Postgraduate Research Global Update as of January 2026

Our unique Pulse trackers and Share of Search data provide insights on thousands of prospective students interested in Global PhD opportunities. As of January 2026, we’re seeing that:

• Interest in US research continues to fall from all tracked audiences, as it did for much of 2025. Despite this, it remains a top 5 PhD study destination for all audiences.
  
  
• All tracked audiences are currently more likely to seek Blended over Online study. On Campus remains the preference for all, though only 54% of North American audiences are seeking On Campus opportunities.
  
  
• More than half of audiences for all tracked destinations are now targeting an Autumn 2026 start date, and between 68% and 74% of audiences across our tracked destinations are looking towards the 2026/27 academic year. Those interested in US study are the most likely to be looking considering a 2027 start.
  
  
• Despite falling interest in US PGR in general, we see significant growth in interest for Biochemistry and Data Science research from those still considering the US.