Evaluation process

Postgraduate Research Admissions (PGRA): Evaluation Process

This page provides essential guidance for academic supervisors involved in the postgraduate research Admissions (PGRA) evaluation of applications.  To ensure a smooth and compliant admissions journey for applicants, we ask that all supervisors follow the processes set out in the How to Use the Postgraduate Research Admissions System (PGRA) Guidance and Process for Academics 2026 entry [Final].docx

The guidance and process document outlines the steps academic supervisors should follow in PGRA and is designed to support academic staff across all four Schools - SALC, SoSS, AMBS, and SEED.  It provides detailed stage-by-stage instructions on reviewing applications, supervisor consideration, and making decisions on applications in the PGRA system, while ensuring compliance with policies on ethics, export control, and ATAS.

Supervisors are strongly encouraged to familiarise themselves with the document, particularly the responsibilities outlined in Stages 1 and 2 of the evaluation process, and the checks required before making an offer recommendation.  This guidance and process document ensures consistency when reviewing applications.

If you have any questions, please contact the Admissions team.

Communicating with applicants

During the evaluation process, you are likely to communicate with any potential supervisees directly about their application. Please note that offers cannot be issued until all reviewers have given their approval and the evaluation process complete. Offers therefore cannot be formally confirmed to applicants until then.

If you choose to decline an application and then wish to notify the applicant directly, please provide your reasoning and constructive feedback. You are not required to communicate outcomes; the admissions team will send formal notifications to applicants as appropriate.

Admissions information session

An information session was held for academic colleagues which gave insight into the admissions process that will be in place for the 2026 admissions cycle.  The presentation delivered the key stages of the evaluation process to support those colleagues involved in PGR Admissions.  

If you have any questions, please contact the Admissions team.