Hi all,

I just want to ask for opinion. I would like to start applying for PhD but I'm absolutely frightened of doing so because of my grades particularly during my masters. I studied a completely different subject which made things a little bit harder and also had health problems and bereavement during the year. I've got a pass overall with my dissertation scraping a Merit. What are my chances in getting a place? I would be self funding if it helps.

A lot of places would accept a 2:1 plus a pass for self-funded PhD places. Go for it, and good luck!

Yes, go for it. I think you'll have no problems at all. If you were applying for a studentship it would be a bit more difficult (but I'd still say try that too).

Best of luck!

I got a mid-low 2:1 (including on dissertation) but got a fully funded PhD. From all accounts, they were impressed with my written application and I nailed the interview. So you can definitely do it with a 2:1.

I think they will read applications from anyone with a 2:1 or above but you need to make yourself stand out to compensate for the low grades or have a very good excuse. Grades are good indication of how much you know/ work ethic so you need to be better than the other applicants in other areas. If you think you can do that go for it or even go for a self-funded one.

Though I was that guy that drank 4-5 nights a week and never turned up, so maybe I am just lucky.

Hello I have kinda same situation. I graduated with pass (54%) in creative art . I am an international student and I want to apply for PHD. I have a scholarship that covers my funding. So do you think it is impossible to get an offer from any school?

From what I have heard, having a scholarship that covers your studies places you in a desirable position even if the grades aren't as desired.