how to enroll in phd in usa

PhD Admission Guide

Gain admission to your dream school, guide to phd admission.

While some students swear off further education after undergrad, some love the thrill of intellectual discovery and research. For these students, graduate school is a natural choice. Graduate degrees are separated into “professional” and “academic” categories. Professional degrees are JDs and MDs, while academic degrees are PhDs (literally “Doctorates of Philosophy” regardless of what field you actually study).

Whether or not you need to pursue a PhD depends entirely on what career you wish to have. Some require higher education, while many others do not. In this guide we’ll go over how to apply to PhD programs, what they are looking for, and how the application process works. This guide is focused on the US and Canada; Europe has a system which is simultaneously similar and very different.

What PhD Programs Look For

PhD programs want to make sure you are prepared academically for the rigors of the program, and that you have a concrete research goal in mind. PhD programs culminate with each student answering a research question they devise, contributing new knowledge to the world in the process. 

Thus these programs seek to evaluate your intellectual ability, research goals, previous research experience, and how you will contribute to their program. To determine this, they ask for the following:

Letters of Recommendation

We’ll go through each of these in turn, and explain what graduate programs are looking for from each.

Your GPA in undergrad is the single most important factor in PhD admissions. If your GPA is too low your application will be dismissed out of hand. While there are no hard limits, we suggest a minimum GPA of 3.5 for serious contention, especially at top schools. If your GPA is below 3.0 then you will likely not get admitted into any PhD programs.

The reason for this is that PhD programs are a lot of work. Being intelligent is necessary, but is far from sufficient alone. Everyone in PhD programs is intelligent, and everyone is also willing to do the work. Your GPA is seen as the primary indicator of your willingness and ability to do academic work to a high standard, and your preparation for the rigors of a PhD program.

Along with your overall GPA, schools request your major GPA. This is your GPA when calculated only using courses in your major. This is usually expected to be higher than your overall GPA. Your major GPA should be over 3.5.

While taking harder courses in undergrad is a great experience, they can also harm your overall GPA. Of course, the best approach is to take very hard classes and do well in them, but this is not always possible. We recommend taking a blend of courses, so you are never overloaded, and able to give each the attention it needs to do well.

Academic Preparation

Your GPA and transcript is also used to judge your academic preparation for the program. You should have a solid grounding in the field, and have taken advanced courses as well. Taking graduate level courses in undergrad can exemplify this. 

Some PhD programs also require research languages. This is more common in the social sciences and humanities, but all students will benefit from knowing other languages well enough to do research in them. You should look up language requirements when researching programs to apply to.

The Graduate Record Examinations (GRE) is a standardized test meant for students who intend to apply to graduate programs. Both MA and PhD programs ask for GRE scores. Much like the SAT or ACT in college exams, the test is meant to be a standardized measure of academic preparation and logical skill.

The test consists of six sections. The first is writing, next are two on verbal reasoning, then two on quantitative reasoning, and finally a research or experimental section, meant to test new questions. The entire test is offered on the computer, with one minute breaks after each section, and a ten minute break after the third section. While there is also a paper-based test, almost all testing is now done on a computer. Due to the pandemic, both testing centers and at-home testing are offered. The GRE is a multi-stage test, and how well you do on earlier sections determines the difficulty of later sections and questions. 

The verbal sections each consist of 20 questions, to be answered over 30 minutes. The whole is scored on a scale of 130-170. The quantitative section is scored the same, and consists of two 20 question sections, each of which should be completed in 35 minutes. The writing section is scored from 0-6. For this section, you write an essay on a given issue in 30 minutes, and offer a response critiquing a provided argument for 30 minutes.

Your total score from the GRE is given from 130-170. While the exact scores you need to enter graduate school vary, higher is better. In addition, some programs only care about your verbal score, while others only care about your quantitative score. How much weight each program puts on GRE scores varies greatly.

We recommend studying for the GRE for some time before testing. You can take the GRE up to five times per year, but must wait at least 21 days between testing dates. Only scores from the past 5 years will be released or considered by graduate programs.

Curriculum Vitae

This is akin to a resume, but is dissimilar enough that the two cannot be used interchangeably. The purpose of a CV is, like a resume, to detail what you have accomplished academically and in your career. It is far more focused on academics however, and is widely used for academic careers.

We recommend finding a template for a CV online, or asking your college’s advisors for help in creating one. If you already have a resume, then you will easily be able to convert it into a CV.

What admissions officers are looking for in your activities is primarily signs of research. This should be in whatever field you intend to pursue a PhD in. Publications are also incredibly valuable. All of academia runs on publication, and getting an early start helps your career at every step.

You should try to do research while still in undergrad. What this looks like depends entirely on what field you are pursuing. While the research does not have to exactly line up with what you wish to pursue, it should teach you skills which are cross applicable. Higher level academic research has its own set of methods and language which must be learned, and students who are already familiar with the forms and structures of research have a leg up in graduate school. 

Publication is not required, but is nice to see. If you have completed a master’s degree, you should have some publication history; of your thesis if nothing else. Speak with your academic advisors about getting your work published.

Each graduate school you apply to will ask for an essay. You will be able to use the same basic form for each, but will need to edit it to be about the particular program you are applying to. Most schools only require a single essay, although some programs ask for a second on diversity.

The purpose of this essay is to explain your research interests, what you have studied, your intended area of specialization, and what your focus will be on. Every PhD student is asking and trying to answer a very specific research question. This question forms the basis of their dissertation, and will be the focus of your life for several years if you are accepted.

Thus the essay is the most important part of your application. Your grades and GRE are required to see if you are academically ready for graduate school, but the essay lets readers know if you are a match for their program, and serious about your research.

Your essay should begin by stating which program you are applying to, and why. Next, go through your previous academic experience in the field, both coursework and research. You don’t have to go through every class, but cover the ones most relevant to your desired research topic.

You should discuss any prior research you have done in the field. If you completed a thesis for your undergraduate degree or a master’s program, cover that here. If you have any publication credits, cover those as well. This should relate directly to the field you are trying to enter. If you wish to pursue lab work, discuss your previous experiences; if instead you are pursuing field work, talk about your experiences there.

Next you should talk about the research you specifically wish to pursue through a PhD. You don’t need to have an exact research question worked out, but it is helpful to have some idea; you should at least know the subfield you will be focusing on. The more specific you are, the better. Having some discussion of methodology can be nice, but is not always necessary.

If there are any ongoing research projects ongoing at the school you wish to work on, cover those next. You should discuss how these projects specifically relate to your own research interests. Finally, you should talk about which professors you wish to work with. Professors take on graduate students to advise, and you ideally want one with a specialization at least tangentially related to your field of interest. The more closely related the professor’s studies are to your own, the better.

You will be able to leave much of this essay the same for each school you apply to, changing only the name of the program, the research projects, and the professors you wish to work with. 

This essay should be a page and a half to two pages long, single spaced. You should go into sufficient detail for those reading it to understand the research you want to pursue. These essays are reviewed by the faculty who run the department, and they make the admissions decisions for PhD programs. There are many more applicants than there are spaces, and admissions rates are low. The more specific and detailed you are in this essay, the better the faculty will understand your research aims, and the better your chances will be.

Diversity Statements

Not all programs ask for these, but you will likely be able to reuse the same essay for those that do. The purpose of the diversity statement is to see what unique points of view and experiences you will be able to contribute to the program. PhDs are about learning, and the more viewpoints and ideas within a program, the broader the experience will be.

If you are a member of an underrepresented group, an immigrant, come from an underprivileged background, or come from an area which is generally underrepresented, we suggest discussing that in this essay. You should not write an essay about your interactions with members of these groups, or a study abroad experience.

Above all, this essay should be authentic to you and your experience. The goal is to show how your background has shaped you as a person, and how it impacts your view of the world.

As with college applications, letters of recommendation are required for PhD admissions. These tell admissions committees who you are as a student and researcher, and give their opinion on how you will perform when doing graduate level work. Academic fields are small and often insular, and the professors writing your letters will often be known by those reading them, either by reputation or in person.

Programs ask for two to four letters. These should primarily come from professors who know you and your work well. If you had a thesis advisor, they should write one of your letters. If you’ve worked doing research for some time, then a mentor or lab director can also be a good source of a letter, even if they haven’t taught you in class. Letters should not come from non-academic sources, unless you have worked professionally in that field. 

While you have the option to read the letters that are written for you, you should always waive that right. If you don’t trust your writers to craft good letters for you, then you shouldn’t be asking them for letters. Asking to see letters is considered a sign of lack of trust, and is gauche. Many professors will decline to write letters if you insist on seeing them.

You should ask for letters well in advance of when they are due; we recommend at least a month or two. If you are asking non-tenured faculty for a letter, more leeway is recommended, as they have more on their plate, and are often more stressed. You may need to send a reminder as deadlines approach. You should also share a copy of your essay with letter writers, so they know exactly what subfield you intend to pursue, and can discuss this in their letters.

Finally, you should be aware of politics when asking for letters. Some professors do not like each other at all. If you are seen as the protege of a professor who others detest, this can impact your admissions chances. Always discuss which schools and programs you are applying to with your letter writers. You should also discuss your choices of writers with an advisor (for example a thesis advisor) familiar with the field. Academic politics are incredibly petty, but if you plan to pursue a PhD you need to be aware of the game, and how it is played.

If your application passes the first review, you will be invited to do an interview. This will be with faculty in the program you are applying to. This is to further get to know you, and to understand your research objectives. 

You should be able to clearly explain what you want to research, and how this program will help you do so. The people talking to you will all be familiar with the field, though not necessarily your specific subfield. They are looking for your ability to communicate and explain your view. Be prepared to answer some questions about the specifics of your goals, though it’s ok if you don’t know everything right now.

Interviews are generally in person, though due to the pandemic, virtual interviews have become more common. This is also your chance to ask any questions you have about the program you were unable to find answers to online. You can practice for this interview with an advisor or mentor; many schools have career centers which hold mock grad school interviews as well.

When and How to Apply to Grad School

There is no unified platform for PhD applications. Instead you must apply to each program individually, through the school’s website. This will mean filling out information multiple times, but they fortunately don’t ask for much. Once you have your documents in order, the rest is personal, demographic, and contact information.

You will need to pay to have your GRE scores sent to each school you apply to. Even though this is all electronic, they still charge dearly for it. 

Applications are generally due in December or January, with interviews held over the next few months. Applications open in September or October. We recommend getting your applications in before the due date, though most programs don’t use rolling admissions. Each program sets their own deadlines, so you should track when each of your applications is due carefully to make sure nothing gets overlooked.

Paying for Grad School

PhD programs are for the most part fully funded. This means you will not be paying tuition, and will also get funding to live on. This funding is generally contingent on academic standing, and doing work TAing, teaching, or on ongoing research projects (or most commonly, all of the above). Many grad students also work full or part time to support themselves. 

While you will not need to take on additional debt to pay for graduate school, you will not be well paid either. While the exact amount graduate students receive varies by school and program, it is generally in the range of $20-30,000 annually. This goes towards food, housing, and supplies.

While you are in a PhD program, you will not have to make payments on any government loans you took out to pay for undergrad, though they will continue to accrue interest. Making payments on them during grad school is difficult, but will greatly cut down on the amount you need to pay back later.

There are also outside scholarships available to help pay for graduate studies. While the amounts offered by these vary, most are small. They can help greatly with paying for the necessities however, and applying to them is usually worth the time investment.

Grad School Admission FAQ

Now we’ll answer some of the most common questions about applying to PhD programs.

Can older students apply?

Yes. Many professionals return to school for a PhD long out of undergrad. We suggest taking some courses at a local university in the field you plan on entering before you do this however. Academic research advances quickly, and this will familiarize you with the latest developments. Further, this will introduce you to professors who can provide you with letters of recommendation.

What are my odds of acceptance?

This depends on both your field and program. Generally, however, it is quite difficult to gain admissions to a PhD program, and admission rates hover around 10%. Only the best students get accepted, and this is even more the case at the top schools and programs.

When should I start thinking about applications?

When you choose your major, you should decide what level you want to reach within that field. Some majors lend themselves to PhDs if you want to work in that field, while others allow employment at various levels.

Where should I apply?

You should find programs with professors who are dedicated to your particular subfield. A prestigious institution which does not focus on your area is far less useful, regardless of how famous its name is. You are looking for someone who will be able to advise you, and help you perform worthwhile research. Further, professors are looking for students studying fields similar to their own when they admit graduate students.

How long are PhD programs?

Generally programs last 4-5 years, though this can vary based on field. The exact structure of the programs also varies a lot based on field and program.

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How to Apply for a PhD in the US

Last Updated: January 18, 2024 Approved

This article was co-authored by Carrie Adkins, PhD . Carrie Adkins is the cofounder of NursingClio, an open access, peer-reviewed, collaborative blog that connects historical scholarship to current issues in gender and medicine. She completed her PhD in American History at the University of Oregon in 2013. While completing her PhD, she earned numerous competitive research grants, teaching fellowships, and writing awards. wikiHow marks an article as reader-approved once it receives enough positive feedback. This article received 20 testimonials and 96% of readers who voted found it helpful, earning it our reader-approved status. This article has been viewed 630,908 times.

Getting a PhD is a challenging undertaking that takes years to achieve. It can also be an incredibly rewarding experience: you'll become a true expert in your field, and you'll be able to apply for a number of interesting jobs, including academic ones. If you're considering a PhD, start by figuring out which programs best fit your needs (they may not always be the ones at the biggest or most prestigious schools). Once you know what those programs are, you can tailor your materials accordingly and put together the best possible application packages.

Ask the wikiHow College Coach

Researching Schools and Programs

• Keep in mind that it is not necessary for you to have a dissertation topic already chosen or even to have an extremely specific research focus. At this stage, you should just have a general idea of what you want to study and why. For example, if you are considering a PhD in English, then you should at least have an idea of the literary period that you wish to focus on.

• For example, if you are planning to pursue a PhD in Chemistry, then you should find out more about the lab facilities at the university that you are considering.
• Try to identify as many potential schools as you can. Graduate school is competitive and you will have a better chance of getting accepted if you submit multiple applications.

• Keep in mind that you may be working closely with the professor(s) you identify, so it is important to select professors who you really admire and whose research genuinely interests you.

• Keep in mind that funding opportunities are competitive. Putting forth a strong application may increase your chances of getting funding, but there are no guarantees.

"Even then, you need a back-up plan (or two or three) before you commit years of your life to a PhD."

Carrie Adkins, PhD

• Location. If you plan to return to your home country during breaks, then some schools may make the trip home less time consuming than others. For example, if you will be flying back to India at the end of each school year, then choosing a school closer to one of the US coasts will make traveling easier than flying out of the Midwest. Keep in mind that it is not a good idea to select a school based solely on location. This will severely limit your choices.
• Cost of living. Some US college towns can be quite expensive, which can make it hard to get by on your student stipend. Look into the average cost of housing, food, and other expenses in the university areas where you plan to apply.
• Extracurricular opportunities. Clubs can other types of groups can make the transition to a US university a bit easier. Many schools have clubs for people from certain countries, who speak certain languages, or who share other interests. Check out the extracurricular opportunities that are available at the universities you are considering.

Meeting the Basic Requirements

• Taking the GRE three to six months in advance is a good idea. You may even want to take it about year before you plan to apply, just in case you do not get a good score and you need to retake it.

• Score requirements vary by university, so check with each university to learn the score requirements before you apply. For TOEFL, you need to have at least a 600 on the paper-based test OR above a 95 to 100 on the internet-based test. For IELTS, you need to have above a 7.0 to 7.5.

• For example, if you plan to apply to 20 different programs, then you will need to ensure that you have about $2,000 for the application fees.
• Keep in mind that the fees may vary drastically among schools. More prestigious schools may charge higher application fees than less prestigious schools.

• For example, some programs require applicants to answer a specific question or set of questions in the statement of purpose.

• For example, it would be better to ask a professor in your discipline than someone who taught an elective class that you enjoyed.
• Having one letter of recommendation from an administrator or employer can be helpful to show a different perspective of your academic goals. For example, you might ask your department’s chairperson, one of the university’s deans, or a current or former boss. As with the professors you ask, the administrator who recommends you should be someone who will give you a glowing recommendation.

• Keep in mind that most schools require official transcripts.
• Sending transcripts may or may not require you to pay fees, depending on your university’s policies.

• If you have a piece that has been published, then this is an especially great choice for the writing sample, but unpublished pieces are fine as well.

Writing Your Statement of Purpose

• You may want to write one “basic” SOP and then alter or add to it as needed based on the special requirements of each university.

• For example, you might say something like, “Since I was a child, I had a passion for the natural world, and this passion led me to my desire to become a biologist.”

• For example, you might say something like, “As an undergrad, I participated in on-campus research expos and even attended a local conference. Then, during my MA program, I had an article accepted to Biology Quarterly and presented at a national conference.” [2] X Research source
• You can also talk about specific courses you took, professors who have supervised your work, and research that you conducted during your BA and MA programs.

• For example, you might say something like, “I hope to develop a new process for growing corn.”

• Try reading each professor’s biography on the university website. You may also consider reading one of these professors’ publications, such as an article or book.
• Try saying something like, “I hope to work with Professor Jones because she and I share a similar interest in botany.”

• Make sure that you include examples throughout your entire SOP.

Submitting Your Application Packets

• Some schools also require letters of recommendation to be submitted via an online system. You may need to submit your recommenders email addresses so that they can access this system.

• Address the packets. Make sure that you double check the addresses for each of your packets to ensure that they will be delivered to the correct location.
• Pay for postage. International postage can be quite expensive, so make sure that you reserve some money to pay for this cost. Pay the postage for each of your packets and send them out.

What Are The Main Reasons People Go To Graduate School?

Expert Q&A

• Even if a university is unable to provide you with direct funding or a scholarship, there may be other opportunities for you to earn an income while you are there, such as research assistantships. Look into this before turning down an offer from a university you might otherwise want to attend. Thanks Helpful 3 Not Helpful 0
• Once you are done with everything, do not forget to thank everybody who helped you, especially the referees who wrote letters of recommendation. Thanks Helpful 2 Not Helpful 0
• Gaining some sort of research or work experience in the field you plan to apply to will greatly improve your chances of admission. Thanks Helpful 0 Not Helpful 0

• Keep your address consistent throughout - do not abbreviate or introduce variations. This makes it all the more difficult for the graduate office to file your documents. Thanks Helpful 18 Not Helpful 5
• Use a reliable courier service to send documents to universities - FedEx, DHL, UPS, etc. Do not use a service for which you cannot track your package. Thanks Helpful 15 Not Helpful 7

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• ↑ http://grad.berkeley.edu/admissions/apply/statement-purpose/

About This Article

To apply for a Ph.D. in the US, earn a Bachelor’s degree and take the GRE, or Graduate Record Examination. Then, carefully read the application instructions of each school to increase your odds of getting accepted. In the mean time, request letters of recommendation from professors in your discipline or an employer. You will also need to have your transcripts on hand, and to write a statement of purpose. For tips on writing a great statement of purpose and nailing the rest of the process, scroll down! Did this summary help you? Yes No

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• PhD in USA – A Guide for 2024/25
• Finding a PhD

A PhD in USA takes approximately 5 – 6 years of full-time study and can cost between $12,000 – $45,000 per academic year. PhD programs in USA differ from that in the UK and Europe in that students must first take taught classes, coursework and exams before starting their research project.

Why Do a PhD in USA?

The United States has long had some of the most distinguished universities and advanced PhD programmes in the world. Combined with curriculum flexibility, rigorous teaching methods, vast funding opportunities, breathtaking campuses and significant career prospects, it’s no wonder that it is one of the most sought-after study destinations for research students.

In addition to comprehensive training standards, here are a few other reasons why a student may choose to undertake their PhD in the United States:

• Longer learning timeframes – A PhD in the US lasts longer than a PhD in the UK or Europe. This allows students to more confidently transition from undergraduate to postgraduate studies; more commonly referred to as ‘graduate studies’ in the US. This gives you the opportunity to learn more about your subject, research methods and academic writing in general before starting your research project.
• World-class universities – It’s no secret that some of the most well-known higher education institutions that continue to dominate global rankings are based in the United States. Although many factors go into determining whether a position is right for you, a PhD at a high-ranking American university will undeniably have many benefits, from excellent learning standards to access to innovative equipment and deep expertise.
• International network – The US has long been a popular choice among PhD students around the world. As such, the US hosts a diverse and multicultural learning environment in which many research students will quickly feel at home.
• Opportunities – With over 4,000 universities in the US, we can safely say you will have plenty of opportunities to find the ideal combination of project, supervisor and university that works for you.

Universities in USA

Universities in the United States can be divided into two types: public universities and private universities.

Public universities are financed by the state in which they are based. Because of this, public universities charge less for students from within the state and more for students from outside the state, including international students.

Private universities are not financed by their state, but by private donors, research funds and tuition fees. For this reason, private universities generally charge higher tuition fees than public universities and require all students to pay the same amount, regardless of whether they come from out-of-state or abroad.

According to the Times Higher Education World University Rankings 2024 , eight of the top ten universities in the world are located in the United States. These are:

Method of Study

The main difference between a PhD in the US and a PhD in Europe lies in the program structure. Whereas a European PhD essentially consists of a single phase lasting three to four years , an American PhD consists of three different phases, each with its own time frame.

• Phase One – The first phase lasts approximately two years and focuses on building a basic foundation for the doctoral student. This phase consists largely of taught components such as lectures, tutorials and laboratory sessions, in which the student learns more about theoretical concepts and research methods within their discipline.
• Phase Two – The second phase can be considered an assessment phase, which runs both periodically alongside and at the end of the first phase. Here, students complete coursework and take exams on the basis of the material they have covered of which they must pass in order to proceed to the third phase.
• Phase Three – The third phase lasts approximately three years and resembles the European PhD structure. During this period, the student undertakes an independent research project, including forming a research design, conducting experiments, writing a thesis (more commonly referred to in the USA as a dissertation) and sitting a viva exam.

Teaching Requirements

Besides structure, a key difference between a PhD program in the US and in Europe is the focus on teaching requirements. In the US, doctoral students are expected to lecture, lead tutorials, host laboratory sessions, mark coursework and provide office hours for undergraduate students. Although students studying in European will likely contribute to these at some point during their study, this would normally be on a voluntary basis and involve less time commitment.

Research Flexibility

Another difference is project flexibility. In Europe, students typically apply to a PhD project predetermined by a supervisor, and although there may be some scope to adapt the project, depending on the funding provider , it will usually be limited to how the project is carried out rather than what it is about. In the US, however, a student applies to become a doctoral candidate within a department rather than applying for a particular research project. This is because students are expected to decide on their thesis topic (also commonly referred to as a dissertation research topic) near the end of their first phase after they have developed a better understanding of their subject and know where their interests lie. Therefore, research students in the US generally have more flexibility and influence in the direction of their research than students in the United Kingdom or Europe.

PhD Admission Requirements in USA

PhD admission into US universities can be highly competitive, both because of the limited number of positions and the large number of annual applicants.

The eligibility requirements for a doctoral program in the USA can generally be divided into four sections:

• Grade Point Average ( GPA ) – in the US, a scoring system known as Grade Point Average is used to measure academic ability. A student’s GPA is calculated as a weighted score of the subjects they study during their undergraduate degree; an equivalent score is calculated by universities for international applicants. Although universities rarely set minimum GPA requirements for doctoral study, it’s worth being aware that a GPA of 3.0 is equivalent to a UK second class honours (2:1); the typical entry requirement for UK universities.
• Graduate Records Exam (GRE) – most universities will require you to take a series of examinations known as Graduate Records Exams, which are used to determine your suitability for graduate study. GREs will assess your analytical, reasoning and critical thinking skills as well as your depth of your subject.
• Student aptitude – in addition to academic ability, US universities also look for characteristics of a strong researcher. These include traits such as engaging in the subject in your own time, e.g. by attending talks and conferences, demonstrating a high degree of independence and enthusiasm, and a general passion for your subject.
• English Language Proficiency – international students whose first language is not English must sit language exams such as IELTS or TOELF to demonstrate their English language proficiency.

International students will also require a F1 student visa in order to study in the US, however, you would typically apply for this after you have secured a place into a doctorate program.

How to Apply for PhD in USA

When applying for a PhD position at a graduate school, the application process will differ between universities, however, they will all typically ask for the following:

• Academic CV – a short document summarising your educational background and current level of experience .
• Personal statement – a document which outlines why you believe you are suitable for PhD study and your passion for the subject.
• Academic transcripts – a complete breakdown of the modules and their respective marks you have taken as part of your previous/current degree.
• GRE scores – a transcript of your Graduate Records Exam results.
• Research statement – a condensed version of a research proposal outlining your general research interests, if required.
• Recommendation letters – references from several academic referees who endorse your qualities as a person, your abilities as a student and your potential as a doctoral researcher.

Application Deadlines and Fees

Since PhD programs in the United States have taught components, they commence at the same time as all other taught degrees, and therefore share the same application deadlines and start dates. This corresponds to an application period that typically begins in August and ends in February. Admission decisions are typically made in April, with successful students starting in August/September.

When you apply to a graduate school, you will be expected to pay a fee for each doctorate application to cover the school’s administrative costs for processing your application. The fee varies from university to university, but typically ranges from $50 to $100 .

Funding your PhD in USA

It’s very common for a PhD student to receive financial aid in the form of a PhD scholarship; in fact, this will be the case for the vast majority of students in the US.

PhD funding can be ‘fully funded’ covering the student’s graduate program tuition fees, accommodation and living costs, or ‘partially funded’ covering the student’s tuition fee only in part or full.

Besides funding, a graduate student can take on an assistantship, such as a graduate teaching assistant or research assistant, in which they take on a part-time salaried position at the university alongside their studies.

Due to the international and collaborate nature of American universities, there are also a number of international scholarships available, such as the Fulbright Scholarship and the AAUW International Fellowship .

PhD Duration in USA

In the US, a PhD takes approximately 5 – 6 years to complete if studying full-time, and 8 – 10 years if studying part-time.

If you already have a Master’s degree, your first phase can be shortened by one year at the discretion of the university.

Cost of a PhD in USA

The cost of a PhD program in the US can vary considerably depending on the type of university, i.e. whether it’s a public or private university, the doctoral course, i.e. whether it’s in a STEM subject such as computer science, engineering or a non-STEM subject, and whether you are a home or international student.

In general, however, the typical annual tuition fee for a PhD in the US is between $12,000 and $45,000 per academic year.

As with any doctoral degree, additional costs may include travel for collaborations, bench fees, accommodation and living expenses.

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Studying a PhD in The USA - The Complete Guide

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The USA is a favourable postgraduate study destination for international students due to the high standard of academic study and the wide variety of subjects. By undertaking a PhD in the USA, you will find yourself becoming an internationally recognised expert in your chosen field.

A Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) from the USA is considered the highest awarded degree in many US universities and institutes for most fields of study. For many international students, it's a dream course that offers an exciting new life chapter.

Attending Grad School for a PhD in the USA is not the same as undertaking a PhD in Europe or the UK , it can often be a different experience. However, studying abroad will improve your global cultural understanding in addition to your network of contacts for your future career. A PhD degree is often required when you apply for high-level management jobs, government expert positions, and careers like a university professor, researcher, or scientist in many fields.

There are a multitude of reasons why the United States is a fantastic choice for your PhD studies. Here’s everything you need to know about studying a PhD in the USA.

1. PhD course length

The total length of a PhD in the USA is between 4-8 years for full-time students and 8-10 years for part-time students, depending on your field of study. PhDs can be completed in 4-5 years for students with a masters degree in an appropriate subject. Students typically dedicate 1-4 years on coursework, followed by 2-4 years of dissertation work. In the USA, the academic year is divided into two teaching semesters: August to December and January to May. 

Having a longer duration for your PhD allows for greater opportunities to adjust to your course and find your footing. This enables you to concentrate on developing a more comprehensive understanding of your chosen subject at a more relaxed pace.

2. World-class universities

The US repeatedly tops the charts of worldwide ranking universities , so what better place to do your PhD studies? Although rankings shouldn’t be the main deciding factor when making your PhD choice, they're a great indicator of educational expertise.

There are many factors to consider when choosing the location for your PhD. Does the university have a high employability rate after graduation? Are you wanting to go public or private university? What kind of research facilities do they have? 

Be sure to do some research before making a decision on your perfect place of study.

3. International community

The United States is a popular choice for international students from all over the world – making it an inspirational and cosmopolitan choice for your PhD studies. No matter what your choice of academic study is, you are guaranteed to find a diverse community that welcomes students from all backgrounds. 

4. Affordable tuition fees 

There are various tuition fee options available for PhD students regardless of your budget. The American higher education system is often associated with high fees and substantial student debt, but in fact, studying at an American university isn't always expensive, and many institutions offer affordable courses. For instance, PhD costs range from $28,000 to $55,000 annually, which shows that finding a PhD course that’s more affordable is possible. 

5. Student experience

American universities typically have vibrant campus communities with a wide range of extracurricular activities, clubs and organisations. As a student, you will have the opportunity to engage in various social, cultural and recreational activities alongside your academic studies.

6. Student support

American universities typically provide comprehensive support services to assist you on your PhD journey. These services may include academic advising, counselling, career services, libraries, writing centres and various student organisations aimed at fostering your personal and professional development.

7. Land of opportunity

It's fair to say that student life in the USA offers something for everyone, regardless of what you're looking for from a PhD. With 50 states, six time zones, and thousands of higher-education providers, there's an opportunity waiting for every individual across the globe.

So let’s take a look at some of the key factors to consider when studying for a PhD in the USA.

Studying a PhD in the USA: top tips

Who is eligible for a phd in the usa.

To be eligible for PhD in the USA, generally students should have completed a graduate degree with a minimum GPA of 3.0, provide proof of English language proficiency, GRE scores and other supporting documents.  The eligibility criteria for a PhD in the USA can vary depending on the specific university and program. 

Can I get a PhD without a masters degree?

Yes, you can pursue a PhD without having a masters. Universities in the USA do not require a masters for you to apply. Because of the graduate programs in the US, you will receive your masters degree once you have completed your coursework stage. This practice combines the masters and PhD into one.

The eligibility criteria and requirements for direct entry PhD programs vary among institutions and fields of study, so it is advisable to check the entry requirements of the specific university or course you are interested in.

How to apply for a PhD in the USA

When applying for your chosen subject in the USA, you should expect to provide relevant information and statements to the university. This will include:

Completed application form – provided by your preferred university.

A personal statement – on why you want to study the subject, your research interests and career goals. Be sure to include any extracurricular activities and achievements within the body of your statement.

References – universities will expect that your referees will recommend you for the chosen course.

Test scores and grades – you will generally need to submit scores from standardised tests like the Graduate Record Examination (GRE) or the Graduate Management Admission Test (GMAT). 

English language proficiency – international applicants whose native language is not English usually need to provide proof of English language proficiency through tests like the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) or the International English Language Testing System (IELTS). It varies from institution to institution, but international students in the USA are required to have a TOEFL score of about 90.

Samples of work – it is recommended that you provide some work you have done that is relevant to your chosen subject. You may even be asked to complete a small task during the application process.

The application fee. 

Method of study

Compared to the UK and Europe , studying a PhD in the USA involves several key differences. Students in the USA are usually in direct contact with their professor, compared with those in the UK where students might find that their PhD program is headed by a professor who gives them a little less flexibility to change their research and study areas. There can be several cultural differences between UK, Europe, and USA university lifestyles. US students are expected to undertake a great deal of teaching and marking, as opposed to PhD students in Europe. 

As a result, you may have less free time outside of the university when pursuing a PhD in the USA.

Application for PhD In USA

When applying for your chosen subject, you should expect to provide relevant information and statements to the university. This might include:

A personal statement on why you want to study the subject. Be sure to include any extra-curricular activities and achievements within the body of your statement.

References. Universities will expect that your referees will recommend you for the chosen course.

Test scores and grades. It is important that you provide a list of your awarded grades from previous courses you have studied.

Samples of work. It is recommended that you provide some work you have done that is relevant to your chosen subject. You may even be asked to complete a small task during the application process.

UK and Europe students decide on their PhD thesis subject area before they apply . While taking classes at a graduate level, prospective PhD students in the USA spend up to a year or two deciding on their specific research subject. It is normal to apply for up to six institutions for a PhD in the USA, and students apply to each institution separately as there is no central organisation. 

Students in the UK and Europe are expected to apply with an understanding of the subject already, usually in the form of a masters degree, and be ready to start studying at the PhD level straight away. In the USA it is expected that students do not have an in-depth understanding of their subject as they usually only have an undergraduate degree when they apply. 

When should I start applying for a PhD in the USA?

Deadlines for applications to PhD programs in the USA tend to be between December and February, and institutions should let you know about your application by April. Most US institutions recommend that you apply as far in advance as you possibly can to give them, and you, plenty of time to make arrangements. 

Universities in the USA do not require a masters for you to apply as well. Because of the graduate programs in the US, you will receive your masters degree once you have completed your coursework stage. This practice combines the masters and PhD into one.

It varies from institution to institution, but international students in the USA are required to have a TOEFL score of about 90.

Funding your PhD in USA

PhD students are very likely to receive financial support in the form of PhD scholarships ; some USA PhD students also receive PhD studentships .

Making your PhD application in plenty of time allows you more time to apply for and arrange your PhD funding. Many students find that funding can cover much, or all, of the cost of their PhD studies in the USA, which ranges between $28,000 and $40,000. Deadlines for funding applications can be as early as December before starting your studies in the Autumn/Fall. 

There are two types of PhD funding: fully funded, which pays for the student's graduate school tuition fees, accommodation, and living expenses, or partially funded, which pays for the student's tuition only partially or fully.

Can a PhD be fully funded?

Yes, many top universities in the USA offer fully funded PhD programs for eligible students. This funding pays for the student's graduate school tuition fees, accommodation and living expenses. Partially funded PhDs only cover the student's tuition in part or in full.

Some PhD students will receive a stipend from their institution with an assistantship position, but this varies between institutions and between departments within institutions. Other students can find funding from both their own and the American government, and there are plenty of American government schemes like The Fulbright Program that offer funds.

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How long does it take to study a PhD in the USA?

For part-time students in the USA, a PhD can take eight to ten years, but it usually takes five to six years for full-time students. PhDs can be completed in four to five years rather than five or six for students with a masters degree in an appropriate subject.

Top 10 ranked American universities

Based on 2024 Times Higher Education's World University Rankings data, the following table shows which US universities rank the highest.

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• PhD Study in the USA - 2024

Over one million international students choose the USA as their study abroad destination, making it the most popular international study destination in the world! America is known for its comprehensive approach to postgraduate education, combining enhanced subject knowledge and research opportunities with the development of a suite of transferrable skills.

Why study a PhD in the USA?

• Accessibility – A US graduate programme takes longer than a UK PhD, but this can also help you find your feet as a PhD student. The taught elements mean you have more time to develop a more detailed understanding of your subject as the basis for your own research.
• World-leading universities and research – Rankings aren’t everything, but the global league tables continue to be dominated by US institutions. Amongst other things, this reflects the country’s substantial investment in research output and expertise.
• International community - American universities host huge numbers of students from across the world. Whatever and wherever you study, you’ll be welcomed as part of a diverse academic community.
• Innovation – America was the second country ( after Germany ) to adopt the modern PhD degree. Its own structured approach to doctoral training is also now influencing PhD study in the UK and Europe .

If you’re interested in studying your PhD in the USA, we’ve covered everything you need to know in our selection of guides below, including applications , visas and funding .

Search for a PhD in the USA

Ready to start looking for your ideal study abroad opportunity? Browse and compare PhD programmes in the USA on FindAPhD.com.

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Applying to PhD Programs

New section.

A diligent, well-organized approach to applying to graduate school can help you gain admission to a program that best matches your professional goals.

Among the steps you will want to take are:

• Get an early start during your college years
• Explore available graduate programs
• Determine the admissions requirements for the programs that meet your needs
• Learn about financial support

What do I need to do during/after college?

You will want to plan for graduate school long before you begin the official application process. During your college years, establish a timeline that outlines the goals you plan to accomplish each semester and summer. A periodic review of your timeline will help you stay on track, ensuring that that you are prepared for application to graduate school in the following three areas:

• Research experience
• Graduate Record Examination

What should I look for in graduate programs?

Graduate programs in the biomedical sciences differ widely in size, scope, and research opportunities. Your goal when exploring programs is to find the ones that best match your background, research interests, and professional career aspirations. Gather as much information about the structure, organization, requirements, opportunities, satisfaction level of current students, and career outcomes of the program's graduates.

PhD Programs in Biomedical Science

What will I need to apply?

There is no common application form for graduate school, and individual schools may have specific admissions requirements. It is therefore essential that you review the requirements of each school and program as you prepare your application file. In general, there are six elements to the admissions file that most schools require, and they are listed below for your review:

• Graduate School Application Form
• Personal Statement (aka Statement of Purpose or Research Statement)
• Letters of recommendation
• Transcripts
• Graduate Record Examination (GRE) general test scores

How can I finance my graduate education?

Funding for graduate studies as a full-time student pursuing a PhD in the biomedical sciences is usually provided by the programs and includes tuition, fees, and a stipend to cover living expenses. The size of the support package will vary from school to school and among geographic location. The support package may come from a variety of sources, for different durations and usually the source changes within the period required to complete the degree. Independent fellowships from the federal government or from a private foundation are prestigious and usually allow a greater degree of freedom in the pursuit of thesis research.

Financial Support for PhD Candidates

Where can I earn a PhD?

Search among the more than 600 graduate programs in the biomedical sciences that differ widely in size, scope, and research opportunities.

Biomedical Sciences PhD Programs

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Study PHD in USA | Eligibility, Application Process (2022 Guide)

Accessibility

  PhD student in USA does not require  to focus immediately on dissertation proposal but will  have the time to first develop a more detailed understanding of your subject as the basis for your own research. That is why PHD in USA are longer as compared to UK.

World-leading universities and research

Rankings aren’t everything, but the upper reaches of global league tables continue to be dominated by US institutions. As there is a substantial investment in research output and expertise.

International community

  Whatever and wherever you study you’ll be welcomed as part of a diverse academic community .

Innovation :

America was the second country (after Germany) to adopt the modern PhD degree and its own structured approach to doctoral training is now influencing PhD study in the UK and Europe.

Breadth of opportunity :

With 50 states, six time zones and thousands of higher education providers you will find a huge opportunity after your PHD

NOTE : The fact that matters is, one needs to look for the quality and the number of research paper’s that are being published in the top journals in the industry country wise. 

In most cases the US is the best place to do your PHD. But do your research and find which country produces the best research work and go there for better learning and growing experience.

1.2) 5 Reasons Why one should pursue a PHD in the USA rather than a Master's/ Bachelors?

PHD is free/Cheap:

When it comes to Bachelors and Master’s, there are quite some options for us to get funding from or get scholarships. But the problem is that not a lot of students get full scholarships and they would be forced to pay the remaining tuition fees and alot of other costs that comes along while living in the USA.

We are all aware that education in the US is more on the expensive side and a lot of students find a way to pull it off with as many part time jobs as possible. But this affects their schedule and routine and drains their mental energy and consumes alot of their study time

Whereas PHD in the USA is a different story. The programs are fully funded and you even get paid to study there and there is no need to pay the tuition fee.

Fee waivers, assistantships and stipends are guaranteed in a PHD program and the stipends are quite high for PHD students in the US when compared to any other country. So for doing PHD, US can be considered the best place!

PHD saves us from the worst possible outcome:

When it comes to pursuing a degree abroad, what is the worst possible outcome that could come out of it?

We finish the degree there and yet we get shipped back to our home country with a bunch of huge educational loans and we have to find a job here with a currency that much lower in value and work hard to pay back all the educational loans

Whereas a PHD student wouldn’t have to be too scared about this fact since their educational expenses are usually taken care of via stipends and assistantships and other funding sources. And even if one doesn’t secure a job there, they could always get well paying great jobs back in India or any developing country which has so many universities.

Networking:

“ You are the average of 5 people that you hang around with the most”

Imagine getting enrolled into a good university in the US for PHD. What would be the quality of people there? 

While doing your bachelor’s degree, one would be surrounded by all kinds of people from all around the world with different lifestyles and mindsets and there you could find alot of people who tend to fool around and be less focused or live by ideologies that you might totally disagree with. 

Whereas when it comes to master’s degree, the quality of the crowd increases tremendously and with PHD, only the most motivated, interested and focused people get here. So you could learn and grow as a community while doing your PHD. Another important fact is, everyone doing a PHD is there by their own choice which makes them a group of highly interested and talented people with whom you would be spending most of your time with.

Friendships with Mentors:

“ PHD students are like 10 year projects”

• University Mentors

In research based universities, most of the professors tend to spend a huge amount of time with the PHD students than the ones in bachelors and master’s degree programs. Bachelors students are more focused on learning the basic concepts and master’s students are usually busy with course work and won’t stay for too long in the campus.

So, one of the biggest advantages of being a PHD student in the US is that you get to spend 4-6 years researching and further continue the work for years to come and hence the mentors and the professors would be more open to building a good relationship with you and that would make way for so much of learning and growth.

Come out of it matured and better:

One of the things that a PHD student would experience is this : They start earning money a lot later than the general population. Some would even take over 30 years to get their first paycheck and when you spend your 20s learning and researching and focusing while managing the possible financial hardships that come your way, makes you financially mature.

Pros and Cons of Studying in USA

Pros of studying in the usa .

• Education in the USA is something that many of us look out for. The quality of education in the USA is recognized worldwide as the best. They give practical learning experiences. International student enrollment for higher education is always higher in this country.
• The Association to Advance Collegiate School of business recognition is given to the best business schools in the world. Globally 531 business schools were given AACSB, and 400 schools belong to the USA.
• The USA is the home to some of the best universities globally, the top-ranked universities.
• There is a wide variety of subjects to choose from, such as marine education, nursing, ecology, etc.
• The Universities in the USA are recognized globally for their world-class education and good facilities.
• There is exposure to multiple cultures in the USA. There are also student exchange programs to diversify the learning objectives.
• They provide an all-rounder education by enabling the students to participate in sports and other extracurricular activities.
• The job opportunities are ample when you get a degree from one of the Universities in the USA. These degrees are recognized worldwide, and you can be assured of getting good employment opportunities.
• You can specialize in subjects and study according to your interests.
• The labs and libraries in the USA are excellent, and students have a significant amount of exposure to writers from different backgrounds.
• Some scholarships are designed for students. These scholarships vary from University to University and according to the type of degree you choose. Grabbing these scholarships will make it easier to manage your financial expenses

Cons of studying in the USA

• To be a student in the USA, one of the primary requirements is to write a TOEFL exam. This ensures that you have a good command of the English language.
• For other engineering and business studies, you will be required to write GRE, TOEFL, GMAT, SAT, etc. To be a doctor, you will be required to write a different set of entrance examinations.
• The cost of education and accommodation in the USA is higher when compared to your home country. Due to this, you may have to get a student loan.
• It is not that you will get a job if you study in any university in the USA. More of your knowledge and skills matter the most. But studying in the prestigious universities in the USA will be a feather on your cap!
• The standard of education will be initially hard to manage as you need to get used to the different curricula.
• The climatic conditions in the USA are very different and hence you should be able to adjust to them.
• The living expenses can also be higher. To manage this, you need to take up a part-time job.
• The testing in these universities can be rigorous and challenging, especially if you are a student of the most prestigious universities in the USA.

1.3) Is PHD the right choice for you?

Some students might be wondering if pursuing a PHD is a right thing for them.

It depends on the career you are in and if you are interested in research. For instance if you have a master’s in biology or in any of the languages or history, the jobs available for you would be scarce. So doing a PHD in such instances can open up a whole new alot of opportunities.

Now when it comes to research it can be categorized into two things : Discovering phenomenons in nature and inventing new stuff.

If research, discovery and inventions are something you desire, then PHD is the right choice for you.

Kick-start Your Admissions the right way. Start Now!

Top ph.d. programs in the usa :, ph.d. in management.

To become a scholar in business and management, you can do a Ph.D. in this field. This is a globally sought-after course. Doing a Ph.D. creates an avenue for several research work in this field 

• The University of Arizona
• Walden University
• Auburn University
• Campbellsville University

Ph.D. in psychology

To conduct research in psychology, you can do a Ph.D. in this field. To complete this course may take three years or even more than that. The eligibility for this course is the completion of a master’s in psychology.

Stanford University

Yale university, university of california.

• University of Arizona

Ph.D. in Computer science

Completing a Ph.D. in this field can take up to three years or more, but it would be beneficial in your career when you’re interested in research in this field. You’ll also be a master in your particular area of research.

Harvard University

• Massachusetts University of Technology
• Carnegie Mellon University 

Ph.D. in Marketing

Marketing is a broad field, and currently, it is the trending area of study as most of us use smartphones, and marketing here is unbeatable.

• University of Pennsylvania
• University of Michigan 

Ph.D. in Biotechnology

This is a doctorate course in the field of Biotechnology. You get to study Scientific communication, trends in Biotechnology, and so much more. This takes three to five years to complete.

Maschasuettes institute of technology

John hopkins university, ph.d. in microbiology.

Doing a doctorate in this course means you get to research microbiology. You get to research microorganisms and other things. 

This course can take around four to six years to complete.

Ph.D. in Physics

Ph.D. in Physics will get you a lot of good job opportunities. You will deal with theory, research, and experiment in this field. This will be a three-year doctorate course.

Princeton University

• University of Chicago

Ph.D. in Public Health

If you want to be an administrative head and want to have extensive knowledge in the field of medicine, you can do this doctorate course.

• Ohio State University

Ph.D. in Pharmacology

This course deals with medical drugs and their usage. You can work in clinics, hospitals, and medical centers.

• University of Washington

Ph.D. in Design

This is a creative course and can be pretty challenging. This is a practical degree program, and you have a wide range of streams to diverge in, such as animation, design, and much more.

• University of Buffalo
• Cornell University
• Kansas State University

PHD FAQ’s: Eligibility and More

2.1) intake seasons for phd programs, two teaching semester’s:.

The academic year in the USA consists of two teaching semesters: 

• August-December 
•  January-May.  

These will be when your classes and assessments take place. 

Most graduate programmes admit students in the autumn (or ‘fall’) semester because of the following reasons:

•  The scholarships and financial aids are aimed at this semester.
• There are not many financial aid opportunities as well as job opportunities available for the Spring semester

2.2) Duration of the PHD Program

The length of a PhD program in the USA is usually 4-6 years (full time ). 

Students spend 2 years on the coursework stage of their programme and 2-4 years working on their dissertation.

The minimum and the maximum durations would vary depending on the university and the field of study but traditionally a PHD program is for 5 years and there will be a year limit within which one should potentially finish their research to get their PHD.

There are students who find a way to get their PHD in 3 years as well. So expect anywhere between 4-6 years to get your PHD

Coursework : 

• Core classes (Essential )
• Elective classes (Optional )

Dissertation : 

  It’s the research proposal submitted as part of a PhD application.

2.3) AGE A FACTOR FOR PHD?

Is there any age limit for pursuing PHD or is it a good choice to start doing PHD after the age of 30? Would the age be a factor in getting jobs after?

Age is not any issue and there are people who start their PHDs even after the age of 40. So there are no age limits and in the United States they value the background and the profile and will not discriminate based on their age. So go for it if you really want to.

2.4) PHD AFTER BTECH?

Can we do a PHD right after bachelors or B.Tech Degree?

If one has decent research experience in Bachelors level itself and if it’s good quality research and if you have published papers and have some achievements to show, then yes, your chances of getting admissions into PHD would increase.

But it is generally recommended that we spend a little more time exploring the topic of interest in our master’s before jumping into a PHD program. Doing a master’s also strengthens your knowledge on the field which would be needed to be able to successfully complete your PHD.

But yes, it is totally possible to do your PHD right after bachelors. Even if the background of your profile doesn’t match with the PHD course you want to pursue, you can still get admissions if you can impress the professor you want to work with and these scenarios have happened in the past.

2.5) INTERNSHIPS DURING PHD:

Internships during PHD, Recommended or not?

The answer to this question would depend on the field you are in. 

Here’s the logic you need to look for. PHD is a degree where you are trying to become a researcher. Internships are jobs where you “work for the company and find ways to make them money”. Sometimes these two do not add up.

For instance, if you are in the Computer and software field, it’s completely alright to work in google or facebook or in some booming startups because it would help you become better in the particular field which would help with the research.

In most fields it is generally not recommended to do internships while being a PHD student since it would take your focus away from research.

What are the requirements to do a PhD in the USA?

3.1) phd in usa - requirements:.

Universities and graduate schools will set their own admissions procedures, but for most of the universities have following requirements :

• Academic transcripts  
• Research Statement
• Writing Samples
• Test Scores: General GRE And GRE Subject.

PS :   Some PhD subjects may use other graduate entry tests in place of (or in addition to) the GRE. The most common tests are:

GMAT – for DBA degrees and other programmes in Business and Management

LSAT – for JD programmes

MCAT – for MD programmes

DAT – for dental programmes

  You won’t necessarily need a Masters to apply for a PhD in the USA.  

This is because American graduate programmes effectively combine Masters and PhD study –some students actually receive a Masters at the end of their coursework stage.

If you do already have a Masters you may be able to receive credit for it and spend less time on the coursework stage of your program. This decision is made by your graduate school , who will decide how relevant your existing degree is.

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Started your gre prep, ready to see where you stand in the gre, 3.2) how do i apply for a phd and what will be the application fee.

Application Process :

 The Application process for the USA is easy and these are the following stages for same :

Step 1 : Be accepted for a PhD at an SEVP-approved institution

Step 2 : Pay the SEVIS I-901 fee of $200 

Step 3 : Begin your application online

Step 4 : Schedule a visa interview 

Step 5 : Receive your visa 

Application and Visa Fee details :

• Typical application fees for PhD study in the USA are between $50 and $100.

You will also need to budget for the cost of any graduate entry tests and for your visa.

• In most cases you will need to pay fees of at least $360 during your visa application. This is made up of a $200 SEVIS fee and a $160 application fee. Some students may also need to pay an issuance fee.)

3.3) How to shortlist Universities for your PHD in the USA?

Which universities should one apply to for the best learning experience for the particular field and have the most chances of getting admissions into for a particular profile and work experience and research experience?

While it is hard to list out the top universities for every field out there, here’s a procedure one can follow to make sure they are in the right place:

• Select the field : Decide on which field you want to get PHD in
• List of universities : Make a list of universities in the US that is offering the particular PHD course.
• Get your CV Ready : It is very important to create a professional and detailed CV with your Work and research experience 
• Now compare your profile with theirs and get a good idea of what kind of profile one would need to be a PHD student in that particular university and the level of expertise present there

Additional Information

Phd types :.

Most universities in the USA simply award the standard PhD (or Ph.D.) as an academic doctorate. However they some different categories are DBA (Doctor of Business Administration), EdD (Doctor of Education) JD (Doctor of Laws) and MD (Doctor of Medicine).

Fees and funding :

Public institutions charge an average of $12,737 per year. Private institutions charge an average of $43,300 per year. 

PS .Figures are based on data published by the US National Center for Education Statistics.

Common types of assistantship include :

• Graduate teaching assistantships
• Research assistantships 
• Administrative assistantships 
• Fellowships

Top Universities for pursuing PHD in USA

This University was founded in 1636 and was named Harvard College. This is a highly prestigious and the oldest University in the United States. This University is located in Cambridge, Maschasuettes, a private ivy league University. It is ranked as no.5 by the QS World university rankings.

Acceptance rate: 5%

Average fee: $75,000

List of the Ph.D. courses : Math, Physics, biotechnology, and so much more.

Website : https://gsas.harvard.edu/programs-study/degree-programs

• Is it hard to get into the Harvard Ph.D. program?

The acceptance rate for a Ph.D. student is much higher in this University when compared to other degrees. With Good grades, you can get into this University.

• How long does it take to complete a Ph.D. at Harvard?

A minimum of two years is required to complete a Ph.D. Although it sometimes takes up to six years.

This is a private university that is located in Cambridge, Maschasuettes. This University has been essential in research that deals with modern technology and sciences. It is one of the top universities globally and is ranked as no 1 by the QS world rankings.

Acceptance rate: 7%

Average fee: $75,462

List of the Ph.D. courses :  https://gradadmissions.mit.edu/programs/degrees/doctoral-degrees

• How long does it take to complete a Ph.D. in MIT?

It takes around five years to complete a Ph.D. at MIT.

• Is GRE required for Ph.D. in MIT?

Yes, the GRE general test is required for Ph.D. in MIT.

This is a private university that is highly prestigious and is ranked as no 3 by the QS World university rankings. This University is located in Stanford, California, and it is the largest University with a large enrollment of students.

Average fee: $78,218

List of the Ph.D. courses

https://gradadmissions.stanford.edu/applying/frequently-asked-questions

A Ph.D. in MIT takes around five to seven years to complete.

• What GPA do you need to get for a Ph.D. in MIT?

A GPA of 3.6 on a scale of 4 is required.

California Institute of Technology

This is a private university located in Pasadena, California. This University is known for its science and engineering courses and is ranked as the best academic institution in the USA. This University is ranked as no.9 in the world’s best universities.

https://www.usnews.com/best-graduate-schools/top-graduate-schools/california-institute-of-technology-110404

• How hard is it to get a Ph.D. here?

The acceptance rate here is only 6.4%; hence it can be pretty competitive.

• How long does it take to complete a Ph.D. here?

It takes around four to six years to complete a Ph.D. here.

This is one of the oldest private research universities in the USA. It was named after the philanthropist John Hopkins. This was one of the few universities to include both teaching and research. This University has produced more than 38 Nobel laureates.

Acceptance rate: 11%

Average fee: $67,667

https://www.jhu.edu/research/

• Does John Hopkins University require GRE for Ph.D.?

GRE scores are optional; however, you will require that to do a master’s degree.

• Does John Hopkins offer Ph.D. programs?

Yes, they offer Ph.D. programs.

This is a public land grant university that has over ten campuses. It is located in the state of California. This University is known for its best research activities and its numerous research centers. This University is more than a century old and was established in 1868.

Acceptance rate: 14%

Average fee: $52,000

https://graduate.universityofcalifornia.edu/

• Is it hard to get into the University of California?

Compared to the other universities, this University is not that hard to get into as they have reasonable acceptance rates.

• Does the University of California offer Ph.D. programs?
• Yes, they do offer Ph.D. programs.

This is a private ivy league research university in Princeton, New Jersey. This University was established in 1746, and it is the fourth oldest University in the USA. They also offer a lot of scholarships for international students.

Acceptance rate: 6%

Average fee: $68,044

List of the Ph.D. courses: 

https://gradschool.princeton.edu/degree-options/phd

• How long does it take to complete a Ph.D. at Princeton University?

 It takes around five years to complete a Ph.D. at Princeton University.

• Can I apply to two Ph.D. programs at Princeton?

No, you cannot apply to two Ph.D. programs at Princeton. You can do only one at a time.

This is a private university in New Haven, Connecticut. It is an ivy league research university as well. It is one of the most prestigious and third oldest institutes in the USA. This University is ranked as the 17th best University globally by the QS world ranking.

Average fee: $45,700

https://www.yale.edu/academics/graduate-professional-study

It takes around four years to complete a Ph.D. here.

• Can you get a Ph.D. at Yale?

Yes, you can apply for Ph.D. programs at Yale.

Columbia University

This is a private ivy league research university in New York and is the oldest University in New York. This University was established in 1754. This University is ranked as the sixth-best university in the world.

https://gsas.columbia.edu/content/phd-programs

• How hard is it to study here?

It is highly competitive, and your GRE scores should be around 154 to 167.

Duke University

This is a private research university in Durham, North Carolina. It was established in 1838 by methodists and Quakers. This University is ranked as the 23rd best global University.

Acceptance rate: 8%

Average fee: $40,000

https://gradschool.duke.edu/academics/programs-degrees

• Is Duke a top university?

Yes, it is a top university, ranked as the 9th best national University.

• How hard is it to get into Duke?

It is competitive here, and the acceptance rates are also lower.

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For the first two years one would be required to take courses and will have to maintain a GPA over 3 -3.3.

Now remember there are various types of PHD programs available and what you experience might be a bit different from what’s described here but one can get a rough picture of what they will be up against.

The courses that you take in the first two years will mould you to become a better researcher and many of these courses would have projects which could potentially turn into a journal publication.

Selecting Dissertation Advisors:

Within the first year or the first two years, the student would have to analyze the professors, their areas of interest and expertise and their character to better select their own dissertation advisors.

In most cases we might have to select and come up with our own projects and research ideas whereas in some cases your dissertation advisor might already be working on the topic of your interest and in such cases you could join the research and contribute

Comprehensive/Qualifier Exam:

After completing the required set of courses in the first two years, the phd students are then required to take a comprehensive exam or a qualifier exam. Now the way in which this exam is conducted varies a lot based on the field and the university that’s conducting it.

In some cases, the students who fail this comprehensive exam would have to quit the PHD program. We do get to attempt this exam more than once and the number of re-attempts would also depend on the university conducting it. So this is an important step.

This exam most probably won’t be like the written 3 hour exams that we are used to writing. This exam would test your ability to be a successful researcher and the students might be given tough time intervals to complete research based tasks and even oral tasks.

Anyways reach out to the students in the university you are planning to take to get accurate details about what you would be facing in this comprehensive/Qualifier exam

Committee of professors and Proposal Defense:

In a proposal defense, the students have to be ready with the complete dissertation plans stating the papers and the projects that one has planned to work on. What kind of data one needs to collect, the kinds of analysis that one needs to do.

We also need to select a committee of professors and one of the professors in the committee should be outside your own department or university and schedule a meeting where you propose to them your project details

After the proposal defence, the professors would have to analyse if the research project is worthy for a PHD degree and if it is realistic and achievable

Once your proposal defence is approved, you would be working full time on your dissertation and would be expected to complete the research project proposed.

In many universities the PHD students are required and expected to teach subjects to B.Tech and Master’s students for a few semesters.

NOTE : Even within the same industry, different universities would have very different PHD programs where some universities would completely focus on quantitative research and some would focus more on a case study approach. So to get a clear idea, reach out to the PHD students in the university you are hoping to get admissions into.

PHD Experience FAQs

How many papers should we publish in our dissertation and is there a minimum requirement of any sort.

The number of papers that one can publish completely depends on the area of study and research since in certain areas one can publish over 10 papers easily whereas in other areas publishing 2 or 3 would be a great achievement.

There are students who just publish one paper in their dissertation and there are other who publish over 10. So it depends on your field of study and your dissertation advisors expectations and your capabilities.

How much stipend can one expect during their PHD in USA?

The stipends could vary from $10,000 or lower to over $50,000 depending on the university, the city and the cost of living in that area, the university and the area of study. Again to know exactly what to expect, reach out to PHD students in the university that you want to get into.

What kind of research assistantships and teaching assistantships can we expect to get during PHD for funding?

Research and teaching assistantships are for masters programs and by default traditional PHD programs in the US are fully funded. 

The point to note here is that in many universities, the PHD student has to teach and if one doesn’t do so, their stipend would not be given. So the fact is you are already working and researching for a stipend which should be enough to live through your PHD days in the US.

LIFE AFTER PHD:

Employment opportunities after phd in usa.

Here’s what could potentially happen after you finish your PHD:

Note : This is a generic question and the answer’s vary vastly based on the area of study, area of specialization and the country you live in. Anyways here’s all the possibilities that one could face after a PHD.

POST DOC POSITION :

Post doc basically means that after getting the doctorate degree one would continue do their research potentially in a university or research setting

Basically once you go from being a PHD student to a PHD graduate, you would still get to continue the journey you started during your PHD days and having a post doc position would mean it would be fully research oriented.

Usually you could get the Post doc position in the same university that you got your PHD from. There are three types of people who use a research center in an university

• Professors 
• PHD students

RESEARCH ORIENTED WORK IN THE INDUSTRY IN THE SAME AREA:

This is the dream job for any PHD student who has a love for research and publishing papers. In this job you would be researching and innovating full time publishing papers and journals and will have the funds and the space to explore and work on deeper research for the company.

JOB IN A ACADEMIC RESEARCH SETTING IN THE SAME FIELD:

With an impressive profile and a recognizable PHD from the US, there is a good chance that one could land a job in the same field that they did their PHD in. This way the work they do is directly aligned with their training 

PROFESSOR JOB IN A TEACHING FOCUSED UNIVERSITY:

Becoming a professor who could also be a researcher is a hard position to get and so many PHD graduates do take professor jobs that primarily or entirely focuses on teaching

PROFESSOR JOB IN A RESEARCH UNIVERSITY:

Only 5% of PHD graduates become assistant professors in research based universities right after graduation.

The research expectations in these colleges are way higher than the smaller universities or community colleges that are focused on teaching. Here in these universities there will be less number of classes to teach so the professor could have enough time for research.

CONTRACT BASED TEACHING POSITIONS IN UNIVERSITIES:

These are positions where you would be called a visiting professor/asst.professor. These would mostly consist of teaching work and there won’t be too much expectations or needs for research.

JOB IN A NON-ACADEMIC RESEARCH SETTING IN A DIFFERENT FIELD:

It has been seen that people who have PHD’s in mathematics, statistics and so on get jobs as data scientist and similar roles where they partly use the skills they have learnt in PHD

OPPORTUNITY IN AN UNRELATED FIELD:

There are cases where people get PHD in a certain field and yet work in a completely unrelated field where there are more job opportunities

UNEMPLOYED:

It would not be true if anyone said that after PHD there is no chance of being unemployed. This does happen in some cases.

ENTREPRENEUR:

The last and yet the best option for anyone is entrepreneurship. PHD students in general are smart and work on innovation and research and invention and sometimes they start a company based on the research work they started during the PHD journey. 

For instance, the tech giant google itself is a company that was started by a PHD student who dropped out of a university to eventually become a billionaire.

So, the outcome that one could expect from a PHD in US could vary vastly from being unemployed to becoming a professor, researcher and an entrepreneur 

OTHER FAQs ON LIFE AFTER PHD IN USA

What is the difference between a phd career and a mba career.

The main difference is that PHD is a research based degree and MBA is a management degree. But oftentimes PHD students do take management roles in companies for their sound experience and knowledge about the subject involved.

What is the main difference between being a professor in a university and being a researcher in a lab?

Being a professor in a university means there will be alot of teaching responsibilities whereas a researcher wouldn’t have to teach. But professors do have this added advantage of having the freedom to pick the topic of interest and work on it

What should students do in their master’s to get better chances of getting into a PHD program and prepare for the transition as well?

The first thing the master’s student should do is to start making friends who are currently doing PHD and try and be a part of their research. This way one can understand if they are interested in the deep level of research that a PHD student would be doing.

Is it better to have an older dissertation professor or a younger one?

First things first, your whole PHD experience relies a lot on your dissertation professor and hence it is an important factor to consider. 

Now generally students would prefer an older dissertation professor since they would have more seniority in the particular field and more experience in publishing. But if there are younger professors who are more energetic, enthusiastic and with many interesting ideas, then go with them.

Just look at that professor’s passion for research and if his personality matches with yours because having a good relationship with your advisor is the most important factor because there are cases where students even quit their university because of the bad relationships they develop with their advisors.

So it is advised that we first take courses and check if you like your professor and if you think you could potentially get along well with them and if they publish quality work.

How to deal with leaving family and mental health during your PHD in USA?

One just cannot afford to be home sick if they have big ambitions and dreams. Right? Not just about studying abroad but just about anything in life has it’s good and bad sides. We cannot avoid the bad aspect of the things in our lives

So what’s the answer? Learn to deal with it. Adapt. Shift your focus towards the mission. Grow. 

Mental Health is becoming a huge issue in today’s world and the best way to deal with it is to be open and honest about everything in your life to yourself. Maintaining a journal, meditation and self help books do come in handy.

Is it okay to take our family with us during our PHD program and will the stipend be enough to get by?

In most cases the students are either already married or they get married during the course of the PHD. The stipend itself can be enough to run a family but it is recommended that you stay in an affordable neighborhood with your partner working as well so there will be less financial burden on you.

Getting admissions for MS and PHD. What are the differences in the admissions process?

When it comes to PHD, the student would have to explain why they are interested in research and where they wish to work on and for what reason and with which professor. In addition to that the aspiring student would have to sit for either multiple interviews with the professors from the particular university or a panel interview.

Whereas getting admissions for a master’s degree generally won’t require any interviews and would be as simple as stating why you wish to pursue a MS course offered by the university.

This is because master’s programs take 1-2 years whereas when it comes to PHD the professors would have to invest a lot of time in you (Around 10 years) and hence they would access what kind of person you are and if your interests and personalities match.

How do we approach professors? And is it necessary to approach professors even before getting admissions and how do we find the professors?

Any student can find the profiles of the faculty of a university on their website and they can examine their profiles for their current topics of interests and research. It is recommended that we approach professors even before admissions to look for guidance and form a bond with them if possible and the best way to approach is to reach them via email.

Written by Sai Subramaniam

Guided by Pavitra Srinivasan and the Galvanize In-house Experts

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Quite informative. I will like to know of any University in the USA that can take me o PhD student I research intrest of Infrastructure and development. I have two masters in Project Development and Implementation 2011 and Economics 2022 ( Public Private Partnership) respectively.

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Application requirements for all doctoral programs (phd).

All of our doctoral programs are designed to develop outstanding educational researchers who have a deep understanding of the scientific, practical and policy issues they study. All require full-time study, and we promise five years of full-time financial support for every student we admit. Our doctoral programs are small, typically ranging from about 25 to 35 new students a year. The small size of our doctoral cohorts creates big educational advantages for students: the classes are almost always small, students receive individualized attention from their advisors, and they have many opportunities to develop close collegial relationships with fellow students.

It is extremely important to demonstrate in your statement of purpose that your interests converge closely with the current research of faculty who work in the program to which you are applying. Other doctoral applicants will certainly do this, and if you don't, you will forfeit an important competitive advantage to them. 

If you wish to contact faculty, please read our Which Degree Which Program article, by Professor Eamonn Callan, which outlines the appropriate process for contacting faculty with whom you share research interests. 

• Program website:  Degrees and Programs/PhD
• Length of Program:  5 years (average length)
• Tuition: fellowship/assistantship salary and tuition guaranteed for first five years of the program (autumn, winter and spring quarters) for all students, including international students. Funding includes two summers.

Application Requirements:

Application form.

Complete and submit Stanford's graduate online application .

Application Fee

The application fee is $125 , is non-refundable, and must be received by the application deadline.

Application Fee Waivers

Stanford offers three types of application fee waivers for which GSE applicants may apply and be considered:

• GRE Fee Reduction Certificate-Based Waiver
• Diversity Program Participation-Based Waiver
• School-Based Waiver

Please visit the Stanford Graduate Diversity website for instructions, deadlines, and the fee waiver application form.

Statement of Purpose

A Statement of Purpose is required. Your statement should be typed, single-spaced and should be between one to two pages . Describe succinctly your reasons for applying to the proposed program, your preparation for this field of study, and why our program is a good fit for you, your future career plans, and other aspects of your background as well as interests which may aid the admissions committee in evaluating your aptitude and motivation for graduate study. You may indicate potential faculty mentors as part of your study and research interests. Be sure to keep a copy for your records. What's a Good Statement of Purpose?

A resume or CV  is required of all applicants, depending on which document is most appropriate for your background. There is no page limit for resumes or CVs, though we typically see resumes of one page in length. Please upload your resume or CV in the online application.

Three (3) Letters of Recommendation

Applicants are required to submit three letters of recommendation . In the online application, you will be asked to identify your recommenders and their email addresses. Please notify your recommenders that they will receive an email prompt to submit their recommendation online. You can submit your request for letters of recommendation through the system without submitting the entire online application.  Stanford GSE only accepts online recommendations through the application system ; Stanford GSE cannot accept mailed, emailed or faxed recommendations.

Recommendations should be written by people who have supervised you in an academic, employment, or community service setting. We very strongly recommend that at least one of these letters be from a university professor familiar with your academic work. Your recommendations should directly address your suitability for admission to a graduate program at Stanford GSE.

It is the applicant's responsibility to ensure that all three letters of recommendation are submitted through the system by the application deadline , so please work closely with your recommenders to remind them of the deadline.

College and University Transcripts

Transcripts are required from every college and university you have attended for at least one academic year as a full-time student. When submitting your online application, transcripts should be uploaded to the application as a scanned copy or PDF ; this is sufficient for the application review process. Please refrain from sending a secured PDF/transcript with a digital signature as our system cannot upload these properly. The best way to ensure we receive an upload-able document is for you to print out the secured transcript, scan it, and upload the scanned copy (not to exceed 10MB) as a PDF. 

If you earned a degree at the institution from which you are submitting a transcript, please ensure that the degree conferral date and the degree conferred is clearly visible on the document. If you are currently enrolled in a degree program and will not have earned the respective degree by the time of submitting your GSE application, you should submit your most recent in-progress transcript from your institution.

Only if admitted will we contact you with instructions on sending two copies of your official transcripts to our office. We cannot accept mailed, emailed or faxed copies of your transcripts during the application process. Please note: the instructions for sending transcripts on the online application and on the general Stanford Graduate Admissions Office website differ from this Stanford GSE requirement.

Concerning course work completed in a study abroad program

If the coursework and grades are reflected on the transcript of your home institution, you do not need to submit original transcripts from the study abroad institution.

Concerning foreign institutions

If your institution provides a transcript in a language other than English, we require that you submit a translation of the transcript that is either provided by the institution or a certified translator. Translations must be literal and complete versions of the original records.

If your transcript does not include your degree conferral date and the degree conferred , please submit a scanned copy of your diploma, a conferral statement, or a conferral document in addition to your transcript . If you are currently enrolled in a degree program and will not have earned the respective degree by the time of submitting your GSE application, you should submit your most recent in-progress transcript from your institution.

Stanford University requires the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) from all applicants whose native language is not English. The GSE requires a minimum TOEFL score of 250 for the computer-based test, 600 for the paper-based test or 100 for the internet-based test in order to be considered for admission. The Test of Written English (TWE) portion of the TOEFL is not required. Applicants who have completed a four-year bachelor's degree or a two-year master's program (or its equivalent) in the U.S. or at an institution where English is the main language of instruction are not required to take the TOEFL. For more information on TOEFL requirements, please refer to the Required Exams  page on the main Stanford Graduate Admissions website. You may register for the TOEFL test directly at the ETS website .

TOEFL Dates and Deadlines

PhD applicants who are required to take the TOEFL should plan to take the internet-based TOEFL test and have official TOEFL scores sent electronically to Stanford at institution code 4704 (department code does not matter) no later than November 1 . This will give your official TOEFL scores time to be sent from ETS and be received by our system in time for the December 1 deadline. PhD applicants to Knight-Hennessy Scholars should plan to take the internet-based TOEFL test no later than October 16 so your scores can be received by our system in time for the November 16 KHS GSE deadline. Please note that the TOEFL may be taken no earlier than 18 months prior to the application deadline.

Does Stanford accept tests other than TOEFL?

No. We accept only TOEFL scores; we do not accept IELTS or other test scores.

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Studying PhD in the USA 2024- 2025: Your Complete Guide

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Thinking about PhD? Think America!

PhD in the USA comes not only with a substantial recognition of your expertise but also impacts your overall growth in person. Learning shoulder to shoulder with the best minds that walked on this planet is a privilege. Starting from engineering, computer science, applied sciences, biotechnology, pharmaceuticals, and medicine to management, you may earn your PhD in the USA in the program of your choice. There are many fully funded PhD programs in America for international students in 2023 that you may opt for, too. Overwhelmed? Don’t worry; reading this blog is the first step which may guide you to your dreams of studying PhD programs in the U.S.A. Let’s keep scrolling!

Why Study PhD in the USA?

The top reasons to study in the USA include unparalleled academic excellence, American prestige , choices of flexible college programs alongside the best Universities like Stanford and Harvard and a diverse range of courses offered for PhD in the USA.

1. Course Length of PhD in the USA

Students prefer to earn their degree in the USA for the flexibility of the PhD programs in the USA for international students in 2023. The duration of your PhD in the country may vary from program to program. The maximum no. of years a part-time doctoral student spends is ten years. In other cases, full-time enrollment in PhD programs in the United States of America demands a minimum of 4 years. There are many online PhD programs in the country you may go for. Adding more to the best things about studying in the USA, you will also have the option of one-year PhD programs in the USA.

2. Top-Notch Universities

If the USA were to be a person, it would have definitely boasted about being the top destination country with its cities encompassing every aspect of a student’s dream. The hunt for knowledge seems never ending in the top institutes for PhD in the USA. The USA is home to distinguished universities like Harvard and Stanford. Studying Doctor of Philosophy in the USA means you will never have to look back. 

And, just in case you are very prepared and have the merits for pursuing a PhD in the U.S.A. for international students, the chances are high that you might get an acceptance letter from the oldest universities in the world. The fully funded PhD programs in the U.S.A. for international students 2023 add to the glee of every applicant. Most public and private universities conduct intakes year-long. Also, the intakes for 2023-2024 in the USA are ongoing. You may go ahead and plan accordingly and not miss the opportunity of studying at world-class universities and the best faculty. 

3. Diversity in the College Campuses 

The USA is the pioneer in neo-cultural globalisation or, let us rather say, the initiator of cultural diversity. The USA is home to approximately 9,50,000 international students, making up 5.5% of the international diaspora in the US. The whooping number of students choosing the USA as their destination for higher studies is a testimony to the diversity of the beautiful campuses host. 

4. Availability of Scholarships for PhD in the USA

The education system of the USA is very well devised to serve the needs of every student enrolling for PhD degree in the USA. There are many scholarships available for PhD students in the American universities. The scholarships allow you to pursue a fully funded PhD in the USA for international students 2023. There are entities such as the Government of the USA, universities and various private organisations that extend scholarships to students with merits and credible need of funds to pursue their PhD programs in the USA. We will be discussing it further in some moments. 

5. Availability of Jobs after PhD in the USA

American universities typically have vibrant campus communities with a wide range of extracurricular activities, clubs and organisations. As a student, you will have the opportunity to engage in various social, cultural and recreational activities alongside your academic studies.

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Best Universities for PhD Programs in the USA

1. harvard university.

Tuition Fees: $78,000 ‍Acceptance rate: 4% QS Ranking: 4th

US Ranking: 2nd

Top Courses: Arts & Humanities, Business & Management, Engineering & Technology, Life Sciences & Medicine, Social Sciences & Management

Intake Seasons: Fall/Spring

Famous Alumni: Bill Gates

Harvard University stands as one of the best universities in the USA and the entire world. The university enrols close to 22,947 students annually, making it one of the toughest universities to get into as well. The university hosts a range of PhD programs in the U.S.A. for international students 2023, including chemical biology, engineering, immunology and neuroscience, among other top PhD programs in the U.S.A. The campus is also home to the largest library system in the world. 

2. Stanford University

Average Fees: $80,000 ‍Acceptance rate: 16% QS Ranking: 5th

US Ranking: 3rd

Eligibility: GPA: 4, SAT: 1465, ACT: 31.5, IELTS: 6.5, TOEFL: 90, GMAT: 690, GRE: 162

Intake Seasons: Fall

Famous Alumni: Elon Musk

Located in the silicon valley, the university is a pioneering institution brimming with knowledge. As a campus that is spread across more than 8,000 acres and home to 16,000+ students flocking in from various parts of the world each year, it is one of the best choices for PhD programs in the U.S.A. for international students 2023.

3. University of Chicago

Average Fees: $78,000 ‍Acceptance rate: 6.5% QS Ranking: 11th

US Ranking: 12th

Intake Seasons: All Seasons

Famous Alumni: Susan Sontag

The University of Chicago introduces you to a world that's transformational, effective and always on the go. The campus is home to more than 17,000 students and boasts of one-of-its-kind diversity. A wide number of PhD programs in the U.S.A. for international students 2023 makes it one of the top choices for students in the world. 

Top 3 PhD Scholarships in the USA

There may be situations where you wish to pursue PhD in the USA but are unable to take your leap of faith due to financial constraints. You may enroll in fully funded PhD programs in the U.S.A for international students 2023 with the help of the scholarships provided for PhD in the U.S.A. We have listed below the best scholarships for PhD in the United States of America. 

1. Fulbright Foreign Student Program

Amount: $35,000

Provider: Binational Fullbright Commission/US Embassies

Deadline: 17th May, 2023

Expenses Covered: Tuition and fees, Round-trip travel, Living expenses and others

The scholarship offered by the organisation for PhD in the U.S.A. comes by as a ray of hope in your tough times. The scholarships help you move further towards a bright future backed by the PhD programs in the U.S.A. from top educational institutions. 

2. AAUW International Fellowships

Amount: $20,000

Provider: American Association of University Women 

Expenses Covered: Full tuition and Fees

Deadline: 1st December, 2023

The scholarship is one of the oldest, largest and most competitive scholarships for PhD in the U.S.A. The scholarship or fellowship is offered to women from across the world. The scholarship aims at boosting the contribution of women in the field of research and development. And transforming the world. 

3. Campbell Fellowships for Transformative Research

Amount: $54,000

Provider: School of Advanced Research

Expenses Covered: Stipend, Tuition fees waiver, Registration costs

Deadline: November, 2023

The scholarship is among the best short-term scholarships for PhD in the USA for women scholars. The duration of the Campbell fellowship lies between 6 months to 9 months. The scholarship is awarded to female scholars who are working in global research for women in developing nations. 

Application Requirements for PhD in the USA

Pursuing a PhD on American soil sounds like a dream come true. However, the process of application is extensive and requires due diligence and the best research before the selection of the scholarships and the colleges or the courses. We have tried to help you out below with some of the many requirements for applying for scholarships for PhD programs in the U.S.A. for international students 2023. Scroll for the list below:

1. Applying 

The first step is completing the application form before the deadline. You may check out the websites of the scholarships and universities and keep track of deadlines.

There are two types of scholarships. One is an easy scholarship which might not require an essay, and there are scholarships for PhD in the U.S.A. demanding essays. Thus, depending on the requirement, prepare an essay describing the needs of the scholarship for you.

3. Credible References

You must collect credible sources of references while applying for the scholarships. The reference must align with the PhD programs in the USA for international students 2023 you are applying for.

4. Competitive Exam Scores

Receiving a scholarship for PhD in the United States of America comes with criteria of scores in competitive exams like IELTS, TOEFL, GRE, GMAT, SAT, and ACT, among many others. Take your tests well to qualify for the applications of scholarships to transform your PhD into fully funded PhD programs in the U.S.A. for international students 2023.  

Top 3 Jobs Options After PhD in the USA

1. professor/ lecturer.

After completing your PhD in the U.S.A., you become eligible for the position of lecturer or professor in the top universities in the world. 

2. Scientific Assessor

The job of a scientific assessor is also available post you earn your degree in any of the PhD programs in the U.S.A. for international students 2023.

3. Research & development

A PhD in the U.S.A. makes you eligible to apply for jobs in the research and development field. If your field of study is research-oriented, you may have job opportunities in some of the best research institutes in the world nestled in the USA. 

Hope you are ready to resume or take forward the academic journey you have been aiming for. The blog was just an initiative for you to understand the overall landscape of PhD in the U.S.A. You may get in touch with us via the comment section below or DM us on our Instagram channel for additional info you might need. 

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How the PhD Program Works

Program Overview

Completing your doctorate at Wharton requires 5 years of full-time study. The first 2 years in the program prepare you for admission to candidacy by taking courses, qualifying exams, and starting research projects. In the last few years, you are primarily conducting research full-time including writing and defending your doctoral dissertation.

Admission to candidacy.

You begin by taking courses required for your program of study. All programs requires a preliminary exam, which may be either oral or written.

Some programs may have further requirements, such as an additional exam or research paper. If you enter with a master’s degree or other transfer credit, you may satisfy the formal course requirements more quickly.

Beginning the Wharton PhD Curriculum How the first two years of the Wharton program helped students discover their interests, learn the tools of the profession, and fuel their passion for teaching.

The Doctoral Dissertation

Upon successful completion of coursework and passing a preliminary examination, you are admitted to candidacy for the dissertation phase of your studies.

Your doctoral dissertation should contain original research that meets standards for published scholarship in your field. You are expected to be an expert in the topic you choose to research.

You are admitted to candidacy for the dissertation phase of your studies upon successful completion of coursework and passing a preliminary examination, but you can start thinking about and working on research of relevance at any time.

The dissertation process culminates with a “defense,” in which you defend the proposal orally before your dissertation committee.

While working on your dissertation, you interact extensively with Wharton faculty. Together with interested faculty, you create your own research community that includes your dissertation advisor and dissertation committee.

Policies and Procedures

Get more detailed explanation of course requirements, academic standards, the Teacher Development Program, time limits, and dissertation procedures and requirements.

Sample Program Sequence

Years 1 & 2.

Coursework Examination Research Papers Research Activities Field-Specific Requirements

Directed Reading & Research Admission to Candidacy Formulation of Research Topic

Years 4 & 5

Continued Research Oral Examination Dissertation

Hear From Our Doctoral Community

Faculty expertise in housing economics attracted this phd student to wharton, closing the tenure gap for business faculty of color.

The Wharton School

From PhD Student to Colleague

Email forwarding for @cs.stanford.edu is changing. Updates and details here .

PhD Admissions

Main navigation.

The Computer Science Department PhD program is a top-ranked research-oriented program, typically completed in 5-6 years. There are very few course requirements and the emphasis is on preparation for a career in Computer Science research. 

Eligibility

To be eligible for admission in a Stanford graduate program, applicants must meet:

• Applicants from institutions outside of the United States must hold the equivalent of a United States Bachelor's degree from a college or University of recognized good standing. See detailed information by region on  Stanford Graduate Admissions website. 
• Area of undergraduate study . While we do not require a specific undergraduate coursework, it is important that applicants have strong quantitative and analytical skills; a Bachelor's degree in Computer Science is not required.

Any questions about the admissions eligibility should be directed to  [email protected] .

Application Checklist

An completed online application must be submitted by the CS Department application deadline and can be found  here .

Application Deadlines

The online application can be found here . You may submit one application for a PhD program per respective academic term.

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Getting a PhD in the USA: A Complete Guide for International and Domestic Students

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If you’re looking for the right university to obtain your PhD at, then you’re probably already an expert in your area of interest and want to back that up with the right credentials. You may also be tempted by access to the world’s top universities’ research capabilities, which could allow you to conduct empirical studies of whatever it is that you’re interested in.

Regardless of whether you’re a math-oriented person looking to get a doctor’s degree in one of the STEM fields, or you’re more inclined towards social sciences, there is no better place for you to look for a satisfactory PhD program than the United States of America!

It’s home to some of the most prestigious universities in the world. With flexible curriculums, beautiful campus grounds, and some top-notch job opportunities, you’re sure to find what you’re looking for in the States.

There is a significant difference in the approach to PhD studies in the USA and the rest of the world. The PhD programs are much more structured and provide comprehensive, thorough training to complement your independent research.

One of the most challenging and troublesome parts of obtaining a PhD in the USA is the application process itself. There are plenty of things to take care of, and if you’re not stringent about it, you might find yourself failing to secure funding or worse yet, getting denied on your visa application.

Consider this page to be your go-to guide to the US PhD programs and opportunities. Here, you’ll find all the information you could possibly need regarding the PhD application process, the best schools to satisfy your research interests, as well as information regarding funding and tuition fees.

Enjoy these page jumps to navigate easier!

PhD in the USA vs. Anywhere Else

Public vs. private, graduate schools, the ivy league and other groups, online phd programs, usa university rankings 2021, new york city, san francisco, finding the right program and university: a checklist, structure of a phd program in the usa, application materials, admission requirements, finances and aid, the visa process, the bottom line.

The most fundamental difference between partaking in a PhD program in the United States and Europe is the structure of your studies. While the British and European universities tend to focus on the individual pursuit of your area of interest, schools in the States are more inclined towards helping you hone your skills and expertise. If you consider yourself more independent and don’t like too much oversight when conducting research, you may want to think twice before deciding to study in the USA.

American universities will allow you to apply for a PhD right after completing your undergraduate degree, whereas in European and British universities, a master’s degree is a requirement. So if the only accreditation you’ve got is a bachelor’s degree, but you still want to pursue a PhD, you’re left with no choice but to study in the USA.

In terms of workload, you’ll have much more to do at an American university. The entire duration of your program will be much longer than in the case of other schools, with about five to six years on average to complete the studies. In Europe, most PhD degrees can be obtained within three or four years.

On top of that, schools in the USA will actively encourage you to pursue research assistantships and other side activities that will not only contribute to your workload but could also serve as a means to generate additional income. While the positions of a research or teaching assistant are also available at European and British universities, these opportunities are not nearly as plentiful as in the case of American institutions.

Finally, there is one major difference in the application process. While students hoping to get into a university in the UK or Europe have to present their research project prior to getting into the school, it is a vital part of the decision process. On the other hand, in the US, you can apply to a particular department and submit your research proposal later on, after you’ve been accepted into the student body.

PhD in America 2021: Overview of Universities

The concentration of universities and other higher education establishments in the United States can give many prospective students quite a headache in the beginning. The US Department of Education lists 4,298 degree-granting educational institutions as of 2020. Not all of them can grant PhDs, but even after subtracting those out, you’ll still end up with a wide range of universities to pick from. To make it easier for you, we’ve categorized them so that you can narrow down your choice to the school profile that suits you best.

While the day-to-day campus life does not differ much, whether you’re in a public or a private school, the most important discrepancy is that regarding tuition fees. Public universities receive funding from governmental institutions, while private schools rely mostly on donations and other sources. This means that private institutions will charge higher tuition fees (on average) than public state universities.

If you’re from the USA, you should keep in mind that state (public) universities impose much lower fees on students originally from the same state as the school. If you’re not hellbent on moving out of your home state and exploring the country, you might want to consider looking at the local public options first, as you won’t have to chase after as much funding.

A graduate school is a specialized entity with the purpose of running its mother university’s graduate programs. There are various kinds of graduate schools — some of the largest and wealthiest universities in the USA might have a few of these, each one specializing in a particular subject.

It’s important to know what they are, since more likely than not, you’ll end up sending your PhD application over to a graduate school belonging to a certain university rather than the main institution itself. Keep this distinction in mind when applying — you don’t want to be enrolled in a bachelor’s degree program all over again!

When considering getting a PhD in the USA, you’ll come across one of the Ivy League schools sooner or later. The Ivy League is a group composed of the most prestigious higher education establishments in all of the United States. It includes schools like Harvard, Princeton, or Columbia University. The competition to get into one of these is fierce, and you might have to prove remarkable skill and aptitude in order to secure funding. As the elite of American universities, these institutions charge some of the world’s highest tuition fees.

Thankfully, your choice isn’t limited to the Ivy League. There are other university groups, such as the Public Ivy (comparable to Ivy League schools in terms of teaching quality with much lower fees) or the Association of American Universities (AAU).  Members of either of these groups offer quality education and research facilities at a fraction of the price of an Ivy League tuition.

Not everybody looking to obtain a PhD in the USA has the time and resources they can devote to the full-time pursuit of a degree. Whether it’s work or other responsibilities that are preventing you from enrolling in person, you should not give up on your ambitions. There are plenty of online PhD options in the USA for both domestic and international students. They usually come at a fraction of the cost of a regular, in-person degree, with funding options available as well.

You can find all sorts of PhD programs to pursue online, from computer science through management all the way to business administration. It’s also possible to study some of the more specialized subjects, such as behavioral analysis, which is quite convenient if you already have a masters degree in a more general area and would like to get a PhD in a certain niche.

There are plenty of official university rankings that pit all of the schools against each other with the aim of helping students find the most suitable program. Rankings such as the Times Higher Education Ranking or the TopUniversities Ranking are immensely helpful when it comes to comparing various schools and PhD curricula. Still, it’s important to avoid getting caught up in the comparison game too much.

There are thousands upon thousands of schools in the world, and the most prestigious, elite schools always take up the first 50 spots on these lists. This can lead some students to disregard some of the lower-ranked schools as not worthy of their time and money. Do not make that mistake. Aside from comparing universities using some of the rankings mentioned above, you should also check student satisfaction ratings and browse through lists of faculty members working at the department you’d like to apply to. These factors are equally as important as general rankings, and they might have a significant impact on your final decision.

Most Popular Student Cities

The USA is a huge country, and, like every large nation, its various regions are fundamentally different from each other. There are quite a few “student hotspots” across the fifty states. Here are four of the most popular ones. Each one is located in a completely different area of the country in order to give you the most complete overview of the US as a whole.

The Big Apple is probably the most popular student and tourist destination in the whole of the United States. It attracts dozens of thousands of prospective domestic and international students. It’s home to such prestigious institutions as the NYU, Columbia University, or the Juilliard School. NYC is a vibrant, multicultural metropolis — a great place to pursue higher education in performing arts or social sciences.

If you want to get a more gritty, day-to-day American reality, free of the distractions of the fairytale-like life in New York, you might want to give Chicago a shot. It isn’t as glamorous as NYC or San Francisco, which also means that the cost of living is a bit lower in this city. You’ll have a pick of some great schools, such as the University of Chicago or the Northeastern University of Illinois, just to name a few.

San Francisco has traditionally been at the forefront of social justice in the USA. As such, it is one of the most inclusive and friendly cities for students from all kinds of different backgrounds. Unfortunately, the same cannot be said about the cost of living in San Francisco or all of California, for that matter. Since the city’s close proximity to Silicon Valley, it makes for a great place for students pursuing a PhD in the STEM fields. You’ll have the opportunity to land an internship or a full-time position at one of the tech giants located there. The competition is fierce, though, so you’ll have to be at your very best to stand a chance!

You might be slightly baffled by seeing a Texas city on a list of the most student-friendly places, but there was simply no way for us to exclude Houston from this list, especially if you’re looking for a place to get a PhD in USA. Houston is home to Rice University, a school with a strong focus on comprehensive research. There is also the University of Houston or the Texas Southern University, both of which are strong, household names with rich histories.

The Sunbelt Capital is the perfect place to meet some great, like-minded people and focus on your research, far away from the hustle and bustle of New York or San Francisco, not to mention the complete lack of annoying travelers and tourist-trap restaurants!

Choosing the right school to obtain a PhD is a tough task. Once you’ve narrowed down your options a little by taking a look at the rankings and finding a city to spend the next six years of your life in, you need to take a more detailed look at the universities and the programs they have on offer. If you’re having trouble evaluating all of the information, help yourself by using the checklist below!

• Research facilities . Do they suit your needs? Are you going to be able to conduct all of the empirical and theoretical research you need to complete your PhD dissertation?
• Faculty members . Take a good, long look at all of the professors who work at each school. Try and identify those whose work interests you the most — those people will be immensely helpful throughout your PhD program.
• Funding opportunities . Look into all of the scholarships, grants, research, and teaching assistantships available at each school to see where you’re most likely to secure funding.
• Job placement rates . In the end, the likelihood of you getting a job is entirely up to you and your own skills and experience, but the university you’ve graduated from can influence these characteristics in more than one way. Checking up on how many former students of the department you’re interested in have achieved professional success can be a good way of evaluating the actual quality of education you’ll get at each particular institution.
• Extra-curriculars . Whether it is on-campus activities, groups, or teams, or activities outside of the school grounds, you should make sure that there is something you can do in your free time in the vicinity of your chosen university. Four to six years is a very long time, and you’re not going to spend all of it studying.

The initial stages of a PhD in USA are very similar to taught masters degree programs. You might even end up in some courses with masters students in the beginning! The taught classes and modules are divided into two groups: core classes and elective courses . The completion of core subjects is obligatory if you want to pass the year, while elective courses are optional, but bear in mind that you will need to pass some of them in order to satisfy the program requirements.

Once you’re done with all of your classes, you’ll have to pass a dissertation qualifying exam , which is a comprehensive examination that will test your knowledge and evaluate whether or not you’re qualified to carry out your own research.

After the exam, you’ll have to go through the lengthy and difficult process of conducting research and writing your dissertation. This stage of a PhD study consists of choosing your research topic and submitting a dissertation prospectus (research proposal). This is an essay outlining the entire project, your methodology, and the intended outcomes. Afterward, you’ll be assigned a group of advisors (a.k.a. “committee of supervisors”) who will provide you with assistance and evaluate your work as you go along.

As for the grading and assessment of your work during the US PhD program, you will be assessed based on the following:

• Coursework – essays and examinations from all of your core and elective courses,
• Examinations – a comprehensive exam that meant to assess whether you’re ready to begin conducting research or not,
• Dissertation prospectus – the outline of your intended research and its oral defense,
• Dissertation defense   –  the culmination of your PhD pursuit — the presentation and oral defense of your dissertation.

Applying for a PhD in the USA: What to Expect?

Once you start applying to your chosen schools, it is important to keep calm and have an alternative course of action in mind in case things don’t go the way you planned. Admissions to American schools are amongst some of the most competitive globally, so there is a high likelihood of failure at every stage of the process.

Even students with impeccable accreditation and outstanding letters of recommendation get rejected, which is why it is so important to be mentally prepared for every outcome.

As for the practical side of things, everything you’ll need to submit is listed below.

It’s quite likely that some universities will expect you to submit some extra materials with your PhD application, but you’re expected to have the following at the ready regardless of where you’re applying:

• academic transcripts,
• personal statement,
• entry test scores,
• CV (resume),
• letters of recommendation,
• research statement,
• writing samples.

You already know that a master’s degree isn’t a requirement to pursue a PhD in USA. There are, however, other criteria that schools will use to evaluate whether or not you’re a suitable candidate. This includes a Grade Point Average (GPA) based on the academic transcripts you’ve provided, your Graduate Records Exam (GRE) results, as well as widely recognized English proficiency test (ex. IELTS or TOEFL) if you come from a non-English speaking country. 

After you’ve successfully satisfied the admission requirements presented above, some schools might invite you for a format interview, after which they will come to a final decision. Keep in mind that not all schools hold interviews, and many of them will accept or deny your application based only upon the submitted materials.

Tuition payments for a PhD study in the United States are incredibly high, with dozens of thousands of dollars per year being the standard nationwide. According to the American National Center for Education Statistics, the average yearly fee at private universities was as high as $44,000. Public (state) universities charge much less than that, although it is still a hefty fee at around $13,000 per year for in-state students.

Those coming from another state or abroad should expect a much higher payment, albeit still lower than what they’d need to pay at one of the private establishments.

You should plan your finances ahead of your PhD application so that you don’t end up with crippling debt at the end of your studies (unless you’re absolutely certain that you’re able to pay it off). Whether it’s through various assistantships at the school, funding programs, or scholarships, you should not have to go into your PhD studies worrying about how you’re going to pay for them.

Information for International Students

Incoming international students need to face additional screening and evaluation in order to get admitted to their chosen university. This is mostly due to the lengthy visa process , but you should also have some time set aside to figure out your living arrangements and travel itinerary.

Once you’re accepted for a PhD at a university approved by the Student Exchange and Visitor Programme, the visa process will be fairly straightforward, albeit lengthy, and quite unpleasant. Here are the main steps that students wishing to enroll in a PhD program at an American university need to go through:

• Paying the $200 SEVIS registration fee . The Student Exchange Visitor Information System charges a pretty hefty fee for registering you within their ranks. Unfortunately, without this payment, your university won’t be able to provide you with the right visa application form (the I-20).
• Filling out the online application . This will require you to fill out another form, as well as upload a current picture of yourself. You’ll also have to pay a $160 application fee.
• Schedule and attend a visa interview . The interview will take place in the US Embassy in your home country, and it’s not as scary as it sounds. Just make sure to bring all of the required documents, and you’ll be good to go!

If you want to avoid going through all that trouble just to be able to get a PhD in the USA, remember that you can also complete an online program with a school located in the States. These degrees are just as valid as those obtained in the traditional manner, with the added benefit of students completing all the coursework at their own pace, should their schedule not allow them to enroll in a full-time PhD program.

Getting a PhD in USA is a major aspiration of many students all over the world. Such a degree opens up many career paths, not to mention the ability to teach at universities! A PhD is particularly helpful if you want to land a well-paying job in the USA as a foreigner. It is much easier to get a work visa with such accreditation, especially if you’ve received your PhD at an American university.

Not only does a PhD provide you with many opportunities that would otherwise have been unavailable to you, but it also immensely contributes to your personal growth. Becoming a true expert in your area of interest is incredibly fulfilling, arguably more so than the career prospects that come with a PhD degree.

Insider's guide: PhD requirements in USA for international students

Pursuing a PhD in the United States can be a life-changing experience for international students looking to enhance their academic qualifications, advance their careers, and expand their horizons. However, before embarking on this journey, it's important to understand the requirements and expectations of the US doctoral education system.

In this article, we'll delve into the essential PhD requirements in the USA for international students, covering academic qualifications, English language proficiency, standardised tests, funding, and visa procedures.

Table of Contents

Academic qualifications, english language proficiency, standardised tests, visa procedures, frequently asked questions.

Academic qualifications are an important requirement for international students seeking to pursue a PhD in the USA. Students are typically required to hold a bachelor's or master's degree from a recognised university, with a strong academic record and relevant coursework.

The specific academic qualifications required for admission to PhD programs can vary depending on the university and program. Some programs may require a bachelor's degree in a specific field, while others may accept students with a bachelor's degree in a related field. Some programs may also require a master's degree, while others may allow students to earn a master's degree as part of the PhD program.

In addition to the degree requirements, international students may be required to provide official transcripts and diplomas from all institutions attended, as well as a course-by-course evaluation of their academic credentials from a recognised credential evaluation service.

It is also important for international students to have relevant coursework and research experience in their field of study. PhD programs in the USA typically require students to conduct independent research and contribute to the advancement of knowledge in their field. Therefore, having a strong academic background and relevant research experience can increase a student's chances of being admitted to a PhD program.

International students should carefully review the academic qualifications required for each program they are interested in and ensure that they meet the requirements. If their qualifications do not meet the requirements, they may need to take additional coursework or earn a higher degree before applying to PhD programs.

Also read: Ultimate guide PhD in the UK

English language proficiency is also one of the essential PhD requirements in USA for international students. The ability to communicate effectively in English is crucial to succeed in academic and professional settings in the US.

Most universities require international students to demonstrate their proficiency in English by taking an English language proficiency exam. The most commonly accepted exams are the TOEFL, IELTS.

The minimum scores required for admission to PhD programs can vary depending on the university and program. Typically, a minimum score of 80 on the TOEFL or 6.5 on the IELTS is required, but some programs may require higher scores.

In addition to the TOEFL or IELTS, some universities may accept other English language proficiency exams, such as the PTE Academic or the Cambridge English: Advanced (CAE) exam.

Also read: PhD Scholarship for Pakistani Students

Standardised tests are an important requirement for international students seeking to pursue a PhD in the USA. Standardised tests are used to assess an applicant's academic abilities and potential for success in a PhD program. The most commonly required standardised tests for PhD programs in the USA include the Graduate Record Examination (GRE) and the Graduate Management Admission Test (GMAT).

The GRE is a standardised test that assesses a student's verbal reasoning, quantitative reasoning, and analytical writing skills. The test is typically required for admission to graduate programs in a wide range of disciplines, including science, engineering, social sciences, and humanities.

The GMAT is a standardised test that assesses a student's analytical writing, integrated reasoning, quantitative reasoning, and verbal reasoning skills. The test is typically required for admission to graduate programs in business and management.

The minimum scores required for admission to PhD programs can vary depending on the university and program. Typically, a minimum score in the 50th percentile or higher is required for the GRE, while a minimum score of 600 or higher is required for the GMAT.

The specific standardised tests required for admission to PhD programs can vary depending on the university and program. Some programs may require the GRE or GMAT, while others may require a different test, such as the Medical College Admission Test (MCAT) for programs in the health sciences.

Funding can be a critical consideration for international students pursuing a PhD in the USA. Pursuing a PhD in the USA can be quite expensive, with tuition and living expenses often exceeding $50,000 per year. While federal financial aid is not available to international students, there are a variety of funding options that may be available to help cover the cost of tuition, living expenses , and research-related expenses.

One common source of funding for PhD students is through teaching or research assistantships. These positions typically provide a stipend or salary in exchange for work done in support of the department or faculty member providing the funding. Assistantship opportunities can be competitive, but they can provide valuable experience and financial support for students throughout their program.

Scholarships and fellowships can also be a valuable source of funding for international students pursuing a PhD in the USA. These awards may be offered by the university, private foundations, or other organisations, and can cover some or all of the cost of tuition and living expenses.

International students may also be eligible for funding from their home country or through external sources such as grants or fellowships. It's important for students to research these opportunities and understand any restrictions or requirements that may apply.

Finally, some students may choose to fund their PhD program through personal savings or by taking out student loans. While these options can provide flexibility in terms of funding, it's important for students to carefully consider the long-term financial implications of taking on debt to fund their education.

Also read: PhD in USA without GRE

The visa application process is an important step for international students seeking to pursue a PhD in the USA. International students who are accepted into a PhD program in the USA will typically need to obtain an F-1 student visa.

To begin the visa application process, students will need to provide proof of acceptance into a program, typically in the form of an acceptance letter from the university. In addition, students will need to demonstrate proof of financial support to cover the cost of tuition and living expenses in the USA. This can be done by providing bank statements or other documentation showing that the student or their sponsor has sufficient funds to cover these costs.

Once the initial documentation has been submitted, students will need to complete the DS-160 form, pay the visa application fee, and schedule an appointment at a US embassy or consulate in their home country. During the appointment, students will need to provide biometric data (such as fingerprints) and participate in an interview with a consular officer. The interview is an important part of the visa application process and can be a deciding factor in whether the student is approved for the visa.

It's important for international students to begin the visa application process well in advance of the start of their PhD program, as it can take several weeks or even months to complete all of the necessary steps. Students should also consult with the international student office at their university for guidance and support throughout the process.

Also read: PhD in abroad with scholarships (for Indian students)

Pursuing a PhD in the USA as an international student can be a challenging and rewarding experience. While the requirements for admission can be rigorous, they are designed to ensure that students have the academic qualifications, language proficiency, and aptitude needed to succeed in a doctoral program. With careful planning and research, international students can find funding opportunities and navigate the visa application process to achieve their academic and professional goals.

What is the typical academic qualification required for international students to apply to PhD programs in the USA?

International students are typically required to hold a bachelor's or master's degree from a recognised university, with a strong academic record and relevant coursework.

Do international students need to take the GRE or GMAT to apply to PhD programs in the USA?

Yes, in many cases international students are required to take the GRE or GMAT as part of the application process for PhD programs in the USA. The specific requirements can vary depending on the university and program.

Are there any language proficiency tests required for international students to apply to PhD programs in the USA?

Yes, international students whose native language is not English may be required to take an English language proficiency test, such as the TOEFL or IELTS, as part of the application process for PhD programs in the USA.

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Home » Admissions » PhD in USA

Why Study in USA?

Let’s Look at the Numbers!

• As per the latest QS World University Rankings 2023 :
• 2 US universities are in the Top 5  list
• 7 more US universities between Top 30  list

Why PhD in USA

Rather than waiting for one or two openings, many departments take PhD applicants each year. This may be an advantage for students because it allows them to apply for a PhD within the regular enrolment period.

In addition to giving annual admissions and vacancies for PhD programs in USA, university departments do not bind you to a specific subject or field of study. In comparison with other nations, where PhD is rewarded based on a certain project, American departments allow you to choose what you want to accomplish in the next 4-5 years of your life.

So these were some of the reasons to study PhD in USA for Indian students.

Top PhD Universities in USA

Following are some top PhD universities in USA:

Universities

• Harvard University
• Massachusetts Institute of Technology
• Stanford University
• California Institute of Technology
• Carnegie Mellon University
• Purdue University
• University of California, Los Angeles
• University of Texas, Austin
• University of Illinois, Urbana Champaign
• Ohio State University
• University of Pennsylvania

Structure Of PhD

PhD programs in the US are a pure exploration degree. An original exploration is an essential demand for an American doctorate since you need to present your explanation behind the thesis.

US doctorates begin with tutored classes and assessments in the form of a comprehensive test. Upon completion of which a participant finalises their discussion content and start with the exploration.

Specific Reasons to Study in USA

Popular Fields of PhD Study in USA

• Biological Sciences
• Anthropology
• Engineering

Program Duration & Cost of Education in USA

After the completion of the degree, you can opt for Optional Practical Training (OPT) for a minimum of 12 months (or for 36 months, in the case of STEM programs)

In the United States, a PhD program normally lasts 4-6 years. On the other hand, some students take eight years to get their degree. There are two types of coursework years: 1-4 years of course work and 2-4 years of study. In the United States, the academic year is divided into two semesters: August to December and January to May. Courses and examinations for PhD candidates take place throughout the academic year.

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Eligibility Criteria for PhD in USA

Applicants must submit transcripts, application form and fee, a statement of purpose, recommendation letters and a detailed resume.

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Intake & Application Deadlines for PhD in USA

• Start preparing for applications at least 2 years in advance
• Fall intake is the preferred intake; submitting applications for Spring intake is not recommended.
• Fall Semester deadlines are between November & February

A Sneak Peek into the PhD Application Process in USA

The following documents are required

• College Transcripts
• Detailed Resume
• Scanned Copy of Passport
• Some universities additionally ask for a research proposal
• Application Form
• Letters of Recommendation

Networking with US universities professors is an integral step before starting the application process.

When to Apply for PhD in USA

It is recommended to prepare at least two years ahead of time for applications. By the end of the preceding year, GRE (or GMAT, if applying to B schools) scores should be available. Official undergraduate transcripts, letters of recommendation, a statement of intent, and in certain cases, research project proposals and writing examples should all be presented at the same time.

The application deadline varies by institution and field of study. It is suggested to visit the homepage of the university or department that interests you for getting information related to the application deadline and intake. Application deadlines may range from November to March.

Visa for PhD in USA

International students who wish to pursue Study Abroad PhD in the United States must get a student visa. Canadian and Bermudan students, on the other hand, do not require a visa to study in the United States.

Before acquiring a student visa, students must apply to an authorized institution. Visa applications are processed by both the US Department of State and the US Department of Homeland Security. The student must have a good moral character and his or her profile must indicate that he or she is travelling to the country to study.

Student Visa Terms and Provisions in USA

• Students need an F-1 visa to pursue a full-time education in US universities
• Upon receiving the I-20 from the admitted university, a student must apply for a visa
• Students can apply up to 120 days from the program start date

Choosing the Right University in USA

The PhD degree is awarded by 282 universities in the United States. Different colleges have different admissions standards and academic program difficulties. Candidates can choose from a list of colleges that offers PhD programs in USA based on their previous research expertise, interest in pursuing a PhD, and undergraduate curriculum.

Requirements for PhD in USA

Following is the list of generally required documents for getting PhD admission in USA:

• Statement of Purpose
• High GRE score
• Recommendation letter
• Language Competency
• Financial aids

These were some of the PhD requirements in USA for international students.

PhD in USA for Indian Students

Pursuing a PhD in the United States is a very good option for Indian students. There are hundreds of higher education institutions that offer admissions in PhD programs in USA to overseas students.

Students from all across the world attend PhD universities in USA. Whatever and wherever you choose to study, you will be welcomed by academic communities.

How to Apply for PhD Programs in USA

Process for Applying for a PhD in USA:

• Make a list of your research interests.
• Find the PhD programs in USA that meet your career goals
• Find out some ways to finance your studies
• Give the GRE test
• Take the Language proficiency test such as TOEFL or IELTS
• Collect your letters of recommendation
• Prepare a Statement of Purpose
• Fill online application form
• Submit your application form with all the necessary documents

PhD in USA Fees

PhD programs are available at several universities throughout the United States. As every PhD universities in USA have different facilities, therefore, cost of PhD in USA would vary. The fees charged by prestigious universities are significantly more than those levied by other universities.

Private Institution Fees: The average private institution fee for students in the United States is $ 43,300 (about INR 32.5L) each year.

Fees levied by the public university: According to costs structure of the public universities, the average annual fee assessed by the public institution for resident students is $ 12,737 (about INR 9.5L). International students, on the other hand, have to pay higher costs than in-state students.

PhD in USA – Types of PhD Courses in USA

Mostly, the US universities award the standard PhD or as an academic doctorate, which is equal to PhDs in other countries. However, some programs award professional doctorate degrees which include practical projects and case studies in addition to academic classes and dissertation research like the DBA (Doctor of Business Administration) and EdD (Doctor of Education).

The last type of ‘doctoral’ qualification is for students who seek to qualify for regulated professions like law or medicine, for example, JD (Doctor of Laws) and MD (Doctor of Medicine) degrees which are different from academic doctorates.

Following is the list of the most popular PhD courses in USA:

PhD in USA in Management

A doctorate in business administration demonstrates significant discipline and commitment to leadership excellence, distinguishing graduates from their management peers. Depending on their degree focus, hobbies, and industrial experience, doctoral graduates work in a variety of growing industries, including health and information technology. Many PhD in management graduates contribute to the future of business practice through research or teaching.

• Auburn University
• Binghamton University
• California Baptist University
• Campbellsville University

PhD in USA in Computer Science

The PhD in Computer Science prepares students to research important aspects of computer engineering, such as computer architecture, integrated controller design, photonic processing, high-performance computing, and network computing.

• The George Washington University
• Rochester Institute of Technology (RIT)
• University of New Mexico
• Northern Arizona University

PhD in USA in Psychology

The American Psychological Association recognizes three doctoral programs in psychology: clinical, counselling, and school psychology. Those who wish to teach or conduct research should get a PhD in Psychology, whereas those who want to work in private practice or with patients should get a Psy.D.

• University of Arizona
• University of Maryland Baltimore County
• University of San Francisco
• Grand Canyon University

PhD in USA in Marketing

A PhD in Marketing is a full-time doctoral program that lasts three to five years. This is a professional degree that aims to prepare students to teach and do research by focusing on theoretical aspects of marketing.

• Indiana University
• New York University

PhD in USA in Biotechnology

PhD in Biotechnology is a three-year biotechnology doctoral degree that takes about three years to complete. Students in this program will learn about research methodology, scientific communication, and recent biotechnology trends, among other things.

• University at Buffalo
• University of Vermont
• University of Iowa

PhD in USA in Physics

Those pursuing a PhD in Physics may anticipate it to take four to five years to complete, with two years of classroom study and two to three years of research and experimental work for their dissertation.

A PhD in Physics may take four to five years to complete, with two years of classroom instruction and two to three years of thesis research and experiment work.

• Cornell University
• Rice University
• Southern Illinois University
• Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute

PhD in USA in Microbiology

Microbiologists often need a PhD to do independent research and work at universities and institutions. Graduate students in microbiology focus on a particular branch, such as bacteriology or virology. A PhD program typically includes coursework, laboratory research, and the completion of a thesis. PhD in Microbiology typically takes four to six years to complete.

• University of Kentucky
• Colorado State University
• University of Nevada

PhD in USA in Public Health

A doctor of public health (DrPH) is a terminal degree that prepares graduates for careers in public health administration, management, research, or education.

• University of Utah

PhD in USA in Design

PhD in Design combines creativity and practical skills to produce a degree program with a wide range of applications. The topics and disciplines you study will be determined by your goals. From painting to lighting to animation and graphic design, a student can study it all.

• University of California
• Kansas State University

PhD in USA in Pharmacology

Three years of full-time study is required for a PhD in Pharmacology. In this course, students conduct research and ask questions concerning drug action and disposition. This course will prepare students to work in medical centers, clinics, or hospitals by providing them with a wide grasp of prescription drugs.

• Johns Hopkins University
• University of Washington

Some other top PhD courses in USA are:

• PhD in Data science USA
• PhD in Finance in USA
• PhD in Mathematics in USA

So, these were some top courses to study PhD in USA for Indian students.

PhD in USA with Scholarship

In the United States, universities usually provide financial aid to their students and it is rare for successful graduate students to be totally self-sufficient. Although the ‘sticker price’ for a US PhD may appear high, it is unlikely that you will pay that amount.

Funding will be available in a variety of forms. ‘Full-ride’ scholarships will cover tuition, living expenses, and other fees. Partial price reductions or full price waivers are also common options.

PhD in USA With Scholarship for Indian Students

Following is the list of scholarships for Indian students to pursue PhD in USA:

• Fulbright-Nehru Research Fellowship
• AAUW International Fellowships
• University of Iowa’s PhD Programs
• Fulbright-Nehru Doctoral research fellowship

Salary After PhD in USA

Unlike several European countries, the United States does not have a national minimum wage or compensation scale for PhD students. Depending on their school, the field of study, and location, PhD students can earn anywhere from $15,000 to $30,000 per year.

PhD in USA with Stipend

The issue area and institution determine the amount of the stipend. Some universities give graduate students more money, while others give them less. Grants may be used to supplement an adviser’s income if he is well-funded. However, the most common figure is between INR 13.5L and 18.7L.

How Manya – The Princeton Review Can Help You?

Manya – The Princeton Review have a trained team of counselors and advisors that will help candidates who are willing to get PhD admission in USA. We at Manya will help you with:

• Course selection
• Application submission
• Visa counseling
• Offer acceptance
• Fund or payments
• Pre-departure Orientation

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Why choose the USA for your PhD?

PhD from USA has numerous advantages, especially for international students. Universities in USA follow a different structure compared to Europe as its PhD curriculum is designed for students to take their time to understand the subject fundamentals well before commencing their research. US universities have the best of faculty for PhD programs, students get access to industry experts to interact and learn from, learning in a multicultural environment provides Indian students with a diverse academic community adding to their network.

What is the structure of a PhD Program in the USA?

The first part of a PhD program in USA is generally like a taught Master’s with two types of coursework to study- core and elective. The design of the program will determine a student’s freedom to choose classes. Some courses may mandate personal development activities to provide a holistic learning experience. This is followed by a dissertation qualifying exam. Students who qualify get to work on their capstone project to finish the PhD degree in USA.

What is the duration of PhD programs in USA?

Duration of PhD programs in USA can vary depending on an individual’s level of education, choice of subject and available research opportunities. Typically PhD in USA takes 8-10 years to complete. Full-time students can complete their PhD degree in 5-6 years. If one has a Master’s degree s/he can complete her/his PhD degree in 4-5 years. In the US PhD, students spend the first 4 years on their program coursework and another 2-4 years on their PhD dissertation.

What are the advantages of doing a PhD in the USA?

PhD from USA has its oblivious advantages. Being a developed nation the country has the best infrastructure to offer to students with world-class academia. Funds are allocated in good numbers for research purposes that make USA a sought after destination for PhD aspirants. Close tie-ups with corporates keep students updated with the latest industry developments and the universities focus on providing talent that industry requirements, enhancing students’ earning potential.

Why should one pursue a PhD in the USA rather than a Master’s/ Bachelor’s?

The decision is more between a Master’s or a PhD from USA. A bachelor’s degree from USA is a matter of personal choice as it tends to be a year longer compared to European universities. Universities in USA grant PhD admission without a master’s degree for most of their courses. They do not offer coursework reduction for students who already have a master’s degree, which takes the course duration anything between 5-7 years for full-time students.

What are the Intake seasons for PhD programs in USA for Indian Students?

USA graduate programmes have specific application deadlines tied to the start dates for their taught classes. It’s common for application windows to open between August and December for admission to a PhD in the autumn or fall of the following year. The academic year for PhD in the USA consists of two teaching semesters: August-December and January-May.

What are the requirements to do a PhD in the USA for Indian Students?

Eligibility criteria for PhD programs in USA for Indian students are as follows:

• Successful master’s degree students with an exceptional profile and an undergraduate performance can directly apply for PhD in USA with 16 years of education.
• Competitive GRE score (GMAT for post-doctoral management programs).
• Many universities require GRE Subject Test scores.
• IELTS/TOEFL score for language proficiency
• Academic & Research projects, Internships and/or publications as desired by the university.

How to shortlist Universities for your PHD in the USA?

Universities in USA are known for providing quality education however while shortlisting a university for a PhD program there are certain considerations to be made. They are as follows:

• Choose a course- Not a university-based on ranking. Course curriculum, training, research opportunities, faculty, university accreditation are some of the more important points to be considered.
• Location- Completing a PhD program can take 6-8 years. Looking at your lifestyle and personal preferences before shortlisting a university. If you have an active lifestyle then a big city might be better, but if you like a relaxed way of living then a university away from the city may be better suited.

How do I Apply for a PHD in USA and what will be the application Fee?

Application requirements for PhD in USA may vary depending on the university you wish to apply to. However, there are some basic requirements across all US universities as mentioned below:

• Academic Transcripts
• Standardised Test Scores- GRE / IELTS / TOEFL
• Personal statements/Essay – describing your achievements and extra-curricular interests.
• Letters of recommendation
• Writing Samples-published papers, reports or articles if any. Or you may be asked to write an essay on a specific subject.
• Research Statement- If required by the university you will describe your general research interest and give some idea about your future course of direction.

The application fee may vary from $100-150 plus the fee for tests.

What are the employment opportunities after PhD in the USA for Indian Students?

Indian students can apply for jobs after completing their PhD degree in USA. However, the availability of jobs depends highly on one’s area of specialisation. A biomedical student may find more job opportunities than a music student. Taking up academic jobs are more common for PhD students. Also as an international student your visa type, status, work permit, sponsorship and employment rules for foreign nationals will play a crucial role in determining your career prospects in USA post-course completion

Is it possible to pursue PhD in USA without GRE?

• When applying for a PhD in the USA you will discover several universities that do not require GRE scores but prefer applications that include them. Here are the main possibilities for applying for a PhD in USA without GRE:
• You can apply to universities in the USA that offer PhD programs.
• You can choose from online or part-time PhD programs in the USA, as well as less selective universities that do not require the GRE.

What is part time PhD in USA?

A PhD, or Doctor of Philosophy, is a university-awarded postgraduate degree. It is the highest level of academic degree available in a field. A Doctorate of Business Administration (DBA) is a post-graduate degree awarded by a university’s business school or business faculty. Completing a Part Time PhD or a Part Time DBA can improve your career prospects significantly. A Part Time PhD or Part Time DBA degree can provide an advantage or be a required qualification for students or professionals interested in leadership, academia, consulting research, and entrepreneurship. Part-time PhDs and Part-time DBA programs are available at many universities around the world. The number of Part Time PhD and Part Time DBA programs available can be overwhelming.

Below are some of the part time PhD in USA which you can opt for your further studies:

• Ed.D. in Organization and Leadership
• PhD in Information and Technology
• PhD in Strategic Leadership
• PhD in Public Health
• PhD in Neuroscience
• PhD in Mechanical Engineering

Can I do PhD after MBA in USA?

Yes, after an MBA, one can pursue a PhD in USA. Several business schools around the world offer PhD programmes that can be pursued after completing an MBA. Many schools require some years of work experience for the MBA program.

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Frequently Asked Questions for PhD Applicants

If you have questions about the application process, please consult the Application FAQ

Program FAQ

• When is the application deadline?  December 7, 2024 11:59 PM PST is the application deadline for Autumn 2025-2026.
• I will have just earned my bachelor’s degree before starting graduate study at Stanford. Should I apply to the MS or the PhD program?  You should apply to the degree program that can fulfill your ultimate degree goal. For example, if obtaining a PhD is your ultimate goal, you should apply directly to the PhD program.
• Do I need to have a master’s degree before applying to the PhD program?  No; the minimum degree requirement is a bachelor’s degree. Students who enter the PhD program may opt to pursue the master’s degree along the way to earning the PhD.
• If I apply to the PhD program but do not get admitted, will I be considered for the MS program?  The Electrical Engineering Department does not consider PhD applicants not admitted into the PhD program for the MS program. 
• If I am admitted and enrolled in the MS program, may I enter the PhD program later?  Admission to the PhD program is possible only through the  annual general admissions process . Current MS students must reapply through this process to be considered for the PhD program.
• May I apply for a start term other than autumn? No; applications are reviewed on an annual basis for autumn quarter start only.
• How long does it take to complete the PhD?  Typical completion time for the PhD program is 5-7 years.
• How important is it to contact faculty before I apply?  Contact with faculty members is not a required part of the application process nor does it guarantee admission to our graduate program. Admissions decisions are made by the Admissions Committee, not by individual faculty members.
• Is financial assistance available for PhD students?  Yes; all PhD students who maintain satisfactory academic progress receive full financial support for the duration of the doctoral program. For more information, please see  Financial Assistance for PhD Students .
• What are the minimum GPA requirements for admission?  Applicants do not need to meet any minimum grade point average (GPA) to secure admission, and we do not release information about average GPAs of admitted students. As a guideline, successful applicants typically earn undergraduate cumulative GPAs among the top of their class. However, please keep in mind that admission to our graduate programs depends on a combination of factors, and all areas of a student’s application are weighed when applications are reviewed.
• Am I eligible to apply if my undergraduate major is not Electrical Engineering?  Yes; students who meet the minimum degree requirements with a strong technical background in engineering, physical sciences, or mathematics are welcome to apply. A bachelor's degree in electrical engineering is not strictly required.
• Are specific prerequisite courses required for admission?  No; we advise prospective applicants to review the  EE Graduate Handbook  and the  Stanford Course Catalog  to evaluate what prerequisites are needed for graduate-level courses in your area(s) of interest.
• What is the minimum level of study required of international applicants from an academic institution outside of the U.S.?  Please refer to  Stanford Graduate Admissions | International Applicants  for eligibility guidelines related to study outside of the U.S.
• What is the process for transferring to the PhD program from another institution?  Students who wish to transfer to our PhD program from another institution must complete the same application procedure as new applicants. If you are admitted and enrolled, you may request to transfer up to 45 units of coursework from your previous institution toward the PhD degree requirements at Stanford, by following the procedures for  Graduate Residency Credit . Students must complete one quarter at Stanford before requesting to transfer units, and all transferred units are subject to approval by the Registrar’s Office.
• If I am admitted to a EE graduate program, can my admission be deferred?  The Department greatly discourages deferral of matriculation dates.  Deferrals are granted only to PhD applicants, and only in exceptional circumstances such as for US military service or visa issues for students arriving from designated countries.  Admitted students wishing to defer admission must send a written request (along with documentation if possible) to  [email protected] . Requests will be reviewed by the Admissions Committee. MS and Coterm applicants cannot defer admission dates.

Return to Program Overview:

Applying for a Doctoral Program

Start Your Application

Manage Your Application

A Doctorate is the highest academic degree awarded by universities in most fields of study. It involves several years of rigorous research, culminating in a dissertation that contributes new knowledge to the field. Doctoral candidates work closely with a faculty advisor to explore and answer complex questions, often pushing the boundaries of what is known.

Applying to a doctoral program is like applying for a job. This process requires more diligence and patience than applying for a Master’s degree. To stand out from a competitive pool of candidates, you must prepare a strong application that includes your academic achievements, any related research experience, and a clear statement of your research interests and goals. Be sure to demonstrate your passion, fit for the program, and your interest in RIT.

Explore our doctoral programs

How to Apply for a Doctoral Program

For details on the exact application requirements for your program, visit the Application Details section on your degree page and thoroughly review the graduate application instructions page .

• Most doctoral programs have an application deadline of January 15 and admit to Fall terms only, but be sure to verify the application deadline for your program and start terms before applying. Many programs will accept applications on a rolling basis after the priority deadline has passed until all spots are filled. For tips on completing your application, view our Ph.D. Application 101 recording . 
• Early applicants may see a “Hold for Program Deadline/Review Date” on the checklist in their portal. This an administrative hold that prevents applications from going for review until after December 15th. You will be notified when your file is sent to the review committee by email.
• Choose the Right Doctoral Program:  Review individual doctoral program pages carefully to learn the curriculum, research focus areas, facility profiles, and facilities to determine if the program is a good fit for you and to ensure that your interests and background align with the degree. The application will allow you to enter up to three choices in order of preference.
• Research Your Faculty Interests: Identify faculty members whose research aligns with your interests. Matching your research area with potential advisors strengthens your application and helps ensure a good fit. It is not necessary to secure a faculty advisor in order to submit your application. Learn more about researching faculty and areas of interest
• Craft Your Statement of Purpose for Research: This requirement should clearly convey your research interests, indicate what faculty member(s) you would like to work with, your experience, and why you want to pursue a doctorate at RIT. Each program may have specific guidelines, so be sure to address them. There is no minimum or maximum length. If you listed more than one program choice in your application it is suggested that you prepare separate statements for each program (doctoral and/or master’s). You may upload all three at the time you submit your application, or wait for a decision on your first choice program.  View program-specific criteria
• Choose Strong References: Make sure you choose the right people to submit letters of recommendation and give them plenty of time so they can prepare their support letter in advance. References should speak to your ability and promise to become a successful independent researcher. Professors, research supervisors, or professional mentors make ideal choices.
• Update Your CV/Resume: Ensure your CV or resume is current and highlights relevant academic achievements, research experience, publications, and professional skills.
• Verify Admission Requirements: Double-check all admission requirements and application details for your chosen program. Ensure you have all necessary materials, including transcripts, test scores, and any additional documents. You do not need to submit financial documents as part of your doctoral application. Focus on preparing a strong academic and research-focused application to showcase your qualifications and readiness for doctoral study.
• Understand Decision Timing: The review process typically starts in late January and may take several weeks to a few months. Be patient as the committee evaluates your application and aligns faculty advisors with candidates in matching research areas where funding is available. You may be invited to interview if faculty would like to know more about you. Interviews are not required. Admission decisions are first communicated in mid-March and continue until the class is full. If you are not admitted to your first choice program, allow additional time for review for second and third choices. RIT does not simultaneously review for multiple programs. 
• Replying to an Offer of Admission: Accepted candidates must respond to their doctoral degree offers by April 15 or the date indicated on your admit letter and in their portal. If you decide to accept your offer, you are expected to honor your commitment to enroll at RIT as a doctoral student. This ensures a smooth transition into your program and reflects your professionalism and reliability. 

Researching Faculty Advisors and/or Research Interest Areas

Identifying a potential faculty research advisor(s) and research interest areas in your Statement of Purpose for Research is important. It is not necessary to secure a faculty advisor(s) in order to submit your application.

Here are avenues for your research:

Align Research Interests

Ensure your research interests align with those of potential advisors. This alignment is crucial for a productive and supportive mentoring relationship. Review faculty members' recent publications and current projects to understand their focus areas. Visit the program page to learn about the current research for your program.

Use RIT’s “Find an Expert” Tool

Utilize RIT’s Find an Expert tool to identify faculty members with specific expertise. This resource can help you narrow down potential advisors based on your research interests. You may also want to use Google Scholar and search for RIT faculty.

Explore RIT’s Faculty Directory

Start by exploring the RIT Faculty Directory to find faculty members whose research aligns with your interests. This directory provides detailed profiles, including research areas, publications, and contact information.

Explore our Research Centers and Institutes:

RIT is home to a diverse array of research centers and institutes that drive innovation across various fields. These centers provide state-of-the-art facilities and collaborative environments to support groundbreaking research. Explore our extensive list of research centers and institutes

Reach Out to Potential Advisors

Once you’ve identified potential advisors, you may choose to reach out to them with a well-crafted email. This is not required but encouraged. Introduce yourself, briefly explain your research interests, and express why you’re interested in their work. Attach your CV and any relevant documents. Be respectful of their time and follow up if you don’t hear back within a couple of weeks. Do pay attention if it is documented that a faculty advisor is not taking on new students.

Funding Sources for Doctoral Students

Doctoral students typically receive full tuition and an RIT Graduate Research Assistantship (GRA) or Graduate Teaching Assistantship (GTA) that will pay a stipend for the academic year. There is not a separate application process for scholarship and assistantship consideration

Assistantships and Stipends

Research and teaching assistantships provide valuable experience and come with stipends that help cover living expenses during the school year, such as room and board. 

Summer Support Some programs are able to offer stipend support during the summer. Eligibility for summer funding will be determined by the graduate advisor and/or program director. 

Funding Throughout Program Funding throughout your doctoral program will depend on your satisfactory academic and research performance. Students are expected to fulfill their assistantship duties responsibly and make satisfactory progress towards their degree. It is expected that starting your second year, funding will be provided from your college either through a Teaching Assistantship or by your graduate advisor from external funds.

Student Fees Full-time students are responsible for both Student Activity and Student Health Services fees. In addition, RIT expects that all students will have health care insurance. Learn more about student fees

Timing and Distribution of Stipends

Graduate Research Assistants and Graduate Teaching Assistants receive a semi-monthly stipend payment starting a few weeks after the initial enrollment term. For U.S. Citizens and Permanent Residents, no taxes are withheld at the time the payment is made. However, students are encouraged to file estimated tax payments quarterly. Detailed information about the timing and distribution of stipends will be provided by your academic department. 

Financial Document Submission

Doctoral applicants are not required to submit financial documents as part of the application process. Focus on showcasing your academic and research potential without the added stress of financial documentation. If you are admitted, you will receive funding notification with your admission offer and international students who require a student visa will be assisted through the I-20 process.

Student Support and Community

Doctoral Student Association

The Doctoral Student Association provides an inviting environment that brings students together to encourage collaborative work. Doctorate students collaborate to produce high-quality journal publications and conference presentations in a friendly and encouraging environment. The group also provides information about professional and social activities to help produce well-rounded graduate students.

Learn more about the Doctoral Student Association

RIT Graduate School

The RIT Graduate School acts as a central hub, enhancing the academic journey for graduate students by cultivating a diverse scholarly community and offering robust professional development programs. This supportive environment, backed by dedicated faculty and staff, empowers students to excel in their research, scholarship, and creative endeavors.

Learn more about the RIT Graduate School

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between a doctorate and a master’s degree?

Understanding the differences between a doctorate (Ph.D.) and a master's (M.S.) degree program is crucial in making an informed decision. While a master's program typically focuses on advancing your knowledge and skills in a specific area, a doctorate emphasizes original research and developing new theories or applications.

Can I go from a Bachelor’s degree to a Doctorate? Do I need a Master’s degree first?

Yes, you can go directly from a Bachelor's degree (BS) to a Doctorate program. You are not required to get a master’s degree before pursuing a Doctorate. This pathway can be a strategic choice depending on your career goals and readiness for advanced research. 

May I have an application fee waiver?

The $65 application fee covers the management and processing of your record and admission materials. If you are unable to pay our application fee due to financial hardship, we encourage you to carefully consider the expenses associated with graduate study before applying.

Is there a set GPA requirement for being considered for a doctoral program at RIT?

Admitted doctoral students typically have a GPA of 3.0 or above. If it is lower, you will not necessarily be eliminated from consideration. You are welcome to apply. The Admissions Committee will consider your complete application when making a decision.

Do I need to provide GRE or GMAT scores ?

Requirements vary by program. Refer to your doctoral program page or the  deadlines and requirements  table for details. For programs that require test scores, we do not state minimum GRE or GMAT scores. Official scores should be sent to RIT directly from the testing agency using Institute code 2760.

What are the English language test score requirements? As an international student do I need to submit scores?

An official score report for the TOEFL, IELTS Academic, PTE Academic exam, or  RIT English Language Proficiency Test  is required of all international applicants who are not eligible for a waiver. We do not accept letters from your college or university indicating "English proficiency" or letters indicating courses were taught in English in place of official English language test scores. We do not accept Duolingo scores. See the “English Language Test Requirements” section in the  Application Materials  section of the  Application Instructions  for full details.

Do I need to have authored research papers to apply for admission to a doctoral degree?

No, you do not need published research papers to apply for a doctoral degree. A majority of admitted students do not have prior experience authoring research papers. However, admission to a doctoral degree is very competitive, and having published research papers helps strengthen your application.

How many students apply for doctoral study, and how many are admitted?

Admission to an RIT doctoral program is highly competitive. The number of applications received and the number of fully funded opportunities are limited and vary from year to year and by program.

Will the stipend fully cover living costs in the US?

The stipend should cover modest living expenses (housing and food), fees (student activity fee and health services fee), and costs for books, supplies, and some personal expenses. However, each student differs in their preferred living styles and their relative expenses. Doctoral students are permitted to take on other part-time employment so long as it does not interfere with their doctoral work (international students are only able to work on campus, for a total of 20 hours per week including their research positions). On-campus opportunities can be found through Career Connect .

Do doctoral students need to have personal finances available upon arriving at RIT?

Though our Ph.D. is fully funded, students do need to have their own funds available for travel and arrival in the US and to get settled in Rochester immediately upon entering the program. Please be sure to keep this in mind as you consider applying and your finances. If admitted, your first payment/stipend would not be until a few weeks into the program, so you will need to have a foundation of funds available for housing and other living expenses before that.

Is funding throughout the program guaranteed?

Your full tuition and assistantship stipend responsibilities will be determined by your graduate advisor and/or program director. It is our expectation that you will fulfill your duties responsibly and make satisfactory progress towards your degree. Funding in future years will depend on your satisfactory academic and research performance. It is expected that starting your second year, funding will be provided from your college either through a Teaching Assistantship or by your graduate advisor from external funds.

Our team is here to help you as you apply to RIT's doctoral programs. Do not hesitate to reach out if you have questions or need assistance.

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PhD in USA: Fees 2024, Top Colleges, Placements & Salaries

Jasmine Grover

Content Strategy Manager | Updated On - Apr 30, 2024

You must show your English proficiency by submitting scores for IELTS (7 to 7.5) and TOEFL (90 to 100).  When pursuing your PhD in USA, you've got 10 years to wrap up your thesis even though the program is 6 years. The cost of a PhD in the USA can vary quite a bit, ranging from USD 24,800 to 80,390 (INR 20.6 Lakhs to 66.9 Lakhs) . Though it can be costly, a PhD in USA offers a great return on investment as you can earn salaries ranging from USD 59,506 to USD 92,179 .

Some  top universities to aim for your PhD in the USA are MIT, Harvard University, Stanford University, and University of California, Berkeley. With a doctorate in hand, you can easily get a job at top-notch companies like Apple, Amazon, Microsoft, and more. 

PhD in USA: Program Highlights

Top Universities for PhD in USA

When it comes to pursuing a PhD in USA, there's no shortage of top-notch universities to choose from. Here are a few universities that consistently rank high and offer exceptional programs:

Why study PhD in USA?

Studying for a PhD in the USA is a top choice for many aspiring scholars. Here's why pursuing your doctoral studies in USA might be the best choice:

• PhD in USA is offered by well-ranked and globally accredited universities such as Harvard, MIT, and Stanford. 
• You don't need to spend years working on a master's degree before you can pursue PhD in USA. Some universities in USA offer admission to the PhD program right after bachelor's.
• USA universities offer PhD students generous stipends, scholarships, and fellowships, covering tuition fees and living costs.
• The USA boasts a lower unemployment rate of only 3.9% compared to many other countries.
• Over 280 universities in USA offer PhD programs for engineering, business, arts, or sciences.

The USA is a global innovation, technology, finance, and entertainment powerhouse. Whether you dream of working in Silicon Valley, Wall Street, or Hollywood, studying in the US puts you right in the middle of some of the world's most exciting hubs of opportunity.

So, if you're ready to take your academic journey to the next level and set yourself up for success, a PhD in the USA could be the right choice.

Popular PhD in USA Programs for Indian Students

Some popular programs of PhD in USA for Indian students:-

Course Curriculum

Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in USA is a popular degree sought after by many international students. It is considered the highest academic achievement in most fields of study. The PhD program in the USA consists of three main phases:

• Coursework Phase: Involves advanced courses over 1 to 3 years to build foundational knowledge and research skills.
• Preliminary Examination : Assess students' breadth of knowledge in their field after completing coursework.
• Dissertation Phase : Lasts 2 to 8 years for independent research, culminating in a written dissertation.

The duration of the PhD program varies depending on the field of study and the student's academic background. On average, it takes 4 to 8 years to complete a PhD program after obtaining a bachelor's degree. However, students who already hold a master's degree may complete the program in a year or two less, depending on their prior coursework and research experience.

PhD in USA Admission

Admission to most universities in the USA remains open during December and January. Students must submit applications before the deadlines are passed. You can go through the sections below to check the eligibility criteria and other requirements for PhD in USA.

PhD in USA: Eligibility Criteria

As the entry requirements vary within the field of study, it becomes very difficult to group this data into a piece of the overall information. However, the following eligibility criteria are followed by a majority PhD universities in USA:-

• 4-year Bachelor’s degree or Master’s degree
• A minimum GPA of 3 out of 4.
• 2 academic and 1 professional Letter of Recommendation (LOR)
• A 500-750 word Statement of Purpose (SoP)
• Updated Resume or CV
• A valid passport
• F-1 or J-1 US Student Visa
• Valid Passport
• Student Visa

PhD in USA: University Requirements

To get admission to PhD programs in the USA, students must have a minimum GPA of 2.7 to 3.9 based on various universities. Students must also have English language proficiency scores of IELTSand TOEFL. The various requirements for PhD admission in USA in some of the popular universities are tabulated as follows:-

Cost of PhD in USA

Students who wish to get admission to PhD courses in the USA must have enough funds to support their studies in the USA. Based on various top universities offering PhD courses, the total cost of study in the USA is around USD 70,573 to 1,26,163 (INR 58.47 lakhs to 10.45 million) including tuition fees and living costs.

PhD in USA Tuition Fee

The cost of PhD in USA varies with the specialisation or the preferred field of study. However, on average, the annual tuition fees range from USD 24,800 to 80,390 (INR 2.05 to 66.66 lakhs). The following table presents the university-wise distribution of the average tuition costs for opting PhD in USA:-

Cost of Living in USA

USA is the most popular as well as the costliest study abroad destination for PhD in USA as well as other programs. This corresponds to the quality of education, safety, ambience, and health services the country offers. Based on some of the top universities in the USA, students admitted to PhD courses will face an average living cost of USD 45,773 (INR 37.92 lakhs) based on various parameters mentioned below.

PhD in USA with Scholarship

At Universities in the USA, students are offered various scholarships and fellowships allowing students to ease their financial burden. You can check various fellowships offered by US universities in the table below.

Also Check : Education Loans to Study in USA

PhD in USA Placements

After completing the Ph.D. program at Universities in the USA, students are offered various job profiles based on their field of study and research. The average salary offered for various job profiles listed below ranges from USD 59,506 to 92,179 (INR 49.29 to 76.36 lakhs).

PhD in USA: Return on Investment

After completing the PhD programs in the USA, students are placed in various sectors. Graduates from US Universities receive an annual average salary ranging from USD 65,070 to 1,75,090 based on various top universities as mentioned below.

The availability of stipends, scholarships, and fellowships allows students to pursue a PhD in USA without any financial pressure. With an unemployability rate of just 3.9%, the USA allows graduates to work in their core fields after completing the Ph.D. programs. Companies like Apple, Amazon, CISCO, Microsoft, etc. offer students a salary range of USD 59,506 to 92,179 (INR 49.29 to 76.36 lakhs) based on different job profiles. 

Ques. How much does PhD cost in USA?

Ans. The cost of studying PhD in USA includes tuition costs and living costs as mentioned below.

• Tuition cost for PhD in USA ranges from USD 24,800 to 80,390 (INR 2.05 to 66.66 lakhs)
• Living costs for PhD in USA is around USD 45,773 (INR 37.92 lakhs).

Ques. How many years is PhD in USA?

Ans. Students enrolled in US universities have 10 years to complete their doctoral thesis, even though the course duration is 6 years .

Ques. What is the eligibility for PhD in USA?

Ans. To pursue PhD in USA, you must fulfil the below requirements.

• Students must have a bachelors or masters degree in relevant field.
• Students must have secured a GPA 2.7 to 3.9 on a scale of 4 (80-94%).
• Students must have valid scores of IELTS 7.0-7.5, TOEFL 90-100, etc.

Furthermore, for some of the specialisations, candidates will be required to submit GMAT or GRE scores.

Ques. Can I work while pursuing a PhD in USA?

Ans. Individuals pursuing a PhD in USA are allowed to work for a maximum of 20 hours per week on a part-time basis. They may start full-time working during vacations or holidays.

Ques. What are the top PhD programs to study in USA?

Ans. The following are some of the popular streams for pursuing a PhD in USA:-

• Engineering
• Biological Sciences

Ques. What can I do after completing a PhD in USA?

Ans. After pursuing a Ph.D. program in USA candidates may work under the following job profiles:-

• Research Scientist
• Data Analyst
• Assistant Research Engineer
• Teaching Assistant Professor
• Field Biologist
• Economist, etc.

Ques. Is post graduation necessary for pursuing PhD in USA?

Ans. For a majority of institutions, post graduation or a Master’s degree is not required for studying PhD in USA. Only an undergraduate degree with at least a 3.0 GPA (85%) is sufficient for applying to these colleges.

Ques. What is the salary after PhD in USA?

Ans. Graduates of PhD programs in USA can earn an impressive average annual salary ranging from USD 55,200 to USD 101,100 (INR 45.5 Lakhs to INR 83.4 Lakhs).

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How to Become A Doctorate? - Steps, Cost, Eligibility [2024]

Kopal Srivastava Sep 3, 2024 1K Reads

All we know and hear is that Learning is a continuous journey. The saying “Keep learning till our last breath” captures this well. Formal education usually peaks with a Doctorate in your field. However, many Doctorate holders continue their education with post-doctoral courses.

Choosing higher education, like a PhD Program, is a personal decision. Postgraduate students    pursuing a Doctorate have various motivations.

This article addresses questions such as: What is an Online PhD Program? How does one obtain an Online PhD Degree? Why pursue an Online Doctorate Degree? It also explores if you can achieve a Doctorate Degree Online. The answer is ‘Yes.’ Let's dive deeper into these aspects. 

Who Is Eligible For The PhD Doctorate Program In India? 

You must fulfill the mentioned eligibility criteria to apply for a PhD Program:

• Master's degree holders can apply for PhD programs. 
• For some subjects, a Master's in Philosophy is needed. 
• Students must have at least 50-55% marks in post-graduation. 
• Some universities admit students based on interviews, sometimes with a written exam. Candidates with research work experience are preferred.

What Is A Doctorate Degree? 

A Doctorate Degree is the highest academic qualification in any field. This includes areas like Psychology, Engineering, Computer Science, Humanities, Social Sciences, Physics, Chemistry, and Bio-Sciences. A Doctorate program usually takes four years of full-time study.

Doctorates contribute new knowledge to their field or improve existing systems. With more students aiming for dream careers and higher qualifications, the demand for Doctorate degrees is rising. This trend is also seen among students in Africa who want to build specialized careers. In today's world, Doctorate degrees are more relevant than ever.

To become a doctorate you need a master’s degree with a minimum mark of 50-55 percent from a government-recognised university. Moreover, you also need to take an entrance exam which is later followed by the personal interview round. Once you complete PhD program you will become a doctorate.

Who Should Opt For A Doctorate Degree?

Doctorate degrees are mainly for those who want careers in academics or research but you should know that your degree is not only useful to build an academic career but it is also useful in making you a manager in a top organization as it is believed that people having doctorate degree are experts in their fields as they have advanced knowledge and are fond of research and having research skill attract more recruiters and increases your chances of getting placed at top organization.Recently, more students aiming for industry jobs are also pursuing a doctorate. 

Different postgraduates have different reasons for this. Here are some important ones:  

• Intellectual Curiosity
• Academic Career
• Improve Research Skills
• Career Growth Outside Academia
• Private Sector Jobs
• Last Resort
• Personal Satisfaction and Accomplishment
• Recognition and Rewards
• Expertise in Chosen Field

1) Intellectual Curiosity: Many pursue a Doctorate driven by a deep desire to gain advanced knowledge.

2) Academic Career Aspirations: Those aiming to become professors or work in top educational institutions often choose a Doctorate.

3) Career Advancement: Doctorate holders find numerous career opportunities beyond academia, including well-paying private-sector jobs.

4) Desire for Recognition: Some seek societal respect and recognition, which a Doctorate can provide.

5) Job Market Demand: Many pursue a Doctorate to enhance employability, as there are ample opportunities in the private sector.

6) Personal Fulfillment: The satisfaction and sense of accomplishment from mastering new concepts motivates many to pursue a Doctorate.

7) Expert status: Some want to be recognized as experts in their field and influence organizational and social decisions.

8) Career advancement and salary: Better job prospects and higher salaries tend to attract postgraduate doctoral degrees.

Research Doctorates 

A Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) or similar research degrees focus on specialized study in a specific field. These programs prepare students for careers in academia, usually as professors or researchers.

Examples of research doctorates include:

• Doctor of Business Administration (D.B.A.)
• Doctor of Arts (D.A.)
• Doctor of Education (Ed.D.)
• Doctor of Theology (Th.D.)

What Is The Difference Between A Doctorate And A PhD Program? 

No, there is no difference between these two both are doctorate degrees.  A PhD, or Doctor of Philosophy, is one type of doctorate degree. There are several other types of doctorate degrees. Keep reading to learn about the main categories and how they differ from each other.

What are the types of Doctoral Degrees? 

Just like there are different types of undergraduate and graduate degrees, such as a BA versus a BS, or an MBA versus an MPA, doctoral degrees are also divided into categories.

There are two main types of doctorate degrees:

• Professional doctorate degrees
• Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) degrees

Let's compare and contrast these two types of doctorate degrees.

What Is A Professional Doctorate Degree? 

Professional doctoral degrees, also known as terminal or applied doctorates, focus on practical problem-solving rather than research and analysis. These degrees are crucial for certain careers and these degrees are specially designed for working professionals.

They can opt for these degrees to advance their career and to add a “Dr” title before their name. For example, to become a lawyer, you need a Juris Doctor (JD) degree along with passing the bar exam. Here are four more examples of professional doctorate degrees:

What Is A Doctor Of Philosophy (PhD) Program? 

This category includes a Doctor of Philosophy or PhD degree, it covers many fields such as economics or psychology. For example, a Doctor of Arts (DA) is actually a form of PhD. Moreover, once you complete the program you can add a “Dr” title before your name and it also signifies that you are an expert in your field.

Here are four other examples of PhD degrees:

• Doctor of Public Health (DPH) 
• Doctor of Organizational Innovation (EdD)
• Doctor of Theology (ThD).
• Psychiatrist (PsyD) 

Unlike professional degrees like the JD or DPH, the PhD is research-based. It focuses on transferring new knowledge or ideas through a student’s thesis. This is why PhD programs are called "doctor of philosophy", even though they are not related to philosophy.

What Are The Steps To Obtain A Doctorate?  

Here are the basics of getting a doctorate and what to do in each category:

• Prepare Academically: Start by completing undergraduate and graduate courses to develop the knowledge and skills you need for your doctoral studies.
• Evaluate and implement: Research doctoral programs that align with your career goals. If you feel you qualify, submit your application.
• Completion of academic work: Participate in your academic career, which will include further study in your field and further your skills.
• Dissertation work: Conduct original research and write a dissertation on your chosen topic. This is where you will contribute new insights to your business.

Following all these steps is very important as these steps help you in obtaining your doctorate degree:

Step-1:You Need To Complete Your Undergraduate (Ug) And Post Graduate (Pg) Degree

• Doctorate programs are increasingly popular and competitive, with strict application requirements. You need a bachelor’s or higher degree from an accredited college or university, along with meeting specific criteria set by the institution and their chosen field of study.
• If you're starting your academic journey, consider choosing an undergraduate program that aligns with your future master’s or doctorate plans. For instance, if your goal is a Doctor of Clinical Psychology (PsyD), starting with a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) could be a strategic path. Even if you've already completed your undergraduate degree, career changes are still possible.

Step- 2: You Need To Apply To Doctorate Programs

• The doctorate program requires a lot of time, effort, and dedication. It’s important to choose a reputable and accredited plan that offers grants, flexibility, and financial aid options. Look for programs with scholarships, accelerated degree options, and resources for military service members and veterans. 

You can find various universities that offer you a PhD program. Some of the top universities offering a PhD program are mentioned below:

• IIT Bombay 
• ISC Banglore 
• Amity University 
• Aligarh Muslim University 
• Aligappa University 
• Moreover, Choosing online coursework can also be flexible but the only problem is Online PhD is not a valid option in India but you can opt for an online DBA program , and you can complete this doctorate program without even quitting your job. Moreover, if you choose an Online DBA, you will be able to earn your doctorate degree from an International university without even relocating to another country. Furthermore, you get an opportunity to learn from international faculties who have years of experience and have published their work in top journals so they can guide you better.
• One of the biggest advantages of choosing an Online Doctorate program is, that you do not have to take any entrance exam, International universities offer you direct admission if you fulfill the eligibility criteria. Various universities offer you an Online DBA.

Some of them are mentioned below:

Step- 3: You Need To Complete Your Program Course Work

• In a doctoral program, students complete core courses, seminars, practicums, labs, and electives, ending with a dissertation or capstone project. The specific coursework depends on your area of study. For example, Ed.D. students take courses in innovation theory and inquiry methods, while PsyD students study psychopathology, clinical theory, and multicultural awareness.
• Doctorate coursework is rigorous, whether online or in-person. At this stage, you have completed your basic education and moved on to more challenging research. You will tackle complex real-world problems and present innovative solutions.

Step- 4- You Need To Complete Your Dissertation

• Most doctorate programs end with a major research project called a dissertation. In this project, students present their own original theories, research, or data analysis, or expand on previous scholarly work. A dissertation is usually a written paper, generally between 100 and 300 pages long, depending on the data volume and subject complexity.

How Long Does It Take To Complete Your Doctorate Program? 

The time required to complete a doctorate varies, generally from three to eight years. The exact time depends on several factors:

• How your degree program is structured
• You may be working or taking a break between classes
• Attend full-time or part-time
• The time needed to research, write, and prepare your essay
• The specific degree you are seeking

All of these factors influence how long it will take to complete your doctorate.

Moreover, if you opt for an Online DBA program, you can complete this doctorate program in a minimum of 3-5 years. Moreover, you do not have to even quit your job to pursue it. Furthermore, you can even visit the country if you want as many universities offer you weekly campus immersion in which you can even visit the campus for weeks and can experience the joy of the place. 

What Is The Demand For A Doctoral Degree? 

Demand for doctoral degrees is increasing as industries demand specialist skills and advanced research skills. According to the U.S. and according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), employment in physician-staff-level jobs is expected to grow by about 13% between 2016 and 2026. This is faster than growth in all industries, especially healthcare, education, and technology. 

How Much Do I Need To Expect After Completing A Doctorate Program? 

A doctoral degree brings new challenges and puts you at the forefront of research in your field. Financially, it can qualify you for high-paying, unique positions and help you stand out from other job seekers. So, how much can you earn to get a doctorate?

Statistics from the U.S. The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) shows that a doctorate is associated with higher earnings. According to the BLS, the average weekly wage for doctoral degree holders is about $1,900 ( Rs.158755).

By comparison, master’s degree holders earn about $1,570 (Rs.131181) bachelor’s degree holders about $1,330 (Rs.111128), and associate degree holders about $960 (Rs. 80213). While earning a doctorate requires a significant investment in your education, it provides a practical return in increased lifetime earning potential, especially if you qualify for income that will be used to help you or financial aid.

What Are The Specializations Of A PhD Program? 

Employment for PhD candidates depends on their specialization. The PhD program offers various specializations with different career profiles. Some examples include: including PhDs in Management, PhDs in the Arts, PhDs in Engineering, PhDs in Medicine, PhDs in Legal Studies, etc.

The details are mentioned below:

PhD Specialisations and Career Options

• PhD in Management:  HR Manager, Entrepreneur, etc. 
• PhD in Business Administration:  Economist, Professor, etc. 
• PhD in AI:  Data Scientist, Research Scientist, etc. 
• PhD in Psychology: Research Psychologist, Clinical Psychologist, Professor, Therapist
• PhD in law:   Legal Advisor, Lawyer, etc. 
• PhD Medical: Hospital Administrator, Medical Scientist, Professor, Researcher
• PhD Engineering : Research Scientist, Mechanical Design Engineer, Executive Engineer
• PhD Mechanical Engineering: Executive Engineer, Research Scientist, Professor, Mechanical Design Engineer
• PhD in Computer Science:  Data Scientist, Research Scientist, etc. 
• PhD in Data Science:  Website Developer, Software Developer, Hardware Engineer, Network Engineer, etc. 
• PhD in commerce:  Data Analyst, Finance Analyst, etc. 
• PhD Arts: Content Writer, Economist, Professor, Clinical Psychologist
• PhD Marketing: Deputy Manager, Marketing Manager, New Product Manager, Marketing Executive
• PhD Economics: Professor, Banker, Financial Manager, Accountant, Economist
• PhD Mathematics: Accountant, Cashier, Finance Manager, Professor, Loan Counsellor
• PhD Biology: Professor, Microbiologist, Research Biologist.
• PhD Chemistry: Forensic Chemist, Junior Scientist, Chemical Researcher, Medical Technologist.

What Are The Salaries For Different Professions?

 Various PhD specializations and their respective salaries are listed in the table below:

What Are The Benefits Of Pursuing A Doctorate?

Earning a doctorate offers many career advantages. Here are some of the benefits:

• Improved credibility: A doctoral degree increases your credibility and authority in your field, and signifies your expertise and commitment. Doctoral degree holders generally earn more than those with other degrees because of their advanced knowledge and skills.
• Advanced problem-solving skills: The latest coursework and final projects in the doctoral program enhance your problem-solving skills, making you a valuable candidate for employers.
• Career transition: With a doctoral degree, you are eligible for advanced academic and non-academic positions, such as department head or high-level manager
• Job security: Fewer doctoral degree holders are unemployed. In 2021, the unemployment rate for doctoral degree holders is 1.5%, compared to 2.6% for master’s degree holders, 3.5% for bachelor’s degree holders, and 4.6% for associate’s degree holders. 

What Are The Challenges Faced By The PhD Students?

There are various challenges faced by the students who enroll in a PhD program. Some of them are mentioned below:

• Managing Your Time: Strong time management is crucial for doctoral studies. Treat your doctorate like a full-time job, but don't neglect leisure time for your health and success. Plan your campus time carefully, like booking study spaces in advance.
• Time management :It is vital for writing your thesis. Regularly send short pieces of work to your supervisors, giving them enough time to critique. Avoid sending large chunks at once. Balance additional duties like teaching or student representation. If these tasks affect your PhD quality, it's okay to say no.

Supervisor Issues 

A good relationship with your supervisor is key to your PhD's success. However, problems can arise:

• Absence: If your supervisor is often unavailable, ask your second supervisor for more support or demand regular contact.
• Conflict: If you have two supervisors with conflicting advice, meet with them separately but don't take sides.
• Intimidation: If your supervisor is overly involved, ask them to step back.
• Leave: If your supervisor retires or goes on leave, discuss the next steps with your department.

If issues persist, consider changing your supervisor.

• Second-Year Blues: PhD studies can lead to a dip in motivation and morale, known as the "second-year blues." Stay optimistic and talk with other PhD students and your supervisor. Presenting at conferences and pursuing varied tasks can boost your confidence. Training courses and support programs, like those at the University of Reading, can help you strengthen skills and stay motivated. Set realistic expectations from the start to avoid disappointment.
• Starting Your Thesis: Starting your thesis can be tough. Begin with the easiest parts and plan in advance. Learn to critique research effectively, identifying gaps and weaknesses. Some sections you write may not make the final cut, but this is part of the learning process and can be useful for future academic work.
• Feeling Lonely or Stressed: Doctoral research can be isolating. Stay connected with other PhD students by joining clubs and societies. Blogging or podcasting about your research can help you make new contacts.Explain your busy schedule to friends and family. It's okay to say no to social opportunities, but discussing your PhD with a layperson can improve your work.If you feel stressed, check out resources on managing student stress and maintaining mental health at university.

How To Get A Doctorate Without PhD? 

If you are searching for options to get a doctorate without doing a PhD program, then you can opt for its alternative and the best alternative of a PhD is DBA. It stands for Doctor of Business Administration and it is also a doctorate program and adds up the “Dr” title before your name.

Moreover, you can even opt for an Online DBA, it will be a perfect alternative for you if you want to get your doctorate without doing PhD and without even quitting your job.

Moreover, the biggest advantage of choosing an Online DBA is you can earn your doctorate degree from an international faculty and without even relocation to another country.

Furthermore, in a PhD program, you do not get an opportunity to learn from an international faculties but in an online DBA, you will get this opportunity to learn from an international faculty who have years of experience and published their work in top journals they will guide you to publish your papers too.

Various universities offer you an Online DBA, some of them are mentioned below:

• ESGCI International School of Management Paris 
• Rushford Business School 
• Golden Gate Universiy 

There is one more option for you to get your doctorate and that is a Ph.D. for working professionals. This program is specially designed for students who want to do a PhD program but are unable to quit their jobs.

You can opt for this program and can get your doctorate without even quitting your job. Moreover, you can easily attend classes in the evening or classes conducted on the weekend to understand everything clearly. 

What Are The Easy Ways To Get Your PhD? 

I would like to tell you that there is no easy way to get your PhD. PhD is not an easy task it is a lengthy process. First, you need to take an entrance exam which is followed by the personal interview round and if you pass the interview round only then you will admitted to the university.

Moreover, doing a PhD is not easy as it is focused on research, and doing research becomes difficult for one who is not interested in research, so if you are someone who only wants to get recognized by the “Dr” title and does not want to do a PhD, you must opt for an Online DBA program, it is also a doctorate program and adds up the “Dr” title before your name. 

What Do We Need To Prepare For A PhD Entrance Exam? 

The syllabus for PhD entrance exams is based on the candidate's chosen specialization. It majorly includes topics from their UG and PG courses. Many universities also conduct an interview round for PhD admissions in 2024.

How To Get A Doctorate Degree In Business? 

Are you also a working professional looking to advance your career and have relevant working experience then you must opt for a DBA program. These doctorate programs are specially designed for people who are working and can not quit their jobs and who want to advance their careers.

By opting for a DBA program you will be able to advance your career and will be able to get recognized with a “Dr” title just like to get recognized with a “Dr” title after completing PhD program. Moreover, you can opt for an Online DBA program, if you choose an Online DBA, you will be able to earn your doctorate degree from an International university without even relocating to another country.

Furthermore, you get an opportunity to learn from international faculties who have years of experience and have published their work in top journals so they can guide you better. One of the biggest advantages of choosing an Online DBA program is, that you do not have to take any entrance exam, International universities offer you direct admission if you fulfill the eligibility criteria.

How To Get A Doctorate Degree In Psychology?  

The PhD in Psychology is a three-year program that leads to a doctorate and opens up many opportunities in medicine and academics. This doctoral degree focuses on medical science and research projects, making it ideal for students interested in a field of study or research.

For a PhD in Psychology, you need a Masters Degree in Psychology with at least 55% marks from a recognized university. Admission may be based on entrance examination or performance. Course fees range from Rs 20,000 to Rs 2 lakh.

Some of the top universities offering this program in India include Amity University, Lady Sri Rama College for Women, and Madras Christian College. With a PhD in psychology, one can become a professor at leading universities in India and abroad, work as a trained psychologist, and become a researcher and researcher in the field of psychology.

What Is a Ph.D. in Psychology?

Psychology is a vast field with many specialized fields for students to explore and research. Advanced psychology courses help students develop deeper knowledge and are trained to share this information effectively. These courses can improve job performance and improve relationships.

Understanding psychology leads to better human relationships. With mental health on the rise, it is increasingly important for professionals such as counselors, therapists, and psychologists to help those in need.

Here are the top reasons why you should pursue a PhD in psychology:

• Advanced Qualifications : A PhD is the highest academic qualification, giving you the cutting edge of psychology.
• Career opportunities: Graduates can help clients with stress and mental health, and better understand the mind and its problems.
• Earning Prospects : You can earn between Rs 2 lakh and Rs 6 lakh per year after doing a PhD.Private enterprise: A PhD enables you to start your own business or consulting firm.
• Research opportunities: You can research topics such as depression, self-confidence, and decision-making.
• Broad role: Expertise in areas such as neuropsychology, sport psychology, school psychology, industrial psychology, forensic psychology, social psychology, human factors psychology, educational psychology, abnormal psychology, health psychology, and developmental psychology. 

Conclusion 

A Doctorate is the highest academic qualification in any field. This includes areas like Psychology, Engineering, Computer Science, Humanities, Social Sciences, Physics, Chemistry, and Bio-Sciences. A Doctorate program usually takes four years of full-time study. Doctorate degrees are mainly for those who want careers in academics or research but you should know that your degree is not only useful to build an academic career but it is also useful in making you a manager in a top organization as it is believed that people having doctorate degree are experts in their fields as they have advanced knowledge and are fond of research and having research skill attract more recruiters and increases your chances of getting placed at top organization.

FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)

⭐ how long does it take to get a doctorate.

On average, a Ph.D. can take up to three to five years to complete. 

⭐ How do you get a doctorate degree?

Here are the steps to getting a PhD:

• Complete coursework.
• Finish one or more doctoral residency experiences.
• Pass a comprehensive exam.
• Develop and complete an independent research project.
• Get approval for your dissertation manuscript.

⭐ Is getting a doctorate the same as a PhD?

No, a Ph.D. is an academic degree, while a doctorate can be academic or professional. A Ph.D. is highly theoretical and research-focused. A professional doctorate is practical and applies research to specific professional settings.

⭐ Can I complete a PhD in 2 years?

It's very rare but possible. A few students finish their Ph.D. in two years, and some elite students even do it in 12 months. The key is to have a strong academic CV before starting.

⭐ Who is eligible for a PhD?

To pursue a PhD, you need to have completed a master’s degree in the same or a related field. Some colleges may also require an MPhil degree.

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A&T Expands Graduate Degree Programs Amid Unprecedented Growth

By Hope Baptiste / 09/03/2024 Academic Affairs

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EAST GREENSBORO, N.C. (Sept. 3, 2024) – North Carolina Agricultural and Technical State University has added five new graduate degree programs to its curriculum — three of which gained approval in a single academic year. The university now offers nearly 50 graduate programs across nine colleges and two schools.

 The university welcome the first cohorts of students this fall to its M.S. and Ph.D. programs in criminal justice , as well as its Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) program. The doctoral program in criminal justice is the only one of its kind in North Carolina.

N.C. A&T is also launching a Ph.D. program in applied psychology, which is awaiting accreditation by The Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC) , an institutional accreditor for quality assurance in higher education; and an M.S. in physician assistant studies, which is awaiting specialized accreditation. These programs hope to enroll students beginning Fall 2025.

“Data show that the greatest need for advanced-degree training is centered in healthcare and STEM-related fields,” said Clay Gloster Jr., Ph.D., P.E., vice provost for Graduate Research and dean of The Graduate College. “These new programs will help address those critical needs in the workforce and expand opportunities in law and criminal justice, as well.

“As the nation’s most affordable doctoral research university , A&T is making exceptional graduate education accessible and strengthening its position as a top research and doctorate producing institution."

Housed in the Department of Criminal Justice within A&T’s College of Arts, Humanities and Social Sciences , the criminal justice master’s and doctoral programs provide exceptional graduate education and training in criminal justice with four areas of specialization: investigative science, digital forensics, research methodology and social justice. The Ph.D. is the college’s first doctoral program.

The two programs emphasize an interdisciplinary approach to academics, research, professional development and leadership. The curriculum and training build on the department’s partnership with local and regional law enforcement agencies. The master’s program is available on campus and online, while the Ph.D. program is offered on campus only.

A&T’s School of Nursing , housed within the John R. and Kathy R. Hairston College of Health and Human Sciences, offers the entry option for the BSN, the traditional four-year BSN, the accelerated one-year BSN for graduates with a bachelor’s degree and the RN-BSN completion for registered nurses.

The new DNP prepares BSN and master trained nurses for advanced clinical practice and leadership. Delivered in a hybrid format, the DNP curriculum integrates emerging technology as well as health equity and social justice components to strategically address healthcare challenges. The overall goal is to increase minority students' representation in advanced nursing practice and leadership.

The program bridges workforce gaps in two critical areas: Psychiatry/Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) providers and Nursing Leadership. More importantly, the program equips future nursing leaders with emerging healthcare technology skills (e.g. telehealth, artificial intelligence, sensors and virtual reality) and competencies to address health equity and social justice.

 “North Carolina A&T’s longstanding commitment to academic excellence ensures future generations of practitioners, public servants and change-makers are well prepared to make positive, lasting impacts in our communities and beyond,” said Tonya Smith-Jackson, Ph.D., provost and executive vice chancellor for Academic Affairs. “These programs further bolster our place among the nation’s leading doctoral research universities and give our students the tools, training and support they need to learn, thrive and succeed.”

These new degree programs punctuate A&T’s phenomenal growth over the past decade. While final enrollment figures are not yet available,  the university has enrolled  more than 14,000 students for academic year 2024-25, eclipsing its enrollment of 13,885 for academic year 2023-24 . The university continues to invest in infrastructure, resources, support services and student success efforts to sustain and enhance its excellence as it grows.

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The first two times I tried college, I didn’t finish. There was never enough time to care for my young son, work a full-time job and do my schoolwork. And there was never enough money to pay rent, tuition and child care.

On my third try, everything clicked. This time I was more motivated than ever before — to prove that I could do it, to prove the doubters wrong. 

The first leg of my college journey came to a close this spring, after five grueling years, when I earned my associate degree in criminal justice from Howard Community College — a school that supports student parents like myself. 

I now consider myself proof that motivated and supported student parents can beat the odds and earn a college degree, even though the deck is stacked against us. 

One of every five college undergraduates in this country is caring for a dependent child. Student parents are usually women, at least 30 years old, raising children on their own. A third are Black , and a fifth are Latino. In addition, the largest share of student parents attend community colleges . There used to be a lot more of us, but a strong job market and the rising cost of tuition, housing and child care needs meant that many had to put their college dreams on hold.

The financial and time pressures on student learners are immense. Fewer than 40 percent of student parents earn their degrees within six years. 

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After I graduated from high school in 2019, I thought my road to a college degree would be relatively straightforward. I enrolled that fall but quit soon after I got pregnant. I returned to college in the fall of 2020, but caring for a newborn and trying to navigate online classes during the pandemic was simply too much. 

The college experience on offer did not match my reality of being a student and a parent . I had dropped out of school once already. It was much too easy to do it again.

Leaving college for a second time shattered my confidence and my belief in myself. 

I was raised by a single mom who didn’t go to college. I saw how hard she worked at a low-paying job and how much she struggled but could never get ahead.

I wanted to break that cycle. I was determined to provide a better life for me and especially for my son. I wanted to make sure he had everything he needed to grow up strong, healthy and smart. 

I was going to be the one who made it — the one who was able to look back and say to all who had doubted me that I had done this for me and my little boy.

In the fall of 2022, I tried again, this time at Howard Community College (HCC). The experience turned out to be completely different because HCC acknowledges and values parents like me and had assembled a plan and a program to support us. 

HCC offered me enough scholarships and financial aid to cover my tuition and fees for two years. They even gave me an emergency grant when I had trouble making rent one time. They arranged a flexible schedule that let me take all but one of my classes online at night after I was done with my job and had put my son to bed. At my previous college, I’d had to drop in-person courses when I couldn’t find child care at night. 

Howard also had a Career Links program designed specifically for single parents. It provided one-on-one academic and career counseling that helped me select my major, kept me on track to graduate and gave me the guidance I needed to figure out my future. 

This tremendous amount of support made a huge difference. I renewed my faith in myself. Last fall, I made the dean’s list. This spring, I received my degree.

Related: How parents of young kids make it through college

Today, I have big plans for my future. I’m still working full-time, but this summer I started university classes so I can earn my bachelor’s degree. My son, who turned four this spring, is getting ready to start preschool this fall. 

After I earn my four-year degree, I’d like one day to start a nonprofit that encourages other student parents, specifically single parents and children with an incarcerated parent. My son’s father has been incarcerated for the majority of my child’s life, and I want to provide comprehensive support and resources to help single parents like me overcome similar barriers.

Parents like us need all the help we can get, and I want to provide the assistance that I was lacking for so long.

College is difficult enough without adding a child and a full-time job to the mix. But when colleges can remove some of the financial, scheduling and other barriers that make it so much more arduous for student parents to finish their degrees, they demonstrate their support for their current students — and for the next generation to come.

Abby Bediako graduated from Howard Community College in 2024 and is currently attending the University of Maryland Global Campus. Abby is featured in Raising Up , a documentary film series aimed at elevating the lived experiences of student parents in higher education.

This story about student parents was produced by The Hechinger Report , a nonprofit, independent news organization focused on inequality and innovation in education. Sign up for our higher education newsletter . Listen to our higher education podcast .

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14 sets of twins and one set of triplets graduate from the same high school class

The  graduating class  at this Florida high school will make you do a double — and triple — take.

Fourteen sets of  twins  and one set of triplets gradua t ed June 5 from Cooper City High School in Cooper City, Florida, about 40 minutes outside of Miami.

The group comprised about 6% of the 543 graduates.

“It was very special as they would come across the stage; I would shake their hand and give one a diploma, and then the second one would come over to do the same thing,” Vera Perkovic, the school’s principal, tells TODAY.com.

“It kind of just symbolized they’re their own person, but also, they have been together all these years as twins,” she adds.

Cooper City High School Principal Vera Perkovic referenced the twins and triplets in the class during her speech at graduation.Courtesy Broward County Public Schools

Among the graduates are two sets of identical twins and 12 sets of fraternal twins,  NBC 6, our South Florida station, reported .

Gabrielle and Jocelyn Reed are one such set of identical twins.

“It was a great moment. It was also just bizarre because you raise twins, and everything is two at once,” Gabrielle and Jocelyn’s father, Aaron Reed, tells TODAY.com. “So, on some levels, it was twice as exciting, but it was also twice as chaotic and overwhelming.”

The sisters have attended school together since pre-K. Come August, they will go their separate ways for college.

Gabrielle is headed to Cornell University, while Jocelyn will attend Washington University in St. Louis, Missouri.

“I’m just really excited to go somewhere separate and be on my own,” Gabrielle says. “Everywhere I go, I’m lumped together with her and not really seen as my own person, so I’m really excited to be able to have my own experiences.”

As the editor of Cooper City High School’s yearbook, Jocelyn was always aware of the number of twins in her class, but it wasn’t until the group was in a room together that she realized just how special it is to have that many multiples.

“When you’re a twin, people treat you as a spectacle,” Jocelyn said. “So, it was crazy to see that it’s so common and that there are so many people that are also twins.”

Cooper City High School’s class of 2024 graduated June 5 at Nova Southeastern University in Fort Lauderdale, Florida.Vera Perkovic / Courtesy Broward County Public Schools

Broward County Public Schools believes the graduates have set a county record as most sets of twins to simultaneously graduate from one school.

Some of the students even created a slogan to commemorate their unique graduating class: “Twice as nice and triple the fun.”

Amanda is an editorial intern at TODAY.com and was born and raised in Miami, Florida.