General

Is my academic background suitable? 

We are flexible on academic backgrounds; your suitability will be determined based on the needs of the particular project to which you are applying and the details of the course content of your Bachelor and/or Master degrees once you have applied (via transcripts). However, you must be able to demonstrate mathematical aptitude and experience of programming. 

Naturally, a strong interest in an area of SLT research is essential. The focus of the research is around AI and the use of computational approaches (such as machine learning) in the creation of SLTs – this should be a prime interest for applicants.

Should I provide a research proposal? 

Yes - you will apply to a specific, pre-determined project description and your research proposal must be focused on that project. 

What should I put in my supporting statement?

You must specify which of the advertised projects you are applying for. Your supporting statement should include a brief outline of your research areas of interest and why you wish to pursue this area of research. On average it should be one to two (max) A4 pages in length in a single spaced and clear font. 

Where can I find the course under the programmes list on the admissions system? 

Select "Standard PhD" for the question "Qualification applying for" and select "School of Computer Science". Please do not select any of the CDT options as this may delay the processing of your application.

Am I able to use an employer as a reference? 

We ask for two academic references which include their personal opinion of your ability to undertake postgraduate research. If you have been out of education for the last two years, you can send at least one academic reference and, if relevant, a reference from a current or previous employer. 

References should be on headed paper and signed by the referee. It is preferred that you upload a PDF of the reference to your application. 

If this is not possible, you can send a link to your referee(s) to upload their statement directly. If you choose to do this, it is your responsibility to ensure they are uploaded by the referee. Your application cannot be reviewed without them. 

When will I get a response about my application? 

We aim to let applicants know the outcome of their application within six weeks of the admissions deadline.

What if I miss the deadline? 

We encourage you to apply early and certainly by 23:59 on 13 April 2025. Applications will then be reviewed and short-listed applicants will be invited to interview. Interviews will be held in Sheffield or via videoconference in mid- to late-May.

Applications received after the deadline will only be considered if either position remains unfilled following these interviews. In this case, we will operate a rolling first-come-first-served process of application review and, where applicable, interview.

Eligibility and funding

Am I eligible to apply for the studentship? 

The studentships are open to both Home and International students. All students will receive a full award, to include a stipend and all fees.

Are there any fully-funded scholarships for international applicants?

Both studentships are associated with funding to cover either home or international fees - anyone can apply and will receive full funding.

Would I be able to self-fund the entire cost of a studentship on the programme? 

Unfortunately, we are unable to accept applications from students wishing to self-fund the entire cost of the four year studentship.

Do I need to apply for the funding element separately from applying for a place on the programme?

No – you make a single application. We view the two elements as inextricably linked; if you are offered and accept a place on the programme, you will automatically receive funding.

English language requirements

If I don’t have an IELTS qualification can I submit an equivalent? 

If English is not your first language, you will need to meet our English language requirements. 

We ask for an IELTS grade of 6.5 overall with a minimum of 6.0 in each component. You will be able to provide an updated IELTS certificate should you need to.

Equivalent scores in other English language qualifications are welcome; see the University’s guidance for more information on permitted qualifications. There are websites available (such as https://www.ets.org) which allow TOEFL and IELTS scores to be compared. 

If your course was over five years ago, we would need evidence on ongoing use of English, such as a letter from your employer. If you completed your degree recently, we will not need further evidence.

My degree was from a non-UK university but taught entirely in English, does this count towards my English language qualification? 

If you have successfully completed a first degree or postgraduate diploma taught in English, it is only acceptable in lieu of an English language qualification if it was delivered in a majority native English speaking country. 

If not, in most cases you will need to complete an acceptable English language qualification.