When should I begin writing my SOP for a PhD in Biological Sciences?
Ideally, start writing your SOP for a PhD in Biological Sciences 2 to 3 months before the application deadline. That gives you enough time to research programmes, draft, collect feedback, revise and proofread. Overall PhD application preparation should begin 6 to 12 months before your intake.
Ideally, you should start writing your PhD SOP 2 to 3 months before the application deadline. This leaves room to research programmes, draft, get feedback, revise and proofread, while your wider application preparation starts 6 to 12 months before your intake.
Timeline at a glance
| Task | When to start |
|---|---|
| Overall PhD application preparation | 6 to 12 months before your intended intake |
| Writing your SOP | Ideally 2 to 3 months before the application deadline |
What the preparation involves
- Researching supervisors and shortlisting universities
- Arranging recommendation letters and transcripts
- Preparing test scores and other supporting documents
- Drafting, getting feedback on, revising and proofreading the SOP
My Advice
Treat the SOP as the last piece of a longer process, not the first. Shortlist universities and supervisors first so your SOP can name specific faculty and research areas. Give recommenders plenty of notice too, and leave time for at least one full revision.
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