FAQs for competitors

Yes, palm cards and/or speech notes are acceptable, however this option may detract from the delivery of the 3MT and is not recommended.

No, additional props (e.g. costumes, musical instruments, laboratory equipment) are not permitted during a 3MT presentation. Laser pointers are allowed, however not encouraged (your slide should be simple enough that you do not need to emphasise elements to the audience).

Yes, quotes can be included from a poem or song if it is relevant to the presenter's thesis topic (spoken word only). Poetry and song lyrics are not permitted to be used to present the entire 3MT and their use should be very limited.

One single static PowerPoint slide is permitted. In preparing the slide, remember that 'less is more'. It does not have to include text. Visual cues are very effective in assisting the presenter's explanation of their research (No slide transitions, animations, sound or 'movement' is permitted).

No additional electronic media (e.g. sound and video files) is permitted during a 3MT presentation.

While this decision rests with each School/Faculty/University, we would discourage remote presentations (if conducting a live event). As an important aspect of the competition is audience engagement, anyone who would choose to present via conferencing facilities would be at a disadvantage compared to other competitors.

There is no stipulated dress requirement such as ‘smart casual’. Some have worn suits with ties, others t-shirts and jeans. Please wear whatever is comfortable for you. NO COSTUMES (including hats, masks, Dame Edna specs, etc).

Yes, it is possible to win a place (First and Runner-Up) and win the People's Choice award.

The winner of each heat or final is expected to represent their School/Institute/Faculty/University at the next stage of the competition. If the winner is unable to attend the final, the runner-up will proceed to the next round of the competition.

Higher education institutions around the world are invited to participate in the Three Minute Thesis Competition. The University of Queensland is pleased to welcome new institutions to the 3MT family each year.

Complete the 3MT Event and Brand Permission Form to receive permission, resources and information needed to run a competition.

For example, if a student, during their presentation, asked the audience to “raise their right arm” while demonstrating how to do so, and explaining the reason for doing so, is that allowable in the competition?

Yes, the presenter is allowed to interact with the audience. This should be limited and rhetorical in nature and not break any of the 3MT rules (e.g. no props, only spoken word)