A Master’s degree (Merit or Distinction) in Electrical Engineering, Electronics, Telecommunications, Computer Engineering, Robotics, or a closely related technical discipline.

Applicants must also hold a Bachelor’s degree with at least a UK 2:1 (Upper Second-Class Honours) or international equivalent in Electrical or Electronic Engineering or a related field.

Strong academic preparation in circuit design, signal processing, electromagnetics, control systems, and programming is essential.

Candidates with degrees in Physics, Mechatronics, or Computer Science may be considered if their research proposal demonstrates sufficient technical depth.

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

Leading institutions such as Imperial College London, Cambridge, Oxford, Manchester, and Edinburgh often expect first-class undergraduate results and Distinction-level postgraduate grades for admission to competitive research groups.

Work experience is not mandatory, but relevant research, design, or engineering experience is highly advantageous.

Applicants with prior experience in hardware design, embedded systems, power electronics, telecommunications, or robotics are preferred.

Industrial experience in R&D, automation, or electronics manufacturing can strengthen applications, especially for applied research programmes.

Research assistantships, technical internships, or published papers demonstrate research readiness and are viewed positively.

For industrially sponsored PhDs, collaboration experience with engineering firms or technology companies may be beneficial.

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

TOEFL iBT: Overall score of 90–100, with section scores typically above 22.

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

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

Some engineering departments (e.g. Imperial or Cambridge) may require IELTS 7.0 overall for research programmes involving collaborative or industrial communication.

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

Research proposal (typically 1,500–3,000 words) outlining your research objectives, technical background, proposed methodology, and intended contribution to the field of Electronics or Electrical Engineering.

Personal statement highlighting your academic background, research interests, and professional motivation.

Curriculum vitae (CV) listing educational achievements, technical projects, laboratory experience, programming skills, publications, and industry involvement.

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

Proof of English language proficiency (if applicable).

Some universities may request a portfolio of project work, published research, or design documentation to assess technical competence.

Applicants may be invited to attend an interview or technical discussion, particularly for funded or competitive positions.