PhD in Astronomy
    Duration4 year(s)
    Tuition Fee
    GBP 82,259 / year(s)
    Next IntakeOctober 1, 2026

    PhD in Astronomy

    About

    The Institute of Astronomy offers the opportunity to study for the PhD degree, which is normally completed in three years. The format is almost entirely research-based, and while projects may be exclusively theoretical or observational, many combine aspects of both. Many projects incorporate aspects of Data Science, including machine learning and artificial intelligence.

    It is normal for students to attend several relevant international conferences during their three years of study, often presenting their own research work. Some students working on observational research projects undertake observing trips (s) to major international observatories.


    Open Days

    The University hosts and attends fairs and events throughout the year, in the UK and across the world. We also offer online events to help you explore your options:

    • Discover Cambridge: Master’s and PhD study webinars - these Spring events provide practical information about applying for postgraduate study.

    • Postgraduate Virtual Open Days - taking place in November each year, the Open Days focus on subject and course information.

    For more information about upcoming events visit our events pages.

    Disciplines

    Institute of Astronomy

    Requirements

    Entry Requirements

    Applicants for this course should have achieved a UK Masters (Pass). If your degree is not from the UK, please check International Qualifications to find the equivalent in your country. The Faculty of Physics and Chemistry's minimum academic requirement for admission as a PhD student is the equivalent of a good UK II.i four-year integrated master's degree (five-year from Scottish Universities). Competition for PhD places at the Institute is such that admission offers are almost always made to students who hold or expect to achieve a first-class grade or equivalent (e.g., a distinction in a master's degree) in a relevant subject. If you are studying for a degree overseas and are unsure of its UK equivalent value, please contact [email protected] for advice. Admission offers are usually made to students with academic track records well above the University's minimum requirement. University Minimum Academic Requirements Language Requirement

    IELTS (Academic)

    ElementScore
    Listening7.0
    Writing7.0
    Reading6.5
    Speaking7.0
    Total7.0

    TOEFL Internet Score

    ElementScore
    Listening25
    Writing25
    Reading25
    Speaking25
    Total100

    CAE

    Score: Grade A & B (overall score of 193, with no element lower than 185 plus a Language Centre assessment)

    CPE

    Score: Grade A, B, or C (with at least 200 with no element lower than 185).

    Visa Information If you are made an offer, an ATAS will be required in order to obtain a Visa. Do not apply for an ATAS unless you have been made an offer. A CAH3 code, which will be used to make your ATAS application, will be provided in your offer letter. What Is An ATAS?

    English Requirements

    • IELTSMin 7
    • TOEFLMin 100

    English Program Requirements

    Listening: 7.0, Writing: 7.0, Reading: 6.5, Speaking: 7.0, Total: 7.0, Listening: 25, Writing: 25, Reading: 25, Speaking: 25, Total: 100

    Fee Information

    Tuition Fee
    82,259 / year(s)

    PhD in Astronomy

    University of Cambridge

    University of Cambridge

    United Kingdom

    United Kingdom, Cambridge