Pass
Hi everyone,
I completed my Master’s degree with a Pass and I’m considering applying for a PhD. I was just one mark below a Merit. I’m feeling quite worried about applying because I’m afraid of rejection due to my result.
However, I do have a fully funded scholarship from my workplace to support my PhD studies.
Has anyone been in a similar situation and still succeeded? I would truly appreciate any advice or shared experiences.
I completed my Master’s degree with a Pass and I’m considering applying for a PhD. I was just one mark below a Merit. I’m feeling quite worried about applying because I’m afraid of rejection due to my result.
However, I do have a fully funded scholarship from my workplace to support my PhD studies.
Has anyone been in a similar situation and still succeeded? I would truly appreciate any advice or shared experiences.
Reply 1
Hi there,
I completely understand why you’re feeling anxious, but please don’t assume a Pass automatically rules you out for a PhD.
I’d strongly recommend contacting university Admissions teams or potential supervisors directly to discuss your situation. PhD applications are assessed very differently from taught Master’s programmes. While your previous grades are considered, there are many other important factors — particularly the strength and feasibility of your research proposal, your academic or professional experience, and whether there is a suitable supervisor available in your chosen area.
If you’re concerned, you could also consider applying for an MPhil as a potential stepping stone towards a PhD. Some institutions allow progression from MPhil to PhD once you’ve demonstrated strong research capability.
You might also find it helpful to browse advertised PhD opportunities and guidance on application expectations here: https://www.findaphd.com/
Best of luck with your applications,
Megan (LJMU Rep)
I completely understand why you’re feeling anxious, but please don’t assume a Pass automatically rules you out for a PhD.
I’d strongly recommend contacting university Admissions teams or potential supervisors directly to discuss your situation. PhD applications are assessed very differently from taught Master’s programmes. While your previous grades are considered, there are many other important factors — particularly the strength and feasibility of your research proposal, your academic or professional experience, and whether there is a suitable supervisor available in your chosen area.
If you’re concerned, you could also consider applying for an MPhil as a potential stepping stone towards a PhD. Some institutions allow progression from MPhil to PhD once you’ve demonstrated strong research capability.
You might also find it helpful to browse advertised PhD opportunities and guidance on application expectations here: https://www.findaphd.com/
Best of luck with your applications,
Megan (LJMU Rep)
Quick Reply
Related discussions
- Btec Near Pass question
- Resit on module that’s over 40%
- btec applied science final grade
- I am in my first year and I failed my module exam
- How many times did it take to pass your theory test?
- University of Liverpool passing marks modules?
- BTEC applied science calculation ??
- NEBDN 2025 exam Dental Nursing Nov
- COMPENSATED pass at university of lancashire
- Would I still get a pass If I manage to get a merit or distinction on some of my unit
- Exam grade for Btec Level 3 applied science
- GES Assistant Economist 2026
- Unsure about resits
- Progression Appeal- Mitigating circumstances and Compensatory Pass
- Mechanics help
- English Speaking Exam
- Failed module and resit but passed dissertation
- Btec Grading
- Skipping Presentation
- Can you apply to CSM BA fashion without foundation?
Latest
Trending
Last reply 8 months ago
I accidentally fixed a problem at uni and now I'm stuck. What would you do?Last reply 9 months ago
Am I too old? - Career Change - MSc Psychology ConversionLast reply 10 months ago
Have I missed my opportunity for UoM postgrad this year?Last reply 11 months ago
Does undergraduate class matter as much if you do a masters?Posted 11 months ago
"LMU Molecular and Cellular Biology Master's Entrance Exam Experience"Last reply 1 year ago
Guidance on Institutions that could guarantee hire after graduation.
How The Student Room is moderated
To keep The Student Room safe for everyone, we moderate posts that are added to the site.
