Confirmation of Status provides a second formal review of progress (after your Transfer of Status) which indicates whether the work on your thesis continues to develop satisfactorily and you are likely to be ready to complete your DPhil in time and of sufficient quality.
This takes place no later than nine terms after admission as a graduate student (generally, around 3 years after you started your programme) for DPhil students and 10 terms for Doctoral Training Programmes. Typically, you would apply for Confirmation of Status around 6-12 months before expected submission of your thesis.
How do I apply for Confirmation?
When you apply for your transfer of studies, your application should include:
- Certification from your supervisor that your progress has been such as to warrant confirmation of status (if you are having problems with your supervisor, check out our advice on issues with supervisor)
- A statement of support for the application from your college or hall - A statement of the subject of the proposed thesis and details of how you intend to go about developing your work
- Any subject specific requirements (your department will be able to confirm these for you)
-Confirmation that you've completed the Universities research integrity training
What if I am not ready to apply for Confirmation?
Your board can grant you an extension up to three terms and you should discuss this with your supervisor/Director of Graduate Studies. Extensions above this time would need approval from the Education Committee via a Dispensation Application.
What happens at my Confirmation?
Your faculty or department will let you know the criteria you will need to meet to successfully confirm your studies, which will be assessed by two assessors (who can't be your supervisor). They will consider your application and interview you before submitting a report to your faculty/department or division and their recommendation as to whether you should be confirmed.
I was unsuccessful at my confirmation. What can I do?
You can make one further application and will be generally given one extra term (if needed) to be able to apply again. It might be that you are recommended instead to transfer to a Mlitt or MSc by Research. If you aren't successful after two attempts, you will be withdrawn from you university. If you meet the grounds of appeal, you can appeal the decision of your transfer of studies, either at your first or second attempt.
Confirmation of Status Appeals
If you have a question not answered by the above or would like your draft appeal/evidence checked over by a member of our team, then read our Advice Agreement and Contact Us and we'd be happy to help.