Key information
- Duration:
- Up to 4 years full time, 8 years part time
- Start date:
- Choose to start in September 2025, January 2026 or April 2026. To be considered for STFC funding, please apply by the end of January 2025.
- Apply by:
- 1 month before start (UK), 3 months before start (international)
- 7th in the UK for our research environment in Physics in REF 2021 (Times Higher Education)
Explore the extragalactic universe with our world-leading faculty. Our research interests focus on:
- testing cosmological models
- physics of the early universe
- large-scale structure: galaxy surveys and numerical simulations
- very high-redshift galaxies and reionisation
- galaxy formation and evolution.
Supercomputers and overseas telescopes – whether you’re a theoretical astronomer or work on an observational project, you’ll have access to world-leading facilities, international collaborations and a full combination of theoretical, numerical and observational techniques.
I study the largest objects in the cosmos – clusters of galaxies – to measure fundamental properties of the universe. It’s pretty magical!”Sunayana Bargava
Astronomy PhD
We understand that deciding where and what to study is a very important decision. We’ll make all reasonable efforts to provide you with the courses, services and facilities described in this prospectus. However, if we need to make material changes, for example due to government or regulatory requirements, or unanticipated staff changes, we’ll let you know as soon as possible.
PhD open evening on campus
Monday 21 October, 5pm - 8.30pm
Entry requirements
Degree requirements | You’re normally expected to have a Merit (an average of 60% overall) in a Masters degree OR an upper second-class (2.1) undergraduate honours degree. |
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Subject-specific requirements | Your qualification should be in a relevant subject such as physics, astronomy or mathematics. You may also be considered for the degree if you have other professional qualifications or experience of equivalent standing. |
Please select your country from the list.
Argentina
Undergraduate degree requirement | Licenciado/Titulo with a final mark of at least 7.5-8.5 depending on your university. |
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Subject-specific requirements | Your qualification should be in a relevant subject such as physics, astronomy or mathematics. You may also be considered for the degree if you have other professional qualifications or experience of equivalent standing. |
Please note | Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis. |
Australia
Undergraduate degree requirement | Bachelors degree with second-class upper division. |
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Subject-specific requirements | Your qualification should be in a relevant subject such as physics, astronomy or mathematics. You may also be considered for the degree if you have other professional qualifications or experience of equivalent standing. |
Please note | Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis. |
Azerbaijan
Undergraduate degree requirement | Magistr or Specialist Diploma with an average mark of at least 4 or 81% |
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Subject-specific requirements | Your qualification should be in a relevant subject such as physics, astronomy or mathematics. You may also be considered for the degree if you have other professional qualifications or experience of equivalent standing. |
Please note | Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis. |
Bahrain
Undergraduate degree requirement | Bachelors degree with CGPA 3.0/4.0 (Grade B). |
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Subject-specific requirements | Your qualification should be in a relevant subject such as physics, astronomy or mathematics. You may also be considered for the degree if you have other professional qualifications or experience of equivalent standing. |
Please note | Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis. |
Bangladesh
Undergraduate degree requirement | A 4-year Bachelor degree with GPA of at least 3.3/4.0 |
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Subject-specific requirements | Your qualification should be in a relevant subject such as physics, astronomy or mathematics. You may also be considered for the degree if you have other professional qualifications or experience of equivalent standing. |
Please note | Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis. |
Brazil
Undergraduate degree requirement | Bacharel, Licenciado or professional title with a final mark of at least 7.5 or 8 depending on your university. |
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Subject-specific requirements | Your qualification should be in a relevant subject such as physics, astronomy or mathematics. You may also be considered for the degree if you have other professional qualifications or experience of equivalent standing. |
Please note | Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis. |
Brunei
Undergraduate degree requirement | Bachelors (Honours) degree with second class upper division or CGPA 3.1/4.0. |
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Subject-specific requirements | Your qualification should be in a relevant subject such as physics, astronomy or mathematics. You may also be considered for the degree if you have other professional qualifications or experience of equivalent standing. |
Please note | Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis. |
Canada
Undergraduate degree requirement | Bachelors degree with CGPA 3.3/4.0 (grade B+). |
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Subject-specific requirements | Your qualification should be in a relevant subject such as physics, astronomy or mathematics. You may also be considered for the degree if you have other professional qualifications or experience of equivalent standing. |
Please note | Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis. |
Chile
Undergraduate degree requirement | Licenciado with a final mark of at least 5-5.5/7 depending on your university. |
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Subject-specific requirements | Your qualification should be in a relevant subject such as physics, astronomy or mathematics. You may also be considered for the degree if you have other professional qualifications or experience of equivalent standing. |
Please note | Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis. |
China
Undergraduate degree requirement | Bachelors degree with an overall mark of at least 72%-85% depending on your university. Sussex uses the Shanghai Best Chinese Universities Ranking to inform offer levels. As evidence of completing your degree you must provide both a Degree Certificate and Graduation Certificate. |
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Subject-specific requirements | Your qualification should be in a relevant subject such as physics, astronomy or mathematics. You may also be considered for the degree if you have other professional qualifications or experience of equivalent standing. |
Please note | Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis. |
Colombia
Undergraduate degree requirement | Licenciado with ‘Acreditacion de alta calidad' and a CGPA of 3.5. |
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Subject-specific requirements | Your qualification should be in a relevant subject such as physics, astronomy or mathematics. You may also be considered for the degree if you have other professional qualifications or experience of equivalent standing. |
Please note | Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis. |
Cyprus
Undergraduate degree requirement | Bachelors degree or Ptychion with a final mark of at least 7.5. |
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Subject-specific requirements | Your qualification should be in a relevant subject such as physics, astronomy or mathematics. You may also be considered for the degree if you have other professional qualifications or experience of equivalent standing. |
Please note | Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis. |
Denmark
Undergraduate degree requirement | Bachelors degree with an overall mark of at least 7 (Good Performance). |
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Subject-specific requirements | Your qualification should be in a relevant subject such as physics, astronomy or mathematics. You may also be considered for the degree if you have other professional qualifications or experience of equivalent standing. |
Please note | Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis. |
Ecuador
Undergraduate degree requirement | Licenciado with a final mark of at least 17/20. |
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Subject-specific requirements | Your qualification should be in a relevant subject such as physics, astronomy or mathematics. You may also be considered for the degree if you have other professional qualifications or experience of equivalent standing. |
Please note | Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis. |
Egypt
Undergraduate degree requirement | Bachelors degree from a university with an overall grade of at least 70-75% depending on your university. |
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Subject-specific requirements | Your qualification should be in a relevant subject such as physics, astronomy or mathematics. You may also be considered for the degree if you have other professional qualifications or experience of equivalent standing. |
Please note | Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis. |
France
Undergraduate degree requirement | Licence with mention bien or Maîtrise with a final mark of at least 13. |
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Subject-specific requirements | Your qualification should be in a relevant subject such as physics, astronomy or mathematics. You may also be considered for the degree if you have other professional qualifications or experience of equivalent standing. |
Please note | Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis. |
Germany
Undergraduate degree requirement | Bachelors degree or Magister Artium with a final mark of 2.4 or better. |
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Subject-specific requirements | Your qualification should be in a relevant subject such as physics, astronomy or mathematics. You may also be considered for the degree if you have other professional qualifications or experience of equivalent standing. |
Please note | Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis. |
Ghana
Undergraduate degree requirement | Bachelors degree from a public university with second-class upper division. |
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Subject-specific requirements | Your qualification should be in a relevant subject such as physics, astronomy or mathematics. You may also be considered for the degree if you have other professional qualifications or experience of equivalent standing. |
Please note | Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis. |
Greece
Undergraduate degree requirement | Ptychion from an AEI with a final mark of at least 7. |
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Subject-specific requirements | Your qualification should be in a relevant subject such as physics, astronomy or mathematics. You may also be considered for the degree if you have other professional qualifications or experience of equivalent standing. |
Please note | Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis. |
Hong Kong
Undergraduate degree requirement | Bachelors (Honours) degree with second-class upper division. |
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Subject-specific requirements | Your qualification should be in a relevant subject such as physics, astronomy or mathematics. You may also be considered for the degree if you have other professional qualifications or experience of equivalent standing. |
Please note | Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis. |
India
Undergraduate degree requirement | Bachelors degree with an overall mark of at least 55-70% depending on your university. |
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Subject-specific requirements | Your qualification should be in a relevant subject such as physics, astronomy or mathematics. You may also be considered for the degree if you have other professional qualifications or experience of equivalent standing. |
Please note | Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis. |
Indonesia
Undergraduate degree requirement | Bachelors degree from an 'A' accredited university with CGPA 3.0/4.0. |
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Subject-specific requirements | Your qualification should be in a relevant subject such as physics, astronomy or mathematics. You may also be considered for the degree if you have other professional qualifications or experience of equivalent standing. |
Please note | Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis. |
Iran
Undergraduate degree requirement | Bachelors degree (Licence or Karshenasi) with a final mark of at least 15. |
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Subject-specific requirements | Your qualification should be in a relevant subject such as physics, astronomy or mathematics. You may also be considered for the degree if you have other professional qualifications or experience of equivalent standing. |
Please note | Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis. |
Italy
Undergraduate degree requirement | Diploma di Laurea with an overall mark of at least 105. |
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Subject-specific requirements | Your qualification should be in a relevant subject such as physics, astronomy or mathematics. You may also be considered for the degree if you have other professional qualifications or experience of equivalent standing. |
Please note | Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis. |
Japan
Undergraduate degree requirement | Bachelors degree with a minimum C/GPA of at least 3.0/4.0 or equivalent. |
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Subject-specific requirements | Your qualification should be in a relevant subject such as physics, astronomy or mathematics. You may also be considered for the degree if you have other professional qualifications or experience of equivalent standing. |
Please note | Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis. |
Jordan
Undergraduate degree requirement | Bachelors degree with a CGPA of at least 3.0/4.0 or 80%. |
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Subject-specific requirements | Your qualification should be in a relevant subject such as physics, astronomy or mathematics. You may also be considered for the degree if you have other professional qualifications or experience of equivalent standing. |
Please note | Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis. |
Kazakhstan
Undergraduate degree requirement | Bachelors degree with an overall mark of 4 or better (on a scale of 1-5)/CGPA 3,33. |
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Subject-specific requirements | Your qualification should be in a relevant subject such as physics, astronomy or mathematics. You may also be considered for the degree if you have other professional qualifications or experience of equivalent standing. |
Please note | Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis. |
Kenya
Undergraduate degree requirement | Bachelors (Honours) degree with a second-class upper division. |
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Subject-specific requirements | Your qualification should be in a relevant subject such as physics, astronomy or mathematics. You may also be considered for the degree if you have other professional qualifications or experience of equivalent standing. |
Please note | Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis. |
Kuwait
Undergraduate degree requirement | Bachelors degree with a CGPA of at least 3.0/4.0 or B+. |
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Subject-specific requirements | Your qualification should be in a relevant subject such as physics, astronomy or mathematics. You may also be considered for the degree if you have other professional qualifications or experience of equivalent standing. |
Please note | Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis. |
Lebanon
Undergraduate degree requirement | Bachelors degree with a CGPA 3.5/4.0 or 14/20. |
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Subject-specific requirements | Your qualification should be in a relevant subject such as physics, astronomy or mathematics. You may also be considered for the degree if you have other professional qualifications or experience of equivalent standing. |
Please note | Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis. |
Malawi
Undergraduate degree requirement | Masters degree, depending on your university. |
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Subject-specific requirements | Your qualification should be in a relevant subject such as physics, astronomy or mathematics. You may also be considered for the degree if you have other professional qualifications or experience of equivalent standing. |
Please note | Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis. |
Malaysia
Undergraduate degree requirement | Bachelors degree with a CGPA of at least 3.0/4.0. |
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Subject-specific requirements | Your qualification should be in a relevant subject such as physics, astronomy or mathematics. You may also be considered for the degree if you have other professional qualifications or experience of equivalent standing. |
Please note | Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis. |
Mexico
Undergraduate degree requirement | Licenciado with a final mark of at least 8/10. |
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Subject-specific requirements | Your qualification should be in a relevant subject such as physics, astronomy or mathematics. You may also be considered for the degree if you have other professional qualifications or experience of equivalent standing. |
Please note | Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis. |
Nepal
Undergraduate degree requirement | A 4-year Bachelor degree with GPA of at least 3.3/4.0 |
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Subject-specific requirements | Your qualification should be in a relevant subject such as physics, astronomy or mathematics. You may also be considered for the degree if you have other professional qualifications or experience of equivalent standing. |
Please note | Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis. |
Nigeria
Undergraduate degree requirement | Bachelors degree with a second-class upper division or CGPA of at least 3.0-3.49/4.0, 3.5-4.49/5.0 or 4.6-5.9/7.0 |
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Subject-specific requirements | Your qualification should be in a relevant subject such as physics, astronomy or mathematics. You may also be considered for the degree if you have other professional qualifications or experience of equivalent standing. |
Please note | Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis. |
Norway
Undergraduate degree requirement | Bachelors degree with an overall grade of B. |
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Subject-specific requirements | Your qualification should be in a relevant subject such as physics, astronomy or mathematics. You may also be considered for the degree if you have other professional qualifications or experience of equivalent standing. |
Please note | Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis. |
Oman
Undergraduate degree requirement | Bachelors degree with a CGPA of at least 3.3/4.0. |
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Subject-specific requirements | Your qualification should be in a relevant subject such as physics, astronomy or mathematics. You may also be considered for the degree if you have other professional qualifications or experience of equivalent standing. |
Please note | Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis. |
Pakistan
Undergraduate degree requirement | Four-year Bachelors degree with an overall mark of at least 65%-70% or CGPA 2.6 - 2.8 depending on your university. Masters degree following a 3-year Bachelors degree with an overall mark of at least 65%-70% or CGPA 2.6 - 2.8 depending on your university. |
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Subject-specific requirements | Your qualification should be in a relevant subject such as physics, astronomy or mathematics. You may also be considered for the degree if you have other professional qualifications or experience of equivalent standing. |
Please note | Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis. |
Palestine
Undergraduate degree requirement | Bachelors degree with at least 80% or CGPA of at least 3.0/4.0 |
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Subject-specific requirements | Your qualification should be in a relevant subject such as physics, astronomy or mathematics. You may also be considered for the degree if you have other professional qualifications or experience of equivalent standing. |
Please note | Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis. |
Paraguay
Undergraduate degree requirement | Bachelors with a final mark of at least 7.5/10. |
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Subject-specific requirements | Your qualification should be in a relevant subject such as physics, astronomy or mathematics. You may also be considered for the degree if you have other professional qualifications or experience of equivalent standing. |
Please note | Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis. |
Peru
Undergraduate degree requirement | Licenciado with a final mark of at least 13/20 from a public university or 15/20 from a private university. |
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Subject-specific requirements | Your qualification should be in a relevant subject such as physics, astronomy or mathematics. You may also be considered for the degree if you have other professional qualifications or experience of equivalent standing. |
Please note | Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis. |
Philippines
Undergraduate degree requirement | Masters degree with 1.5/5.0 (where 1 is the highest) or 3.7/4.0 |
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Subject-specific requirements | Your qualification should be in a relevant subject such as physics, astronomy or mathematics. You may also be considered for the degree if you have other professional qualifications or experience of equivalent standing. |
Please note | Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis. |
Qatar
Undergraduate degree requirement | Bachelors degree with an overall CPGA of at least 3 (on a scale of 4). |
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Subject-specific requirements | Your qualification should be in a relevant subject such as physics, astronomy or mathematics. You may also be considered for the degree if you have other professional qualifications or experience of equivalent standing. |
Please note | Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis. |
Russia
Undergraduate degree requirement | Bakalavr or Specialist Diploma with an average mark of at least 4. |
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Subject-specific requirements | Your qualification should be in a relevant subject such as physics, astronomy or mathematics. You may also be considered for the degree if you have other professional qualifications or experience of equivalent standing. |
Please note | Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis. |
Saudi Arabia
Undergraduate degree requirement | Bachelors degree with a CGPA of 3.5/5.0 or 3/4.0. |
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Subject-specific requirements | Your qualification should be in a relevant subject such as physics, astronomy or mathematics. You may also be considered for the degree if you have other professional qualifications or experience of equivalent standing. |
Please note | Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis. |
Singapore
Undergraduate degree requirement | Bachelors (Honours) degree with a second-class upper division or CAP 4.0. |
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Subject-specific requirements | Your qualification should be in a relevant subject such as physics, astronomy or mathematics. You may also be considered for the degree if you have other professional qualifications or experience of equivalent standing. |
Please note | Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis. |
South Africa
Undergraduate degree requirement | Bachelors (honours) degree with a second-class division 1. |
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Subject-specific requirements | Your qualification should be in a relevant subject such as physics, astronomy or mathematics. You may also be considered for the degree if you have other professional qualifications or experience of equivalent standing. |
Please note | Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis. |
South Korea
Undergraduate degree requirement | Bachelors degree with a CGPA of at least 3.3/4.5 or 3.1/4.3 or B+ |
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Subject-specific requirements | Your qualification should be in a relevant subject such as physics, astronomy or mathematics. You may also be considered for the degree if you have other professional qualifications or experience of equivalent standing. |
Please note | Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis. |
Spain
Undergraduate degree requirement | Licenciado with a final mark of at least 2/4 or 7/10. |
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Subject-specific requirements | Your qualification should be in a relevant subject such as physics, astronomy or mathematics. You may also be considered for the degree if you have other professional qualifications or experience of equivalent standing. |
Please note | Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis. |
Sri Lanka
Undergraduate degree requirement | Bachelors Special degree with an upper second honours. |
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Subject-specific requirements | Your qualification should be in a relevant subject such as physics, astronomy or mathematics. You may also be considered for the degree if you have other professional qualifications or experience of equivalent standing. |
Please note | Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis. |
Switzerland
Undergraduate degree requirement | Licence or Diplôme with 5/6 or 8/10. |
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Subject-specific requirements | Your qualification should be in a relevant subject such as physics, astronomy or mathematics. You may also be considered for the degree if you have other professional qualifications or experience of equivalent standing. |
Please note | Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis. |
Taiwan
Undergraduate degree requirement | Bachelors degree with an overall mark of at least 67%-80% depending on your university. |
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Subject-specific requirements | Your qualification should be in a relevant subject such as physics, astronomy or mathematics. You may also be considered for the degree if you have other professional qualifications or experience of equivalent standing. |
Please note | Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis. |
Thailand
Undergraduate degree requirement | Bachelors degree with CGPA of at least 2.8 - 3.0/4.0 or equivalent depending on your university. |
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Subject-specific requirements | Your qualification should be in a relevant subject such as physics, astronomy or mathematics. You may also be considered for the degree if you have other professional qualifications or experience of equivalent standing. |
Please note | Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis. |
Turkey
Undergraduate degree requirement | Lisans Diplomasi with CGPA of at least 2.8 - 3.0/4.0 or equivalent depending on your university. |
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Subject-specific requirements | Your qualification should be in a relevant subject such as physics, astronomy or mathematics. You may also be considered for the degree if you have other professional qualifications or experience of equivalent standing. |
Please note | Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis. |
United Arab Emirates
Undergraduate degree requirement | Bachelors degree with CGPA of at least 3.0/4.0 or equivalent. |
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Subject-specific requirements | Your qualification should be in a relevant subject such as physics, astronomy or mathematics. You may also be considered for the degree if you have other professional qualifications or experience of equivalent standing. |
Please note | Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis. |
USA
Undergraduate degree requirement | Bachelors degree with CGPA of at least 3.3/4.0. |
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Subject-specific requirements | Your qualification should be in a relevant subject such as physics, astronomy or mathematics. You may also be considered for the degree if you have other professional qualifications or experience of equivalent standing. |
Please note | Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis. |
Vietnam
Undergraduate degree requirement | Bachelors degree (with a Graduate Thesis/research component) with CGPA of at least 3.3/4.0 or 7.5/10. As evidence of completing your degree you must provide both proof of graduation in addition to your transcript. |
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Subject-specific requirements | Your qualification should be in a relevant subject such as physics, astronomy or mathematics. You may also be considered for the degree if you have other professional qualifications or experience of equivalent standing. |
Please note | Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis. |
Zambia
Undergraduate degree requirement | Masters degree with GPA of 2.0/2.5 or equivalent. |
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Subject-specific requirements | Your qualification should be in a relevant subject such as physics, astronomy or mathematics. You may also be considered for the degree if you have other professional qualifications or experience of equivalent standing. |
Please note | Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis. |
Zimbabwe
Undergraduate degree requirement | Bachelors (Honours) degree with second-class upper division. |
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Subject-specific requirements | Your qualification should be in a relevant subject such as physics, astronomy or mathematics. You may also be considered for the degree if you have other professional qualifications or experience of equivalent standing. |
Please note | Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis. |
My country is not listed
If your country is not listed, you need to contact us and find out the qualification level you should have for this course. Contact us
Subject-specific requirements | Your qualification should be in a relevant subject such as physics, astronomy or mathematics. You may also be considered for the degree if you have other professional qualifications or experience of equivalent standing. |
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English language requirements
IELTS (Academic)
Standard level (6.0 overall, including at least 6.0 in each component).
IELTS scores are valid for two years from the test date. You cannot combine scores from more than one sitting of the test. Your score must be valid when you begin your Sussex course. Find out more about IELTS
We accept IELTS One Skills Retake.
We do not accept IELTS Online.
Alternative English language qualifications
Proficiency tests
Cambridge Advanced Certificate in English (CAE)
169 overall, including at least 162 in each skill.
We would normally expect the CAE test to have been taken within two years before the start of your course.
You cannot combine scores from more than one sitting of the test. Find out more about Cambridge English: Advanced
Cambridge Certificate of Proficiency in English (CPE)
169 overall, including at least 162 in each skill.
We would normally expect the CPE test to have been taken within two years before the start of your course.
You cannot combine scores from more than one sitting of the test. Find out more about Cambridge English: Proficiency
LanguageCert Academic SELT
Standard level (65 overall, including at least 65 in each component).
LanguageCert Academic SELT scores are valid for two years from the test date. Your score must be valid when you begin your Sussex course. Find out more about LanguageCert Academic SELT
We only accept LanguageCert when taken at SELT Test Centres.
We do not accept the online version. We also do not accept the non-SELT version.
LanguageCert International ESOL SELT
Standard level (International ESOL SELT B2 with a minimum of 36 in each component)
LanguageCert International ESOL scores are valid for two years from the test date. Your score must be valid when you begin your Sussex course. Find out more about LanguageCert SELT
We only accept LanguageCert when taken at SELT Test Centres. We do not accept the online version.
Pearson PTE Academic
Standard level (59 overall, including at least 59 in all four skills)
PTE (Academic) scores are valid for two years from the test date. You cannot combine scores from more than one sitting of the test. Your score must be valid when you begin your Sussex course. Find out more about Pearson (PTE Academic)
We do not accept the PTE Academic Online test.
TOEFL (iBT)
Standard level 80 overall, including at least 19 in Listening, 19 in Reading, 21 in Speaking, 21 in Writing.
TOEFL (iBT) scores are valid for two years from the test date. You cannot combine scores from more than one sitting of the test. Your score must be valid when you begin your Sussex course. Find out more about TOEFL (iBT)
We do not accept TOEFL (iBT) Home Edition.
The TOEFL Institution Code for the University of Sussex is 9166.
English language qualifications
AS/A-level (GCE)
Grade C or above in English Language.
Hong Kong Advanced Level Examination (HKALE)/ AS or A Level: grade C or above in Use of English.
GCE O-level
Grade C or above in English.
Brunei/Cambridge GCE O-level in English: grades 1-6.
Singapore/Cambridge GCE O-level in English: grades 1-6.
GCSE or IGCSE
Grade C or above in English as a First Language (Grade 4 or above in GCSE from 2017).
Grade B or above in English as a Second Language.
Ghana Senior Secondary School Certificate
If awarded before 1993: grades 1-6 in English language.
If awarded between 1993 and 2005: grades A-D in English language.
Hong Kong Diploma of Secondary Education (HKDSE)
Level 4, including at least 3 in each component in English Language.
Indian School Certificate (Standard XII)
The Indian School Certificate is accepted at the grades below when awarded by the following examination boards:
Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) – English Core only: 70%
Council for Indian School Certificate Examinations (CISCE) - English: 70%
International Baccalaureate Diploma (IB)
English A or English B at grade 5 or above.
Kenya Certificate of Secondary Education
Grades A - C in English language
Malaysian Certificate of Education (SPM) 1119/GCE O-level
If taken before the end of 2008: grades 1-6 in English Language.
If taken from 2009 onwards: grade C or above in English Language.
The qualification must be jointly awarded by the University of Cambridge Local Examinations Syndicate (UCLES).
West African Senior School Certificate
Grades A1-C6 (1-6) in English language when awarded by the West African Examinations Council (WAEC) or the National Examinations Council (NECO).
Country exceptions
Select to see the list of exempt English-speaking countries
If you are a national of one of the countries below, or if you have recently completed a qualification equivalent to a UK Bachelors degree or higher in one of these countries, you will normally meet our English requirement. Note that qualifications obtained by distance learning or awarded by studying outside these countries cannot be accepted for English language purposes.
You will normally be expected to have completed the qualification within two years before starting your course at Sussex. If the qualification was obtained earlier than this, we would expect you to be able to demonstrate that you have maintained a good level of English, for example by living in an English-speaking country or working in an occupation that required you to use English regularly and to a high level.
Please note that this list is determined by the UK’s Home Office, not by the University of Sussex.
List of exempt countries:
- Antigua and Barbuda
- Australia
- Bahamas
- Barbados
- Belize
- Canada**
- Dominica
- Grenada
- Guyana
- Ireland
- Jamaica
- New Zealand
- St Kitts and Nevis
- St Lucia
- St Vincent and the Grenadines
- The British Overseas Territories
- Trinidad and Tobago
- United Kingdom
- USA
** Canada: you must be a national of Canada; other nationals not on this list who have a degree from a Canadian institution will not normally be exempt from needing to provide evidence of English.
English language support
If you don’t meet the English language requirements for your degree, you may be able to take a pre-sessional course
Visas and immigration
Find out how to apply for a student visa
Admissions information for applicants
Academic Technology Approval Scheme (ATAS) for international students | Yes. You should apply for this course as early as possible so that you have time to apply for ATAS clearance. Find out more about ATAS clearance on the Student Hub. |
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Research proposal | For the Astronomy PhD, we do not require a research proposal. Instead, please indicate your broad research interests (e.g. observational, numerical, theoretical) and/or list projects and supervisors that you would be particularly interested in. See https://www.sussex.ac.uk/research/centres/astronomy/phd-studentships for details of supervisors and projects offered. |
If your qualifications aren’t listed or you have a question about entry requirements, contact us
Application deadlines
To be considered for STFC funding, please apply by the end of January 2024.
How to apply
If you’d like to join us as a research student:
Find out how to apply for a PhD at Sussex
You can also:
- browse funded projects in this subject area
- browse our potential supervisors.
Full-time and part-time study
Choose to work on your research full time or part time, to fit around your work and personal life. For details about part-time study, contact us at mps-pgrsupport@sussex.ac.uk
PhD or MPhil?
You can choose to study for a PhD or an MPhil. PhD and MPhil degrees differ in duration and in the extent of your research work.
- For a PhD, your research work makes a substantial original contribution to knowledge or understanding in your chosen field.
- For an MPhil, your work is an independent piece of research but in less depth than for a PhD. You’ll graduate with the degree title Master of Philosophy. You might be able to change to a PhD while you study for an MPhil.
I enjoyed the learning environment at Sussex. It was a very open place to do my PhD and I felt like I was given a lot of options.”Rosemary Coogan
Astrophysics PhD
The European Space Agency’s first female UK astronaut
Read Rosemary’s story
Our supervisors
The cosmology group at Sussex is large and very well connected. There are many opportunities to collaborate with other institutes and universities.”Mateja Gosenca
Astronomy PhD
Explore our research interests and find potential supervisors.
The Astronomy Centre is a large research group focusing on many areas of cosmology and astrophysics. Our research spans the early Universe, the cosmic microwave background, the epoch of reionization, the first stars, galaxy formation, observational astronomy and dark energy. PhD projects can be primarily observational, theoretical or computational, or a mixture.
Prof Ilian Iliev
Professor of Astrophysics
Contact
Prof Antony Lewis
Professor of Cosmology
Contact
Dr Jonathan Loveday
Reader In Astronomy
Contact
Dr Eva-Maria Mueller
Ernest Rutherford Fellow
Contact
Prof Seb Oliver
Deputy Pro Vice Chancellor Research
Contact
Prof Robert E Smith
Professor of Cosmological Physics
Contact
Prof Stephen Wilkins
Professor of Astronomy and Public Understanding of Science
Contact
Funding and fees
How can I fund my course?
Funded projects and scholarships
Our aim is to ensure that every student who wants to study with us is able to despite financial barriers, so that we continue to attract talented and unique individuals. Don’t miss out on scholarships – check the specific application deadlines for funding opportunities. Note that funded projects aren’t available for all our PhDs.
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China Scholarship Council (CSC) University of Sussex Scholarships
Up to 10 scholarships for outstanding PhD students from China
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Commonwealth Scholarships Commission / University of Sussex
Commonwealth PhD Scholarships (for least developed countries and fragile states) for full-time doctoral study at a UK university.
Applying for USA Federal Student Aid?
If any part of your funding, at any time, is through USA federal Direct Loan funds, you will be registered on a separate version of this degree which does not include the possibility of distance learning which is prohibited under USA federal regulations. Find out more about American Student Loans and Federal Student Aid.
Part-time work
We advertise around 2,500 part-time jobs a year so you can make money and gain work experience. We have a special scheme to employ students on campus, wherever possible.
Find out more about careers and employability
How much does it cost?
Fees for self-funding students
Home students: Fees are not yet set for entry in the academic year 2025/26. Fees will become available once set by United Kingdom Research and Innovation.
Channel Islands and Isle of Man students: Fees are not yet set for entry in the academic year 2025/26. Fees will become available once set by United Kingdom Research and Innovation.
International students: £26,250 per year for full-time students
Home PhD student fees are set at the level recommended by United Kingdom Research and Innovation (UKRI) annually, rising in line with inflation. Overseas fees are subject to an annual increase - see details on our tuition fees page
Additional costs
Note about additional costs
Please note that all costs are best estimates based on current market values. Activities may be subject to unavoidable change in response to Government advice. We’ll let you know at the earliest opportunity. We review estimates every year and they may vary with inflation. Find out how to budget for student life.
Empirical research costs
On top of your PhD fees and living costs, you may also need to cover some research and training costs, relevant to your research project. These costs will depend on your research topic and training needs, but may include:
- travel (to archives, collections or scientific facilities)
- a laptop
- overseas fieldwork costs (travel and accommodation, and language training)
- conference costs (travel, registration fees and accommodation)
- laboratory consumables and workshop materials
- participant costs
- transcription or translation costs
- open-access publication costs.
If you have a scholarship from one of the UK Research Councils, your scholarship should cover these types of costs. You'll receive details of how to claim this additional funding.
If you're self funded, or if your scholarship doesn’t cover these costs, check with the Research and Enterprise Co-ordinator in your School for details of School or Doctoral School funding that may be available.