Frequently Asked Questions
If you can't find the answer to your questions here, please contact graduate.admissions@stats.ox.ac.uk.
I am a current masters student at Oxford – can I re-use material from my masters application?
No. You will need to submit a completely new application but do not have to pay the application fee.
Can I study for the DPhil in Statistics part-time?
No, the DPhil in Statistics is not currently offered as a part-time course.
Do I have to start doctoral studies in October or can the start be delayed?
In exceptional circumstances the start can be delayed. It is discouraged though as you would miss the induction events which happen in October and help students settle into Oxford.
How detailed should the project proposal on the application form be?
The proposal should make it clear which area of probability and statistics you would like to work in. If you have a clear idea about what you would like to research, then you should detail that in the project proposal. It is very common not to have a firm project in mind when applying. In that case a paragraph or two about what you find exciting is completely sufficient.
How many fully funded places are there available?
The number changes from year to year and indeed during the year. You can find funding opportunities at http://www.ox.ac.uk/admissions/graduate/fees-and-funding/graduate-scholarships.
When should I apply?
If you are looking into other funding opportunities then you should make sure that you make their deadlines. In that case you should apply for the midday UK time January deadline. Oxford funding is mostly assigned in January to March, and in that process applications received for the DPhil in Statistics by the January deadline will also be considered for funding if the applicant fulfils the eligibility criteria.
If I am selected for an interview for graduate research studies, can I be interviewed online?
You will be given the option of how to attend the interview when being invited but it is expected that most interviews will be online.
When would the interviews take place?
Interviews take place in late January/early February and late March.
I have submitted my application. When should I expect to hear from you?
The processing of applications takes about two weeks from the application deadlines, so you are unlikely to hear from us until two to three weeks after the application deadline. Depending on availability you may only hear from us a few days before the interview days. For interviews we would contact you so that we can arrange a time which works for you.
What is the departmental policy for maternity leave for doctoral students?
Doctoral students who suspend for maternity leave are entitled to 26 weeks paid leave regardless of their current funding situation at the research council stipend level. In those cases where both the mother and father are students, this financial support can be shared if it enables the female student to return to study in the department. Funding is available for students in years 1-4 of their programme. More information can be found on the MPLS division's site for graduate students.