England

Please tell us where you live so that we can provide you with the most relevant information as you use this website.
If you are at a BFPO address please choose the country or region in which you would ordinarily be resident.
Accessibility statement
We value our diverse and transnational research community. The OU welcomes international students looking to undertake a research degree in the UK.
This page covers the ways the OU can support international research students; for detailed information on requirements and considerations for applying from outside the UK, please see our International research student applications page.
The OU is licensed as a Student Route sponsor under the points-based immigration system. This means we can register students coming from outside the UK.
Details of the requirements for entry to the UK as a postgraduate research student are on the Gov.uk general student visa website. The UK Council for International Student Affairs also offers support with applying for a Student Route visa, as well as other issues affecting international students.
Coming to the UK to start a degree programme is an exciting opportunity. We’ll offer information to help you settle into your new life, both in Milton Keynes and at the OU.
If you need additional information on any of the support we can offer you, get in contact with our Graduate School Team.
An image to illustrate the International students page
I really do think the peer support at the OU is excellent. Everyone I have come in contact with is really helpful and open about issues. This has helped the quality and diversity of my learning and research at the university.
For advice about applying for a research degree, or sponsoring a research student, email the Graduate School or call +44 (0)1908 653806.
Level info