My viva examination

About the viva

What is the viva?

The viva is an oral examination at the end of your doctoral degree. The viva is usually conducted via video conference. It is a formal panel of two external examiners at which you will discuss your research. The viva takes place after the examiners have reviewed your thesis.

If you commenced or were readmitted to candidature from 2025 onwards, you must have a viva as part of your examination. If you commenced before 2025, you will select whether you will have a viva when registering your intention to submit on Thesis Examination System (TES).

The viva offers you a chance to engage deeply with examiners and gain valuable feedback while showcasing your expertise. During the viva, you will demonstrate your knowledge, discuss your theoretical framework, methodology and findings, and actively engage in an academic discussion.

The viva examination will assess your depth of knowledge and its contribution to your field. In particular, the viva will focus on your ability to explain and contextualise your research.

Doctoral graduate researchers who recently participated in a viva have reported:

• “The viva brings the PhD to a satisfying close.”
• “The experience was so much better than receiving an email of my examination outcome.”
• “I was nervous about the viva but felt at ease once the viva commenced.”
• “I was invited by the examiners to join their labs.”
• “The examiners were genuinely interested in my research.”

What is the purpose of the viva?

The viva examination is an integral component of your final assessment that ensures you meet academic and research standards. The purpose of the viva is to:

• provide an opportunity for you to discuss your research in detail with examiners who are leaders in their field
• enable the examiners to clarify and explore any concerns with the thesis
• assure examiners that the work presented is your own and clarify your contribution to any collaborative research
• facilitate the examiners reaching an agreement on an examination outcome
• enable communication of the examination outcome to you on the day that the viva is held, including, where relevant, an indication of required revisions to the thesis.

It also provides an opportunity for you to respond to any criticism or challenges, as well as to clarify any issues, corrections or revisions with your examiners.

Who completes the viva?

The viva is compulsory for all doctoral graduate researchers who commence on or after 1 January 2025.

From late 2025, current doctoral graduate researchers will be able to opt in for the viva examination.

The viva is a requirement for PhD/doctoral graduate researchers who are readmitted to candidature after withdrawing or cancelling their candidature.

The viva is not a requirement for candidates enrolled in a Master of Philosophy (MPhil) or masters by research degree. It is only applicable to doctoral candidates.

If you are enrolled in a joint PhD, a viva examination is usually required as part of the examination process. The specific requirements are outlined in your Graduate Researcher Agreement (GR Agreement), where the viva may be referred to as an oral examination or defence. Find more information on Joint PhD examinations.

What are you evaluated on?

The viva examination evaluates:

• your command and critical assessment of your field
• the methods and techniques used in your work and your understanding of their principles, strengths and limitations
• whether you have generated original knowledge that makes a significant contribution to your field, in which the research objectives are tested or explored according to disciplinary norms
• your independence of thought and approach
• your ability to effectively communicate original research findings to appropriate professional, academic and industry audiences, and in national and international contexts
• your understanding of, and commitment to, research ethics and integrity
• your ability to undertake a careful, rigorous and cohesive piece of original research.

Find more information in Schedule 3: Doctoral degree examination criteria and outcomes.

Who attends the viva?

• You, the graduate researcher
• The viva chair: Typically, your advisory committee chair moderates the session to ensure it follows University policies and facilitates discussion.
• Two external examiners: These will be the same examiners who assessed your thesis.

Your supervisors do not attend the viva but will support your preparation for it.

Before the viva

Confirm the examination date

You are expected to be available to attend your viva examination. The viva will take place approximately three to four months after you submit your thesis. This is to allow enough time for your examiners to assess the thesis.

You will be asked about your availability to attend a viva when you submit your thesis for examination. The Graduate Research Examinations team will try to accommodate your preferences, but this may not always be possible.

Once your thesis has been sent to both examiners, the Graduate Research Examinations team will coordinate with them, your viva chair, and you to find the best date and time for the examination. Generally, your viva will be scheduled for approximately nine weeks from when your thesis is sent to the second examiner.

Once everyone has agreed on the time and date, you will receive a video conference invite via email.

Understand the examination’s expectations and requirements

When preparing for the viva examination, ensure you are confident about the viva’s expectations and requirements. These include:

• a clear understanding of the viva process
• what you will be assessed on
• the examination format
• any rules and requirements
• any technical requirements.

The Examination of Doctoral Degrees by Viva Process is a good place to start to ensure that you fully understand the expectations and requirements of the viva. Don’t forget that you can approach your supervisor and advisory committee chair to clarify any questions you may have.

Refresh your knowledge

Revision is crucial when preparing for the viva examination. Effective revision will not only help you feel more confident during the viva but also enable you to engage in meaningful discussions about your work. The period between submission and examination is approximately three to four months, which allows you plenty of time for revision and related preparation.

Here are a few ideas to get started:

Read through your thesis carefully

Reading through your thesis is a great place to start your revision as you prepare for your viva. It will help refresh your memory of your main arguments, key findings and how you have structured your research.

Reflect on the broader context of your research

You should be ready to discuss how your work fits within the wider field of study. Try revisiting recent developments in your field and consider how your findings contribute to or challenge existing knowledge.

Reflect on your theoretical and methodical choices

You should expect questions about the frameworks and methods you used and how they influenced your findings. Consider how you would explain the ways you addressed any challenges encountered during your research.

Consider your development as a researcher

You may realise you could have used different methodologies or pursued different aspects of your questions. You might also have identified limitations in your work. These reflections demonstrate your growth as a researcher and should be welcomed by examiners as showing capability.

Since research takes time, some parts of your thesis may be several years old by the time the thesis is completed and may no longer be completely current. This is normal. It also provides an opportunity for you to reflect on how you and the field have developed as the work progressed.

Prepare to discuss any limitations and future work

Examiners appreciate when you acknowledge the limitations of your research and propose how future studies could address these gaps. Try reflecting on what you learned during your research journey and how it could shape your future work.

Arrange a mock viva

Effective practise is essential for a successful viva examination. It helps you refine your ability to communicate your research clearly and confidently, while also preparing you for the different questions you might encounter.

A mock viva examination is a great opportunity for you to practise. You can arrange a mock viva examination with your advisory committee members or even with some of your peers. This exercise will help simulate the real examination environment and give you the chance to identify and address any weaknesses in your responses.

Here are some strategies to make the most of a mock exam:

• Treat it seriously: Approach the mock exam as though it were an actual viva. Dress as you would for the real examination, create a similar environment and prepare your materials and mindset as if it is the actual day.
• Ask supervisors to act as examiners: Supervisors or their colleagues can play the role of examiners, using their familiarity with your work to ask challenging and probing questions. They may provide different perspectives or insights into your thesis that you hadn’t previously considered.
• Practise for likely questions: Examiners will typically ask a very broad question at the start of the viva, such as, ‘Tell me about the main arguments of your thesis’. You may want to prepare a three to four minute overview of your research. You may also want to practice a shorter ‘elevator pitch’ about the main impact or potential impacts of your research.
• Anticipate unexpected questions: Recognise that your supervisors may highlight areas not previously discussed in your meetings. This is beneficial for thinking critically about your thesis and preparing to respond to spontaneous questions during the real viva.
• Focus on weaknesses: Use the mock exam to identify areas where you feel less confident. Supervisors can deliberately probe these aspects to help you develop strategies for addressing difficult or unexpected questions effectively.
• Analyse the feedback: After the mock exam, work with your supervisor or colleagues to review your performance constructively. Discuss what went well and any areas for improvement, creating a plan to address these before the actual viva.
• Time it strategically: Schedule the mock viva within two weeks of the actual examination. This time allows you to reflect on feedback and make necessary adjustments while keeping the experience fresh in your mind.
• Practise explaining complex ideas clearly: The viva is about both your knowledge and your ability to articulate it effectively. Practise explaining complex concepts in simple terms, as this demonstrates a clear and deep understanding of your work.
• Boost confidence: Use the mock viva to practise staying calm and composed under pressure. Even if the mock viva is challenging, remember that its purpose is to prepare you for the real examination by building resilience and adaptability.
• Practise spontaneity: Use the mock exam to practise providing clear, well-reasoned responses to unexpected queries.
• Rehearse aloud: Speaking your answers out loud, even on your own, is critical for developing the clarity, flow and confidence needed to articulate your thoughts effectively during the viva.

The goal of the mock viva is to refine your ability to explain and justify your research and help you feel more confident and prepared for the official viva. Constructive challenges during the mock viva will leave you better equipped to handle the real examination.

There are many online guides to help you prepare for your viva. Some guides point out that preparing for the viva can be similar to preparing for a job interview, so job interview preparation guides may also be useful.

Meet with your viva chair the week before

You and your viva chair should meet a week before your viva examination. During this meeting they will explain the viva process, confirm any agreed adjustments, answer any questions you may have and ensure you understand what is expected from you on the day. This is a good opportunity for you to raise any concerns or questions.

Look after yourself

We understand that preparing for the viva examination can be a stressful experience. During this time, we encourage you to prioritise your mental and physical health. This includes maintaining good energy levels, taking regular study breaks and reaching out to people when you need more support.

Ways that you can look after yourself may include:

• establishing a sustainable routine
• maintaining a balanced sleep schedule
• taking regular study breaks
• engaging in physical activity
• allowing time for hobbies and activities
• reaching out to your friends and family
• reaching out to the University’s support services, if necessary.

The night before

The night before your viva examination can be particularly daunting. You might be tempted to squeeze in some last-minute practise; however, this can add unnecessary stress and fatigue. Getting a good sleep the night before will help you feel mentally prepared, alert and ready to focus.

Preparation checklist

A preparation plan will help you approach your viva with confidence. This short checklist can help reassure you that you have taken all the necessary steps to refamiliarise yourself with your thesis, anticipate potential questions and refine your responses.

I know my thesis thoroughly

I have made brief notes of the key points from each chapter

I can explain how my thesis fits into the big picture

I have kept up to date with relevant literature

I know what the implications of my research are to both theory and practice

I have reflected on the strengths, limitations and evolution of my work

I have had a mock viva with my supervisor

I have asked my peers to quiz and challenge me about my thesis

I have explained my thesis to colleagues or friends who are not familiar with it

I have pre-prepared answers to potential questions

I have investigated the backgrounds and publications of my examiners

I have reviewed the University of Melbourne guidelines for vivas

I have explored or considered other viva guidance

I have identified areas of my thesis that are likely to be challenged

I have marked up my thesis to help me refer to it in the viva

I know how I will be informed of the outcome of my viva

I know where I will be during the viva and have prepared the relevant equipment

Preparation resources

• Examination of Doctoral Degrees by Viva Process
• A guide for viva preparation

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On the day of the viva

Setting up

On the day of the viva examination, you will need to ensure that your technical setup and environment are well prepared. Below are key areas to focus on to create a smooth and professional experience.

Please note: In some cases, the graduate researcher and viva chair may be in physical meeting room for the examination. If you expect to be in the same room as your viva chair, then some of the following guidance may not apply to you.

Materials

• A copy of your thesis/dissertation: This should ideally be a printed hard copy of your thesis or a digital copy.
• Computer and charger: Use a reliable laptop/PC with a backup device. Keep your device plugged in or fully charged and bring a backup power source, if necessary.
• Your student ID: You may be asked to present your student ID at the start of your examination.
• Notepad and pen: These will be useful if you need to write down examiner questions or important points during the discussion.

Environment

Creating a quiet space that minimises potential distractions and ensuring a comfortable, yet professional, setting will help you stay composed and engaged throughout the viva.

• Log in early: Log in at least 10 minutes before your viva examination to give yourself a wide window to test your audio and video. You will be placed in a waiting room before being invited in by the viva chair.
• Quiet space: Choose a room where you won’t be interrupted.
• Do-not-disturb mode: Make sure you leave your phone, smart watch and any undeclared devices in a different room.
• Backup plan: Have your viva chair’s contact details ready in case there is an unexpected disconnection.

Technical

Before your viva, take the time to ensure your computer, internet and software are all working. Technical issues and disruptions can cause you unnecessary stress, but luckily this can be avoided with a little preparation.

• Internet connection: Ensure you have a stable internet connection. This may involve visiting the exam location ahead of time.
• Video conference software: Ensure that the video conference software you are using is updated and working to avoid last-minute delays or issues during your examination. You may want to ask the viva chair or your supervisors to test the software with you.
• Audio and microphone: Test that your audio and microphone are working before your examination begins.
• Background and lighting: Use a neutral, clear background and ensure that the space is well-lit with the light facing you, not behind you.

During your viva

The opening questions

The viva examination will begin with general opening questions about your thesis. You should aim to answer with a three to four minute-long overview of your thesis or research, focusing on aspects that are relevant to the questions asked.

The discussion

Once you have completed your opening questions, the examiners will begin to ask you more specific questions about your research. This discussion is moderated by the viva chair and the examiners will have one to two hours to ask questions.

The examiners’ questions will primarily address any areas of concern they have identified. You will have the opportunity to discuss your work with well-reasoned academic arguments or acknowledge where revisions could strengthen the thesis.

Discussion tips

• Listen closely and carefully: Take your time to listen to each question without assuming you know where it’s going. Be mindful of what the examiner is specifically asking, rather than focusing on what you anticipated they would ask or would prefer to answer. This ensures that your response is targeted and relevant.
• Take notes on each question: When the examiners ask a question, write it down. This approach helps you stay on topic and allows you to fully address each aspect of the question. Writing the question also helps you to consider your response thoughtfully, which can help reduce the impulse to rush.
• Seek clarification when needed: If a question seems unclear, don’t hesitate to ask for clarification. This shows your commitment to giving a precise answer and prevents you from veering off-topic.
• Take a moment to reflect before answering: Pausing briefly before responding can help you gather your thoughts. As noted above, rather than feeling the pressure to respond immediately, remember that taking a moment to structure your answer is acceptable and can lead to a more confident and coherent response.

The deliberation

At the conclusion of the viva, you will be excused while the examiners discuss and agree on the outcome of the examination. This process should take no more than 30 minutes, and the viva chair will remain present while the examiners discuss.

During this time, you may step away to relax and gather your thoughts. You may wish to get some fresh air, have a drink of water, relax with a colleague or friend, or have a bathroom break. However, please make sure you’re back at your computer well before the 30 minutes to ensure you can be invited back into the meeting once the deliberation is complete.

The outcome summary

After the deliberation, you will be invited back to the meeting and advised of the outcome of the examination. You will also be provided with a verbal indication of any revisions required, and the timeline for completing these revisions.

What happens if the examination needs to be rescheduled?

If you are unable to attend your viva, or a significant proportion of your viva due to technical difficulties, please contact the Graduate Research Examinations team so they are aware of what has happened and can help you reschedule your viva.

After the viva

The formal outcome

After the viva, the examiners will prepare a brief final report outlining the examination outcome and any required revisions to the thesis. This report must be submitted to the viva chair within five business days after their viva.

On approval of the chair of examiners, you will receive the formal outcome notification from the Graduate Research Examinations team with the next steps. The final report and preliminary reports will also be shared with you and your principal supervisor.

Examiner revisions

It’s worth remembering that completing the viva is not the final step to finishing your degree. Once you have received your formal outcome, you must next complete any examiners’ revisions. This might include only minor changes to your thesis or more substantial rewrites.

You will need to make sure you complete these revisions by the required deadline.

What happens next?

Congratulations on completing your viva examination! Now that you have finished your viva and completed any examiner revisions, it’s time for you to start thinking about finalising your citation and submitting a copy of your thesis to the University's institutional publications repository, Minerva Access.

Next: My thesis in the library

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