All prospective research students must apply using the graduate online portal. Please read the information below before you begin the online application so that you have all the necessary documents ready for consideration.
Completing your application
Your application must include:
- a CV
- a personal statement
- details of academic achievement (including existing and pending qualifications with transcripts)
- 2 academic references
- sample of written work
- a research proposal of up to 4000 words with a title and abstract (300 words max) included at the beginning.
Your research proposal should give details of the particular issue/problem to be addressed; relevant literature and previous research in the field; the theoretical/conceptual framework to be adopted; the proposed research question(s); and the planned research methods to answer the research question(s). This will enable the Department to make an informed decision about the proposal and, equally important, to establish if there are appropriate supervisors available to supervise the planned research. Two supervisors are normally identified at this stage. Please include an abstract (300 words max) at the beginning of your proposal which clearly covers what you intend to research, including your methodological approach.
See further information on supporting documents
Application checklist
- Use the correct application code
L4ZA MPhil/PhD in Social Policy
L4EA Visiting Research Student Social Policy
- Do you meet the minimum requirements?
The minimum entry requirements for this programme are a 2:1 bachelor’s degree, plus Master’s degree marks equivalent to an LSE high merit grade (+ 65%), preferably in Social Policy or Public Policy, with an overall average of 65% (or equivalent) and 65 % in the dissertation (or equivalent).
- Do you meet the English language requirements?
Applicants whose first language is not English, or who have not been taught entirely in English at degree level, are required to provide evidence of their English language ability. The most common qualifications are the IELTS or TOEFL tests.
Applicants do not need to have the required marks when they apply, but successful award of the qualification would form a condition of any offer issued, and would have to be achieved before registration. For research level, candidates are expected to meet the research programmes requirement. See our English language requirements
- Identifying supervisors
The Social Policy department welcomes applications for research programmes that complement the academic interests of members of staff at the School, we recommend that you investigate staff research interests before applying.
Please note: Prospective candidates for the MPhil/PhD in Social Policy are not expected to contact potential supervisors in advance of their application. Due to the high volume of enquiries, potential supervisors are unlikely to be able to provide feedback on enquiries and outline proposals.
- Part-time study
The Department allows part-time registration for those for whom full-time study is difficult because of other commitments. Students wishing to study part-time are encouraged to discuss their circumstances with the Department. As part of the application process they will be asked for documentary evidence in support of their request for part-time study; See Regulations for Research Students, paragraph 5.
- Application and funding deadlines
The funding deadline for LSE PhD Studentships and ESRC funding is 15 January 2025. Selection for funding is based on receipt of a complete application (i.e including all supporting documents) by the deadline.
- Apply early if you require funding
Early application to this programme is recommended particularly if you want to be considered for funding. If funding is not required applications should be received before 15 January 2025 to allow for consultations to take place within the Department. If places are still available, the Department may consider applications submitted after this date. Please note, the Department does not normally allow self-funded students.
- When will I hear the outcome of the application?
We aim to process all complete applications in a timely manner, however the application process for research programmes can take up to three months. This is to enable the Department to make an informed decision about your proposal and, equally important, to establish if there are appropriate supervisors available for your research.
- Interviews
The Department normally interviews shortlisted applicants before any offer of a place is made.
- Programme start
Please note that the Department accepts application for starters at the beginning of the Autumn Term only.