Before you apply for the PhD in Computer Science, please read the postgraduate admissions information on this website.
Please also read the Cambridge University Postgraduate Study website, which has detailed instructions here on how to apply. (You can also see this guide, produced by Close the Gap to help applicants from under-represented groups find their way through the admissions process. It includes advice on approaching supervisors, funding, research experience, writing a statement, interviews, etc.)
All applications must be made online via the University's Applicant Portal. Before applying, please be aware of the following:
Entry requirements
You will need to hold a first-class honours degree or the equivalent to a good UK first-class honours degree. This should be in Computer Science. Applications will also be considered from those holding a degree of equal status in Engineering, Science, Mathematics, or another numerate degree, and where the applicant can demonstrate significant relevant preparation for the PhD in Computer Science. In addition, a Master's-level degree such as the MPhil in Advanced Computer Science (or other postgraduate work) is highly desirable.
Finding a supervisor
Before applying you will need to find a proposed supervisor. The University offers advice here on how to identify potential supervisors. We also recommend browsing our list of Research themes to help you identify supervisors in the area of research you're interested in.
You should make informal email contact with them in good time before applying so you can judge how good a match there is between your research interests and theirs, and whether they will consider your application. We suggest that you approach a potential supervisor by emailing them:
- your CV
- a transcript of your courses taken, and grades obtained
- a tailored covering email (or accompanying statement) that states your research interests, including how these align with those of your potential supervisor. Highlight any relevant work you have done in their area and explain your motivation for pursuing a research degree with them.
If you don't receive a response after two weeks, feel free to send a gentle follow-up mail. If you still don’t receive a reply, it may be best to consider other options.
Before submitting your application, you will need to send your proposed supervisor a draft or complete version of your research proposal and have discussed it with a member of the research staff. Your proposed supervisor's name should be entered on your application form.
English language requirements
You will need to demonstrate that you are competent in the English language. Please see the English language requirements page for details.
References
You need two academic references. If you've been in relevant employment for several years, one of your referees may be a line manager. (Please note: if you're applying for a Gates Cambridge Scholarship, you will also need a third personal referee.)
Written work
You will be able to submit one or two pieces of written work in English, such as conference or workshop papers.
Offers
Your proposed supervisor cannot agree to supervise you without the approval of the PhD Applications Panel and the Degree Committee for Computer Science and Technology. Only the University's central Postgraduate Admissions Office has the authority to make an offer of admission.
Part-time PhD
Applicants interested in applying to do a PhD part-time should see our part-time PhD advice.
