MRes vs PhD in the UK: How Bangladeshi Students Can Choose the Right Path

Choosing between an MRes (Master of Research) and a PhD (Doctor of Philosophy) is one of the most critical decisions for Bangladeshi students aiming to study and research in the UK. Both pathways open doors to top academic and industry roles, but they differ in length, cost, funding opportunities, and career outcomes. This guide breaks it down so you can make the right choice, whether your goal is research experience, an academic career, or high-impact work back home.

What Is an MRes vs a PhD?

UK Programme Types You’ll See

Stand-Alone MRes

Perfect for building research experience quickly. Examples: University of Bristol (MRes Biomedical Research), University of Exeter (MRes Politics).

Integrated 1+3 PhD

One year of MRes/MSc research training + 3 years of PhD. Funding is often provided via UKRI Centres for Doctoral Training (CDTs) or Doctoral Training Partnerships (DTPs). Example: Imperial College London’s EPSRC CDT in AI for Healthcare (fully funded for 4 years).

Classic 3-Year PhD

Jump straight to your PhD project (after a short probation). This is beneficial if you already hold a research master’s degree or have a clear research proposal.

Funding Opportunities

• UKRI Stipend Increase: The minimum UKRI PhD stipend will rise to £20,780 per year from October 2025, plus tuition fees covered at the UKRI rate.

• CDT/DTP Studentships: Many integrated PhDs are fully funded — tuition + stipend + sometimes industry placements.

• MRes Scholarships: Although limited, some universities offer partial fee waivers or discounted progression to PhD years for those who meet academic standards.

Tip: If budget is a significant factor, prioritise fully funded PhDs or CDT routes. An MRes is best used when it leads directly to a funded PhD (so you avoid paying twice).

Visa, Dependants & Graduate Route Updates 

• Dependants: UK visa rules now allow research degree students (MRes, PhD, integrated routes) to bring dependants if the programme is full-time and research-based.

• Post-Study Work: The Graduate Route (2 years for master’s, 3 years for PhDs) remains in place as of 2025 after MAC review recommended keeping it. Always double-check before applying, as policies can shift.
  

Costs & Budget Planning (GBP + BDT)

*Assumes ~BDT 135 per GBP. Funded studentships usually cover tuition + stipend.

Decision Framework: Which Path Should You Choose?

Choose MRes if:

• You need research training or lack a strong research background.

• You want to test your interest before a 3-4 year commitment.

• Your MRes leads directly into a funded PhD (integrated route).
  

Choose PhD if:

• You have a clear topic and supervisor.

• You can secure funding (UKRI studentship, CDT, DTP, or departmental).

• You want to bring dependants or maximise Graduate Route time in the UK.
  

Example Programmes 

FAQs

Do I need an MRes to do a PhD?
Not always. If you have a research-based master’s or a strong academic record, you can go straight to a PhD.

Can I combine an MRes, a scholarship, and PhD funding?
Yes — if your MRes is part of a funded 1+3 programme, you get funding from Year 1. If you stand alone, you must apply for separate PhD funding later.

Which is safer for visa & dependants?
Research programmes (MRes/PhD) are generally safer under current rules than taught master’s for dependants.

Let Us Help You Choose

“Confused between MRes and PhD? Our expert education counselors can help you:

• Shortlist universities offering funded integrated 1+3 routes

• Check the Bangladesh degree equivalency for UK research programmes.

• Build a competitive research proposal for PhD supervisors.

• Understand visa, dependants, and Graduate Route implications

• Maximise your chances of scholarships and studentships.

Book your free consultation today and take the first confident step toward your UK research career!