A Master’s degree (Merit or Distinction) in Medicine, Pharmacy, Biomedical Sciences, Pharmacology, Biochemistry, or a closely related life 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 a relevant field.

For applicants from medical backgrounds, an MBBS/MBChB or equivalent professional medical degree from a recognised institution is normally required.

Candidates from non-clinical backgrounds (e.g. Pharmacology, Chemistry, Biotechnology) may be considered if their research proposal aligns with medical or pharmaceutical science research areas.

International qualifications must be equivalent to UK academic standards (verification through UK ENIC may be required).

Top UK universities (Oxford, Cambridge, UCL, Imperial College London, King’s College London, and Manchester) typically expect a Distinction-level Master’s degree and prior experience in laboratory or clinical research.

Work experience is not mandatory, but relevant laboratory or clinical experience is highly desirable.

Applicants with backgrounds in medical practice, clinical research, hospital-based studies, or pharmaceutical development are particularly competitive.

Experience in research design, data analysis, or laboratory techniques (e.g. molecular biology, pharmacokinetics, or clinical trials) is advantageous.

For clinical PhD routes, applicants must hold appropriate professional registration (e.g. GMC or GPhC) and may need ongoing clinical placements or NHS affiliations.

For non-clinical or pre-clinical research, proven experience in laboratory-based or translational science is beneficial.

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

TOEFL iBT: Overall score of 95–100, with minimum section scores around 23–25.

PTE Academic: Overall score of 68–70, with no skill below 62.

Applicants who completed their prior degrees in English or in a majority English-speaking country may be exempt from submitting test results.

Some clinical or health research programmes may require higher communication standards, in line with GMC or NHS requirements.

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

Comprehensive research proposal (1,500–3,000 words) outlining the research question, background, methodology, and clinical or pharmaceutical relevance.

Personal statement describing academic preparation, research motivation, and how your background supports your proposed project.

Curriculum vitae (CV) including education, research experience, laboratory or clinical skills, publications, and professional memberships.

Two or three academic or professional references, including at least one academic referee familiar with your research capabilities.

Proof of English language proficiency (if applicable).

Some programmes may request a sample of academic or published work to evaluate writing and analytical ability.

Applicants to clinical PhD programmes must provide evidence of current professional registration (e.g. GMC, GDC, GPhC) and, in some cases, employer support or clinical leave approval.