Join us!

We have a very limited number of Home places still available for Cohort 5 (starting in September 2023). There will be no further recruitment after Cohort 5.

If you are interested for Cohort 5, please apply immediately - we are now operating a rolling first-come-first-served process. See below for how to apply!

Why apply?

The SLT CDT offers you the following benefits:


*Due to UK Government visa restrictions beyond our control, international students can only undertake non-salaried placements which form an integral part of their research project.

How to apply

Entry requirements

Applicants should have, or be expecting to obtain, a minimum of a 2:1 undergraduate degree or masters (ideally distinction) degree in a relevant discipline. 

Suitable backgrounds are (but not limited to):

Regardless of background, you must be able to demonstrate strong mathematical aptitude (minimally to UK A-Level standard or equivalent) and good experience of programming.

We will also consider applicants with a professional background, so long as they are able to provide evidence of demonstrable academic skills as well as practical experience.

We particularly encourage applications from members of groups that are underrepresented in technology.

If English is not your first language, you will need to meet our English Language Requirements. We ask for IELTS 7.5 overall, with no less than 7.0 in each component.

Equivalent scores in other other English language qualifications are welcome; see the University’s guidance for more information on permitted qualifications.

How to apply

We have a very limited number of Home places still available for Cohort 5 (starting in September 2023). If you are interested, please apply immediately. Applications will be assessed on a first come first served basis.


You can apply through the University of Sheffield’s Postgraduate Online Application System. Please ensure you follow our Application Instructions which will guide you through the application process. 


Applications will be reviewed and short-listed applicants will be invited to interview. Interviews will be held in Sheffield or via videoconference. Shortlisting may take up to 6 weeks following the deadline.


If you have any questions about applying please take a look at our FAQ. If you can’t find an answer to your question there, please email us at sltcdt-enquiries@sheffield.ac.uk

Please note we will retain your email address for the purpose of communicating with you about applying to study at the CDT only. Your contact details will not be used for any other topic, nor passed on to anybody else.

Home and International Eligibility

All students (regardless of Home or International fees status) are eligible to apply and, if successful, receive the full stipend and all fees are paid. However, UKRI limits the proportion of international students that the CDT can appoint each year meaning international places are highly competitive. 

To be classed as a home student, you must meet one of the following criteria:

If you do not meet the criteria above for Home eligibility, you will be classed as an international student. For full eligibility details, please refer to the UKRI Training Grant Guidance (p23).

When applying, please indicate in your personal statement whether the criteria above classify you as a home student or an international student.