Ensure you’re prepared for all stages of the process, from project development to student selection, with our 2027-2028 recruitment timeline.
| Event | Date | Time |
| Supervisor project proposal submission form opens | Wednesday 3rd June 2026 | By 9am |
| Supervisor project proposal submission deadline | Friday 10th July 2026 | By 5pm |
| Project panel scores projects and submits scores to DLA | Wednesday 22nd July – Wednesday 12th August 2026 | By midday |
| Project selection panel | Wednesday 19th August 2026 | 10:30am – midday |
| Supervisors notified of project shortlisting outcome | Friday 21st August 2026 | By 5pm |
| Projects advertised for student applications | Monday 2nd September – Monday 19th October 2026 | |
| Student application deadline | Monday 19th October 2026 | By 5pm |
| Panel scores and shortlists applicants – 1st triage | Wednesday 28th October – Monday 16th November 2026 | By 5pm |
| Panel scores and shortlists applicants – 2nd triage | Monday 23rd November – Friday 11th December 2026 | By midday |
| Student shortlisting panel | Thursday 17th December 2026 | 1pm – 3pm |
| DLA notifies candidates and supervisors of successful applications | Tuesday 22nd December 2026 | Midday |
| Supervisor meets with all candidates by this date | Wednesday 20th January 2027 | Midday |
| Candidates sends references and transcripts to the DLA | Wednesday 20th January 2027 | Midday |
| DTP interviews | Tuesday 26th January – Wednesday 27th January 2027 | |
| Student shortlisting panel | Thursday 4th February 2027 | 12pm – 1:00pm |
| Clearing period | Thursday 4th February – 29th March 2027 | |
| Local induction events | w/c Monday 13th September 2027 | |
| Official funding start date | 1st October 2027 |
You can also download a copy of the recruitment timeline below:
