The instantaneous "of course not"s that I've had to this question (mainly from tutors)make me fear that I'm just getting a Politically Correct reply - not one that necessarily reflects reality... Does anyone out there have any experience with this? (btw. I'm 43... hard working and aiming for a first. Cheers.

hi njr,
I am over 50 and got accepted for every PhD position I applied for (exactly 6). This was probably due to my recent academic work and years of experience (certainly more than some lecturers). Does this answer your concerns.

Thanks Simon - yes and no! Unfortunately I don't have years of experience in my degree subject - but here's hoping transferable skills count for something!

This is a big topic. Try searching the forum for things like 'age' or 'discrimination' - you'll find a few interesting (and hopefully encouraging) discussions.

I have the same question as njr. I'll be 53 in Feb. I am interested in a PhD in Physics/Optics and wonder how age is viewed.

A PhD student in my lab is 36 and the lab next door had a Msc student that was 50. So yes, if you apply you have a chance.