OVERVIEW

The AHRO Center for Academic Research allows current students and researchers to visit the center to conduct research of their choice. Participants can select from any of the multi-AHRO sites for their research activities. Candidates may spend between 3 to 12 months at AHRO, depending on the scope and duration of their research. Undergraduate students are also encouraged to apply, making the program accessible to individuals at various stages of their academic journey.

How to Apply

Students or researchers interested in visiting the AHRO Center for Academic Research should submit their application at least 8 weeks before their proposed start date.

Application Process

There is no official application form. Instead, prospective visitors must submit a Letter of Intent to the Admission Officer, including the following information:

1. Personal Information

   • Full name, contact details, and any relevant identification information.

2. Education Details

   • Provide details of your current degree program or academic qualifications.
   • Attach a confirmation letter from your institution verifying your current enrollment.

3. English Language Proficiency

   • Submit certification of your competence in English (e.g., TOEFL, IELTS, or equivalent).

4. Supporting Statement

   • Include an official letter from your institution, on official headed paper, signed and stamped.
   • If the original letter is not in English, an official translation must also be provided.
   • The letter should confirm:
     • The title of your current study program.
     • Your enrollment date.
     • Your expected completion date.

5. References

   • Provide a reference letter from your current tutor or academic advisor, commenting on your academic performance and suitability for the program.

Processing Time

Applicants should allow 6 weeks for their applications to be processed.

Fee Structure for Visiting Students

• Visits up to 3 months: No fee will be charged.
• Visits between 3 and 6 months: £500.
• Visits between 6 and 9 months: £2,000.
• Visits between 9 and 12 months: £4,500.
• Visits longer than 12 months: Standard tuition fees for your fee status will apply.

Application Requirements for Visiting Academic Researchers

Visiting academic researchers must apply by submitting a Letter of Intent with the following details:

1. Current CV: A comprehensive summary of academic and professional achievements.
2. Research Proposal: A clear outline of the research you intend to conduct.
3. References: At least one reference from an academic or professional source.
4. Source of Funding: Documentation, such as a sponsorship letter, indicating how you will fund your visit.

Fee Structure for Visiting Researchers

The following fees apply for 12 months of study:

• For shorter visits, fees will be calculated on a pro-rata basis, depending on the number of months spent at AHRO.

Research Expenses

For certain periods of visiting research, a supplementary fee may be charged to cover the costs of additional facilities and consumables required for your research. This fee will be detailed in your Offer of Admission Letter.

English Language Requirements

All Visiting Researchers and Visiting Students must demonstrate effective communication skills in English, including reading, writing, speaking, and listening, to succeed in an academic environment.

Certification of English Competence

As part of your application, you should provide evidence of your English proficiency. This can include:

• Results from previous English language tests (e.g., IELTS, TOEFL).
• Proof of prior study conducted in English.

English Language Proficiency Levels

1. For Visitors Requiring a Student Visa:

   • If you are visiting for up to 6 months and wish to apply for a Student Visa, or visiting for over 6 months up to 12 months, you must meet the UKVI English language requirement before your visit.
   • Minimum requirement:
     • Overall IELTS score: 5.5
     • Score per skill (reading, writing, speaking, listening): 5.5

2. For Visitors Not Requiring a Visa or Applying for a Standard Visitor Visa:

   • If you do not require a visa to study in the UK, or you are visiting for up to 6 months with a Standard Visitor Visa, your competency will be assessed on a case-by-case basis during your application review.
   • If English proficiency needs to be demonstrated, you must meet the same minimum IELTS requirement:
     • Overall IELTS score: 5.5
     • Score per skill: 5.5

Further Information for Supervisors

For any questions or additional information, please contact the Student Admissions Officer.

If you have an applicant you wish to accept, please reach out to the Admissions Officer for your department. They will assist in initiating the process to ensure your student is formally accepted into the AHRO Center for Academic Research.