I have an upper second class honours bachelor degree and a first class honours master in applied mathematics and I am 28 yrs old. I got my master in May. I have made two applications so far at two centers for doctoral training. The deadling for one of them was on 19th of september. The thing is that they have not answered me yet. On top of that I am suspecting that there are multiple reasons for not answering: 1. the fact that I was late for about 2 years to complete my bachelor 2. I am too old now , 3. My statement of purpose was a disappointment , 4. I haven't taken an ielts test (though I emailed them and they answered me that it can be done without it but I will have to get it if I get accepted). And now I am wondering whether or not I have any chance at all. Thanks for any answer that will ease my mind!

Have you tried contacting them to find out when they will be letting you know?

No, because I think it's too early.

If you don't query the Doctoral Centers you won't know, just ring Administration and politely enquire how long does the process take. They'll be able to give a rough idea, then you know where roughly you stand. As for age, 28 if that is old, them I'm ancient.

It can't be too early to find out when they will be letting you know. You could ask that question on the submission date. I'd try and get hold of them now before they close for Christmas if it was bugging me that much. Good luck!

The deadline was the 19th of September... and you think it's too early to contact them? The decision for interview would have most likely have been made within a few weeks of the closing date, so my guess it you were not successful. You need to contact them and find out, but I would leave it until the 9th of January now, as you won't get much of a response until then.

Enjoy the New Year and call mid or late January if you haven't heard anything.

Soooo, happy new year everyone!!!! They have called me for an interview this week! Now this is something good but I can help that feeling my stomach has due to feeling some anxiety.

Yay! Hope it goes well! :)