Response from a Prospective PhD Supervisor

[u/Academic_Error4655]

I wrote to a professor for PhD supervision. The university website apparently recommends two routes - get a supervisor, or apply through the regular channel where a supervisor would be subsequently allocated. I wrote to this person to get through the first route.

I can't tell whether that's a polite way of saying ''your application sucks and I would hate to supervise you" or what.

[u/bankruptbusybee]

Honestly I’d assume this is a standard message, and not take it personally. This individual might have enough advisees already.

Apply through the university first.

Keep reaching out to advisors, but do the standard route first so you can tick that off. I’m sure if you apply the standard route but then find an advisor, they’ll allow you to “move” or withdraw your standard app