university of melbourne phd english requirement

• Faculty of Arts
• Study with us
• Graduate research

Study Graduate Research

Our programs.

The Faculty of Arts attracts high-achieving graduate students who benefit from working with internationally recognised scholars and their global networks. The University is a premier institution that is ranked 37 in the world (Times Higher Education 2024).

Master of Arts (Advanced Seminar & Shorter Thesis)

The Master of Arts (Advanced Seminar and Shorter Thesis) provides you the flexibility to pursue an area of humanities and social sciences that interests you.

This program is only available in the Philosophy discipline.

Master of Arts (Thesis only)

If you want to develop specialised knowledge in one or more areas that interest you, the Master of Arts (Thesis Only) provides you with an advanced understanding of the major issues experienced in your chosen field.

This program is not available for students in the School of Social and Political Science.

Doctor of Philosophy – Arts

The Doctor of Philosophy – Arts – also known as a PhD or Doctorate – is the highest Arts degree offered by the University of Melbourne. You will complete a compulsory coursework component and undertake supervised research under the direction of a supervisory team of experts in the field.

Application dates

The Faculty of Arts only accepts applications for Graduate Research study to commence in Semester One. No mid-year intake is offered.

We offer two rounds of applications for our graduate research programs for commencement in the following year. Applications for admission to a graduate research program must be submitted in full before the closing date. We recommend you submit your application at least four weeks before the closing dates. This gives you some extra time in case you are required to provide any additional documents.

You will be automatically considered for the  Melbourne Graduate Research Scholarships as part of the graduate research course application.

Application outcomes will be available approximately eight weeks after the application closing date.

*International applicants

• To be considered for the  Melbourne Graduate Research Scholarships we strongly recommend you submit a complete course application before 31 August . The majority international Graduate Research Scholarships are awarded in September;
• If you are successful in obtaining a scholarship, you must commence your course by the first day of Semester 1 of the academic year you have been made an offer for;
• Please ensure you have allowed adequate time for your student visa application to be processed between your admittance into the course and the last date you can start your course;
• You must provide evidence that you meet the University of Melbourne English Language requirements by the application closing date.

How to apply

Step 1: check your eligibility.

Please check if you are eligible for consideration by viewing our  entry requirements before you proceed further. The Faculty of Arts offers three research degrees:

• Doctor of Philosophy – Arts (PhD)
• Master of Arts (Thesis Only) – not available to students in the School of Social and Political Sciences
• Master of Arts (Advanced Seminar and Shorter Thesis) – Philosophy only

Need help? Use the below Checklist to help you determine if you are eligible.

Pre-Application Checklist

Check that you meet the  University’s English Language requirements .

If you do not meet the minimum entry requirements for direct entry into our graduate research degrees, you may wish to consider undertaking the Graduate Diploma in Arts (Advanced) as a pathway into Graduate Research.

For further information about graduate pathways please email Arts Graduate Admissions .

To be considered for entry to a Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) you must demonstrate that you meet the following criteria:

• Completion of at least a four-year Bachelors (Hons) degree and/or a Master’s degree equivalent to the University of Melbourne’s H2A (75%+) standard; and
• A degree that is in a discipline relevant to your intended PhD; and
• A substantial research component that accounts for at least 25% of one year’s work at 4 th year or masters’ level, with a minimum result of H1 (80%) University of Melbourne equivalent.

To be considered for entry to a Master of Arts (Thesis Only) or Master of Arts (Advanced Seminar and Shorter Thesis) you must demonstrate that you meet the following criteria:

• Completion of at least a four-year Bachelors (Hons) degree and/or a Master’s degree equivalent to the University of Melbourne’s H2B (70%+) standard; and
• A substantial research component that accounts for at least 25% of one year’s work at 4 th year or masters’ level, with a minimum result of H2A (75%) University of Melbourne equivalent.

Step 2: Finding a supervisor

Before you submit an application online, you must have obtained written support of an academic supervisor in the Faculty of Arts for your proposed research project.

You can look for potential supervisors by:

• Exploring our current research degree opportunities page to discover projects recruiting students

Find current Research Degree opportunities at Arts

• Searching the University’s Find an Expert directory and contact a potential supervisor directly with your research proposal

Search the Find an Expert directory

• Browse the Faculty of Arts School websites to understand their research strengths and contact a potential supervisor from their people page.

Please note: if you do not receive a response from a supervisor within five working days, send a follow up email to the contact email address listed on their Find An Expert profile page. If you do not receive a response within two weeks, consider contacting another supervisor.

When contacting a potential supervisor, you should include:

Guideline for Creative Writing Proposals

The creative PhD at the University of Melbourne is developed and marked as a single thesis, with two major elements: a dissertation and a creative work.

Each part usually contributes 50% to the overall word count. It is possible to increase the dissertation above 50%, but the creative work cannot be more than 50%.

One way to understand the unity of the creative PhD thesis is to consider that there is one overarching research question or hypothesis, which is approached within the thesis in two different manners, a scholarly one and a creative one.

The dissertation is not an exegesis. The dissertation does not offer a commentary on the creative processes or the intentions of the writer. The dissertation is intended to stand independently as a scholarly work making an original contribution to its field or discipline. In creative writing, this field is often interdisciplinary, but it can be characterised as a discipline interested in writerly questions, that is questions that take into account creativity, creative processes, the decision-making that goes into a creative text, cultural and technological influences on writing, questions of genre boundaries (including emerging genres, hybrid genres), and questions that address issues in conceiving of writing as a craft. This is a broad description and it is not exhaustive, but it does indicate that most dissertations are investigating aspects of the act of writing.

In your proposal you should make it clear what your research question is, and how this question fits with or responds to an ongoing critical discourse. You should identify the fields or disciplines you will draw upon, what models of analysis you will adopt, and what critical and creative texts you wish to discuss in your dissertation.

The creative work will need to be articulated in your proposal with some detail, understanding that as with all creative works there will be room for re-considerations and re-drafting. You should show how your creative work addresses or arises from your research question.

Your proposal should include an indicative list of the texts you will consult.

Step 3: Submit an application

Please be aware that m eeting the minimum entry requirements or having strong supervisor support does not guarantee admission to the course. All applications are subject to approval of the Faculty's selection committee.

To submit an application, please visit the online application portal:

• Domestic applications
• International applications

Search for the course code to start an application:

• DR-PHILART for Doctor of Philosophy – Arts
• MR-ARTSTHS for Master of Arts (Thesis Only)
• MR-ARTSAST for Master of Arts (Advanced Seminar and Shorter Thesis) – Philosophy only

Please also note the following study package mode

• International applicants - select ‘PG Overseas Fee Paying’
• Domestic applicants - select  ‘RTP / RTS / CTS’
• Attendance mode: select 'On Campus'
• Study mode: select 'Standard'.

Once you've submitted your application, you will receive an email stating that your application has been received. If your application is incomplete, you will receive an email requesting additional documents.

Assessment of your application will only commence once you have provided all required documents. To avoid delay in the assessment of your application, ensure you follow the online application instructions carefully and upload all the required documents.

If you have submitted a complete application before the closing dates for any round, you will receive an outcome by the relevant date outlined above.

You will be asked to submit the following documents with your online application:

• A copy of an email or letter indicating that your nominated supervisor's agreement to supervise you should your application be successful;
• A current CV outlining your all complete and incomplete academic qualifications and work experience, and details of any research publications (if relevant)
• If your last qualification completed (overall or thesis component) is marked on a pass/fail basis, provide a copy of the examiner's report and complete the Academic Report of Ungraded Thesis Form.
• If you are still studying, you can apply now before completing your degree by including current transcripts of at least up to the first semester of your final year studies.
• Students apply from a University of Melbourne Honours or Master program do not need to submit transcripts.
• A 2,500-word research proposal
• A 5,000-word writing sample

More information

Ensure both research proposal and writing sample documents are labelled with your name, the School to which you are applying and the date.

To support your application, you will need to nominate two referees who can comment on your academic ability and research potential. We recommend that at least one report from someone who has supervised your thesis/dissertation or research work.

All referee reports must be submitted using the online tool. On submission of your application, your referees will be emailed a link to access the online referee form and they must provide their references using this online form. You will be notified when they submit the reference. Your application may be deemed as incomplete if the referee reports are not submitted before the application closing dates.

Please note: students who have completed honours or a master degree through the University of Melbourne need only to provide two University of Melbourne referee contacts, and are exempt from providing referee reports.

If you have a completed a thesis or research component that is marked on a pass/fail basis, provide a copy of the thesis. The examiner’s report and an Academic Report of Ungraded Thesis Form . Send the form to the most senior academic staff involved in the assessment of your thesis/research component and request them to complete and return the form before the deadline of the round that you are applying for.

You will be automatically considered for the  Melbourne Graduate Research Scholarships when you apply for the course. No separate application is required.

Please note: In order to be eligible for consideration for a Graduate Research Scholarship, applicants must have met the University of Melbourne English Language requirements by the application closing date.

Other scholarships

• Domestic students experiencing compassionate or compelling circumstances (including illness, disability, care responsibilities or personal hardship), may be eligible to apply for the Fay Marles Scholarship or the Frederick Blake Shepherd Scholarship . Applications close on 31 October.
• Human Rights Scholarship
• Hansen Scholarship in History
• For all other scholarships please follow the relevant application instructions and complete the scholarship application section in the online form.

If your application is successful, you will receive an offer letter by email. Please read your course offer closely and accept your offer online by following the instructions in your offer letter.  To accept your scholarship offer, follow the instructions in your scholarship offer letter.

If you are successful in obtaining an offer for a place, you must complete your enrolment and commence your course by the first day of Semester 1 .

All commencing graduate researchers are invited to an Orientation Welcome Session before the start of the semester. At this session you’ll be introduced to your Graduate School, learn about our facilities and services, and get a chance to meet coordinators and peers from your program. For more information please visit the Faculty of Arts Orientation and Induction web page.

Graduate Researchers completing a Doctor of Philosophy – Arts degree are required to complete 4 coursework subjects in the first year. For more information about coursework requirements and candidature management please visit the Faculty of Arts Graduate Research web page.

Transferring students apply through the same application process as new applicants. Please note, however, that the ability of students to transfer into the Doctor of Philosophy – Arts has been severely limited because of the requirement to complete the PhD coursework in the first year prior to confirmation. Your application will be assessed based on your ability to meet our degree requirements and complete your course in a timely manner. Please ensure that if you are considering a transfer from your current course that you discuss the following with a nominated supervisor:

• Reasons - what are the reasons for transferring?
• Confirmation - have you met your current university's Confirmation requirements?
• PhD Coursework – If you have not been confirmed in your current candidature, how will you complete the Arts PhD coursework component before Confirmation?
• Completion - do you have a plan for completion of your course within 3 years from the initial enrolment date when you started your current research degree? You will also need to provide evidence of satisfactory progress in your current program.
• Residency requirements - will you be able to meet the University of Melbourne's residency requirement if your transfer is successful?

Domestic students who are admitted in a graduate research degrees will receive a Research Training Program Fee Offset Scholarship to acknowledge the contribution from the Australian Government towards the cost of their tuition. Learn more about the RTP Fee Offset Scholarship and  Graduate Research Scholarships

International students should consult the Study Fees web page for details about calculating your fees, the cost of living in Melbourne, and the Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC).

For more information about fees please visit the Students Fees web page.

All candidates must have a plan that includes spending at least one-third of their candidature on campus. The residency requirement is deemed especially important during the period of probationary candidature and while completing the PhD coursework component.  Please note that the University does not offer entirely distance or online supervision. Throughout your candidature, it is expected that you will attend the University to fully benefit from planning, conducting and writing up your research. This on campus presence is essential for fostering a vibrant research culture and cultivating a sense of belonging within your respective school’s research community.

For more information on residency requirements please see the Melbourne Policy Library Selection and Admission Policy (MPF1295) .

To support you in your studies you should bring your own laptop for University use. Some of our shared workstations are equipped with monitors and power sockets to allow you to connect your own device to the University network for internet access and printing facilities.

Frequently asked questions

Need more information, refer to our Frequently Asked Questions page.

Frequently Asked Questions

• Research degrees
• Your research options

Supplementary PhD Programs

Give yourself an edge. Join a multidisciplinary PhD Program to enrich your graduate research experience. These programs are supplementary learning opportunities in addition to your core PhD studies. They provide the chance to work with others who share a passion for discovering new knowledge in your area of interest.

We currently offer a wide range of multidisciplinary programs with the details below. Each has a different focus, such as mental health, cancer, or infection and immunity. The programs feature a series of activities to enhance your learning experience. You can attend masterclasses, workshops and seminars, delivered by experts in your field. You will keep up to date with research findings and breakthrough discoveries. And you may have opportunities for mentoring and internships.

When you join a PhD Program, you’ll connect with graduate researchers from other disciplines. And you’ll engage with relevant external organisations. By participating, you’ll broaden your networks and improve your career prospects.

Please note, these programs run in addition to your PhD research . If you are looking for information about possible topics for your core PhD research, please explore the breadth of PhD research themes available.

Why join a PhD Program?

By joining a PhD Program, you will set yourself up for success. You'll have extra support and opportunities throughout your research degree. This will enable you to:

• Access a breadth of expertise from across the University
• Consider your research from the perspective of other disciplines
• Place your research in a broader multidisciplinary context
• Build multidisciplinary networks that lead to postdoctoral pathways
• Develop professional skills to enhance your career prospects
• Improve your research and communication skills to become an accomplished graduate researcher.

Are you eligible?

• To take part, you must be enrolled in a PhD at the University of Melbourne. Your thesis topic must relate to the PhD Program theme.
• When you join a PhD Program, you will remain enrolled in your current department.
• You can join a PhD Program at any time during your candidature. You will remain part of the program until you complete your doctoral studies.

Explore the individual PhD Programs

The Biomedical Engineering Innovation PhD Program is a multidisciplinary research training initiative. It is a supplementary learning opportunity that enriches the graduate research experience.

The program brings together people who work on research related to biomedical engineering, including:

• PhD students, supervisors and alumni from across the Melbourne Biomedical Precinct
• Industry and clinical partners.

The program is facilitated by:

• The Graeme Clark Institute
• The Department of Biomedical Engineering at the University of Melbourne.

Find out more

The Child and Adolescent Health PhD Program complements your PhD studies. As a participant, you will join more than 200 graduate researchers at the Melbourne Children’s Campus . This campus is a fully integrated paediatric teaching hospital, University department and research institute. Our research streams include:

• Cell biology
• Clinical sciences
• Population health
• Infection and immunity.

We undertake multidisciplinary research in the following areas:

• Clinical trials
• Stem cell medicine
• Global health
• Life-course (longitudinal population) studies
• Health services research
• Digital health
• Data science.

The Comprehensive Cancer PhD Program provides specialist cancer research training and support for PhD candidates. It complements your core PhD activities.

The program provides a unique opportunity for PhD candidates researching cancer-related topics to work together. It attracts PhD candidates from a range of disciplines.

To be eligible, you must be enrolled as a PhD student in a partner organisation. Together, these organisations form the Victorian Comprehensive Cancer Centre (VCCC) alliance . Through this program, you will experience clinical and research activities across the alliance.

Upon completion, you will be ready to conduct world-class cancer research. The program will also prepare you for a wide range of career options. It does this by broadening the scope of your research knowledge. And by providing professional development and career training programs.

The Interdisciplinary Graduate Research Program in Indigenous Settler Relations enhances the experience of Masters and PhD students by creating an enriching cohort experience. The program develops an intellectual community and facilitates opportunities for you to deepen your academic knowledge and skills.

The program is open to graduate researchers in any faculty. You must be undertaking graduate research related to Indigenous settler relations in Australia and the world.

As a participant, you will work with others who share a passion for discovering new knowledge about infection and immunity. In this program, you will:

• Learn from global leaders in infection and immunity
• Access high-calibre scientists and facilities
• Work in an environment where discovery research meets diagnosis and surveillance
• Work with experts in infectious diseases, epidemiology, genomics and more.

The Peter Doherty Institute for Infection and Immunity delivers this PhD Program. The institute is a joint venture between the University of Melbourne and the Royal Melbourne Hospital. You may join this program if you are:

• A graduate researcher at the Doherty Institute
• Enrolled in a PhD at the University of Melbourne.

The Doherty Institute is home to high-quality discovery research. It has large diagnostic operations in virology and bacteriology. So, the institute can provide vast research training opportunities in many areas, including:

• Epidemiology
• Clinical and translational research
• Infectious diseases surveillance
• Outbreak investigations.

As a program participant, you will access first-class research training in your primary discipline. And you can supplement this with extra workshops, seminars and potential internships. Our key partners in biopharmaceutical-linked industries provide these extra training opportunities. These connections will assist with future employment opportunities, beyond the pure research environment.

When you join the Medical Biology PhD Program, you will work with others who share a passion for research related to medical biology.

You will learn more about:

• Medical biology
• Research management
• Commercialisation of research
• Clinical translation.

The Medical Biology PhD Program is delivered by the Department of Medical Biology at the University of Melbourne. When you join, you will undertake research training at the Walter and Eliza Hall Institute of Medical Research (WEHI).

When you join the Mental Health PhD Program, you’ll feel part of a community. You will work with others who share a passion for discovering new knowledge about mental health. All graduate students from the University of Melbourne working in a mental Health related field are welcome to join any time. We have graduate researchers from a wide range of disciplines spread across at least 15 schools or departments at the University of Melbourne, including:

• Epidemiology and community mental health
• History and philosophy of psychiatry
• Psychiatric nursing
• Social work
• Linguistics

This interdisciplinary PhD program offers PhD candidates in mental health a unified research training experience. It is a joint initiative of the following schools and departments:

• School of Psychological Sciences
• Melbourne School for Population and Global Health,  Centre for Mental Health
• Department of Psychiatry
• The Florey Institute of Neuroscience and Mental Health

The Migration, Statelessness and Refugee Studies PhD Program is delivered by the Melbourne Social Equity Institute at the University of Melbourne.

You will work with others who share a passion for discovering new knowledge in this area. You will engage with researchers from other disciplines across the University. And you will connect with relevant external organisations.

These connections will allow you to:

• Consider your research from the perspective of others
• Develop your research in reference to current real-world challenges
• Enhance your career prospects.

During the program, you will attend masterclasses, workshops and seminars. There will be a focus on ethics and research methods. And you will learn how to communicate your research to diverse audiences.

The Melbourne Neuroscience PhD Program brings together graduate researchers from across disciplines. These researchers share a passion for discovering knowledge in the area of neuroscience. When you join, you will access the best in neuroscience research from across the university.   This is a competitive program that complements your core PhD project. You will receive close mentoring from experts in the field of neuroscience. And you will benefit from a broad range of research initiatives.

The Melbourne Neuroscience PhD Program will help you to:

• Connect with other researchers from across the University
• Build relationships with relevant external organisations
• Develop your career path after graduation
• Consider your research topic from different perspectives
• Contribute to the discovery of new knowledge
• Expand your professional and personal networks
• Learn how to engage with industry.

All graduate students from the University of Melbourne working in a Neuroscience related field are welcome to join any time, even if it is not their primary discipline. We have graduate researchers from a wide range of disciplines spread over 20+ schools/departments at the University of Melbourne, including:

• Anatomy and Neuroscience
• Biomedical Engineering
• Medicine and Radiology
• School of Population and Global Health
• Murdoch Children’s Research Institute
• Royal Melbourne hospital

The Population and Global Health Graduate Research Program provides an engaging and practical skills-based training environment and cohort experience for graduate researchers.

The program enables you to maximise the value of your graduate research experience. It also helps you to make informed choices about your future career path.

It will focus on:

• Public health
• Health policy
• Epidemiology and biostatistics.

First published on 22 February 2022.

Keep reading

Where your research can take you.

Your degree will prepare you for an academic career in research, but it can also lead to roles in the private sector, small business, government or not-for-profit organisations.

Explore research areas

Discover your graduate research options at the University of Melbourne.

International PhD opportunities

Discover the fully funded Joint PhD opportunities that are currently available with universities and research institutions around the world.

Get in touch to learn more about collaborating with the University of Melbourne.

University of Melbourne English Language Bridging Programs

Key information, course duration.

Each course is 10 weeks

Hours per week

Each course provides 20 hours of face-to-face classroom teaching per week, plus 5 hours per week of self-study, workshops and independent research time throughout the program.

Monday to Friday 8.20am to 12.40pm or 12.45pm to 5.05pm

Timetables are subject to change. an evening timetable may run in peak periods. 

Entry Requirements

IELTS, TOEFL iBT R  or PTE-Academic result is required for entry.

Check the entry requirements for your faculty here.

• Course dates
• How to apply for UMELBP

University of Melbourne English Language Bridging Program (UMELBP): 063648E University of Melbourne English Language Bridging Program Preparation (UMELBP Prep): 0101910

Your English language pathway to the University of Melbourne

Do you need to develop your English language and study skills before beginning a course at the University of Melbourne?

The University of Melbourne English Language Bridging Program (UMELBP) is a 10-week course that provides a direct entry English language pathway from Hawthorn-Melbourne to undergraduate and specific graduate courses at the University of Melbourne.

If your English level is slightly lower, you will start your pathway in the University of Melbourne English Language Bridging Program Preparation (UMELBP Prep) before moving into the UMELBP.

Check the entry requirements for which option is applicable for you.

During your studies you will participate in group work to develop skills needed for exams, research assignments and presentations. Through participation in workshops, use of online and mobile technology and other resources, you are trained to become an effective and independent learner.

In addition to the four key skills (listening, reading, writing and speaking), you will also be taught academic skills relevant to the contemporary university student.

Over the duration of the program, you will learn to:

• identify key concepts in texts
• take effective notes
• develop skills in writing process: planning, drafting, editing and finalising
• write for research and essays
• use references, citations and reference lists.
• present & participate in seminars and discussions

The University of Melbourne has endorsed Hawthorn-Melbourne as the sole external provider of the UMELBP.

Key benefits

Enhanced understanding of the expectations of higher education students in Australia, with specific focus on the University of Melbourne

Development of the academic skills and critical thinking techniques you need to succeed at University

Improved proficiency across the four key language skill areas, speaking, listening, reading and writing to become an active and confident participant in all areas of your University degree

Visa packaging: apply for a one visa covering English and University courses

Course Details

Umelbp prep, your learning outcomes.

• Identify and describe information in listening and note-taking exercises
• Plan, research and explain content for use in seminars and interactive discussions to develop speaking skills
• Learn to annotate, paraphrase, summarise, organise and reference information from a range of sources
• Read and analyse a range of academic reading materials
• Develop writing skills and use appropriate academic conventions in two essay genres
• Learn to navigate a Learning Management System for the purposes of course work, class work and assessment

Assessments in UMELBP Prep are shorter and more numerous than those undertaken in UMELBP. This reduces the weight of each assessment and allows students to demonstrate their grasp of the fundamentals of academic study.

• mid-course exam
• research assignment
• two genre-based essays
• collaborative speaking task
• end of course exam
• presentation seminar

Successful completion of UMELBP Prep, will allow you to progress to the UMELBP. 

Successful completion requires:

• an aggregate score of at least 60%
• an overall pass of 55% for each combined assessment component (written interaction, spoken interaction, receptive skills, learning skills)
• to maintain an attendance rate of no less than 80%
• Identify and analyse information through listening and note taking exercises
• Plan, research, and develop material to improve your seminar presentation skills
• Learn to summarise, paraphrase, organise, self-edit, and correctly reference information from a range of sources
• Read and analyse a range of authentic reading materials

Assessments in UMELBP are longer and more demanding than those in UMELBP Prep. They are designed to more closely mirror assessment tasks at university level.

Successful completion of UMELBP , will allow you to progress to your University of Melbourne course. 

How do I apply for UMELBP Prep or UMELBP?

Download a step-by-step guide for the application process here: How to apply (pdf)

If you need help with your application, you can also contact an Education Agent for advice and assistance. To find an authorised agent near you, visit:  https://study.unimelb.edu.au/how-to-apply/find-an-overseas-representative

When do the UMELBP courses start?

UMELBP-Prep is offered twice a year, starting in February and August, UMELBP is offered 4 times a year, with courses starting in February, May, July and November.

For full course dates see:  hawthornenglish.edu.au/course-calendar

What is the application deadline?

You need to allow enough time to complete the application process and apply for your student visa in time to travel for the start of the program. You may not be able to enter the UMELBP-Prep or UMELBP course if you arrive late.

We recommend that you use the services of an approved, University of Melbourne Overseas Representative to assist with the processing of your packaged offer. These education agents can assist you when applying for your Visa and this may result in a faster processing time.  Please see the following link for approved representatives:   https://study.unimelb.edu.au/how-to-apply/find-an-overseas-representative

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• PhD Research

Eligibility and requirements

Phd research (crea80001) // eligibility and requirements.

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Contact information

Prerequisites, corequisites, non-allowed subjects, inherent requirements (core participation requirements).

All candidates are required to complete the equivalent of at least one‐third advanced study and research at the University (unless studying at an approved outside institution). The RHDC will not approve entirely distance supervision or entirely on‐line supervision for graduate research students.

Throughout their candidature candidates are expected to attend the University in order to benefit from planning, conducting and writing up their research within a University community and environment. The residency requirement is deemed especially important during the period of probationary candidature.

During probationary candidature the student is expected to interact on a regular basis with the supervisor, the department (including staff and other research students) and the University, so as:

• to build the skills and knowledge necessary to carry out the proposed research program
• to acquire an understanding of the standards and requirements for a PhD awarded by the University
• to make use of support programs and facilities provided by the University of Melbourne throughout candidature.

For the purposes of considering requests for Reasonable Adjustments under the Disability Standards for Education (Cwth 2005), and Students Experiencing Academic Disadvantage Policy, academic requirements for this course are articulated in the Course Overview, Objectives and Generic Skills sections of this entry. It is University policy to take all reasonable steps to minimise the impact of disability upon academic study, and reasonable adjustments will be made to enhance a student's participation in the University's programs. Students who feel their disability may impact on meeting the requirements of this course are encouraged to discuss this matter with a Faculty Student Adviser and the Disability Liaison Unit: http://www.services.unimelb.edu.au/disability/

Last updated: 30 January 2024

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You're an international student if you are:

• intending to study on a student visa,
• not a citizen of Australia or New Zealand,
• not an Australian permanent resident, or
• a temporary resident (visa status) of Australia.

English language requirements

All students need appropriate English language skills for admission to UQ. The level of English required depends on the program you're applying for.

To be eligible for entry to most UQ programs, you need to meet our minimum English language requirements (overall IELTS of 6.5 and 6.0 in all sub-bands or equivalent). 

For some programs, you must meet higher than usual English requirements.

To identify which requirements you need to meet, check the program page. All English language requirements are governed by our:

• English Language Proficiency Admission Policy
• English Language Proficiency Admission Procedure .

Meeting the minimum requirements

You can demonstrate you meet English requirements by providing evidence of test results, study or work experience.

English language tests

You can demonstrate your English language skills by achieving at least:

• a 6.5 overall and a minimum of 6.0 in each sub-band of the IELTS test, or
• acceptable scores in equivalent tests (PDF) .

English language study or work experience

You can also meet our English language proficiency requirements if you can demonstrate one of the following:

• Completed senior secondary schooling from a designated country (PDF) where the medium of instruction is English
• Obtained a recognised qualification, score or test (and satisfied relevant conditions) listed in either equivalent tests and qualifications (PDF) or interstate subject equivalents
• Successfully completed a bachelor's or master’s degree from an accredited university or institution recognised by UQ for this purpose
• Successfully undertaken at least 1 year of full-time (or part-time equivalent) post-secondary study in a designated country (PDF) from an accredited university or institution recognised by UQ for this purpose
• Successfully undertaken at least 2 years of full-time (or part-time equivalent) post-secondary study from an accredited university or institution recognised by UQ for this purpose (you need to have undertaken your final year of studies during the 5 years immediately before your commencement at UQ), or
• Acceptable evidence of sufficient English language skills developed through paid or voluntary work experience in a primarily English-speaking professional environment for at least 3 years immediately before the start of your UQ studies.

UQ only recognises accredited universities or institutions for English language proficiency purposes where English is the medium of instruction and assessment.

Meeting the higher requirements

To understand the requirements and acceptable evidence for programs with higher-level English requirements, check the program page or program-specific requirements (PDF) .

You can use IELTS test results to demonstrate your English proficiency for all programs. Depending on the program you may also be able to demonstrate your English language skills by:

• achieving acceptable scores in equivalent tests (PDF) , or
• completing a recognised qualification, score or test (and satisfying relevant conditions) for your specific program.

Need help meeting the English language requirements?

UQ College offers English language courses that can help you meet UQ's English language requirements.

English language courses at UQ College

Package offers

If you meet all the academic entry requirements for your preferred UQ program, but need help to meet the English language requirements, you may be eligible for a package offer.

A package offer includes:

• an English language course at UQ College, and
• a conditional offer of admission to a UQ program.

When you apply for your UQ program, indicate that you want to apply for a package offer. Don't apply directly to UQ College.

You still need to provide evidence of your current English language ability (e.g. IELTS or another recognised test). We will assess your skills and place you in the best English course for your level.

Depending on your current English level you will be offered a place in one of the following English language pathways:

• Bridging English (BE) – study for between 10 and 30 weeks. You can use the final assessment to satisfy the English language entry requirements for your UQ program.
• Integrated English (PE) – study for between 5 and 45 weeks. Take an approved English language test at the end of the course to show you meet UQ's English language entry requirements.

Documentation

When you apply to UQ, include certified copies of academic transcripts and award certificates to help to demonstrate your English language proficiency.

To be valid, English language tests must have been taken within 2 years of commencing study at UQ. We verify all test results with the relevant test authority.

Attach a copy of the IELTS test result to your application.

TOEFL iBT (including Paper Edition)

You must arrange for UQ to receive an original copy of your official Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) score report. Ask the Educational Testing Service to send the Official Score Report directly to The University of Queensland (Institutional code: 0987).

UQ does not accept institutional TOEFL test results.

As of 15 September 2023, TOEFL iBT Home Edition is no longer recognised by UQ.

Pearson Test of English (PTE) Academic

Send a copy of your results through your online PTE Academic account. To send your results to UQ:

• Log in to your PTE Academic account .
• Click 'Send Scores' and enter 'UQ'.
• Click 'Send'.

As of 15 September 2023, PTE Academic Online is no longer recognised by UQ.

Visa requirements

UQ's English language requirements are separate to any English language requirements for an Australia visa.

You may be required to meet different standards or submit different evidence of English proficiency for a visa application. Make sure you follow all instructions carefully when you apply for a visa.

Learn more about student visas

Florida State University

FSU | The Graduate School

Main navigation Pulldown

The graduate school.

• Prospective Students
• Graduate Admissions

International Admissions

We are now accepting Graduate applications for Fall 2024, and Spring 2025.* *Please contact your department for application open terms and deadlines.

Our community welcomes you

Each year, the university enrolls approximately 1,700 international students. We are proud to offer extensive support and services to our international population. International applicants should plan to apply early so they have ample time to obtain their immigration documents and make living arrangements in the U.S. Any F-1/J-1 students planning to obtain their I-20/DS-2019 should contact the Center for Global Engagement at [email protected] . Please check with your department regarding deadlines. 

International Admissions Requirements

In addition to meeting graduate university admissions requirements, international applicants must also meet the following University requirements to be considered for admission. 

English Language Proficiency Requirement

Official English Language Proficiency results are required of all international applicants whose native language is not English. The following are the minimum scores required for admission to the University, although some departments require higher scores at the graduate level: 

Internet based TOEFL ( IBTOEFL ): 80 

Paper based TOEFL ( TOEFL ): 550 

International English Language Testing System ( Academic IELTS ): 6.5 

Pearson Test of English ( PTE ): 55 

Duolingo : 120 (Summer 2022 and Forward)

Cambridge C1 Advanced Level : 180  (Fall 2022 and Forward)

Michigan Language Assessment : 55  (Fall 2022 and Forward)

Although official scores are required, most departments will begin to review your application with self-reported scores, while they are waiting for the official scores to arrive. You can self-report your scores on your Online Status Page, after you submit your application. 

The English Language Proficiency requirement can be waived, at the University-level, for applicants who have earned a minimum of a BA or higher in the US or in an English-Speaking Country. Please note, your department may still require proof of English-Language proficiency. *A variety of countries are exempt from the English language proficiency requirement.

Transcript and Credential Evaluation Requirements

All transcripts/academic records that are not in English must be accompanied by certified English translations. 

To be considered "certified," documents should be true copies that are signed and dated by an educational official familiar with academic records. Any translated record should be literal and not an interpretive translation. Documents signed by a notary or other public official with no educational affiliation will not be accepted. 

If the transcript/academic record does not indicate the degree earned and date the degree was awarded, separate proof of degree is required. 

International applicants or degrees earned from international institutions must submit their official transcripts through the SpanTran pathway portal, or from another NACES approved evaluator. SpanTran has created a custom application for Florida State University that will make sure you select the right kind of evaluation at a discounted rate. Florida State University recommends SpanTran as our preferred credential evaluation because it offers an easy way to streamline the application process.

Please read more about our general transcript requirements on our  Graduate Admissions page. 

International Transfer Credit

International transfer credit is awarded for coursework completed at an accredited (recognized) institution of higher learning. No credit is awarded for technical, vocational, or below-college-level coursework, or courses completed with grades below "D-." An official course-by-course evaluation is required for all academic records from non-U.S. institutions. We recommend the evaluation be done by a member of the  National Association of Credential Evaluation Services . 

SUPPORT TO HELP YOU THROUGHOUT THE PROCESS.

The Center for Global Engagement (CGE) and its staff are here to serve international students and their families. They may advise you about:

• F and J visa requirements
• Cultural adjustment
• Employment matters
• Housing assistance
• Assistance with personal concerns
• Maintaining your visa status

Many academic programs only accept applications for a specific admit term. Contact your academic department to determine which admit term to apply. It is recommended that you submit your application as soon as the admit term opens. CGE also assists students throughout the New International Student Checklist and Process . You may learn more about what CGE has to offer by emailing [email protected] . 

Center for Intensive English Studies

Need to improve your English skills? FSU’s Center for Intensive English Studies can help! At CIES, you will be given personalized instruction by highly qualified teachers in a safe, friendly environment.

Please note that admission to and completion of the CIES program does not necessarily guarantee admission to the University as a degree-seeking student.

CIES also offers:

• TEFL certification  opportunities
• Credit-bearing courses and workshops  to enhance your English speaking ability

Learn more about how the Center for Intensive English Studies can help you.  

Florida State University is required by U.S. federal regulations to verify the financial resources of each applicant prior to issuing the Form I-20. If granted admission to the University, an email with instructions on how to complete the I-20 will be sent from the Center for Global Engagement (CGE). You will provide information verifying your financial support (bank statements, award letters, scholarships, etc.) through the I-20 application. FSU requires proof of financial support for the first year of study and demonstrated availability of funds for the length of your academic program

Estimated International Student Costs:

For more information on estimated costs of living and the I-20 process, please visit  CGE’s website .  

I-20 Application

Shortly after admission, students will receive an email with instructions for completing the online I-20 application to demonstrate proof of adequate funding. Florida State University is required by U.S. federal regulations to verify the financial resources of each applicant prior to issuing the Form I-20. Applicants must show proof of financial support for the first year of study and confirm availability of funds for the length of the academic program.

For more information, contact the Center for Global Engagement at [email protected] .

US Federal Grants and Loans are not Awarded to International Students

Graduate students may apply to their respective departments for assistantships or fellowships, although funds are very limited. For further information, please contact your academic department directly. 

SPEAK (Speaking Proficiency English Assessment Kit) is a test for evaluating the English speaking ability of non-native speakers of English. At FSU, the SPEAK test is administered by the Center for Intensive English Studies to international students who have been appointed or will be appointed as teaching assistants in an academic department at Florida State University.

For more information, click here .

  Explore Funding Opportunities 

May the TOEFL be waived?

The TOEFL may only be waived as a test requirement if the student has received a bachelor's or master's degree from a U.S. institution.

Can you review my documents prior to applying?

Students must submit the application, application fee, and any required departmental materials for application materials to be reviewed.

Can the application fee be waived?

Unfortunately, the Office of Admissions is unable to waive the application fee payment for graduate applicants.  In order to complete your application for review, you must submit the application fee payment by logging in to your Application Status Check ,  along with any other documents required by the department. 

When will I receive a decision?

Applications are reviewed holistically by each graduate department. Please contact your department for information about decision timelines. Please note that the application must first be completed before it can be reviewed. Contact your department for more information.

Can the GRE be waived?

FSU is currently waiving the GRE requirement for most master’s and specialist programs through Fall 2026*. For more information on whether the requirement can be waived, please contact your graduate department. 

* Excludes the College of Business

What if I don’t meet the English Language Proficiency score requirements?

​​​​​​ The FSU Center of Intensive English Studies (CIES) offers comprehensive courses to help students improve their English skills. Students who complete the top-level of the CIES program will not have to take an English Language Proficiency test.

What is the F-1 visa/I-20 process?

• Students can learn more about the I-20 process here .
• Students can learn about the visa here .

Do you have funding available for International students?

• The Graduate School offers fellowship and grant opportunities for graduate students. For current FSU students, the  Office of Graduate Fellowships and Awards  assists in identifying and applying for external funding opportunities. In addition,  here is some more information  about additional funding opportunities for international students. 
• There may also be additional funding opportunities through your department. Please contact your graduate representative for assistance. If you do not know who to contact, please email us at [email protected] for assistance.

Are there on-campus housing opportunities?

University housing costs are not included in the tuition and fees at Florida State University. If you want the option of living on campus, you can apply for housing online as soon as you are officially admitted to FSU. Housing at university-owned residence halls and apartments fill quickly. You can also find off-campus housing options by clicking here .

Personalise your experience

Graduate Research

Doctor of Philosophy - Engineering and IT

• Arrow-right #2 in Australia for Engineering and Technology
• Arrow-right #50 in the world
• Course code:   DR-PHILEIT

Entry requirements

Entry requirements for the doctor of philosophy - engineering and it, english language criteria.

All domestic and international students studying at the University of Melbourne must satisfy the University of Melbourne English Language Entry Requirements .

Information for students from non-English speaking backgrounds

You must satisfy the requirements below in one sitting and the test must be have been taken within the last 24 months (2 years) preceding application.

The University of Melbourne TOEFL Institution Code is 0974. Please use this code so that your results can be reported to us. The University of Melbourne does not accept the revised TOEFL Paper delivered Test.

If an English language test is required, you must achieve a minimum of:

• IELTS (academic English only): Overall 6.5 with no band less than 6.0
• TOEFL (internet-based): 79, with writing 21, speaking 18, reading 13, listening 13
• Pearson Test of English (Academic): 64+ with no communicative skill below 60
• Cambridge English: Advanced/Certificate of Advanced English (CAE): 176+ with no skill below 169

Statistics and Actuarial Science

Information for new graduate students in actuarial science, data science and statistics at the university of iowa..

Welcome New Graduate Students!

Information for NEW graduate students in Actuarial Science, Data Science and Statistics at the University of Iowa. 

Last Updated, May 31, 2024.                                   Additional  updates will be sent this summer!

Important Information for International Students

The Office of International Students and Scholars does an incredible job helping you settle into Iowa City and the University of Iowa.  They have webinars to help with:  

1. Getting Started and Making Travel Arrangements

2. Achieving Success: On-campus Involvement and Cultural Adjustment (undergraduate students)

3. Graduate Student Professionalization and Support

4. Understanding Orientation Expectations, Responsibilities, and Placement Tests (graduate students)

5. On-campus Housing Assignments and Move-in Tips (undergraduate students)

6. Student Employment

7. Money Matters - University Billing

Do you need to take the SPEC (Spoken Proficiency of English for the Classroom)?

All students for whom English is not a first language (as self-reported on their admissions application) and who have first-time appointments as graduate teaching assistants (TAs) are required to go through a testing process to assess their effectiveness in speaking English before they are assigned assistantship responsibilities. Beginning in Fall 2024, there will be a new test to assess communication in English in a classroom context called SPEC (Spoken Proficiency of English in the Classroom).  This is replacing ESPA and ELPT.  Details will be coming soon.

Any graduate student who is included in the following categories needs to have their oral English proficiency tested by the TAPE Program:

• Students whose first language is not English (i.e., learned another language first) as self-reported on their admissions application, and
• Have been appointed as a Teaching Assistant

Exemptions (may change):

• Students with an official valid (within the last two years) iBT Listening score of 25 and an iBT Speaking score of 26.
• Undergraduate degrees and/or     
• Continuous attendance of English-language schools since the age of 12 (or younger)
• Students who served as teaching assistants at other institutions of higher learning in which the language of instruction is English, if they were listed as the instructor of record for a course or led a discussion section in English for at least one year, with a year defined as either two academic semesters or three academic quarters.
• Requests for exceptions regarding the SPEC  can be submitted for evaluation to a committee consisting of the Director of ESL Programs, the Associate Dean for Administrative Affairs in the Graduate College, and a representative from University Human Resources.

Requests for exemption and exceptions must come from the department by the deadline, not the student.   Deadlines to register students for the SPEC are:

• March 1  

NOT Exemptions:

• Students who come from a country where English is one of the official languages.
• Students who are U.S. permanent residents or U.S. citizens whose first language is not English.

Testing Procedures & Results

 To be announced soon!

Graduate/Professional International Students Important Dates

July 12, 2024:  Earliest date you may enter the U.S. in F-1 or J-1 status. August 11, 2024:  Latest date by which you should arrive in Iowa City August 12 - 16, 2024: International Student Orientation August 26, 2024:  Classes begin.

Housing Information for All Students

The department has a housing webpage, please let us know if you have any questions or concerns. If you are looking for a roommate, please let us know and we can update this web page!

Looking for housing options ?

All US citizens that are financially supported (TA, RA) need to be here on August 21.

All students will register for classes the week before classes start.  International students must complete the required Orientation Program before  they can register for classes.    

____________________

Fall Classes Advising will be August 19-23

All NEW UI students must meet with their advisor prior to registration.  There is no worry about getting into any of the classes we teach.  

• IF you are an Actuarial Science MS or PhD student you will need to meet with Professor Shyamalkumar.  Email him after August 12 at [email protected] to set a time to meet to discuss what classes to take, it may be on Zoom or in his office (233 Schaeffer Hall).
• IF you are a Data Science MS, Statistics MS, or PhD student you will need to meet with Professor Boxiang Wang.  Email him after August 12 at [email protected]  to set a time to meet to discuss what classes to take, it may be on Zoom or in his office (261 Schaeffer Hall).

New Graduate College Welcome and Orientation, August 21

The Graduate College Fall 2024 Graduate Student Orientation event will take place on Wednesday, August 21, 2024.  A registration form will be sent to your UI email sometime this early summer from the Graduate College. All new doctoral and master’s students are invited to attend.  

New Teaching Assistant Orientation, August 22- required for all new supported students

Sponsored by the Center for Teaching

This event will introduce participants to the role of teaching assistant at the University of Iowa and prepare them for the first week of classes and beyond. 

Participants will discuss evidence-based teaching strategies for lesson planning, inclusive teaching, and more with Center for Teaching staff. Participants will also choose two workshops of interest to them out of several options; these will be facilitated synchronously by experienced TAs.  This is a virtual event for 9-noon.

• Sign up before August 21!

New Student Department Orientation, August 23 at 9 a.m., Room to be determined.

• All New Student Orientation —Group Introductions and General Policy Procedures.

New Supported Graduate Assistants Orientation, August 23 at 1 p.m., Room to be determined.

• Our Director of Graduate Studies will have a department review of expectations and your specific roles in our department. Teaching and grading assignments will be explained, as well as preparation, teaching tips, problems and questions, quizzes and exams, weekly meetings, grading, appropriate office use and the Sexual Harassment Prevention Education

Mailbox in 241 Schaeffer Hall 

All graduate students will have a mailbox in our main office.  The faculty do as well.  Please check your mailbox at least once a week!

Office Desk Assignment

Nearly all supported students will have a desk in one of our offices.  The assignment priority (in this order) includes Ph.D. and Fellowship candidates, research assistants, half-time teaching assistants, quarter-time teaching assistants and lastly graders.  Having a desk is a privilege and should be used only for university business.  Office assignments will be given to students on, August 23.  Keys are checked out ONLY after that time.  Please remember to keep the rooms clean and take out all trash to the large bins in the main hallways.

Set-up your University of Iowa Email

All University of Iowa students are required to activate their assigned uiowa.edu email address, as all official communication from university offices are now sent via email, rather than hard copy. This address usually follows the pattern [email protected]   (However, often a number is also attached.) 

To activate the account:

• Log on to  MyUI
• Click on My UIowa / My Email / Request Email Account
• Complete the specified steps.

Students who prefer to maintain only their work or home email addresses can do so by routing the uiowa.edu email to a work or home account. To do so, follow these steps:

• Click on My UIowa / My Email / Update Email Routing Address

Important Notes:

• If your uiowa.edu email address is routed to a different account, you will  not  need to change your address in ICON, as your messages will already forward to your routed address.
• Log on to MYUI.
• Click on My UIowa / My Email / Email Account Filter bulk mail.
• Make sure that none of the categories are checked.

Required Graduate Assistants Teaching Courses:

• ONLINE CLASS Requirement: Sexual Harassment Prevention Edu.  Use your HawkID and password to log into Employee Self Service. Click the Personal tab, next (under Learning and Development) click on Sexual Harassment Prevention Edu., follow instructions.
• ONLINE CLASS Requirement:  Federal Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA), Use your HawkID and password to log into Employee Self Service. Click the Personal tab, next (under Learning and Development) next click on Available Online Icon Courses, next FERPA Training, then click on View Details twice and the last click will be to Enroll in this ICON Course Session.
• A six-hour orientation program will be required of all students who are certified at level A or B and are teaching for the first time.  This orientation helps new teaching assistants understand the culture of the U.S. classroom and treats topics such as student expectations, teacher-student relationships, and understanding and answering student questions. Discussion focuses on suggestions for maximizing comprehensibility in spoken English. This course meets twice for 3 hours early in the semester. Both meetings are held in the evening.

Administrative Department Staff:

Professor aixin tan (until july 1, 2024).

Director of Graduate Studies, Statistics and Data Science Graduate Advisor: [email protected]   (319) 335-0821.

Professor Boxiang Wang (beginning July 1, 2024)

Director of Graduate Studies, Statistics and Data Science Graduate Advisor: [email protected] (319) 335-2294.

Professor N.D. Shyamalkumar

Actuarial Science Graduate Advisor:  [email protected]    (319) 335-1980

Margie Ebert

Academic Services Coordinator ,  [email protected]  (319) 335-2082

Heather Roth

Administrative Services Coordinator  [email protected]   (319) 335-0712

Tammy Siegel

Department Administrator ,  [email protected] , (319) 335-0706