What is an MRes (Master of Research) degree? Can I bring my dependant to the UK with me?
MRes meaning: What does MRes stand for?
A Master of Research (MRes) is a type of UK postgraduate degree designed for students who want to develop advanced research skills. Unlike traditional ‘taught’ Master’s degrees (such as an MSc or MA), an MRes degree focuses heavily on independent research, combined with specialist taught modules.
What is an MRes degree?
An MRes (Master of Research) degree is a postgraduate qualification designed to develop advanced research skills through independent study, research methods training and a substantial research project or dissertation. Unlike many taught master's degrees, an MRes places greater emphasis on conducting original research and is often used as preparation for a PhD or research-focused career.
Many students choose an MRes degree to prepare for a PhD or research-focused careers in academia. However, the skills gained in qualitative and quantitative research are also highly valued by employers, particularly in industries where data-driven decision-making is crucial. Even if you’re not looking to pursue a PhD, an MRes degree develops valuable skills - equipping graduates to work independently and apply a research-driven approach in business, industry, and professional practice.
In this article Scholarship Scanner covers all aspects of an MRes degree in the UK, including MRes scholarships for international students and visa rules for dependants.
July 2026. This guide has been reviewed to reflect the latest UK Student visa rules, MRes course information and scholarship guidance available at the time of publication.
How is an MRes degree different from other Masters?
A standard MSc or MA typically combines taught modules with a final dissertation. An MRes, on the other hand, is more research-focused, with a substantial independent research project at its heart. While you’ll still complete some taught modules on an MRes, these are specifically designed to strengthen your research skills, rather than follow a traditional syllabus.
Both MA/MSc and MRes degrees are respected by employers and can lead to a wide range of career opportunities. The right choice for you will depend on your subject area and long-term goals.
If you’re considering a PhD or a career in academic research, an MRes is often the preferred route. It provides deeper research training and gives you a clearer sense of what doctoral study involves. That said, an MA or MSc can also be a strong foundation for PhD study, equipping you with relevant expertise and critical thinking skills.
Ultimately, an MRes degree offers more intensive research experience, which may help you decide whether a research-focused career is the right path for you.
If you're not planning to pursue a research degree or career in academia, and you’re looking to deepen your knowledge in a specific area - whether for personal growth or professional development - a taught master’s degree is a better choice for you.
Should you choose an MRes or an MSc?
Answer this simple question to decide which master's degree is likely to suit you best.
I want to carry out research
✓ Prepare for a PhD
✓ Develop advanced research skills
✓ Work in academia or research
I want professional knowledge
✓ Build industry skills
✓ Learn through taught modules
✓ Progress into employment
Although many MRes programmes allow eligible international students to bring dependants under current UK Student visa rules, you should choose an MRes because it matches your academic interests and long-term career ambitions—not solely because of visa eligibility.
| Feature | MRes (Master of Research) | MSc (Master of Science) |
|---|---|---|
| Main focus | Independent research and preparation for doctoral study | Taught modules with practical and theoretical learning |
| Research project | Typically 60–70% of the course | Usually around 25–40% of the course |
| Teaching style | Research methods, independent study and supervision | Lectures, seminars, coursework and exams |
| Typical duration | 1 year full-time | 1 year full-time |
| Best suited to | Students planning a PhD or research career | Students seeking professional or industry-focused careers |
| Typical assessment | Large research dissertation with limited taught assessment | Coursework, exams and a smaller dissertation |
| Can eligible international students bring dependants? | Often yes, if the course is classified as a postgraduate research programme for Student visa purposes. | Usually no, as most MSc courses are taught master's degrees. |
Which subject areas offer an MRes degree?
MRes degrees are available in a wide range of disciplines, including:
✔ Business
✔ Engineering
✔ Healthcare
✔ Social Sciences
✔ Environmental Sciences
Many UK universities offer specialised research Master's degrees tailored to industry and academic needs.
How long does an MRes degree take?
A full-time MRes degree in the UK usually takes one year, but this can vary depending on the university and course structure. Part-time MRes degrees may take two years or more.
For many international students, the benefits of studying a one year Masters in the UK can outweigh the cost of a UK Masters degree- especially when you consider the time saved and the career boost it can offer.
Scholarships for MRes students in the UK
Many UK universities offer scholarships that are open to students studying an MRes (Master of Research), although eligibility and funding levels vary between institutions. In addition to university-wide international scholarships, some faculties and research departments provide funding specifically for research-based master's degrees.
Unlike taught master's programmes, MRes students may also be eligible for research studentships, departmental bursaries and subject-specific awards in certain disciplines. Funding opportunities are often more common in areas such as science, engineering, health, social sciences and environmental research, although availability differs from one university to another.
Scholarships can take several forms, including:
Tuition fee discounts for international students
Merit-based scholarships recognising academic achievement
Research studentships funded by departments or research centres
Subject-specific awards for particular disciplines
Country or regional scholarships
External scholarships from charities, governments and funding organisations
Because scholarship deadlines and eligibility criteria change throughout the year, it's important to check the latest opportunities before applying.
Can MRes students bring dependents to the UK?
If you're an international student planning to study an MRes in the UK, you might be wondering about the UK dependant visa rules.
The UK dependant visa new rules (introduced in January 2024) mean that most international students can no longer bring their dependants with them to the UK.
However, the UK government’s new student visa rules only permit dependants for those studying a postgraduate research degree. Some universities classify an MRes degree UK as a research degree, but policies may vary.
Here’s what you need to know:
To apply for a UK dependant visa, you must be studying a ”research-based higher degree” at a UK university, such as an MRes degree or PhD.
If eligible, dependants (spouse/children) can apply for a UK dependant visa, but you must meet the UK dependant visa requirements regarding finances and accommodation.
An MRes degree UK is not always classified as a "research degree" for visa purposes, so check your university’s visa policy. For more details, visit the UK Government’s Visas and Immigration UKVI website or speak to your university’s international student office.
Scholarship Scanner insight
Since the UK restricted dependants for most taught master's degrees in 2024, interest in MRes programmes has increased because many are classified as postgraduate research degrees under the Student visa rules. However, you should choose an MRes because it aligns with your academic interests and long-term career goals, not solely because of visa eligibility. Universities and policymakers continue to monitor this area, so always check the latest guidance with your chosen university before applying.
Who is considered a dependant, and what are the UK dependant visa requirements?
If you’re an international student planning to study an MRes in the UK, you might be eligible to bring your dependants with you. A dependant is:
✔ Your spouse or civil partner
✔ Your unmarried partner (must prove you’ve lived together for at least two years)
✔ Your child under 18 (including those born in the UK during your stay)
To apply for a UK dependant visa, you must meet the eligibility criteria set by UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI). For full details, visit theUKVI website.
UK dependant visa fees
Each dependant must pay:
£490 for the visa application
The Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS) – check how much they’ll need to pay using the UK government’s IHS calculator.
Before applying for a UK dependant visa, check with your university whether your Master of Research (MRes) degree qualifies.
Start your scholarship search
With UK Masters fees being a significant investment, securing a scholarship can make studying in the UK more affordable and reduce financial stress. If you’re considering a UK MRes degree, it’s important to explore funding options early.
Begin your scholarship search UK by comparing available opportunities, including fully funded scholarships for international students. Use our UK Scholarship Finder to discover and apply for scholarships that align with your academic and career goals.
Good luck with your UK scholarship search!
Disclaimer: The visa information provided in this article is accurate as of 19th February 2025 and is based on details available from the UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) website. Visa rules and requirements are subject to change, so we strongly recommend checking the UKVI official website for the most up-to-date information before making any decisions.
Frequently asked questions
Still have questions about studying an MRes in the UK? Here are answers to the questions international students ask most often, from entry requirements and career prospects to visas and bringing dependants.
What is an MRes degree?
An MRes (Master of Research) is a postgraduate degree that focuses primarily on independent research rather than taught modules. It is designed to develop advanced research skills and is often chosen by students who are considering a PhD or a career in research.
Is an MRes the same as an MSc?
No. While both are master's degrees, an MSc is usually taught through lectures, seminars and coursework, whereas an MRes places much greater emphasis on independent research. An MRes typically includes a much larger research project than an MSc.
Is an MRes recognised internationally?
Yes. An MRes awarded by a recognised UK university is an internationally recognised postgraduate qualification. Graduates can use it to apply for PhD programmes or research-based careers around the world, although admission requirements vary between countries and institutions.
Can international students bring dependants on an MRes course?
In many cases, yes. International students studying a postgraduate research programme, such as many MRes degrees, may be eligible to bring dependants under the UK Student visa rules. However, not every MRes is classified as a postgraduate research programme, so you should always check with the university before applying.
Can I progress to a PhD after completing an MRes?
Yes. One of the main purposes of an MRes is to prepare students for doctoral research. The advanced research training and substantial dissertation make it an excellent stepping stone to a PhD.
How long does an MRes take?
Most MRes degrees in the UK take one year to complete if studied full-time. Part-time study is also available at many universities and typically takes two years.
How is an MRes assessed?
Assessment usually consists of a combination of research methods assignments and a substantial independent research project or dissertation. Compared with an MSc, there are generally fewer examinations and taught assessments.
How much does an MRes cost for international students?
Tuition fees vary between universities and subjects, but international students can typically expect to pay between £18,000 and £35,000 for a one-year MRes. Laboratory-based and clinical subjects are often more expensive than arts and social sciences.
Are scholarships available for MRes students?
Yes. Many UK universities offer scholarships that are open to MRes students, although eligibility varies. Some universities also provide research studentships or department-specific funding. You can use Scholarship Scanner's database to search for the latest opportunities.
Is an MRes worth it?
An MRes can be an excellent investment if you want to pursue a PhD, develop advanced research skills or prepare for a research-focused career. If your goal is to gain professional qualifications for industry, an MSc may be a better fit.
Should I choose an MRes mainly because I can bring my dependants?
No. While eligibility to bring dependants may be an important consideration for some international students, you should choose an MRes because it aligns with your academic interests and long-term career goals. An MRes is a research-intensive degree and is best suited to students who enjoy independent study or are considering a PhD. Choosing a course solely because of visa rules may not be the right decision for your future.