How to apply?

Navigate the Application Process and find more about our virtual Open Days

On this page you will find guidance on the application process and information about our virtual open days.

Postgraduate Open Days

Our annual virtual open days for postgraduates are a great place to find out about what it is like to be a Cavendish postgraduate, our areas of pioneering research, the application process, student life and more. You will also get an opportunity to attend a Q&A session with the current staff.

The last Postgraduate Open Day was on 6 November 2025. Sign up to the University postgraduate newsletter to be notified about future Postgraduate Open Days and events.

Learn more about the PhD experience across different research groups at the Cavendish in the video below.

Step-by-Step Application Process

Applying for a postgraduate programme at the Cavendish Laboratory, requires careful planning and preparation. The step-by-step guide below outlines the key steps to help you navigate the application process, from selecting a programme to meeting funding deadlines and fulfilling admission requirements. Following these steps will ensure you submit a strong application.

If you have any further questions then you can contact the postgraduate admissions office at pgadmin@phy.cam.ac.uk.

Quick Links

Step-by-step guide

1. Choose a Programme and check entry requirement

    • Review the available PhD and Master’s programmes on the Department website or on University of Cambridge website here. Application links for individual programmes and special notes can be found on each programme page.
    • Check the entry requirements. Some programmes may have additional requirements. The usual minimum requirement for most courses is a II.i degree (or international equivalent), unless otherwise specified. Most students who are admitted however significantly exceed the minimum requirement. For PhD courses the equivalent of a UK masters is usually required.

2. Contact potential supervisors (if required)

    • For certain PhD and MPhil programmes, you may need to reach out to potential supervisors before applying. Here is the list of Postgraduate supervisors for 2026-27. Please contact potential supervisors before applying.
    • Some programmes, like PhD in Interdisciplinary Nanoscience, do not require a supervisor in advance.

3. Prepare your application

    • Apply via the University’s online application system.
    • Submit academic transcripts, references, and any additional materials required by your chosen programme. You can find more general guidance on materials to be submitted here or can look up individual programme page for specific guidance here.

4. Meet the funding deadline

    • To be considered for funding, submit your application by the deadline mentioned on the University programme page (some courses have additional deadlines).
    • Ensure referees submit their recommendations before the deadline.

5. Selection process

    • The selection process for all programmes is different – details will be available on each programme’s application webpage.
    • Most programmes will conduct interviews (usually online) for shortlisted candidates.
    • Once a decision has been made, applicants are notified of the decision via the application system. If an offer is made, it is usually a conditional offer to begin with. Admission is not confirmed until a candidate satisfies all conditions mentioned on their formal offer by the University’s Postgraduate Admissions Office.

6. Fulfill admission requirements

    • Meet any conditions, including English language proficiency if applicable.
    • Secure financial support if not awarded funding. You can find more information about fees and funding here.
    • You should not take any steps to come to Cambridge before you receive an admission letter from the Postgraduate Admissions Office stating that you have satisfied all conditions.

7. College membership and final confirmation

    • If offered a place, you’ll be assigned a college or can express a preference. You can find more information about the colleges here.
    • Admission is confirmed once all conditions are met.