PhD Applications for September 2027 Now Open
Applications for the September 2027 PhD intake are now open via our application portal. The deadline for applications is 17:00 GMT on 9 November 2026.
You can find answers to many common questions in our FAQs below.
Application requirements
We welcome candidates with a keen interest in neuroscience combined with an undergraduate degree in a relevant field such as Neuroscience or other life sciences, Physics, Mathematics, or Computer Science. Please note that candidates offered a place on the SWC PhD programme will be required to meet UCL's standard admissions requirements (including the English language requirements for international applicants).
As part of your application, you will be asked to provide details of your academic qualifications, research experience, research interests, and supervisor preferences. You may also upload a CV and indicate whether you wish to be considered for the Joint SWC-GCNU PhD Programme.
Studentships
Full funding is available to all students, regardless of nationality. Our PhD studentships cover UCL tuition fees for both home and international students and include an annual tax-free stipend of £30,839, as well as a travel budget for attending conferences and workshops.
We also welcome applications from students who already have secured outside funding or who are currently applying for other scholarships/studentships.
Frequently Asked Questions
Find answers to some of the most common questions about applying to the SWC PhD Programme here. If your question is not covered, please contact the admissions team: swc-phdprogramme@ucl.ac.uk
Where can I learn about potential supervisors and research areas?
Information about SWC group leaders, affiliate faculty members, and research themes can be found on the SWC website. Sainsbury Wellcome Centre for Neural Circuits and Behaviour
Do I need to contact a supervisor before applying?
No. Contacting supervisors before applying is not required, although applicants are welcome to do so if they wish.
Do I need a Master's degree to apply?
No. Applicants with a Bachelor's degree awarded with at least a UK upper second-class honours degree (2:1) or an international equivalent meet the academic entry requirements. A Master's degree is not required. Entry requirements | Study at UCL
I studied outside the UK. How can I check whether my qualifications meet the requirements?
UCL publishes guidance on international qualification equivalencies. Please refer to the UCL Graduate Admissions website for country-specific information. Region search | Study at UCL
Do I need an English language test when I apply?
No. Evidence of English language proficiency is not required at the application stage. Applicants can apply before obtaining their English language test results and provide evidence later if required.
UCL recommends booking an approved test as early as possible to avoid delays if you receive an offer. Applicants may also wish to check test-centre cancellation policies before booking. English Language requirements | Study at UCL
When is the deadline for referees?
The deadline for referees to submit their references is 10 November, 17:00 GMT.
Are international applicants eligible for funding?
Yes. International applicants are eligible for the programme's fully funded studentships.
Do I need to submit a separate funding application?
No. All students admitted to the programme automatically receive the studentship.
Is there an application fee?
No. There is no fee to apply to the programme.
Are interviews conducted in person or online?
The first stage of interviews is conducted online. Applicants progressing to the second stage are invited to attend in-person interviews.
Will I receive individual feedback if my application is unsuccessful?
Unfortunately, we are unable to provide individual feedback on applications. Due to the high volume of applications we receive each year, we are not able to offer personalised feedback to unsuccessful applicants.
Additional PhD Programmes
The Gatsby Unit and Sainsbury Wellcome Centre are also home to the PhD programmes below. Follow the links below to read more.