I'd keep trying. I got a low 2:1 at undergrad although it was a four year integrated masters degree (MChem). I only had a mid 2:2 in year 2 and had to pull it up in years 3 + 4, and I got offered a fully funded PhD and an MSc by Research. I took the MSc and I have since been offered 3 more (and turned down lots of interviews where I had a good shot at getting them).

Thank you Nautilus. In total, I really wouldn't like hazard a guess. On an average week I spend between 40-50 hours. Some weeks less due to family things (illness, days out etc), interviews etc but some weeks when I have a lot to do and (especially now it's near the end) it can be between 50-60 hours. And delays are a pain, but so long as you get your organisional skills good then it can be worked around. Hopefully it all work out well for you in the end. My writing isn't the best either (english is my first language), so the scientific writing this year has been a steep learning curve ( I find it easier to write up as I produce the results rather than waiting until everything is done).

I'm sorry but I'm going to have to call bull on being too hectic. I'm currently on sn MSc by research and I finish at the end of August. I have over 15k words written up (and I have a 2 year old who takes up all my time of the evening). I plan on finishing on time and that's after my equipment went missing 3 times and knocked me back 6 weeks. Add to that I need to pack up the whole house (and it's alot-took 3 vans to get it here) as we move mid-august. You just need to make time amd not excuses. I'm up at half 5 mon-fri to be in for half 6 so i know i can get enough done. Just about putting the effort in, so i don't biy into the whole 'not enough time'. Sorry if theres any typos, done this on my phone.

Hi guys, I'm new here too, followed the forum for a while but only just got round to joining :)

Be wary regarding Netherlands. I looked into it and thought ooh that looks like a lot of money, and then you realise that on that salary you will be taxed roughly 52% (so basically cut the stipend in half). The Nordic countries consider it a job as well, but again you appear to get a large stipend but Sweden's tax rate is about 60% (I think) and the others are high as well. When they are considered a job, look at the tax rates as you may end up getting a lot less than you think you will. I believe it is treated like a job in Switzerland as well.