PhD abroad: finding a supervisor, research proposal and funding

Short answer: Applying for a PhD abroad differs from a regular master's application: you often first find a supervisor, prepare a research proposal and choose a separate funding route (a scholarship or a project salary). In many countries a doctoral student may receive a salary as a university employee, but these rules vary by country and project.

Differences between PhD models

• In Europe (for example Germany, the Netherlands, Scandinavia) a doctoral student is often hired by the university as a temporary employee.
• In the UK, independent scholarships and funded projects are possible.
• In the USA, a 5-6 year programme is often admitted, with funding provided through teaching and research assistantships.

Finding a supervisor

Find researchers in your field through university web pages, research papers and conferences. Write a short, specific email: who you are, what you want to work on and why you chose this supervisor in particular. Attach a CV and a short research idea.

The research proposal

The proposal should include the problem, main question, method, expected result and a timeline. Length and format depend on the university. It should show that you know the existing literature, but not be overly general.

Recommendation letters and CV

Usually two or three academic recommendation letters are required. In an academic CV, education, publications, conferences and research experience should come first. More: CV for studying abroad and how to ask for a recommendation letter.

Funding routes

• University or project salary (varies by country).
• Government and foundation scholarships.
• The Azerbaijani State Program or other support. More: State Program doctoral requirements.
• Erasmus Mundus and other joint programmes. See: Erasmus Mundus.

Timeline

It is advisable to start at least 8-12 months before applying: finding a supervisor, the proposal, recommendation letters and a language test take time. Some programmes have autumn deadlines and others spring ones.

Frequently asked questions

Do I need a master's degree for a PhD?

In most countries yes, but some countries have models admitting directly from a bachelor's. Check the programme's requirements.

Is a language certificate needed?

Usually IELTS or TOEFL is required, and some universities may have waivers.

Note: conditions, salary and scholarship rules vary by country and programme. Check the information of the university and official bodies before applying.

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