Chapter 3: Conditions of candidature

3.1 Duration of candidature

3.1.1 Minimum length of doctoral candidature

The minimum period of candidature is two years of full-time or four years of part-time candidature. In very exceptional circumstances, the Research Graduate School Committee, on the recommendation of the relevant department or academic unit and the faculty, may agree to reduce the period by up to one year of full-time or two years of part-time candidature. Such a request will only be considered where there is evidence of exceptional progress and/or additional research experience that is extensive and of high calibre.

3.1.2 Maximum length of doctoral candidature

The maximum period of candidature is four years of full-time or eight years of part-time candidature. In exceptional circumstances where candidature has been delayed by factors outside the control of the candidate, an extension of six months full-time or 12 months part-time to the maximum period of candidature may be granted. Where the candidate has had a period of full-time and part-time enrolment, the maximum extension time is calculated on a pro rata basis. While after this period candidature will be deemed to have lapsed by expiry of time, the candidate may be reinstated by the Research Graduate School Committee at any time within the next three years for examination purposes only.

3.1.3 Normal length of doctoral candidature

The normal length of candidature is considered to be three years full-time or six years part-time. It is strongly recommended that a student design a project which can be completed within three years of the commencement of candidature.

3.1.4 Duration of candidature of MPhil candidature

The normal period of candidature is two years full-time or four years part-time. The minimum period of candidature is one year full-time or two years part-time. The maximum period of candidature is two years full-time or four years part-time.

In exceptional circumstances where candidature has been delayed by factors outside the control of the candidate, an extension of three months full-time or six months part-time to the maximum period of candidature may be granted. Where the candidate has had a period of full-time and part-time enrolment, the maximum extension time is calculated on a pro rata basis. Any extension beyond this period will be considered on a case-by-case basis.