Postgraduate researcher - admission start dates/changes of start date

There are a number of factors to consider when choosing initial start dates for applicants. You can also find out the process for change of start date, after a formal offer has been made.

Choosing an initial start date

Schools need to check whether the start date the applicant has requested is feasible. The decision about the start date can be determined by a number of factors such as:

  • staff availability
  • visa processing times
  • ATAS processing times (4-6 weeks) 
  • if the applicant has already secured funding
  • scholarship deadlines/regulations
  • if the applicant has any conditions they will need to fulfil, such as do they have time to sit IELTS etc.

Some programmes have restricted start dates; it is important that the school bears this in mind and ensures that this start date is correct. 

Change of start date

When an applicant decides that they wish to change their start date they must agree this with their school. Once agreed, the school either fills out a change of start date form and sends to Postgraduate Research and Operations (PGRO) via rp_applications@leeds.ac.uk or informs PGRO by email of the new start date - within this email trail should be confirmation by the Postgraduate Research Tutor that they agree to the change. PGRO cannot process verbal requests.

An amended offer letter with the new start date will then be generated and sent out to the student (a copy will be sent to the school).

If the applicant originally applied over two years ago the school should ask the applicant to make a new research study application form and then the school should send a newly completed recommendation report to PGRO.

Some programmes have restricted start dates; it is important that the school bears this in mind and ensures that this start date is correct.