering, Process Engineering, Materials Science, or a closely related engineering or physical science discipline.

Applicants must also hold a Bachelor’s degree with at least a UK 2:1 (Upper Second-Class Honours) or international equivalent in Chemical Engineering or a related field such as Chemistry, Physics, or Mechanical Engineering.

Strong academic preparation in thermodynamics, fluid dynamics, reaction engineering, process design, and transport phenomena is expected.

Candidates with backgrounds in Environmental Engineering, Biotechnology, or Energy Systems may be considered if their research proposal aligns with the department’s focus areas.

International qualifications must meet UK equivalence standards (verified through UK ENIC, if required).

Prestigious UK universities such as Cambridge, Imperial College London, Manchester, and University College London typically expect first-class undergraduate performance and Distinction-level postgraduate results.

Work experience is not mandatory, but research or industrial experience in chemical or process engineering is highly desirable.

Applicants with laboratory, simulation, or R&D experience in chemical manufacturing, energy production, pharmaceuticals, or environmental processes are especially competitive.

Experience in process simulation tools (e.g., Aspen Plus, COMSOL, ANSYS Fluent, MATLAB) or laboratory instrumentation is valuable.

Industrial placements, publications, or conference presentations are strong indicators of research potential.

For applied or collaborative PhD projects, prior work with engineering firms, energy companies, or materials labs can strengthen an application.

IELTS (Academic): Overall score of 6.5–7.0, with no component below 6.0.

TOEFL iBT: Overall score of 90–100, with minimum section scores around 22–25.

PTE Academic: Overall score of 62–70, with no component below 62.

Applicants who completed degrees in English or studied in a majority English-speaking country may be exempt from testing.

Top universities (e.g. Imperial and Cambridge) may require IELTS 7.0 overall for PhD-level engineering research programmes.

Official academic transcripts and degree certificates for all higher education qualifications (with certified English translations if required).

Comprehensive research proposal (typically 1,500–3,000 words) detailing your proposed topic, objectives, background, and research methodology.

Personal statement outlining your academic preparation, research interests, and motivation for pursuing doctoral study in Chemical Engineering.

Curriculum vitae (CV) including academic background, research projects, laboratory experience, technical skills, publications, and any relevant industry involvement.

Two or three academic references, at least one from a research supervisor or lecturer familiar with your research or technical work.

Proof of English language proficiency (if applicable).

Some departments may request a sample of academic writing or a prior research report to evaluate technical ability and communication skills.

Applicants may be invited to attend an interview or technical discussion, particularly for competitive, funded, or industry-collaborative PhD programmes.