Future PhD candidates

For general information on obtaining a PhD position at Utrecht University, please consult the UU website. The current website provides additional information for positions at the Graduate School of Geosciences (GSG).

As a PhD candidate in the Netherlands, you are not a student but a university employee in most cases. The Graduate School of Geosciences (GSG) offers several options for PhD candidates. Most admission criteria are the same for all options; in some cases, additional criteria are made explicit.

We strongly advise you not to send an application to the Graduate School or to professors if no job opening is announced or if you do not have an appropriate scholarship grant.

General admission criteria

The primary criterion for admission to a PhD track is the applicant's quality. To be admitted to a PhD programme, you must meet stringent academic requirements. You need to have a solid background in the theory and methods of your field and hold a recognised Master’s degree (or equivalent). Quality also entails such aspects as scientific curiosity and research focus. You must demonstrate a good knowledge of English (advanced level - level C1). Depending on the type of PhD candidate, additional criteria apply (see below). Also, the fit of the project in the research themes of the group and the GSG is of importance (for positions other than vacancies). For more information on admissions, read the Doctoral Degree Regulations of Utrecht University.

Options for PhD candidates