What is the duration of the programme?
The Business Doctorate is a full-time, four-year programme that requires you to be resident in Cambridge for 24 weeks in your first year, and for at least four weeks per year for the subsequent three years of the programme. Although you are not resident in Cambridge for the final three years, you are expected to be in regular contact with your supervisor and demonstrating appropriate progress. The workload of the programme is substantial and equivalent to that of a full-time PhD (a minimum of 24 weeks of study per year).
When does the programme start?
The programme starts at the beginning of October.
Can I work part-time while I am enrolled on the programme?
The BusD programme is designed for part-time work, however it is not a part-time programme. Students may be flexible about how the programme is integrated into their existing work commitments. You will have to be in Cambridge during the three terms of the first year of the programme (24 weeks in total) and for at least four weeks every year in the subsequent three years. You should also be aware that the workload of the programme is equivalent to that of a full-time PhD, and so is substantial and demanding.
Candidates (on a student visa) must not undertake their work-based activity taking place in years two, three and four within the UK, as this visa type does not permit candidates to engage in UK-based employment.
Can I visit Cambridge Judge Business School/talk to faculty or someone from Admissions in person?
Yes, visits can be arranged and are in fact encouraged after your application has been received and evaluated.
When can I apply for the 2023/24 programme?
Applications for 2023/24 entry open in September 2022. You may apply when the appropriate application forms are available on the Postgraduate Admissions website.
What’s the deadline for applications?
The closing date for applications is 31 March 2023.
What are the requirements for entry into the programme?
Visit our Apply to the Business Doctorate webpage for detailed requirements for entry to the BusD.
Is there an application fee?
There is no application charge. Visit the Postgraduate Admissions’ Application Fee webpage to learn more.
Do you require a GRE/GMAT score as part of the application process?
No, a GRE/GMAT score is not a requirement and it will not add any weight to your application.
Do you require a full research proposal for admission?
Yes; visit our Apply to the Business Doctorate webpage for further details.
Do you require a supervisor while submitting the application?
No you do not require a supervisor during the submission of the application. In the case of being shortlisted, we will find a suitable supervisor to guide you on your final research proposal.
Can I send my application materials directly to Cambridge Judge Business School?
No. Applications should be made via the Postgraduate Admissions Application Portal only.
When will I hear if my application has been successful?
The Admissions Committee consider applications on a rolling basis from September through to March. We aim to have all decisions by the end of April.
Do I have to come to Cambridge for an interview?
We conduct video interviews with shortlisted applicants before a final decision is taken. Interviews can also be held in person in some cases, but this is not required.
Do I have to take an English language proficiency test?
Fluency in English is a prerequisite for our programmes. If your first language is not English you should take a language proficiency test to show you have the necessary command of the language to get the most out of the programme. You do not need to take the test before you apply, but, if you are made an offer and have not already met our English language requirements, one of the conditions of admission will be that you pass a test at the correct level. You must have achieved the minimum requirements no more than two years before the start of your programme. Visit the Postgraduate Admissions’ International Student webpages for more details.
Applicants who nearly miss the language requirement are not normally referred to the Language Centre. Please note that we do not refer any applicant to the Language Centre under any circumstances. To fulfil the language conditions applicants must take again an approved English test.
Do I need a visa to study at Cambridge?
Please consult the Postgraduate Admissions’ Immigration webpage for the most up-to-date information on visa requirements. The following websites provide information on whether you will require a visa to study in the UK. These sites include information on how to obtain a visa, and the paperwork you are required to submit. Also included is the location of your nearest British Embassy or Consulate:
- UK Visas & Immigration is the website of the Home Office department which administers visas.
- UKCISA is a website designed especially for overseas students who wish to study in the UK.
Students who do not hold a UK or Irish passport will need immigration permission in order to come to the UK and study at Cambridge. Please visit the International Students website for further information.
What is the cost of the Business Doctorate programme?
Visit the Postgraduate Admissions Fees webpage for details of the fees for the current academic year.
Are the fees different for overseas students?
No; visit the Postgraduate Admissions website for details.
What scholarships do you offer?
This programme is not eligible for any University or research funding. There is no funding associated with this programme, and there are no scholarships available for the BusD programme.