Entry Requirements

On this page you'll find out what our basic requirements are. If you have any questions, feel free to contact us!

We are interested in good students with a wide range of science and engineering backgrounds. Because so much of our work crosses the normal boundaries of different subjects, we are keen to get a diverse spread of students. This includes the obvious subjects like Physics, Electronics, Electrical Engineering, Mathematics and Chemistry, with the less obvious such as Biology. Don't assume we won't be interested in your first degree - if in doubt, then ask us! The major pre-requisites are a good degree - a first or upper second, or equivalent from a recognised University of international standing - and a basic background in Mathematics. However, the requirements will vary depending on your background and the projects that you may be working on.

In order to be able to contribute to the team here, and for your own benefit, a good standard of English is required. If English is not your first language, you will be asked to reach an acceptable standard in an approved test. The requirements for research degrees at the ORC are a minimum IELTS score of 6.0, or TOEFL score of 560 (computer-based TOEFL 220). For more information, please visit the University of Southampton Language Centre.