Duration

Full-time duration

The maximum period of study for full-time doctoral studies is four years (deadline to deposit the doctoral thesis).

At the end of the four years, the Academic Committee of the Programme can authorize an extension of up to one year, if they deem it convenient according to the research’s evolution and in accordance with the criteria established in each programme.

The minimum period of study for full-time doctoral studies is two years.

IMPORTANT: The maximum period of study for full-time doctoral students who have been admitted prior to the 2023-2024 academic year was three years.  One year’s extension and another exceptional additional year can be authorized.

Part-time duration

The maximum period of study for part-time doctoral studies is seven years (deadline to deposit the doctoral thesis).

At the end of the seven years, the Academic Committee of the Programme can authorize an extension of up to one year, if they deem it convenient according to the research’s evolution and in accordance with the criteria established in each programme.

The minimum period of study for part-time doctoral studies is four years.

IMPORTANT: The maximum period of study for part-time doctoral students who have been admitted prior to the 2023-2024 academic year was five years.  Two years' extension and another exceptional year additional year can be authorized.

Application for Change full- or part-time Status

Your full- or part-time status is indicated at the time of the first enrolment, by means of the "Commitment agreement between the doctoral student and thesis supervisor".

During the course of the doctoral studies, a change in full- or part-time status may be requested only once. It can only be authorized before the end of the initial period of studies and if none extension has been granted. The Generic Request form of the PheDra application;must be used; the request will be evaluated first by the thesis directors and, subsequently, by the Academic Commission of the Doctoral program.

Application for Extension

At the end of the initial studies' period according to the full- or part-time status assigned and before the next enrolment time, doctoral students may request an extension. The Generic Request form of the PheDra application;must be used; the request will be evaluated first by the thesis directors and, subsequently, by the Academic Commission of the Doctoral program. 

Application for Temporary Withdrawal

Doctoral students may request temporary withdrawal from the program for a maximum period of one year, extendable to one additional year. The Generic Request form of the PheDra application;must be used; the request will be evaluated first by the thesis directors and, subsequently, by the Academic Commission of the Doctoral program.