Doctoral Programme - Next Steps After Receiving Your Offer

Congratulations on your offer from Imperial College London for a doctoral research programme! Now comes an important phase: turning your offer into reality. This guide outlines the key next steps you should follow, what you need to submit, and how to prepare for life as a doctoral student in London.

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1. Accept Your Offer & Submit Conditions

Once you receive your offer, you must formally accept it and meet any conditions attached.

Log in to your “My Imperial” account and accept the offer by the deadline stated in your offer letter (often 14 days for some departments, 28 days for others).
If your offer is conditional, you’ll need to provide evidence such as academic transcripts, degree certificates, English-language proof, or any other required material before you can register
For research (doctoral) programmes, certain offers may include requirements like an Academic Technology Approval Scheme (ATAS) certificate if your research topic is in a sensitive area.

2. Request a Deferral (If Needed)

If circumstances beyond your control prevent you from starting on the scheduled date, you may apply to defer your place.

Deferrals are considered only under exceptional circumstances and must be approved by the academic department.
Contact your department directly and provide the reason for the deferral request—this could include illness, visa delays, or other serious issues.
Make sure you understand how deferring may affect funding, scholarship or research start dates.

3. Find Accommodation & Prepare for Life on Campus

Settling into your new research home is key to starting smoothly.

The Student Accommodation Office can assist you with on-campus halls or suitable private housing—important especially if you are arriving from overseas.
Research the area, cost of living in London, travel, and daily logistics so you’re ready when you arrive.
Set up practical things early: banking, UK mobile phone, transport cards, campus access, and your IT account as per your department’s guidelines.

4. Fees, Funding & Financial Planning

Understanding tuition fees, funding opportunities and living costs is essential for doctoral students.

Confirm what funding you have—whether from a scholarship, departmental studentship, or self-funded.
Make sure you know whether any deposit is required (some postgraduate research programmes may require one), and check payment deadlines.
Budget for living costs in London: rent, food, travel, research-related expenses. Departments often provide guidance for new research students.

5. Support & International Student Guidance

Whether you are an international or UK student, support services are available to help you succeed.

For International students: you’ll need to consider visa requirements, CAS (Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies), arrival orientation, and adjusting to UK academic culture.
The university offers academic support, pastoral services, wellbeing and disability support—connect with what’s relevant to you early.
Reach out to your supervisor, department PGR coordinator and fellow doctoral students—they can help you integrate and navigate your research journey.

Conclusion

Receiving a doctoral offer from Imperial is a fantastic achievement. Now the path ahead involves clear action: accept your offer, submit all conditions, arrange accommodation, secure funding and integrate into your research environment. Approach each step carefully and ahead of time, so that when you arrive you can focus wholly on your research and the exciting opportunities ahead.

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