Question 1

Why is it a University of Sheffield application form when I am applying for DiMeN projects elsewhere?

Accepted Answer

DiMeN operates a centralised recruitment process.  All applications are received via Sheffield, even if the project is based at at Newcastle, Leeds, Liverpool or York. Academic staff from across the network are involved in the shortlisting process.

Question 2

Do I need to apply for two projects?

Accepted Answer

Yes you must apply to two projects. We recommend you contact the supervisors before submitting your application to discuss their research in more detail and inform your decision.  If you are shortlisted to the interview stage, you will be asked to rank projects in order of preference. Not all candidates are offered their first choice of project and you may be offered your second so you need to be happy to undertake both projects.
We cannot consider applicants who have only selected one project.

Question 3

Do both projects have to be based at the same institution?

Accepted Answer

No, you can apply for any combination of projects and institutions.

Question 4

Do both projects use the same application form?

Accepted Answer

Yes.  You should apply to DiMeN with only one application form - select two projects from the dropdown tool under section D.

Question 5

What is the deadline for applications?

Accepted Answer

The application portal will close at 1pm (UK time) on Thursday 4th December 2025.  We will not accept any late entries including those caused  by technical difficulties so please avoid  last minute applications.

Question 6

What is the deadline for uploading references?

Accepted Answer

References are not needed for the initial application so please do not complete the references section at this stage.  
If you are selected for interview we will contact you to request two academic or other appropriate references which will be needed by late February.

Question 7

What is the deadline for meeting academic entry requirements?

Accepted Answer

Many of our applicants are studying for an Undergraduate or Masters qualification which is still in progress.

Applicants to Sheffield, Liverpool, Leeds or Newcastle projects who need to apply for CAS should meet their academic conditions of offer by the 7th September 2026. Those who do not should meet the deadline by 21st September 2026.

York semester starts a little earlier therefore applicants to York projects who need to apply for CAS should meet their conditions of offer by the 23rd August 2026. Those who do not should meet the deadline by 7th September 2026.

Question 8

When can I expect to hear if I have been shortlisted for interview?

Accepted Answer

We will be holding interviews online in early March 2026 and aim to contact shortlisted candidates by mid February.

We typically receive over 700 applications to DiMeN and therefore it can take some time for non-shortlisted candidates to receive an individual formal rejection. However, we will post more general updates on the DiMeN website during the selection process so please check for new information.

Question 9

I am having problems with the application portal - what do I do?

Accepted Answer

If you are having issues try refreshing, switching to a different browser such as Chrome, or trying again after a break.

The application portal  not managed by the DiMeN team.  If you continue to experience problems please contact the University of Sheffield admissions team using the chat function on the prospective students page (https://www.sheffield.ac.uk/contact/prospective-students).

Question 10

Can I study for a DiMeN PhD part time?

Accepted Answer

Some projects are feasible part-time, however not all of them due to the specific experimental work commitments and you would need to discuss this as an option with the supervisory team before applying.  International students must also consider UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) restrictions and contact the host University's international office for advice. Please be aware also that part time students are not exempt from Council Tax.  
It is possible to switch to part-time during your PhD according to personal circumstances and this is reviewed locally, on a case-by-case basis.

Question 11

Can I apply as an international student?

Accepted Answer

Yes, we welcome applications from well qualified international candidates, but the number of these places for these students is extremely limited. 
Fees are covered for successful international fee status students but candidates are required to meet all visa charges, healthcare surcharges, and relocation costs.

Question 12

I am unsure of my fee status

Accepted Answer

We follow the UK Council for International Student Affairs guidance on fee status.   If you are unsure of your own fee status then please see the advice here: 
www.sheffield.ac.uk/new-students/tuition-fees/fee-status (www.sheffield.ac.uk/new-students/tuition-fees/fee-status)

The DiMeN team cannot verify fee status on your behalf.

Question 13

What is the deadline for meeting English Language requirements?

Accepted Answer

For applicants to Sheffield, Leeds, Liverpool and Newcastle projects:  
Applicants need to meet the English language condition of their offer by the deadline for meeting all offer conditions, which is the 7th September 2026 for applicants that will need to apply for CAS:   
https://www.sheffield.ac.uk/postgraduate/deadlines

York studentships start a few weeks earlier therefore applicants to York projects need to meet the English language conditions of their offer by the 23rd August 2026 for applicants that will need to apply for CAS.

Question 14

Can you update me on the status of my application or provide feedback?

Accepted Answer

Due to the exceptional volume of applications we receive,  we are unable to respond to individual queries about application status or provide feedback to those who were not selected for interview.  
If you are interviewed but not allocated a place then you will receive feedback.  
Updates about the recruitment process, including when interview candidates have been contacted, will be posted on the 'Application Information' page of the DiMeN website. However it may take some time for other applicants to receive a formal rejection through the application system.