What is confirmation

What is confirmation?

On initial enrolment in a PhD, students are given 'probationary' status. Candidature is 'confirmed' after the student presents a satisfactory, detailed research proposal to their School - in both written and oral forms.

The process of presenting your research outline and work to date is referred to as 'confirmation'. It can take place any time after 6 months of full-time candidature and before the end of 12 months full-time candidature.

You will find detailed information about the confirmation process and its requirements in the Goldbook, and in the Confirmation of Candidature Policy and the specific Confirmation of Candidature Information for Doctoral Students.

Note that the Confirmation of Candidature policy advises that the specific aims of the policy are to:

1. Identify early in students' candidature any support and guidance necessary for their proceeding successfully to the next major stage of their research;
2. assess progress to date and the academic preparedness of the candidate to complete their degree (or course);
3. provide an opportunity for the candidate to demonstrate written and other necessary research skills appropriate to the doctoral level of study; and
4. achieve more timely and successful completions.

To be completed in the required time, the project must be well-matched to the candidate's abilities and the School's resources.

All of these factors will be assessed through confirmation