Hi,

I quit my PhD research 4years ago because of Visa Issues and family (spent 3.5years in the research with some breaks)

I got a good job offer and the company was happy to sponsor me so I quit my PhD as I would not have been able to combine both.

I initially asked for a break which was never approved and I later got the email that I was no longer a student

Now, I am in a better place and want to get a PhD.

Should I go back to my former school to see if they will accept me and I don't have to start from scratch? or go somewhere else

My research will evolve to include my current role.

Advice? Thoughts?

There's no harm in trying with the old school but be prepared that it might not get you anywhere. I can imagine they might just say you need to re apply like any other potential student and start from scratch if accepted. Did you downgrade your PhD to an MPhil when you left?

How far did you progress with your research? As if you nearly finished it might be easier to approach your old supervisor and discuss part-time study.