Research student information
The following FAQs are intended to help research students to find the answers to their most common queries. Policies and procedures that apply to all students, including research, are included in the other items under ‘current students’.
Do I need to register in thesis pending in order to have access to University facilities?
No, all students in their thesis pending period are entitled to the use of library facilities and University computing facilities but not to facilities for primary research. The student will also be entitled to a minimum of six meetings (either face-to-face or electronically) with their supervisor and for the supervisor to read and comment on one draft of their thesis prior to submission.
How do I apply to register in my thesis pending period?
Full-time students who are about to go into 'thesis pending' have the option to register and should have received an application form during their final year of registration. If you have any queries about this please contact the Student Administration Team for further details.
What is the fee payable for registering in thesis pending?
The current fee for the 2010/11 Session is £120 but this fee rises on an annual basis. Please see the Fee Schedule at
http://www.nottingham.ac.uk/fees/ for further information
I am nearing the end of my period of registered study; how long is my thesis pending period? (for PhD/MPhil students only)
Full time students - one year. Part-time students - two years
How do I set out my thesis?
A Submission pack contains information including guidelines on thesis layout.
How do I let the Registry/my School know I am about to submit my thesis?
A “Notice of Intention to Submit” Form is included in the submission pack, the completed form should be returned to the Registry preferably at least two months before you submit your thesis for examination.
Where do I submit my thesis?
The address form contained within the submission pack should be submitted together with the two softbound copies of your thesis to the Student Services Centre or by post to The Registry, E Floor, Portland Building, The University of Nottingham, University Park, Nottingham, NG7 2RD
How are examiners appointed for my examination?
Upon receipt of your completed Notice of Intention to Submit form, the Registry will ask your School to nominate Examiners. When approved, you will be notified in writing.
How do I find out about arrangements for my viva voce examination?
It is the responsibility of the Internal Examiner to arrange the viva voce examination and it is therefore important that you keep him/her advised of your contact details.
I am not going to be able to submit my thesis on time. Can I have an extension?
Examples of circumstances which would normally lead to an approval of an extension are given in the
Quality Manual. The relevant form should be completed and submitted to the Registry along with any evidence of extenuating circumstances for consideration. You will be notified in writing as soon as a decision has been made.
What is the fee for an extension to my thesis pending period?
Currently the fee is £115 per year but this is updated annually, see the
fee schedule
The examiners have recommended a re-submission of my thesis; how long is the re-submission period and what is the fee?
The resubmission period is one year from the date formal written notification is sent to you by the Registry. The fee is currently £180 but is updated annually, see the
fee schedule
What paperwork do I need to submit to the Registry with my hardbound thesis?
The completed Deposit and Loan form, one copy each of the title page and abstract (two copies if you are in the Faculty of Engineering) should be submitted with the final hardbound copy/copies of your thesis to the Registry c/o the Student Services Centre, B Floor, Portland Building or by post to The Registry, E Floor, Portland Building, The University of Nottingham, University Park, Nottingham, NG7 2RD.