Hi! I'm interested in doing a PhD (in humanities) in the UK and have seen that there are requirements for high BA and MA grades, at most universities. I was a pretty lazy student the first two years at uni and thus do not reach those requirements. However, more determined than ever, I have written a MA thesis which has been "praised", received scholarships and so forth. So, what I'm wondering is, how important is it that my BA-grades are good enough? Is there any possibility that I would be able to do a PhD now that my lately academic work has been of good value and that I can prove it?

Hi Bettyboo91

It'll ultimately be down to the university you apply to. Low grades won't necessarily prevent you continuing to a PhD, provided you have relevant qualifications at BA and MA level. Obviously, the core focus of a PhD is research so if your MA thesis was particularly strong that will be in your favour - particularly if you put in a strong proposal for your PhD project.

You may be in a weaker position when it comes to competing for funding, however.

I'd begin a discussion with admissions tutors / prospective supervisors and see what they say.

Hope that helps a bit!

Mark