A second review of a student’s PhD research ability must be undertaken afer 24 months (36 for part-time students) after the date of initial registration. 

The purpose of the LSR is to confirm that the student has:

  • a realistic research plan and schedule for completion within the registration period;
  • an in-depth understanding of the research topic;
  • the ability to communicate their research;
  • the capacity to make contributions to their research field;
  • a critical awareness of the relevant literature on the subject.

You can download and view an example of the LSR form on the right. This form is created and signed via Docusign; your supervisor and the Senior Postgraduate Administrator will set up and manage this process.  

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Assessment of LSR

Your Primary Supervisor will appoint an independent assessor (another academic, usually in School) and call the review. The presentation of research progress and thesis structure are assessed during the review.

During the LSR, the student prepares and delivers a presentation (approx. 30 mins) and written report (maximum 20 pages) on the research progress. The following should be addressed as part of the assessment:

  • The presentation has to clearly show progress compared to the ESA and outline research to be conducted in the remaining months with a plan for completion.
  • The thesis structure will outline chapters and main sections.
  • An assessment of the research achievements so far, publications and any other relevant output. 
  • A work plan and schedule for completion of the thesis.

Once arranged, your supervisor will contact the Senior Postgraduate Administrator, who will set up the LSR form in Docusign. You will receive an email from Docusign, asking you to enter your information. The logistics of arranging this may take a few weeks so you should aim to send a copy of your LSR to your Supervisor at least two weeks before its due date. 

Graduate School Attendance and English Language Requirements

In addition to fulfilling the above academic requirements, there are two further requirements for you to pass your LSR: