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Whether you’ve just finished your undergraduate degree or you want to pivot your career, grad school may be the next logical step in your educational and professional development.

But how do you apply to graduate school so you have the best chance at receiving that coveted acceptance letter? Read on to learn how to submit the perfect graduate school application to impress admissions officers. For information on due dates and a printable timeline, check out our  grad school application checklist .

How Grad Schools Evaluate Your Application

The exact criteria for  graduate school admissions  vary depending on the school and program. Still, there are certain qualifications, including GPA and grades from specific undergraduate courses, that all admissions officers consider. Most graduate programs look for a minimum 3.0 GPA.

A Graduate Record Examination (GRE) score of at least 318 is considered strong and can help your application. A professional resume with work experience related to your program is often helpful or required. Programs typically ask for letters of recommendation and a  graduate school admissions essay  as well.

Are You a Good Fit for the Program?

Whichever program you apply for, you must first make sure it’s a good match. Consider the following questions before submitting your application:

  • Do you love the field of study the program you’re applying to focuses on?
  • Do you have an undergraduate degree or work experience in an area related to your graduate school program of choice?
  • Will earning this degree help you advance your career or earning potential?
  • Do you have the resources to pay for graduate school, either through your own funds or through loans, grants and scholarships? For more information about this, see our guide on  how to pay for graduate school .

Taking time to reflect on these questions can help you decide whether graduate school is right for you. You can also reach out to professors, students and alumni to get a better feel for your prospective program. You might even schedule a tour of the campus before applying.

Do You Have Relevant Internship or Research Experience?

Internships and relevant work experience may not make or break your graduate school application, but they can help set your application apart from the rest. Once you’re in a graduate program, you may be required to complete an internship or research work to graduate.

What Does Your Statement of Purpose Demonstrate?

A statement of purpose or personal statement tells admissions committees more about you. This essay should touch on your interests, especially as they relate to the graduate school program. The statement of purpose should also describe what you can bring to the program and why you want to be a part of it.

What Do Your Letters of Recommendation Demonstrate?

Letters of recommendation are important for graduate school because they show that credible academics and professionals think highly of you and believe you would be a good asset to the program you’re applying to.

An effective letter of recommendation is written by someone who knows you well academically or professionally, such as a professor, mentor or work supervisor. It should include titles of relevant research articles you’ve written, academic awards and honors and relevant academic activities like projects, presentations or research studies.

What Do Your Undergraduate Transcripts Show?

Simply put, official undergraduate transcripts verify that you attended the school you said you did and maintained a GPA that’s consistent with the program’s requirements. Undergraduate transcripts also allow admissions officers to see whether you took courses relevant to your prospective course of study.

How Are Your GRE Scores?

Most graduate school programs require students to take the GRE as part of the application process. An overall score of 318 or higher is considered a good score, so you’ll want to give yourself plenty of time to study and retake the test if needed before your grad school application is due.

Is Your Prior Academic Experience Relevant?

While you don’t always need an undergraduate degree in the same field as the graduate program you’re applying to, admissions officers typically consider relevant undergraduate coursework, research projects and work experience when reviewing applications.

Statement of Purpose Tips

Your statement of purpose gives you the chance to show some individuality and let your personality shine through. You should aim to leave a memorable impression and craft a well-written, concise statement of purpose to boost your application. See our tips below for writing a statement of purpose.

Follow the Prompt Carefully

Be sure to answer all of the questions in the prompt to give admissions officers all the information they need. Additionally, make sure to follow any guidelines for things like style, font and file format. While these factors may seem small, incorrect formatting can lead to your application being disqualified.

Get Personal

This is your chance to tell your story. Write a statement of purpose that only you could write. Does your passion for medicine date back to an injury or illness you had as a child? Did you grow up watching Law & Order and feel inspired? These details remind graduate admission committees that you are a well rounded person with much to offer.

Discuss Your Goals

Aside from how your own personal and career goals relate to the program, you should also touch on how you can contribute to your school or program of choice. Do you plan on collaborating with colleagues or contributing to your institution’s research goals? Make this known in your statement of purpose.

Know Your Audience

What is the culture of the school or program you’re applying to? What does the institution value? Spend some time on its website and social media accounts to find out. You can even reach out to current students and alumni to get a better idea so you can tailor your statement of purpose accordingly.

Proofread and Revise as Needed

Don’t just write your first draft and send it off. After writing it, take some time to sleep on it, then come back and read and revise with fresh eyes. You should also have someone like a professor or tutor read your statement of purpose and provide feedback.

Interview Tips

The interview is a big part of the graduate school application process if your program requires one. Make sure to come ready and prepared.

Do Your Research

Read up on the university and program you’re applying to so you can sound knowledgeable and interested during the interview. Answer questions such as, how big is the program or school? What have its graduates gone on to do? What are the program requirements?

You can also read up on any academic articles or research professors in your program have created.

Prepare Questions for Your Interviewer

Remember, this isn’t just about the school interviewing you. You’re also interviewing the program to determine if it’s a good fit for you. What career and network opportunities are available to students and alumni? What about grants and scholarships? Will you be paired with a mentor or an advisor?

Practice With Mock Interviews

Practice makes perfect. Look into common graduate school interview questions, and practice with a professor, classmate or friend. You can even practice solo using these  20 Graduate School Interview Questions .

Bring a Professional Portfolio

Depending on the nature of your work, it may be helpful to bring in a professional portfolio, such as if your speciality is print graphic design. Other subject areas like writing or research lend themselves to online portfolios, which you can send to your interviewers ahead of the scheduled interview.

What Does a Grad School Application Look Like?

In addition to your transcripts, test scores, statement of purpose and portfolio, your graduate school application will require some basic background information about you.

Biographical Information

  • Full legal name
  • Any previous legal names used
  • Age and date of birth
  • Social Security number

Ethnicity Information

Ethnicity information about applicants and current students is used by the university to see if it is meeting diversity quotas and to share with stakeholders. You may select one particular ethnicity, or choose options like “other,” “multiracial” or “decline to state.”

Military Status

Scholarships, grants and special services can be available to active-duty and reserve military service members and veterans.

Contact Information

  • Current mailing address
  • Current phone number
  • Current email

Program Selection

  • The program you’re applying to
  • Any speciality or concentrations available as part of your program

Academic Interests

  • Specialities in your program that you want to focus on
  • Research topics or projects you want to pursue

History of Education

  • Undergraduate degree and major
  • Academic achievements and awards

Standardized Test Information

  • *GRE scores (Check with your program as some may no longer require or accept GRE scores )
  • Scores from any other required tests

Financial Aid

Deadlines for financial aid often coincide with deadlines for admissions. Make sure to submit the FAFSA to ensure you qualify for as many financial aid resources as possible. Visit the  Federal Student Aid  website for more information, and check out our guide on  how the FAFSA differs for graduate school .

Previous Employment

  • Relevant work history related to your program
  • Internship or research experience related to your program

Do you speak the primary language spoken in the area where your campus is located? Do you speak more than one language? These are things admissions officers will want to know.

Supplemental Information

  • Certifications or special licenses or training
  • Special Awards

Reference Information

  • Contact information, like phone numbers and emails, for professors, mentors and work supervisors who are willing to provide a reference

Upload Documents

When submitting your online application, make sure to upload all required documents so your application will not be disqualified.

Application Fee

  • Graduate school application fees can range from around $60 to more than $100. You must pay this fee before you can submit your application.

Confirm and Submit Form

  • Finally, make sure to confirm that all your information is correct and all necessary documents are uploaded before you submit your application.

This article was originally published on Forbes.com on Feb. 3. 2023. Author is Ryah Cooley Cole, and Editor is Brenna Swanston.

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PhD Applications

Phd admission recommendations, table of contents.

  • Graduate Application Mentoring Program (GAMP)
  • Deadlines to submit applications
  • PhD application step-by-step
  • Previous degrees required
  • Course prerequisites/deficiencies
  • Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL)
  • Letters of recommendation
  • Additional information

Deadlines To Submit Applications

Application deadline for Fall 2024 PhD: December 10, 2023.

PhD applicants are only accepted for entry in the Fall semester.

PhD Application Step-by-Step

1. Fill out the application

Applying to U-M Ann Arbor (Rackham Graduate School Link)

2. Statement of purpose

Must include areas of interest in the top corner

3. Personal statement Some suggested topics for your personal statement are:

  • Volunteer and/or community service;
  • Extra-curricular activities;
  • Leadership activities;
  • Educational, cultural, geographic or socio-economic background underrepresented in your discipline of graduate study;
  • Financial hardship;
  • First generation U.S. citizen or first generation in family to graduate from a four-year college.

4. GRE scores

A GRE score is not required for applicants who apply for Fall 2024 PhD

5. Three letters of recommendation

If you apply online, we encourage you to submit your letters electronically. At least TWO of your letters should be from faculty.

6. Transcripts

Submit a transcript for each Bachelor’s, Master’s, Professional or Doctoral degree earned or in progress. For instructions on submitting transcripts, please see the  Rackham Graduate School website . Applicants will upload a copy of the official transcript and enter a “self-reported” GPA when applying online. Official paper transcripts/documents are only required if a student is admitted, and these must be submitted by the end of the first term of enrollment.

All credentials submitted for admission consideration become the property of the University of Michigan and will not be returned in original or copy form.

7. International applicants must also send

Include one set of: Official transcripts, certificates, and diplomas in the original language, in addition to an English translation.

TOEFL scores sent from ETS (institution code 1839)

8. Application fee

There is a $90.00 application fee for international applicants.  

Domestic and Permanent Resident applicants are eligible for an application fee waiver. This will automatically apply to your application.  

Undocumented or DACA Applicants are also eligible for application fee waivers here.

While very limited, in certain circumstances, International applicants may be eligible for an application fee waiver administered by the Rackham Graduate School. For information about eligibility criteria and instructions for various fee waiver programs, visit this page.

9. Decision notification

All applicants who are offered admission are notified via e-mail as soon as a decision is reached. PhD admission/financial aid offers will be sent via e-mail mostly during the months of February and March. Notification to applicants who do not receive admission are sent in early-April. The Graduate Admission Committee is working very hard to finish reviewing your application. Once an admission decision has been made by the committee, we will notify you by e-mail. Thank you for your patience.

Previous Degrees Required

Admission to the PhD program does not require a Master’s degree. Qualified students who hold a bachelor’s degree in engineering, science or mathematics may apply directly to the PhD program.

COURSE PREREQUISITES

Most of our classes require and assume that the students are knowledgeable in one or more of the following subjects: linear algebra, calculus-based probability, calculus-based statistics, and computer programming. If you are admitted to the Master’s or PhD programs, the department will provide a list of descriptions of University of Michigan courses frequently used to satisfy these prerequisites to help you ascertain your knowledge of the above topics, and, if needed, attain the necessary background. We will provide an opportunity to review the highlights of these subjects together with your fellow entering students before the fall semester begins. We will also recommend classes at the University of Michigan if you prefer to take them during your graduate studies.

Test Of English As A Foreign Language – (TOEFL)

  • take the verbal and written English tests given by ELI (English Language Institute);
  • report the results to the IOE graduate program advisor, and
  • abide by any recommendation made by his or her counselor or the Graduate Program Advisor for remedial coursework.

Letters Of Recommendation

  • Letters of recommendation should be submitted online, but hard copies may be submitted if that is not possible. Remember to add sufficient time for hard copies to reach us by the application deadlines.

Additional Information

Please send requests to:  [email protected]

How to Apply

Main navigation, the online application for 2024 entry is open..

Visit the Apply Now page to start your application for graduate study.

Select One Program

Out of the graduate degree programs listed on the Explore Graduate Programs page , you may apply to only one program per academic year.

The only exception is within the Biosciences PhD programs , where you may apply for two programs within a single application.

Aerial view of Stanford with Hoover Tower and Oval

Central & Departmental Processes

We work in partnership with your graduate program of interest to ensure a smooth admission experience from the time you start your application until you enroll at Stanford.

Graduate Admissions

  • Oversees the online application system
  • Determines university-wide admission requirements
  • Reviews the official documents of incoming graduate students to verify that they meet university-wide admission requirements

Graduate Program

  • Oversees the review of applications
  • May supplement university-wide requirements with program-specific admission requirements
  • Communicates admission decisions and offers of financial support

Admission Process Overview

Application.

The first step is to prepare and submit your application materials through the online application system, by the deadline set by your intended graduate program. 

After you submit your application, it is routed to your graduate program for review by its admission committee. Some programs conduct interviews as part of the evaluation process.

Your graduate program communicates the admission decision to you once it is finalized by the admission committee.

If you are admitted, you must respond to the offer of admission by the deadline set by your program. Some programs host "visit days" to help you make an informed decision.

Verification

If you accept the offer of admission, you must arrange for your official transcripts and degree documents to be sent to Graduate Admissions for verification.

Matriculation

After Graduate Admissions reviews your official documents, you are matriculated into your degree program. At this point, you are eligible to enroll in courses if you have no enrollment holds on your record. Note: If you are an international student, you have an enrollment hold until you arrive on campus.

Get started with your application to the Harvard Kenneth C. Griffin Graduate School of Arts and Sciences (Harvard Griffin GSAS)

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Welcome! 

Applications to degree programs for the 2024-2025 academic year are now closed. 

Click here to Access the Applicant Portal

We’re delighted that you are interested in pursuing academic studies at the Harvard Kenneth C. Griffin Graduate School of Arts and Sciences (Harvard Griffin GSAS). Whether you intend to study toward a master’s or PhD degree, join a visiting students program, or participate in one of our outreach programs, we are looking forward to reviewing your application. For information about tuition and fees, see the Cost of Attendance section.

Harvard does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, religion, age, national origin, political beliefs, veteran status, or disability unrelated to job or course of study requirements, and we actively seek applicants from historically underrepresented communities. We hope you’ll consider applying. 

Immigration status does not factor into decisions about admissions and financial aid. For more information, see Undocumented at Harvard . 

Information for:

Exchange Scholars  

Get Started 

Step 1: choose a program. .

You have several options for study at Harvard Griffin GSAS. 

Degree Programs 

The school offers master’s and PhD degrees in programs based in the arts and humanities, social sciences, natural sciences, and engineering and applied sciences. Many programs also allow a student to conduct more focused research by choosing an area of study. Review the programs on offer to decide which program best meets your academic goals. 

Are you a Harvard student looking for information on the AB/AM and AB/SM programs? Visit the Harvard AB/AM and AB/SM programs page.

Non-Degree Programs 

The Visiting Students Program offers you the opportunity to take classes and conduct research with faculty. 

Outreach Programs 

If you are looking for a short-term research experience, consider a paid summer internship  organized by Harvard Griffin GSAS, Harvard departments, and Harvard-affiliated teaching hospitals. The School also offers the  Research Scholar Initiative , a post-baccalaureate program that enables college graduates to take part in a long-term research experience. 

Step 2: Make a note of the application deadline and review admissions policies.

Application deadlines vary by program and are noted on the relevant program page . You should also review our admissions policies .

Step 3: Determine whether you need to take standardized tests and register early. 

Degree programs may require Graduate Record Examination (GRE) general test or subject test scores. Applicants who are non-native English speakers may be required to demonstrate English proficiency by submitting scores from an English Language test (TOEFL or IELTS). Review the admissions policy on English proficiency for more information.  

Step 4: Complete your application by the deadline. 

The degree program application becomes available in September. You should review Completing Your Application before starting your application. All components of the application to a degree program are due by 5:00 p.m., Eastern Time, on the deadline date.

Applications for the Visiting Students Program are accepted twice a year.

For application information about our Outreach Programs , visit your program page of interest.  

Who should I contact if I have a question about a specific program? 

If you still have questions after carefully reviewing your degree program of interest, reach out to the contact noted on the program’s page. 

Can I enroll in courses instead of applying to a degree program? 

If you are interested in taking courses for academic credit outside of a formal degree program, you may apply for Visiting Student status by the appropriate deadline. Please visit the website or contact [email protected] to learn more. 

Harvard Integrated Life Sciences (HILS) Applicants 

While prospective degree program applicants are encouraged to carefully choose the HILS program that best fits their academic goals, interested applicants may apply to up to three programs and pay only one application fee. If you elect to apply to three programs, only two may be programs in the Department of Medical Sciences (these programs are biomedical informatics, biological and biomedical sciences, immunology, neuroscience, speech and hearing bioscience and technology, and virology). The fee waiver for additional applications is ONLY available for those applying to multiple programs in the HILS federation. For more information, please consult the HILS page . See Completing Your Application for information about fee waivers related to financial hardship. 

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Applying for a phd: step-by-step guide.

Studying a PhD is a big decision and submitting your application can feel like a long process. Though with the right guidance, applying for a PhD will be a lot more straightforward than you think. 

There is a lot of PhD application advice out there. To help you make sense of it all, we’ve put together a comprehensive step-by-step guide on how to apply for a PhD. We cover the PhD application process, what you need to consider, what to prepare and how to submit your application.

Follow the steps below to understand everything you need to know when applying for a PhD.

PhD application checklist

Applying for a PhD

  • Choose your subject area
  • Choose your type of PhD
  • Check application deadline
  • Draft a research proposal
  • Contact potential PhD supervisors
  • Check PhD entry requirements
  • Check PhD fees and funding
  • Make your PhD application
  • Submit your PhD application 

In this article, we’re going to look at all these different elements in greater detail to help you with the PhD application process.

1. Choose your subject area

You will be  studying your PhD for a long time – between three- and four-years’ full time and up to eight years part time – so it is essential you choose to study a subject you are passionate about.

Most PhD students study a subject area that they have studied previously, but in much greater detail. Most PhD courses require some previous academic experience in the research area, for example if you choose to study your PhD on William Shakespeare, you are likely to have studied the works of Shakespeare as part of an English Literature masters degree. Similarly, if your PhD research is in a science-based topic it is likely to be going more in depth into a science-related field you studied as an undergraduate and then as a masters student.

However, your PhD does not have to be directly related to your masters degree, for example an English Language masters graduate could expect to be successful if applying to do research in an  English literature PhD if they have achieved the necessary grades.

There are many areas that you can consider when choosing the subject area for your PhD. These could come from the  Arts ,  Humanities , STEM , Social Sciences and  Business .

Research the department at your chosen university to find the perfect PhD program to apply for.

2. Choose your type of PhD

Whilst most PhDs follow a traditional route (completing an independent research project under a supervisor), there are alternatives.

The two main types of PhD include: self-proposed PhD projects and predesigned PhD projects.

Self-proposed PhDs are the most common and traditional type of doctoral degree, although universities also offer predesigned PhD courses that integrate aspects of taught study.

Make sure you’ve considered your PhD options fully before applying for a PhD. Here are the main differences between self-proposed and predesigned PhD projects.

Self-proposed PhD projects

Self-proposed PhDs are the most common type of PhD, where students propose and design their own research.

With a self-proposed PhD, the student has a lot of control over their work and can specialise in any area that interests them with the support and approval of their academic supervisor.

Not all self-proposed PhDs receive funding, so applicants will need to make sure they have appropriate funding in place to pursue their self-proposed PhD.

There may also be some additional steps in the application process for self-proposed to ensure success in their PhD application. The student will have to dedicate a lot of time to their PhD application as it will need to include their PhD study proposal.

Predesigned PhD projects (Doctoral Training Centres)

Many universities now have something known as ‘DTC centres’, or ‘ Doctoral Training Centres ’. Many of these are in economic, social or scientific research areas, so if this is your area of interest, PhDs run out of DTC centres are worth exploring, as they can have substantial funding included. 

Predesigned PhD projects are usually slightly longer in course length than most traditional PhDs, as they’re likely to include a year of lectures and a variety of projects in the first year, before choosing to specialise in the second year.

This option is great if you know you want to do a PhD but aren’t entirely certain of what you’d like to do beyond a general area. Best of all, they often offer fully funded  studentships .

Applying for a PhD

3. Check application deadlines

When applying for a PhD it is important to ensure you meet all application deadlines, this includes the deadlines for your PhD application form and PhD proposal as well as any PhD funding deadlines.

Different universities will have different deadlines, and some universities may even have rolling deadlines, this means it is important to check on the website of the university and department you are interested in, to make sure you get your application in on time.

4. Draft a research proposal

It’s important to draft a PhD proposal when you are applying for a PhD. This is a requirement of most self-proposed PhD applications and can also be necessary when applying for other PhDs.

To ensure the success of your PhD research proposal, it’s a good idea to do some research around the subject area before submitting your research proposal. This will give you a better idea of what it is you want to research and will also help you to present your proposal more clearly.

How to write a PhD research proposal

When writing a PhD research proposal, you will need to include the following:

  • A TITLE that clearly conveys the theme of your research project.
  • The main RESEARCH QUESTION that will be the focus of your research.
  • An EXPLANATION of why your research topic is important.
  • Brief LITERATURE REVIEW demonstrating your knowledge to answer the question.
  • Proposed METHODOLOGY for answering your research questions.
  • TIMELINE SCHEDULE of the research project.  

5. Contact potential PhD supervisors

You want to make sure you choose your potential PhD supervisor in plenty of time. Of course, you should always leave plenty of time for any application, but this is especially important for a PhD, as you will often be applying to a particular supervisor who is a specialist in your area of study.

Therefore, you need to ensure you have enough time to research into suitable PhD supervisors and get in contact with them before you apply for the doctorate.

You shouldn’t rush this research, as  getting the most out of your supervisor is the first step to doing well in PhD study – it’s important to make sure you pick the one best for you.

Another important consideration is  where you choose to study . You’ll want to look at the department’s reputation, and to make sure it excels in research in the area you intend to study do you get the support you need.

6. Check PhD entry requirements

To be eligible to study a PhD, you will usually need a  masters qualification in the subject area or in a closely related subject to the subject upon which you wish to base your PhD research.

However, entry requirements will differ depending on the university, so it is important to check the PhD eligibility requirements of the PhD and university that you are interested in studying at.

Applying without a masters

Some PhD courses will allow you to apply without a masters degree although you will need a bachelors degree. These are only usually offered as integrated masters and PhD programs which include a year of masters study before PhD.

Applying for a PhD as an international student  

If you are an international student applying to study a PhD in the UK, check the  visa requirements that you need to meet.

To apply for a PhD in the UK, international students need a Student Route visa.

The Student Route visa is a points-based visa system for all international students – including EU, EEA and Swiss students – who want to study in the UK. This has replaced the Tier 4 (General) student visa.

You can apply for a  student visa if you meet the following criteria:

  • You have been offered a place on a course by a licensed student sponsor.
  • You have enough money to support yourself and pay for your course.
  • You can speak, read, write and understand English – you may need to prove this through a recognised English language test.

Student visas can only be issued for certain courses, and if your course is eligible, your education provider (Student sponsor) will give you a Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS) which you use to apply for a student visa.

The earliest you can apply for a student visa is six months before the start date of the course.

7. Check PhD fees and funding

Before committing to PhD study, it is important to check the PhD tuition fees and these will differ depending on the university and the course.

PhD tuition fees in the UK will be more expensive for international students than for home students. Tuition fees in the UK usually range from £3,000-£6,000 per year for home students and up to £18,000 per year for international students.

As a PhD student you will need to cover tuition fees, living expenses and any other unforeseen costs.

PhD scholarships and studentships are available, as is funding from various research councils, so make sure you investigate all your options and find out what financial help is available.

Funding your PhD

There are various funding options available to PhD students – here are the main ones:

University funding – some universities offer alumni funding support for students continuing their studies at their university. Check funding webpages for details.

PhD loans –  PhD loans are available from the  UK government .

PhD scholarships – many universities and companies offer  PhD scholarships , this includes our  Postgrad Solutions Study Bursaries .

PhD studentships –  PhD studentships at your university are a great option as they usually include a stipend that covers full PhD tuition fees and some living costs.

Research councils – there are seven research councils in the UK that can provide funding for PhD students, these are:

  • Arts and Humanities Research Council
  • Biotechnology and Biological Sciences Research Council
  • Economic and Social Research Council
  • Engineering and Physical Sciences Research Council
  • Medical Research Council
  • Natural Environment Research Council
  • Science and Technology Facilities Council . 

Their funding can come as PhD studentships.

Self -funding – as a postgraduate student, you may have saved up money through work to enable you to  self-fund your PhD.

Don’t just apply to the standard big research funding bodies, but do your research and look into charities too. There are plenty of funds, foundations and other sources of money available to people with the right interests – and you might just be one of them!

8. Making your PhD application

Now you’ve done most of the preparation for your application, what about the actual application for a PhD? What does it involve?

When applying for a PhD, you usually apply directly to the university, rather than via a third party such as  UCAS .

PhD applications will differ from university to university, so check on the admissions page of the course you are interested in to make sure you include everything they ask for. You are likely to have to include:

  • Completed application form
  • Research proposal
  • Personal statement
  • Academic CV
  • Academic references
  • Proof of English language proficiency
  • Student visa documentation

Ideally, you should have already contacted your intended supervisor and talked about it with them, via email or perhaps in person. They will give you a run through of everything to include in your application to help ensure you don’t leave anything out by mistake. 

You should ensure that you’re not too modest in applying for a PhD! If you’ve been published in a relevant area, or if you did exceptionally well or presented a particularly successful paper at a conference, mention it. You don’t need to brag, but you shouldn’t hide your achievements either.

PhD interviews

Unlike with bachelors degrees and many masters degrees, you will probably need to have a PhD interview as part of your application. If you’ve not had a university interview before, make sure you prepare well for it.

Ideally, if you’re still in education, see if a tutor you know can give you tips, or potentially a mock interview. If not, many universities’ careers service will remain open to you after graduating,,so contact them and see what advice they can offer you. 

Ensure you read up on anything you mentioned in your application and have good solid reasons for why you wish to do a PhD, and why you’ve chosen to do it at in that particular topic  at that particular university.

You should already know by now  what it takes to study a PhD and be able to answer convincingly when asked about these things during your interview.

9. Submit your PhD application

  Now you’ve reached the final step – it’s time to submit your PhD application!

This is likely to be online, although it’s important to check this with your chosen university in case you need to send any hard copies of original certificates or documentation in the post.

Follow the university guidelines. They will usually indicate how to submit your application, what to include, and when you should hear back about the success of your PhD application.

Related articles

What Is A PhD?

How Long Is A PhD?

How To Get A PhD

Dos & Don'ts Of A PhD Interview

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The process of preparing for and applying to a PhD program can be overwhelming. The University of Pennsylvania has created this webpage to help prospective PhD students think through the process so you can put together a strong application.

A Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) is the highest degree one may obtain within a particular field of study. This ranges from studies in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math (STEM) fields; Social Science fields such as Education, Economics, Political Science, and Sociology; as well as Humanities fields such as English, History, Music, Philosophy, and more. The PhD degree aims to prepare people to think critically, develop research, and produce scholarship that may be used for further research or implementation. The PhD historically prepared students to take on faculty roles in colleges and universities, and that is still the goal for many students pursuing the PhD. However, today the PhD is a sought-after degree in many other industries including pharmaceutical research, arts organizations and other nonprofits, publishing, government policy, big tech, finance, and more.

  • Who can apply to a PhD program?  PhD education is available to people from various educational, occupational, socioeconomic, and demographic backgrounds.
  • Who should get a PhD?  People interested in uncovering new ideas, solutions, or processes within a specific area of study through conducting independent research.
  • Why is it important for diverse candidates to become PhD holders?  Our world thrives on heterogeneous ideas and experiences, which is why it is indispensable to include students with diverse perspectives in our PhD programs. These students will generate important and original research.

Most PhD programs are fully funded, meaning that for a specific number of years, the program will pay for your tuition and fees and health insurance, as well as provide you with a stipend for living expenses. The structure of this funding varies by field. Below is an outline of general funding information as well as trends according to field of study.

  • Funding packages provided by educational institution.
  • Funding packages provided through faculty research grants: Many STEM fields fund students through research grants awarded to faculty. In these cases, students perform research alongside the faculty. 
  • Teaching Assistantships or Research Assistantships: Part-time service that provides teaching and research training opportunities within your area of study.
  • Fellowships: Internal or external merit-based funding. Some fellowships require an application while others are given via nomination. Educational institutions typically have a resource listing fellowship opportunities. Winning a competitive fellowship looks good on your resume.
  • Grants: Requires an application with supporting materials of either your grades, scholarly work, and/or anticipated research. These are available through internal and external means. Grants greatly vary so be sure to always understand the requirements. Educational institutions typically have a resource listing grant opportunities. Winning a competitive grant looks good on your resume.
  • Employment: For example, serving as a residential advisor, on-campus jobs, etc. Some PhD programs restrict additional employment, so be sure to check before applying for jobs.
  • The funding opportunities described here often can be combined.

Choosing a school or program that provides the most potential funding may be a challenging decision. The value of the same amount of funding will differ depending on the cost of living in different geographic locations. Admitted applicants should investigate cost-of-living tools (available on the web) and be sure to understand how their funding will be structured. Ask questions when you are admitted, such as: 

  • Could you share more about your program’s funding mechanism?
  • For how long is funding guaranteed? How does that compare to the average time-to-completion? Historically, what percentage of students have received funding beyond the guaranteed funding package?
  • Does funding cover tuition, fees, books, health insurance?
  • Does the funding rely on teaching, research, or other service? How much and for how long? 

Choosing a program for your studies is a personal decision that should reflect not only your research interests, but your work style, and interests outside of the classroom. Here we have identified five key tips to consider when selecting schools. 

  • Ask about which programs are strong in your area of interest, which have high completion rates, and which have career outcomes that align with your goals. 
  • Explore the websites of the professional academic associations in the field(s) that interest you. Many will have a directory of doctoral programs and other resources for graduate students. For example, see the American Economic Association’s list of graduate programs and their preparing for graduate school page .
  • Conduct a general internet search with terms related to your research interest.
  • Determine your geographic and personal preferences. Does the area meet your community needs? Is it important that the university aligns with your sociopolitical values? Do you prefer a large city or a smaller/college town? Is there a particular region(s) that has better access to resources needed to conduct your research?
  • Access your current or former university career center. These services are often still available for former students!
  • As you narrow your choices, try to identify at least 3 faculty in the programs of interest with whom you’d like to study. Also note how many of them have tenure. If relevant, research which of those faculty are taking on advisees in your year of matriculation.
  • Read articles from faculty with similar research interests.
  • Note the number of awards, publications, and service activities of faculty.
  • Identify research opportunities funded by both your program and university at large.
  • Connect with current and former students in the program for informational interviews.
  • Connect with campus Diversity Offices.
  • Whenever possible, before submitting your applications, make an appointment to visit the campuses and department(s) that interest you.
  • Use  LinkedIn  to see what graduates of your program are doing and how they are involved in their communities.
  • Estimate your feasible cost of living by geographic location and compare to the funding package offered.
  • Consider availability of health insurance, childcare, housing, transportation, and other fringe benefits.
  • Connect with a local bank or your prospective university’s financial services office for budgeting, savings, and other financial wellness advice.
  • Your First Year in a Ph.D. Program
  • What Does Academic Success Mean and How to Achieve it?  (STEM)
  • Pathways to Science  (STEM)
  • 7 Advantages PhDs Have Over Other Job Candidates  (Industry)
  • During your undergraduate/master’s education, you should pursue coursework and/or research that will prepare you for the higher expectations of a PhD program; for example, taking a research methods course, pursuing a summer research experience, or conducting research with a professor at your home institution.
  • Identify instructors who could write a letter of recommendation. Share with those instructors your interest in doctoral studies; faculty can be excellent resources for advice as well as recommendations!
  • Experiences outside of higher education can also strengthen your PhD application. These may range from project management to volunteer work.
  • Develop soft or hard skills. A soft skill that is most useful from the first day of your PhD program is networking. This is necessary not only for meeting other students but also to find collaborators with similar research interests and selecting faculty for your dissertation committee. Learning how to negotiate will also serve you well when approaching collaborative projects. Hard skills related to your field might include learning statistical analysis software, economic theory, a foreign language, or search engine optimization. In short, identify a few soft and hard skills that you can familiarize yourself with prior to your program’s start date.
  • Finally, prepare by identifying leading researchers and practitioners in your field, exploring peer-reviewed literature and/or publications, and gain familiarity with research methods.
  • Be sure to address all the specific questions/topics in the statement prompt. 
  • Clearly state why you want to pursue a PhD.
  • Propose your research interest.
  • Identify the faculty you’d like to study under. 
  • Discuss the unique qualities/experiences you offer to the program/school.
  • Outline what you hope to do with your degree.
  • Ask for recommendation letters early in the process, at least 2-4 weeks before the deadline. A good letter takes time to write!
  • Provide recommenders with your resume, information about the program, your statement of purpose and/or information about your research interests and research goals.
  • Consider your current/former instructors, supervisors, colleagues. These should be people who can speak to your work ethic, academic abilities, and research interests.
  • Test scores (i.e. TOFEL, GRE, GMAT, etc.) may or may not be required.
  • All transcripts including those for coursework completed abroad and transfer credits. Some programs require official transcripts, which take longer to procure.
  • Resume/Curriculum Vitae (CV)
  • Writing sample (field dependent): Include a graduate-level sample and update any statements, statistics, etc. as needed. It is highly encouraged that you edit your previous work.
  • Diversity statement: Many institutions offer an optional short statement where students can expand on their diverse backgrounds and experiences that may contribute to the diversity interests/efforts of the school.
  • Typically, PhD applications are due 10-12 months in advance of the program’s start date (i.e. apply in November to start the following September). A good rule of thumb is to begin your application process 6 months before the deadline. 
  • The availability of reduced application fees or fee waivers varies and sometimes depends on financial status and/or experiences (AmeriCorps, National Society of Black Engineers, attending certain conferences, etc.). If you are interested in a reduced fee or waiver, reach out to the program coordinator for details.
  • Dress professionally, even if the interview is virtual. You don’t necessarily need to wear a suit but dress pants/skirt and a blouse/button down shirt would be appropriate.  
  • Develop an engaging elevator pitch, a 30-60 second summary of your research interests and what you hope to gain by becoming a student at that particular university. Practice your pitch with a career counselor, faculty advisor, or friends, and ask for honest feedback.
  • Prepare 2-3 questions to ask during the interview. These could include questions about program expectations, the experience and success of their PhD students, and (academic/financial/mental health) support for PhD students.
  • Some interview programs will include multiple activities including a social event. Be sure to maintain a professional attitude: do not drink too much and keep conversation on academic/professional topics.
  • This is also your opportunity to decide whether this campus is a good fit for you.
  • Academia Insider  is a good resource. 

Unlike undergraduate and master’s level education, coursework is just one component of the degree. A PhD comes with additional expectations: you must independently conduct scholarly research in your field of study, train in specific activities such as teaching or lab/field research, pass “milestone” requirements along the way, such as comprehensive exams, and complete the process by writing a dissertation. Furthermore, some fields require you to write multiple articles (number varies by field/program) for conference presentation and/or peer-reviewed publication.

There are other important elements as well:

  • Student/Advisor relationship. This is one of the most valuable relationships you can have as a PhD student. Your faculty advisor not only assists you with learning how to approach your research topic, but also typically serves as the lead supervisor of your dissertation research and writing, and ideally mentors you throughout the PhD experience. The selection process of choosing your advisor varies so be sure to know what is expected of you as a student and what is expected of the faculty member. Whenever possible, it is important to align your personality and work style with that of your faculty advisor. Many universities publish expectations for the PhD student/faculty advisor relationship;  AMP’ed  is Penn’s guide.
  • Other relationships: Your faculty advisor is far from the only important person during your PhD career. Other faculty members will also serve on your dissertation committee and be potential mentors. Other students in your program can also provide good advice and guidance along the way.
  • Coursework: Most programs have a number of required courses all students must take regardless of research interests. Once you have finished this requirement, the classes you choose should closely align with your research topic. Choose courses that will help you learn more about your dissertation topic and research methods. It is a good idea to discuss elective course selection with your advisor. 
  • The dissertation is a large-scale, written document that explores a narrow research topic of your choice. It is the final step before receiving your degree and must be presented and “defended” to your dissertation committee (made up of faculty members) for approval. Defending means that you have to answer in-depth questions about your topic. While this might sound daunting, the dissertation is simply a demonstration of all the knowledge and expertise you have acquired through your PhD education. 
  • Networking comes in many forms and includes connections with your fellow classmates, faculty members, and scholarly community. Formal networking events typically take place at academic conferences, where scholars and students present research. Increasing your academic circle will not only allow you to have study buddies, but offer you the opportunity to collaborate on articles or even gain employment. Your school’s career center can provide best practices for effective networking. 

Explore  graduate programs at the University of Pennsylvania  and click on the programs that interest you to learn more about admissions and academic requirements.

Upcoming Penn recruitment events include:

  • Fontaine Fellows Recruitment Dinner (by invitation only): Friday, March 22, 2024
  • IDDEAS@Wharton  (Introduction to Diversity in Doctoral Education and Scholarship): April 18-19, 2024. Deadline to apply is January 31.
  • DEEPenn STEM  (Diversity Equity Engagement at Penn in STEM): October 11-13, 2024. Application opens in March 2024.
  • DivE In Weekend  (Diversity & Equity Initiative for Mind Research): Fall 2024

National conferences to explore:

  • The Leadership Alliance  supports students into research careers
  • McNair Scholar Conferences
  • SACNAS , the largest multidisciplinary and multicultural STEM diversity event in the U.S.
  • ABRCMS , the annual biomedical research conference for minoritized scientists
  • The PhD Project  for students interested in business PhD programs
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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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Admissions:  [email protected]  

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  • How to Apply for a PhD – Application Process Explained
  • Applying to a PhD

This guide explains the PhD application process and outlines the steps you will need to follow, and information you will need to provide when applying to a PhD programme.

How to Apply for a PhD – Application Process

There is no single guide that can cover the entire application process for applying to PhDs, as it differs not only between universities, but also between programmes. In the same sense, what a supervisor might consider a strong application for one of their programmes, they may consider a weak application for another of their programmes.

Furthermore, the process of applying for a PhD in the UK can be slightly challenging to navigate as there is no centralised application system, as is the case with undergraduate degrees, and the process can vary from university to university.

Regardless of this, the below outlines the most common steps you will need to follow when applying for a PhD. Pay particular attention to each stage, as slipping on a single one of them can significantly affect your chances of securing the PhD you want.

1. Find Research Projects you like

Identify research areas that align with your research interest.

This should be done by thinking about all topics, courses, projects, recent publications, recurring questions or experiences that have caught your curiosity over the past year.

Once you have a better understanding of your preferred research area, browse through our PhD listings  or the ‘postgraduate research degree’ and ‘research centre’ sections of a university’s website if you already have a particular one in mind.

This is probably the most important thing to consider before you apply to PhD programmes given you will be working on your project for the next three to eight years – make sure not to rush it.

Note: If you intend to study part time or via distance learning, make sure to check the university offers this option as not all do.

2. Contact Potential PhD Supervisors

If you are proposing your own research project, which is usually the case with a self-funded postgraduate programme, you will need to find your own potential supervisor.

The best way to find a suitable PhD supervisor is to review the staff profiles on the department’s webpage and examine the topics they have published on in the past two years, as well as the research projects of the students they have supervised in the past. This will help you decide whether their research interests coincide with yours. Outside of research interests, there are other aspects you will want to look for, such as their level of support and patience, and how successful their former students have been. For further information on this, you can learn how to find a good PhD supervisor here .

If you are applying to a pre-determined research project, which is usually the case with funded programmes, you do not need to find a supervisor, as they already have a supervisor assigned to them.

Before you formally apply to funded PhD projects, most PhD supervisors will prefer you to apply informally by  sending them an email with your CV. This is so they can better understand your motives for applying and where your academic strengths lie before you start the formal application process.

3. Online Application Form

Once you have found a research programme you are interested in, most universities will require you to make a formal application via their online application portal. The below outlines the supporting documentation you will likely require when completing your online application form.

Academic Qualifications and Transcripts

If you have completed your studies, you will be asked to provide original or certified copies of your academic qualifications.

If you are still studying, you will need to provide an interim transcript of the grades you have received to date and details of any previous qualifications you have acquired.

Academic CV

An academic CV outlines your contact details, academic background and relevant experience. You can read our guide on how to prepare an effective academic CV  here .

Cover Letter

An academic cover letter can be requested alongside your CV. An academic cover letter explains why you are applying for the particular PhD project, why you are a strong candidate for the position and what you can offer the department as a research student. You can read our guide on how to prepare a strong cover letter  here .

Personal Statement

Instead of a cover letter, you may be asked to submit a personal statement. A personal statement is a short document describing your interest in the research programme and explaining why you believe you are suitable for it.

Research Proposal

Most universities will require you to submit a research proposal, especially if you are not applying to a pre-determined research project.

A research proposal is a short document describing your proposed research project. It outlines your research question, which topic it concerns and why you consider it valuable. It is used to show you have the potential for postgraduate-level research by showing that you can communicate complex ideas and evaluate them at their fundamental level. A research proposal also allows the academic department to match you with a suitable PhD supervisor with the expertise to support you if needed.

To support your application, you will be asked for an academic reference, ideally from one or more academic referees.

This is so the university has evidence from another academic source that you are a person who is capable of undertaking PhD study, not only in terms of your credentials and academic abilities but also in terms of your character, as someone who demonstrates commitment, perseverance, independence and the ability to communicate effectively.

To ensure the legitimacy of your references, universities often have strict requirements for how they are to be provided, such as requiring the use of official letterheads and original signatures from the reference provider. Therefore, you must check the specific requirements of each institution and forward them to your referee to minimise the risk of any rejections.

Other Supporting Information

Most online forms also have sections where you can upload any additional supporting information. This can include example evidence, such as previous papers you have published or conferences you have participated in.

Note that e xample evidence, especially of scientific research, is rarely required for STEM subjects

4. Entry Requirements

Academic qualifications.

The entry requirement for most UK universities is a 2:1 (Upper Second Class Honours) undergraduate degree, or equivalent qualification, in a relevant subject.

Note that while many universities require a Masters degree, not all do; it’s possible to  enrol in a PhD programme with just a Bachelors degree , as many students have successfully done so in the past.

In both cases, you will be asked to submit a copy of your degree certificate if you have completed your undergraduate study.

English Language Requirement

If you are an international student from a non-native English speaking country, most universities will require you to either meet their English language requirements or complete an English course with them before starting your PhD.

The two most common tests used to examine English language proficiencies for postgraduate study are the IELTS (International English Language Testing System) and the TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language).

Although the score requirements will vary depending on the course and institution, the typical requirements are:

  • IELTS – Overall score of 6.5, and no less than 6.0 in each test category.
  • TOELF – Overall score of 88.

International Applicant

If you’re an international student, you may need a Tier 4 (General) Student Visa to study in the UK. If this is the case, the university will require your passport details or a copy of your first page and photo page.

Finding a PhD has never been this easy – search for a PhD by keyword, location or academic area of interest.

5. Other Things to Keep in Mind

In most countries, including the UK, a PhD studentship starts in September or October of each academic year. However, it’s worth noting that most PhD projects are flexible and can therefore start at any time throughout the year.

Application Deadline

The deadline for a PhD position will be indicated in its advert description, however, you should apply to them as early as possible as a PhD position can sometimes be filled before its official closing date.

As well as monitoring the course deadline, also be aware of the closing dates of associated doctoral research funding opportunities. This is because some funded PhD projects require you to apply individually to both the course and the funding opportunity.

Standardised Tests

Depending on the type of doctorate you are applying for, you may need to take examinations as part of the application process.

While this is uncommon in the UK, most graduate schools in the US and Canada integrate standardised tests into their doctoral course admissions process, with minimum test scores set as an entry requirement for their PhD programs.

MPhil Registration First

In the UK, most PhD students first have to register for an MPhil ( Master of Philosophy ) for the first year of their studies, and only if they pass it, which usually requires the production of a report and an informal interview, will their course be upgraded to a PhD.

Making Several Applications

Unfortunately, for various reasons, you may not always get your preferred supervisor or research project, so it is best to apply for several projects on one or more research topics you interest you.

Please note that the application process for a professional doctorate, such as a DBA or EngD, is slightly different from the one mentioned in this guide . Therefore, please consult the guidelines of the university you wish to apply to before applying.

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How to apply for a PhD

We are looking for ambitious, talented and motivated students. You'll have the passion to make new discoveries, the drive to test new theories, and the willingness to go above and beyond.

PhD student looks through a microscope in a science lab at the University of Sussex

How do I apply?

To find out more about our degrees see our PhD degrees . You apply using our postgraduate application system.

Choose your PhD

Sussex is the perfect place to find a postgraduate research course that allows you to follow your passion and develop your research interests.

  • a Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) and a Master of Philosophy (MPhil). There are more than 50 degrees to choose from
  • Integrated PhDs in the University of Sussex Business School
  • full-time or part-time PhDs
  • all courses start in September and some courses offer additional entry points in January or May
  • the opportunity for research students registered elsewhere to visit Sussex . For more information see our handbook .-->

Distance learning may be available for some PhD courses. Before applying, you should check whether this mode of attendance is supported for the PhD you wish to undertake with the relevant School.

Find out more about our PhD degrees

Check our entry requirements

Our specific entry requirements are listed with each PhD degree .

You also need to meet our general entry requirements, usually an upper second-class undergraduate honours degree (2:1) or equivalent international qualification.

You may also be required to have a Masters qualification. If you are applying to the University of Sussex Business School, you may wish to choose the Integrated PhD, which contains an initial year of rigorous training in the research skills needed to become a skilled practitioner. If you are unsure which route to apply for, please apply for the Integrated PhD.

If you are an international student, you need to meet our English language requirements , or successfully complete our Pre-sessional English course .

You may also be asked to attend an interview.

Find out more about our entry requirements for UK applicants

Find out more about our entry requirements for international applicants

Choose a research topic or project

If you apply for one of our funded projects or to a research centre or group you will normally be asked to provide a statement explaining your suitablility for working in that area.

If you wish to propose your own area of research, you need to decide on a research topic and you will normally be expected to write a research proposal. Some areas may only require a summary of academic interests and they will use this to match you to potential supervisors. Before applying check the requirements for your subject area .

Find a supervisor

If you are joining a funded project at Sussex, you will already have a supervisor allocated to you.

If you are proposing your own research topic , you can find a supervisor to support and advise you.

If you think you have found a potential supervisor who matches your research area, check their online profile for indications of their doctoral supervision capacity. If they are open to doctoral applications, you can contact them to check their availability for supervising you

You can either ask a member of our faculty to be your supervisor if you think they have the expertise to support you or we will match you with a supervisor during the assessment of your application. If you ask to be supervised by a particular member of faculty, this will be considered but not all such requests can be accommodated.

Apply to Sussex

You apply directly to Sussex using our postgraduate application system .

You can apply for up to three postgraduate courses. If you are applying for more than one degree, you must submit a research proposal/statement specific to each area of study you apply for.

You must submit the following documents when you apply:

  • research proposal/research statement
  • summary of academic interests (this is optional depending on the subject area you are applying for)
  • degree certificates and transcripts. If the originals are not in English, certified translations must be provided
  • your English language qualification, where applicable
  • two academic references – including one from your most recent university. Or you can provide contact details for your referees and we will email them.

Follow our tips for applying to Sussex

Find out about our admissions policies

Deadline for applications

You can apply all year round for research degrees starting in September, January and May.

The recommended deadline for applications are:

International applicants: Three months before course start date Home/EU applicants: One month before course start date.

PhD applications received after these deadlines may be considered, but we cannot guarantee you will be able to commence your studies at your requested entry point.

Where you are applying for funding or scholarships, check the deadlines for your application. In some cases, you may need to have an offer from us before you can apply for funding.

Check fees, funding and support

We have a number of PhD funding and scholarship opportunities.

If your application is successful, you will have your fee status assessed . If your fee status is unclear, we will ask you to complete a questionnaire . If you disagree with the outcome of your fee status assessment, you can appeal .

Fees information is listed with each PhD degree

Receiving an offer

We will notify you through our postgraduate application system if we decide to offer you a place .

Your offer may include conditions – for example, completing your undergraduate or Masters degree with a certain grade or meeting our English language requirements . In the University of Sussex Business School, your offer may be for the Integrated PhD rather than the PhD. This will happen if the School feel you need the additional training in research skills which the initial year of the Integrated PhD provides.

If you are an international student studying a certain science- or engineering-based course you must apply for Academic Technology Approval Scheme (ATAS) clearance after you receive your offer.

Find out about ATAS clearance on the Student Hub .

If you decide to accept our offer, you can notify us using the postgraduate application system .

You can still accept your offer even if you have not yet secured funding. However, you should have funding in place when you start at Sussex.

Confirming your place

If your offer is unconditional, we may still need to verify your qualifications .

If your offer is conditional, you should send in your results by email as soon as they are available, so that your place can be confirmed.

If you are unable to take up your place, you can request to defer your entry to another available entry point (up to a maximum of 12 months).

If your application is unsuccessful and you are not sure why, you can request feedback .

Before you start at Sussex

You will be sent information about joining us in the months before you start your research.

For most students, the registration process is completed online. Registration opens in:

  • early September, if you are starting at Sussex in September
  • December, if you are starting at Sussex in January
  • early April, if you are starting at Sussex in May.

If you are an international student and you need a visa to study in the UK , you complete most of the registration process online. To register, you need to attend in person, so we can take a copy of your passport and visa.

You might also be interested in:

  • student support
  • applying for accommodation
  • visas and immigration information on the Student Hub .

Home → Careers → How to Apply for a PhD: Unlocking Your Path to Success

How to Apply for a PhD: Unlocking Your Path to Success

Jordan Kruszynski

Jordan Kruszynski

  • January 4, 2024

phd form apply online

Interested in pursuing a PhD?

Looking to enter the marble halls of respected academia?

In this comprehensive guide, we’ll walk you through the whole process of how to apply for a PhD programme. Whether you’re a recent graduate or a professional looking to further your academic journey, you’ll discover valuable insights on how to apply for a PhD. From understanding the requirements and researching potential programmes, to crafting a strong application, we’ll equip you with the knowledge to navigate the application process successfully.

Ready to get started?

Let’s begin!

Understanding the PhD: What Is it and Why Is it Important?

A PhD, Doctor of Philosophy or, in Latin, Philosophiae Doctor , is the highest level of academic degree that can be achieved in a particular discipline. Typically, it takes three or four years to attain, during which time you’ll devote yourself to the honourable pursuit of new knowledge in your field, writing up your findings into a dissertation – a grand volume proving your academic pedigree.

Naturally, a PhD holds great significance in the academic and professional worlds, and can open up a wide range of career opportunities. The various professional paths it can lead to include academia, industry research, consulting, entrepreneurship, and more.

Researching Potential PhD Programmes

What is the key to success when you need to know how to apply for a PhD? Thorough research, both before and after you find the programme you’re looking for. It all starts with selecting the right PhD for you:

  • Broadly, gather all the necessary information about any programmes you think might work for you.
  • Start with your subject, and try to get a feel for which universities nurture your specific discipline.
  • Explore university websites, independent publications , and best of all, visit campuses to start narrowing down your options. Information sessions, postgraduate study fairs and online forums can all connect you with current PhD students or university faculty, helping you to glean as much information as you possibly can.
  • Pay close attention to faculty research interests at the institutions you look at. Aligning yourself with the right potential supervisor during your application can really help your entry stand out, and shows your passion for your subject.
  • You can even get in direct contact with the supervisor of your choice to talk about your research interests and whether you would be a good fit in their department.
  • Check funding opportunities and scholarships at the universities that interest you, and don’t forget the importance of location and resources. After all, you’ll be spending at least three years at your university of choice!

Making the Application: What Do You Need to Include?

It helps to plan, but at some point you’ll need to get on with the hard work of making those PhD applications. For this, you’ll need to gather various documents and resources as well as prepare some new ones.

Academic Qualifications : Each programme has different requirements, and normally an undergraduate and relevant master’s degree will be necessary before progressing to PhD level. Grades are important, and some institutions will set target grades which they prefer their candidates to have attained.

However, what really matters here is your ability to demonstrate your potential as a researcher. Don’t forget that you can set your academic achievements in context within your personal statements, to tell the story you want to tell about your work. Present your achievements with pride and confidence, and frame them within the bigger picture of your ongoing academic career.

Language Proficiency Tests : These might be necessary if you’re an international student or taking part in a programme taught in a language other than your mother tongue. The two most common tests accepted for degrees in English are IELTS and TOEFL. It’s worth noting that in some countries, like the UK, degrees acquired in certain countries may be accepted as sufficient proof of your language proficiency.

Transcripts : These are connected to your academic qualifications – be ready to gather transcripts of achievement form your previous few qualifications.

Letters of Recommendation : Letters of recommendation are an extremely important part of your application, and can make the difference between success and failure.

  • Look for a referee who has a strong academic standing and is respected within the research community. A distinguished, experienced voice could make all the difference.
  • It’s critical that your referee knows you and your work well. They should be able to talk about your strengths and qualities, as well as recommend you wholeheartedly to a a particular institution or programme.
  • Be sure to have a full discussion with your referee about what you’re hoping to achieve and why you want to pursue the programme you’re applying for. This will allow them to tailor their reference and pick up on specific details.

Statement of Purpose: Communicating Your Passion and Goals

Knowing how to apply for a PhD means understanding your strengths. The statement of purpose is your opportunity to talk about what you want to do, and how you plan to use the PhD you’re applying to achieve something valuable.

  • Above all, work your passion for your subject, your specific research interests, and your overarching career goals into your words. Going into detail on these things illustrates how serious you are, and just how much this opportunity means to you.
  • Ensure that you line up your statement of purpose with the specific department you’re applying to and their research interests. If the department can see that you’re going to be a good fit with them, then they’re likely to be a lot more interested in your application.
  • Explain what you have to offer to the institution you’re applying to. This is connected to the previous point, but if you show that you intend to add value to their department, you’re likely to appear a better candidate.

Research Proposal (optional) : Some PhD programmes may require a research proposal as part of the application. This is slightly different from a statement of purpose and in some ways echoes the structure of a finished research paper. It is likely to include the following sections:

  • Abstract – state the central question or problem of your proposed research.
  • Research Context or Literature Review (link to lit. review article once it’s published) – set the academic backdrop against which you will carry out your research, identifying relevant influences, trends or arguments.
  • Research Questions – what questions do you hope to answer?
  • Methodology – how will you carry out your research?
  • Research Significance – what is the importance of your research?
  • Bibliography – what works will guide your research?

Once you’ve gathered together all the different pieces of your application, it’s time to prepare for submission.

  • Ensure that you have every single individual item you need. Each PhD programme will have a different procedure and requirements, so pay attention to detail, especially if you’re applying to multiple programmes.
  • Double-check all of your documents. Edit, proofread, and make sure that your work reads well and is free of mistakes.
  • Try to submit well ahead of the deadline. It may sound elementary, but getting everything finished and submitted before that deadline starts to loom will save you a lot of hassle (as well as a lot of stress).

Final Thoughts

Congratulations! You’ve reached the end of our comprehensive guide on how to apply for a PhD. We know there’s a lot to take in, but if you follow our guidelines as you make your way through the application process, you’ll be able to keep on top of it all and come out one step closer to fulfilling your academic and research aspirations. Remember, the journey may be challenging, but the rewards are immense.

Looking for more inspiration for your PhD journey? Give Audemic a try, where you can listen to papers on some of today’s most fascinating research, written by those who have already braved the PhD gauntlet and come out the other side.

Keep striving, researchers! ✨

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  • PhD Admission 2024: Important Dates, Eligibility, Entrance Exams, Admission Process, Top Colleges

Updated On: April 10, 2024 12:16 pm IST | UGC NET

If you are considering PhD studies, then check out this article on PhD admission 2024. This article includes list of top colleges, PhD admission process, entrance exam schedule and important dates for PhD admission!

PhD Admission 2024: Quick Updates

Phd admission 2024: application deadline for top colleges, phd course admission 2024: eligibility criteria, phd admission 2024: admission process, phd admission 2024: list of entrance exams , phd admission 2024: top entrance exam schedule, phd admission 2024: top universities in india, phd admission 2024: preparation tips, phd admission 2024: job prospects after graduation.

PhD Admission

PhD admission 2024 is determined by entrance exams such as the UGC/CSIR NET, IIT JAM, etc. Some universities also offer PhD admissions based on merit, followed by an in-person interview. To grant PhD admission at prestigious central universities like JNU, DU, etc., NTA conducts the UGC NET. To be eligible for PhD admission 2024 at  top PhD colleges in India , applicants must have secured a minimum of 50% aggregate marks or equivalent CGPA in their postgraduate degree. As a part of the PhD admission eligibility, a valid cut-off score in an entrance exam is also required.

Doctor of Philosophy or PhD course is the highest degree or doctorate awarded for research in a specific subject, lasting three to five years. It involves substantial research work and presentation of the thesis, which is to be accredited by fellow academicians. Candidates interested in PhD admission 2024 in India are required to give presentations on their research work, submit their progress reports, and defend their thesis in an open defence viva voice. In this article, we will discuss everything you need to know about PhD course eligibility, the admission process, top colleges and universities, popular entrance exams, and more.

All PhD admissions for the academic year 2024 have been completed. Here is a list of important dates and events that occurred for your convenience. Here are the latest updates on PhD admission 2024:

  • The entrance exam for the RGUHS PhD programme is scheduled for April 19 and 20, 2024.
  • VIT Vellore PhD admission is now accepting applications through April 25, 2024, based on VITREE.
  • By July 29, 2024, register for the PhD programme at ICFAI Jaipur.

The table below includes the top PhD colleges and their application dates for PhD admission 2024:

Students who intend to pursue PhD in India must meet the necessary PhD admission eligibility criteria required by their respective colleges. Listed below are the detailed PhD qualifications required for pursuing a PhD from India:

  • Masters degree holders are eligible for PhD admission 2024 into the doctoral programme. Although, for some subjects, having a Master in Philosophy (MPhil) is one of the criteria for PhD admission eligibility. It must be noted by the candidates that in some Indian universities, for a Master's programme, a specific percentage (or equivalent CGPA) is required to satisfy a PhD course eligibility requirement.
  • For admission into some reputable universities, a candidate must qualify for the all-India examination, like  the National Eligibility Test for Lectureship (NET) conducted by NTA. Final-year students appearing in the qualifying degree examination can also apply although they must submit the attested copies of their qualifying degree certificates
  • Admission is offered based on interview. Also, the interview may be supplemented with a written exam if needed.
  • Candidates should have a valid  Graduate Aptitude Test in Engineering (GATE) score to satisfy a PhD admission eligibility criteria in the field of engineering and technology. Also, candidates should have completed their degree in  Masters of Technology (MTech / Masters in Engineering (ME) in any engineering branch to satisfy the PhD course eligibility in engineering.

The need for a PhD degree in India has increased in recent times because of the increasing career prospects and the growing requirement for higher specialisation. Applicants who want a PhD admission 2024 must consider the following points concerning the admission procedure as the admission is done based on merit and/or entrance exams. 

  • Admission into colleges/ universities in India is available for candidates in full-time and part-time programmes in various disciplines of engineering, arts, management, commerce, science, humanities, finance, law, medicine and IT.
  • Candidates can choose to pursue their PhD either full-time or part-time. The minimum duration of PhD is two years wherein the course follows the semester system including theory and practical versions on the specialisation of a respective course.
  • For PhD admission 2024, a Master's degree is required in India. Some universities in India offer seats to students having a minimum of 55% aggregate marks or equivalent.
  • In some cases, doing an MPhil is a part of their PhD admission criteria to pursue courses offered by some universities.
  • Admissions to a PhD programme is done through an entrance test at the university level or national level.

The admission procedure for both processes is described below.

The entrance exams for PhD courses conducted in India may vary university-wise. PhD admission in India is based on enrollment to several universities. Universities accept the results of either a national-level or a university-level entrance examination. The following section summarises the PhD admission 2024 entrance exam schedule. Mentioned below is the list of the top entrance exams for PhD in India:

As discussed, PhD admission 2024 is primarily based on entrance exams. Applicants can select from several PhD specialisations, including mathematics, engineering, education, and engineering. The table below shows the exam schedules for India's most competitive PhD entrance exams.

For PhD admissions, the majority of the universities/institutes conduct their entrance examinations and also consider the GATE/ NET scores. Here is a list of some of the popular universities in India that offer PhD courses to the candidates:

Here are some preparation tips for PhD entrance exams which students can use for reference:

  • Students should gather past year PhD entrance exam question papers from reliable sources and study accordingly.
  • They must refer to the PhD entrance exam syllabus as per their specialisation.
  • The entrance exam format varies depending on the conducting body; therefore, the aspirants must be informed of the structure to plan accordingly.
  • They must cover all exam subjects at least one month before the exam.
  • To relieve exam stress, the students must take advantage of the various mock tests available.
  • Keeping up with current events is vital because they are essential for grades.
  • Visiting the exam centre a day before the exam to avoid last-minute confusion about where the exam centre location is advised.
  • Before the exam, students must get a good night's sleep.

In today’s world, there is immense scope for candidates after they have completed their PhD. Gone are those days when the scope of PhD was limited to academia. After completing a PhD, one should track their potential and apply to jobs based on exact skills and expertise. Following are a few career options that candidates can choose after pursuing a PhD:

  • Lecturer & Professor
  • Author & Writer
  • Editor & Critic
  • Human Services/ Social Worker
  • Independent Consultant
  • Philosophical Journalist
  • Industrial R&D Lab professionals
  • Senior Research Scientist

PhD is considered one of the most valued degrees not just in India but abroad as well. When it comes to your career graph, it can be a good qualification for the aspirants. Many colleges or universities offer this course for aspiring students, however, one should satisfy their respective PhD admission eligibility. With this, candidates will have in-depth knowledge and develop mastery over the subjects they have chosen for specialisation, which will be extremely useful for them in their careers.

Stay tuned to CollegeDekho for more such updates and information. Aspirants can also check out our  QnA Zone to get their queries resolved by our experts. We wish good luck to all the candidates seeking PhD admission 2024 in India!

Are you feeling lost and unsure about what career path to take after completing 12th standard?

Say goodbye to confusion and hello to a bright future!

A PhD is an abbreviation for Doctor of Philosophy, which is the highest academic course level. The breadth of knowledge that a PhD bestows on its holders allows them to excel in research, analysis, and critical thinking to an extent that bachelor's or master's degrees cannot match.

A doctorate or PhD degree typically takes three years to complete. Candidates accepted into the programme have a maximum of 5 to 6 years to complete their research. However, the duration of the PhD programmes varies by institute.

A PhD programme allows you to specialise in a variety of fields. Chemistry Clinical Psychology Education Physics Electronics and Communications Engineering Educational Leadership and Administration are some of the popular doctorate level courses.

Whether a PhD is required after a master's degree depends on a candidate’s interests in a particular specialisation. To be eligible to enrol in a PhD programme, candidates must hold a master's degree in good standing. A PhD course can be pursued by students in any field.

A PhD is the highest educational qualification that can be obtained. A PhD candidate can expect to earn PhD salary between INR 6 and INR 12 lakhs per year.

The list of the top 10 easiest PhDs to obtain includes a PhD in Humanities, a PhD in Education, a PhD in Theology, a PhD in Business Administration, a PhD in Psychology, a PhD in Literature, a PhD in Criminal Justice, a PhD in Public Policy, a PhD in History, and a PhD in Sociology.

Yes. It is every so often possible to forego your master's programme and enrol directly in doctoral courses. You can choose to forego your PG degree by enrolling in a research programme after earning your bachelor's degree.

Yes, students can finish their PhD in two years. While a small percentage of exceptionally talented candidates can finish their PhDs in under 12 months, most applicants finish theirs in two years. The rarity and impressiveness of this cannot be overstated, but it is always possible. The secret to completing a PhD promptly is to have a solid academic background before you begin.

In most cases, a two-year Master's OR MPhil degree in the relevant field from any accredited Indian or foreign university is the minimal requirement for admission to a PhD programme. She or he must have earned a master's degree or a grade equivalent with at least 55%.

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We offer both a tuition-based  Master's Program and a funded Doctoral Program . The Ph.D. program is highly selective. Ph.D. students can earn a Master's degree automatically on the way to completing their Ph.D. Students admitted to the Master's program cannot automatically transition to the Ph.D. track. Therefore, students should apply to the program most suited to their career goals. Students can also apply to both programs by filing two separate applications.

Over recent years, the incoming Ph.D. class has averaged about 16 students per year. Our program's target and actual enrollment vary each year based on a number of factors. The number of international students who enroll in our Ph.D. program also varies widely depending on the applicant pool. We are strongly committed to maintaining a fair and equitable admission process and to cultivating diversity in our student body.

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Applicants who have been recommended for admission by the Physics Ph.D. or Master's program will be asked to submit these materials at a later date.

Only after receipt of these materials can applicants be offered admission by the Graduate School.

The Personal Statement section is required, but the writing sample/essay is not applicable to Physics applications.

Admission to our programs depends on many factors. We cannot assess your chances of admission prior to reviewing your entire application. Please do not email the department looking for feedback on your qualifications or how to maximize your chances.  All applications are considered equally after submission. Presenting the strongest application is the recommendation to all. 

The admission committee reviews all aspects of your application, including your personal statement, recommendation letters, grades, research experience, related original publications, etc. There is no precise formula followed to make an admission decision, but a strong showing in these components is likely to increase your chances of admission.

Admission Decisions

Admissions decisions will be sent to you by the Graduate School when they are made.  The department cannot share this information with you directly. However, if you have any questions about the program, please contact  [email protected]

Prospective Graduate Student Visits

We are always happy to host prospective students. Tell us about yourself and the program(s) you are interested in using this form.

Instructions pertaining to Reservation of Seats, Fees, general eligibility criteria and Exam pattern for PhD Entrance Test – 2023

  • Submission of application for PhD Programme will be online only. The candidate can only apply for one Programme as the Entrance Test shall be conducted for all the Programmes on the same day.
  • Application Fee for  submission of online application is  Rs 1000.  
  • Application fee is  non-refundable.
  • The number of seats to be advertised in different categories (GEN/OBC/SC/ST/EWS) is as per the Reservation Policy for Research Degree Programmes and DOPT,Govt of India .norms amended from time to time.  Appendix II of the Information Brochure  may be referred in this regard. 
  • No request for   change in reservation category,   shall be entertained once the application has been successfully submitted.
  • Five percent (5%) seats shall be reserved for Persons with Disabilities (with not less than 40% disability). However such candidates shall be adjusted against the appropriate category (Gen/SC/ST/OBC/EWS) to which they belong (Ref.Annexure II of Information Brochure 2023).
  • Candidates awarded with fellowship/scholarship in UGC-NET/UGC- CSIR NET/GATE/CEED and similar National level tests, as per the validity specified by the regulatory bodies, shall be exempted from Entrance Test and their selection will be based on interview. These candidates shall be considered as Category- A. Such candidates have to upload their valid fellowship award letter from the concerned implementing / awarding agency.
  • For Category A Candidates , interview shall carry 100% weightage. All eligible candidates from Category A will be called for the interview.
  • For Category B Candidates , the Entrance Test shall carry a weightage of 70% and 30% weightage shall be given to the interview. Those who secure at least 50% marks in the Entrance Test (45% marks in case of SC/ST/OBC (Non Creamy layers) / Differently abled persons and EWS) will be shortlisted for the interview in order of merit subject to the maximum limit of five times of the available seats.

Stage II: Interview:

  • Eligible candidates from Category A & Category B shall be called for interview before the Discipline Specific Admission committee. Information in this regard shall be uploaded on the University website. The respective disciplines/ schools will communicate regarding the requirement for the interview.
  • The interview shall have three components comprising Research Methodology (40%) Subject domain (40%) and Communication Skills (20%).
  • Admission to the Ph.D Degree Programmes is strictly on merit, based on the performance in the Entrance Test and Interview taken together.
  • A candidate will be eligible for admission and registration for the PhD programme, on the fulfillment of the following conditions :
  • Candidates who have completed:
  • A 1-year/2-semester master's degree programme after a 4-year/8-semester bachelor’s degree programme or a 2-year/4-semester master’s degree programme after a 3-year bachelor’s degree programme or qualifications declared equivalent to the master’s degree by the corresponding statutory regulatory body, with at least 55% marks in aggregate or its equivalent grade in a point scale wherever grading system is followed or equivalent qualification from a foreign educational institution accredited by an assessment and accreditation agency which is approved, recognized or authorized by an authority, established or incorporated under a law in its home country or any other statutory authority in that country to assess, accredit or assure quality and standards of the educational institution.
  • A relaxation of 5% marks or its equivalent grade is allowed for those belonging to SC/ST/OBC (non-creamy layer)/Differently-Abled, Economically Weaker Section (EWS) and other categories of candidates as per the decision as per the decision of the UGC from time to time. Provided that a candidate seeking admission after a 4-year/8-semester bachelor’s degree programme should have a minimum of 75% marks in aggregate or its equivalent grade on a point scale wherever the grading system is followed.
  • A relaxation of 5% marks or its equivalent grade may be allowed for those belonging to SC/ST/OBC (non-creamy layer)/Differently-Abled, Economically Weaker Section (EWS) and other categories of candidates as per the decision of the Commission from time to time.

In case, a candidate does not meet these minimum eligibility criteria and appears in the written examination, it is at the candidate’s own risk and cost, and if at any stage, it is found that the minimum eligibility requirements are not fulfilled, the admission, if granted, shall be cancelled ipso facto.

Syllabus and Question paper

  • a) The syllabus of the Entrance Test is as per the ‘University Grants Commission (Minimum Standards and Procedure for Award of PhD Degree) Regulations, 2022 comprising 50% on Research methodology and 50% on specific subject. The syllabus for each discipline is annexed at Appendix III of information brochure.
  • b)  The question paper shall have questions consisting of  50% on research methodology and 50% on specific subject .  

Help desk contact details:

You may contact the Research Unit at 01129537326 during working hours.

You may also mail at  [email protected]

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  • You are currently on: Doctoral applications page. Open sub navigation overlay.

Doctoral applications

If you are applying for a PhD or named doctorate, here’s our step-by-step guide for doctoral applications, admission and enrolment.

Step 1. View the doctoral entry requirements

To view the academic eligibility requirements for entry into a PhD or named doctorate programme, see  Doctoral entry requirements .

Step 2. Choose your area of interest

Decide your area of research interest or potential research topic. You can look at faculty or department websites relevant to your topic, and consider the research interests and publications of academic staff.

For information on thesis and research areas see:

  • Find a supervisor
  • Postgraduate research areas

Step 3. Check application closing dates

If you are applying for the Doctor of Clinical Psychology or Doctor of Education, see Postgraduate application closing dates .

For other doctoral programmes, you can submit an Application for Admission at any time.

Step 4. Submit your doctoral application

Before you apply you will need to,.

  • Prepare electronic copies of your doctoral application documents, such as your Academic transcripts, Statement of Research Intent and CV (résumé). If English is not your first language, approved English language test scores from the last two years. For more information, visit: Documents to support your application Statement of Research Intent
  • Arrange your Doctoral Referee Reports These must be sent by your referees to the School of Graduate Studies. Preferably, the letters should be from academic staff of your home university, who can comment on your research capability and experience. One referee should be your thesis/dissertation supervisor. Doctoral referees complete this report to support a student's application to study a doctorate at the University of Auckland.

Doctoral Referee Report . Size: 36.3 kB. Type: DOCX .

Document Description: Doctoral referees complete this report to support a student's application to study a doctorate at the University of Auckland.

Download this DOCX file. Size: 36.3 kB .

  • Research and publication history You may be asked to supply your research dissertation/thesis from your qualifying degree and/or relevant refereed publications.

Is this your first time applying with us?

  • Click on  Application for Admission
  • Click, ‘Sign up for a new account’ below the Password entry field.
  • A confirmation message will ask you to confirm sign up for a new account. Select ‘Confirm’.
  • The 'Register for a new account' page will appear. Enter your email address, name and a password and click ‘Register’ (After accepting the IT Acceptable Use Policy and Disclaimer).
  • In the next page provide your contact details, date of birth, citizenship, ethnicity. Also indicate if you have a disability so we can better meet your needs.
  • Complete all your Application for Admission sections. For a step by step guide, see Doctoral application help .
  • Ensure you have read the Declaration section. Click, ‘I Agree’ and ‘Submit application.’

If you have applied, studied or worked with us before

  • Use either your ID number or the email address used when you last applied, and your password. 
  • To reset your password, please visit Change or reset your password
  • Click ‘Start a new application’ to add a new programme. 

What to expect after you apply

Your application will be reviewed by the Department and the Board of Graduate Studies. Within two working days, you will receive an acknowledgement email with a Student ID number for logging into your Application for Admission.

Step 5. Track your application progress

Doctoral applications can take eight weeks or longer due to approvals required at different levels. This is from the time an application is submitted to when a decision is made.

You can see the status of your documents submitted in your 'Things you need to do' list in your Application for Admission .

To see the status of the programme(s) you’ve applied into, you can access 'Your applications' in your Application for Admission .

Step 6. View your application decision

When a decision is made, the status will show on the 'Your applications' section of your Application for Admission.

Offer of place

You can accept or decline an offer of place in a programme from your Application for Admission . When you accept an offer of place, you are admitted to your programme. We will acknowledge your acceptance by email, with information on how to enrol.

Step 7. Begin your doctoral enrolment

When you receive your confirmation of place, you can begin  Doctoral enrolment .

As a doctoral candidate, you will be re-enrolled at the beginning of each academic year by the School of Graduate Studies. Please pay your fees on time to ensure re-enrolment.

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Ph.D. Programmes

Noida 01 Feb 2024 PET Dates 24 Jan & 05 Feb 2024 ( Last for Jan 2024 session): Only those who qualify for PET will be called for Interview.
Lucknow ---------- PET Date 30 Jan 2024 & 06 Feb 2024 ( Last for Jan 2024 session): Only those who qualify for PET will be called for Interview
Jaipur ---------- Last Date To Apply Is 2nd February 2024
Gurugram (Manesar) ---------- PET Date 20 Feb 2024. Only those who qualify for PET will be called for Interview.
Gwalior ---------- Last Date To Apply Is 2nd February 2024
Greater Noida 17 Feb 2024 PET Dates 17th Feb 2024 (Last for Jan 2024 session): Only those who qualify for PET will be called for Interview.
Mumbai ---------- Last Date To Apply Is 2nd February 2024
Raipur ---------- Last Date To Apply Is 19th Feb 2024
Kolkata 06 Jan 2024 Last date to apply
Ranchi 30 Dec 2023 Last Date To Apply Is 30th December 2023
Patna ---------- Last Date To Apply Is 30th December 2023
Mohali ---------- Last Date To Apply Is 30th December 2023

phd form apply online

Ph.D. Online Application Form :

Instructions for Submission of Online Application Form :

At the start of form filling choose your PhD program and campus of study carefully.

  • Click here  to check the eligibility criteria
  • Scanned passport size photograph: (jpg, gif, png, jpeg, bmp). The dimensions of the photograph should be 3.5 x 4.5cm width.
  • Scanned Class X mark sheet. (format : jpg, gif, png, jpeg, bmp) Scanned Post-Graduation marks sheet till final semester / year. (format : jpg, gif, png, jpeg, bmp)
  • Preliminary research idea. (to be uploaded while filling the online application and not to exceed 1000 words). click here  for guidelines on how to write Preliminary research Idea.
  • Employment Verification Certificate   [click here]  Applicable to those who are employed and are applying for a Part time PhD Program.
  • A valid personal e-mail ID.
  • Application fees of Rs. 1100/- using Debit / Credit card.
  • Candidate seeking admission to Ph.D. must apply online only . Hard copies will not be accepted.
  • Online Application Form will not get registered untill the candidate has submitted all the required documents mentioned above. Applicants in their final semester/ year of post graduation may apply but their form will be registered and they will be offered a PET date only on receipt of the pending document latest by five days prior to Amity's last PET of the academic session.
  • Merely submission of an application form, does not constitute a claim for an offer date for the selection procedure or admission to the program. The form may be rejected due to deficiency in the supporting documents, not following the prescribed procedures or any other valid reason.
  • An Application Form Number and Password is generated on submission of the application form which will be required for future reference. A mail is sent to the applicant in this regard on the registered email-id.
  • Candidates are advised to keep a printed copy of the online Application Form.
  • Check whether your Form has been received or not
  • Check the Status of your Form
  • Select the date for appearing in the selection Procedure and download Admit Card.
  • Check your selection status.
  • Print Admission letter after you have been selected.
  • Check confirmation of fee payment after making payment.

Click here to fill & submit Application Form Online

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PhD Admission 2024: Application Form, Course Detail, Eligibility, Fee & Top Universities

Phd Admission

Phd Admission

PhD Admission 2024: PhD admissions for session 2024 across various universities have already begun. Take the first step towards your PHD in India! Entrance exams, eligibility, top universities, and research – this guide has it all . Without further ado, let us navigate the path to academic excellence’s zenith.

To get started, we first need to understand how PhD programs are structured. A PhD, or Doctor of Philosophy, is an advanced degree that lasts 3-5 years . It provides you with the opportunity to study your chosen discipline in fascinating depth, conduct original research, and contribute new knowledge to the world. Whether your passion is the hard sciences, the arts and humanities, or a mixture of both, a PhD can enable you to become a globally recognized expert.

How to get PHD Admission 2024

Entrance exams such as UGC/CSIR NET, GATE, IIT JAM. These are the first step you can take to gain access to prestigious institutions like JNU, DU, and the top IITs and IISc Bangalore. UGC recently declared that from the 2024-25 session, PhD admissions would be based on NET scores only. In order to be eligible for all entrance tests, one need a master’s degree with a minimum of 50% marks or an equivalent CGPA and satisfy the specified requirements to go further . However, some institutions may have certain additional eligibility requirements, so be sure to do your homework!

Picture yourself conducting the cutting-edge research in’s premier research institutes, such as IIT Bombay, IIT Roorkee, IIT Guwahati, as their PHD admissions for 2024 are already open, and more are going to open. Have you considered institutes IMTS and WCU? They also offer a wide range of PHD programs in Engineering, Sciences, Humanities, and Social science.

While pursuing these programs, you have the opportunity to work with world-renowned faculty, access the most advanced instruments and facilities, express your thoughts, and collaborate with a diverse group of international students. In addition, let us not forget about financial support! Most PHD programs offer tuition assistance in addition to merit-based grants and scholarships, taking the need for additional student loans off your shoulders and freeing up more time for research.

PhD admissions are now open across multiple universities for the academic session of 2024. The deadline for application submission is June 31, 2024 . Renowned institutions such as DU, IIT Kharagpur, IIT Gandhinagar, IISER Pune, Amity University, LPU, and Sharda University are offering PhD admissions. Candidates who have attained a minimum of 50% marks in their master’s degree from a recognized university are eligible for enrollment. The selection process for admissions typically involves entrance examinations followed by interviews at various universities.

Doctoral degrees are commonly pursued by individuals seeking to engage in extensive research within their chosen field. Many educational institutions in India extend opportunities for PhD admissions to students aiming to build careers in research. Eligible candidates who have completed their master’s degree can apply for PhD programs to further their academic pursuits in their preferred disciplines.

PhD admissions in 2024 will necessitate candidates to take entrance exams at both the university and national levels, such as UGC-NET, CSIR NET, PET, JEST, and others. Successful candidates in the PhD Entrance Exam 2024 will progress to the university counseling phase.

Departments offering PhD programs encompass a wide array of specializations including Arts, Humanities, Commerce, Science, and Management. These specializations may include fields such as English, History, Political Science, Commerce, Business Administration, Computer Applications, Geography, Economics, Hindi, among others.

Latest Updates on PhD Admission 2024: 

PhD admissions have commenced at IIT Kharagpur for the 2024 session, with entrance tests scheduled from 2 May 2024 to 15 May 2024. Source

IMTS Institute is currently accepting applications for PhD programs for the 2024 academic year. The deadline to submit applications is 31 June 2024 . Apply Now

Sri Govind Guru University has released an invitation for PhD admissions in the Medical & Para-medical disciplines. Interested candidates can apply until 08 April 2024 . Source .

PhD Admission 2024 Eligibility Criteria

Candidates who have completed their postgraduate in a related field of study and have a minimum of 55%.

Students having an MTech or ME degree are eligible for PhD admission.

In order to make admission to a Ph.D. qualification course, students should have taken the entrance exams such as CSIR-UGC NET, UGC Net, DBT JRF Biotech Entrance Test, JRF-GATE , etc.

PhD Admission may be subjected to a candidate be shortlisted in the interview process, as some university will be testing this process.

A qualifying score in the GATE is required for candidates aspiring to pursue a doctoral degree in engineering or technology.

Candidates must obtain at least a 60% aggregate in their Bachelors’s degree; some universities require a relevant postgraduate diploma or certificate course also.

PhD Admission 2024 Highlights

Entrance Exams and Admission Process

Admission to PhD programs in India often involves qualifying in national-level entrance exams. Some of the most common exams include:

  • University Grants Commission National Eligibility Test (UGC-NET)
  • Council of Scientific and Industrial Research National Eligibility Test (CSIR-NET)
  • Graduate Aptitude Test in Engineering (GATE)
  • Joint Admission Test for PhD (JAM)

In addition to these exams, many universities conduct their own entrance tests and interviews to assess the candidate’s research aptitude, subject knowledge, and communication skills. The specific admission requirements and process can vary between institutions and disciplines.

Top Universities and Research Institutions

India has a diverse range of prestigious institutions offering PhD programs across various disciplines. Some of the top universities and research institutions include:

  • Indian Institutes of Technology (IITs)
  • Indian Institutes of Science Education and Research (IISERs)
  • Indian Institute of Science (IISc)
  • National Institutes of Technology (NITs)
  • Tata Institute of Fundamental Research (TIFR)
  • Jawaharlal Nehru University (JNU)
  • University of Delhi
  • Banaras Hindu University (BHU)

These institutions are known for their world-class research facilities, distinguished faculty, and rigorous academic programs.

PhD Admission 2024: Important Date

Fees and Financial Assistance

IMTS Institute

The cost of pursuing a PhD in India can vary significantly between institutions and disciplines. Annual fees can range from INR 10,000 to INR 2,00,000 or more. However, many universities offer scholarships, fellowships, and financial assistance to meritorious students and those from economically disadvantaged backgrounds. Some of the major funding agencies include:

  • University Grants Commission (UGC)
  • Council of Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR)
  • Department of Science and Technology (DST)
  • Ministry of Human Resource Development (MHRD)

Students can also explore research assistantships, teaching assistantships, and external funding opportunities to support their studies.

Career Prospects and Accreditation

Completing a PhD opens up a wide range of career opportunities in academia, research institutions, industry, government, and non-governmental organizations. PhD graduates can pursue roles such as:

  • University faculty members
  • Research scientists
  • Industry researchers and consultants
  • Policy analysts and advisors
  • Entrepreneurs and innovators

PhD programs in India are approved and accredited by the University Grants Commission (UGC) and other relevant statutory bodies. This ensures that the programs meet high standards of academic quality and research rigour.

PhD Admission 2024: Key Points

  • PhD admissions for 2024 are now open at various prestigious universities across India, including Delhi University, IITs (Kharagpur and Gandhinagar), IISER Pune, Amity University, LPU, and Sharda University.
  • Candidates who have completed a Master’s degree with a minimum of 50% marks are eligible to apply through the official websites of their desired universities.
  • Selection for PhD admission 2024 will be based on  entrance exam scores  and personal interviews at many respected universities.
  • Doctoral degrees are ideal for those interested in pursuing in-depth research work on a specific topic.
  • Applicants must have a Master’s degree in the relevant subject area to be considered for PhD admission.
  • In addition to university-specific entrance exams, national-level tests such as UGC-NET, CSIR NET, PET, and JEST may be required for PhD admission in 2024.

PhD admission 2024 in Government universities

Many central and government universities provide admission to various PhD programs, such as DU , JNU , BHU , IIT Delhi, etc. PhD Admission is generally offered based on an individual’s score in entrance exams conducted by various agencies. UGC NET, CSIR, JRF-GATE, and DBT JRF Biotech Entrance Test are some entrance exams. Applicants who possess a master’s degree from an appropriate field and have at least 55% are eligible to appear in the entrance exam. Several universities provide admission twice every year- June and December.

IIT Kharagpur PhD Admission 2024 

25 June 2024 was the last date for IIT Kharagpur PhD admission for the 2024 academic session. The Indian Institute of Technology Kharagpur provides admission to the PhD degree course in the 19 departments. Under certain conditions, it is possible to complete the course within two years if the necessary conditions are met. There is a minimum grade point average of 60% required for PhD Admission in 2024 at IIT Kharagpur if you do not have a master’s degree. An interview and a written test are used to determine whether an applicant will be admitted to the program. Entrance exams and interviews will be conducted from 2 May 2024 to 15 May 2024.

DU PhD Admission 2024

Delhi University (DU) is one of the leading universities in India, and it is widely recognized for its PhD programs. The admission process at DU for PhD programs is competitive, and the selection is based on an entrance examination (DU PhD Entrance Test or DUET ) and interview.

DU PhD Entrance Test (DUET) is a computer-based examination conducted once a year, usually in June. The test covers various subjects including research methodology, general awareness, and subject area of PhD program. The interview is conducted by experts from the concerned department and is used to check the candidate’s research skills and knowledge of the subject area.

The eligibility for the PhD Admission 2024 at DU comprises having a master’s degree in the relevant discipline. The fee for the DU Ph.D. course is different depending upon the course specialization. The DU PhD Entrance Exam includes research methodology and course-specific subjects. 

If you are interested in applying for a PhD program at DU, you can find more information on the university’s official website. The website also has a list of all the PhD programs offered by DU along with the eligibility criteria and application process.

BRABU PhD Admission 2024 

Babasaheb Bhimrao Ambedkar Bihar University (BRABU) offers various Ph.D. Programs in various Faculties and Departments. BRABU conducts an admission test (PAT) for admission to Ph.D. Program. Admission to the PhD course is offered only to those students who qualify for the PAT or UGC NET entrance examination at BRABU.

Apart from this Post Graduate and equivalent is also a part of the eligibility criteria. Students have to pay Rs. Rs 15000 (approx) course fee + registration fee which starts from Rs 500. Keep visiting BRABU website and official notices for updates on the admission process.

IGNOU PhD Admission 2024 

The Indira Gandhi National Open University has started the registration process for appearing in the entrance exam for admission to the IGNOU Ph.D. courses for the January session. The university conducted the PhD entrance exam on 07 January 2024, and the students passing the exam will then be eligible to appear in the next process for PhD Admission.

JNU PhD Admission 2024

Jawaharlal Nehru University cut off Ph.D. courses along with various specializations such as Ph.D. (English), and Ph.D. ( History ), for its students for the upcoming academic session  2024.

Students need to meet certain eligibility criteria, such as students should have passed their master’s in any relevant course from any respective university with at least 55%  marks. Admission will depend somewhere on the valid rank in the entrance test required.  Learners who want to get admitted at Jawaharlal Nehru University learners need to qualify UGC NET and CRIS PhD entrance exam 2024, which is administered on the national level for Ph.D.

Calicut University PhD Admission 2024 

PhD admission 2024 will be based on an entrance exam at this University. Those students who qualify for UGC-NET, UGC-CSIR-NET, SLET, and GATE are eligible for this PhD entrance exam 2024. Students can register themselves at www.phd.uoc.ac.in, and the application form fee is Rs 850. Calicut University also offers many specializations in PhD, and some of them are mentioned below the section. 

  • PhD in Statistics
  • PhD in Political Science
  • PhD in Physics
  • PhD in Microbiology
  • PhD in Mathematics
  • PhD in History
  • PhD in Geology
  • PhD in Education
  • PhD in Economics
  • PhD in Commerce
  • PhD in Psychology 
  • PhD in Music 
  • PhD in Library & Information Science 
  • PhD in Journalism & Mass Communication 
  • PhD in Geography 
  • PhD in Environmental Science

HNGU PhD Admission 2024

Admissions will be based on entrance exams such as CSIR NET or UGC NET at HNGU. The application start date is expected to be released in June-April 2024  for the HNGU PhD Entrance Exam.

Students have to pay Rs 36,000 approx + the Registration fee of INR 1000 as an HNGU PhD course fee. HNGU also offers multiple PhD specializations such as Mathematics, Hindi, Zoology, Economics, Botany, Education, and so on.

PhD Entrance Exam 2024

PhD Entrance exams, including NET, IIT JAM, and GATE, will be pivotal in PhD admission in 2024. While NTA handles UGC NET for central universities, IIT Madras has started registrations for IIT JAM 2024. GATE 2024 is set for February 3-4 and 10-11. Ensure you register for GATE between August 30 and October 12 (or October 20 with a late fee) to be in the running for PhD Admission in 2024.

Admission to doctoral-level degree programs in various universities is offered based on the following entrance examinations.

  • University Grants Commission National Eligibility Test conducted by the National Testing Agency (NTA). The application fee for the NTA UGC NET examination is INR 1100 .
  • Council of Scientific and Industrial Research-NET or CSIR-NET is one more examination that is organized after the administration of NTA. The fee for the entrance examination is equal to UGC-NET which is INR 1100.
  • NTA (National Testing Agency) has now disclosed ICAR PG Schedule for PhD Admission. ICAR Entrance Exam {AICE-JRF / SRF (PhD)} will be held on 09 July  in 80+ cities.
  • Both entrance examinations are performed in the computer-based test (CBT) mode.

UGC NET 2024: PhD Entrance application form fee of UGC NET IS INR 1100/- for the general category and EWS*/ for OBC-NCL, Scheduled Caste (SC) / Scheduled Tribes (ST), is INR 550 and INR 250 For Persons with Disability (PwD) and Third gender. The application procedure will be done online. 01 June is the last date for the successful transaction of the examination fee. 

ICAR 2024: PhD Entrance   exam application form is over for session 2024. The PhD ICAR application form fee of ICAR is INR 1850 for the general category and EWS*/ for OBC-NCL is INR 1820, and INR 920 for the reserved categories such as ST/SC/PWD/Transgender. The application procedure will be done online. The entrance exam is most likely to be conducted in the middle of the year. 

TANCET 2024: Tamil Nadu Common Entrance Test is one of the ways to get admission into PhD program. The application form is 800 INR for general students and 400 INR for reserved categories students. TANCET Entrance exam registration can be done online through the official site.

JRF 2024:  JRF is an Entrance exam for PhD admission which is conducted by NTA (National Testing Agency). The application procedure will be done online. The entrance exam probably be administered in August. The application form fee for PhD JRF Entrance Exam is INR 1100 for the general category and INR 800 for ST/SC/PWD/Transgender. Admit cards will be available NTA website after a few weeks of registration. 

Types of PhD Admission 2024 in India

The PhD program in India can be classified into two basic types. The two types are the full-time PhD and the part-time PhD.

  • Full-Time PhD Admission
  • Part-Time PhD Admission

Full-Time PhD Admission 2024

Full-time PhDs are regular Ph.D. programs. The duration of these programs ranges from 4 to 6 years. Compared to other Ph.D. degrees, the cost of a full-time Ph.D. program is the highest. Self-financed candidates, Institute Research Scholars with Teaching Assistance, and Government/Semi-Governmental Fellowship Recipients prefer pursuing full-time Ph.D. programs. 

Part-Time PhD Admission 2024

There is the option to enroll part-time as a PhD student. Part-time Ph.D. degrees are mostly granted to candidates whose employers are reputed research institutions, academic institutions, and industries near the campus. In part-time PhD programs, it takes seven to eight years to complete all the academic credits and other requirements as full-time students.

A limited number of classes will be required for students doing a part-time Ph.D. It is necessary to have at least one year’s work experience and a recommendation letter from an employer to pursue a part-time Ph.D. The focus of part-time Ph.D. students is more on research for the company than on personal research.

PhD Admission 2024: Top Specializations

PhD Specialization

When Students have the ambition of pursuing a doctoral degree, they are presented with many options as there are several fields under the Ph.D. program. Following is the list of the top courses for Ph.D. with information:

  • Ph.D. in Engineering: The highest degree available in engineering is a Ph.D. Although a doctorate is not necessary for many engineering fields, only Ph.D. aspirants and alumni are given access to research possibilities. The degree program includes several options for individual study, including chemical engineering, computer engineering, mechanics, and materials science. Some institutions provide a general degree route as an alternative to concentrating on certain expertise. Engineering technicians, project managers, and directors of engineering positions are all available for Ph.D. applicants.
  • PhD in IT: PhD in IT is a well-known doctoral course with 4 to 6 years. This PhD Course admission is fully dependent on entrance exams. GATE, UGC-NET, and CSIR-UGC-NET are the entrance tests that are conducted for PhD IT course enrollments. In this course, students learn about programming, Data processing, telecommunications, statistics, and many more topics.
  • Ph.D. in Pharmacology: A career as a researcher or pharmacist in numerous health institutions is paved with a Ph.D. in pharmacology. Ph.D. programs provide thorough instruction in the investigation of the effects of medications and chemicals on biological things. These programs develop in neuroscience, physiology, cell biology, and molecular biology, training degree applicants to specialize in their fields of study. 
  • Ph.D. in English Literature: This degree prepares students to understand and write about great literary works by teaching them about the chronology, contextual factors, and significance of English literature. Participants in programs frequently decide on a particular subfield to concentrate on. The literature of a particular region, such as the United States or Great Britain, or a particular period, such as the Renaissance, may be the focus of the specialization. 
  • Ph.D. in Medical: Candidates who want to specialize in medical research and development can benefit from the program’s assistance in developing their fundamental competencies. Doctorates have the chance to start their careers in hospitals, research and innovation, pharmacy, medical pharmacology, biomedical companies, and other places after completing the program. 
  • Ph.D. in Agriculture: Advanced research in plants, animals, and farming is available through a Ph.D. program in agriculture, with a distinct Research and development emphasis. This program involves conducting research, and it concludes with a thesis that is submitted to academic authorities. The course of the program includes a study of agriculture practices and processes, from agriculture administration and verdict to the science of plant and animal growth, with an emphasis on different crops, local awareness, and rural prosperity.
  • PhD in Management: There are various specializations in PhD Management such as PhD (Business Management), PhD (Human Resources Management) PhD (Economics Finance & Control), PhD (Public Policy and Management), PhD (Marketing), and so on. The admission to PhD in Management, Student must have done their  Master in any Management Program from a discipline of any well-reputed university or institution with a minimum of 55% marks. The admission will be done through the entrance test required for the course.

Top Specialization for BRABU PhD Admission

Phd admission procedure 2024.

The PhD admission Procedure is online and based on the entrance exam. Certain Universities in India provide merit-based entries for this doctorate degree but in most other Universities these admissions are based on entrance exam scores. These admissions to Ph.D. are based on qualifying for the entrance exam among any of the IIT JAM, GATE, UGC NET, UGC CSIR, and so on.

How to Apply for PhD Admission 2024?

  • Students first open the concerned university website and download the form.
  • After checking the eligibility criteria start filling out the form.
  • Fill out the form for the entrance exam as well and download its admit card.
  • When the entrance exam is qualified students must appear in the interview.
  • Final selections will be given to students for qualifying exams and interviews.

Top Colleges for Ph.D. Admission 2024 in India 

If individuals are in search of the top college to enroll in the PhD degree program in the current academic year 2024 cycle then they do not need to worry now. With this specially organized section, we shall provide the top colleges’ list for Ph.D. degree programs from which one can select and apply to study with the 2024 session. The list has been plucked and placed below.

  • A. A. Govt. Arts College For Men (Tamil NADU)
  • Acharya and BM Reddy College of Pharmacy (Banglore)
  • Acharya Nagarjuna University (Andhra Pradesh)
  • Academy of Scientific and Innovative Research (New Delhi)

PhD Admission in Delhi 

There are multiple Universities that are offering PhD courses based on eligibility criteria. Amity University, IGNOU, Delhi University, etc, are among the top colleges for Ph.D. admission in 2024. Delhi University (DU) conducts admission in 2 phases based on the Entrance Exam (NTA PhD and DUET) at @https://admission.uod.ac.in.  

Top colleges for PhD Admission 2024 in Delhi 

  • AIIMS Delhi
  • Delhi University (DU)
  • IP University
  • IARI (Indian Agricultural Research Institute)
  • IGNOU (Indira Gandhi National Open University)
  • JMI (Jamia Millia Islamia)

What are the Career Aspects and Scope of PhD?

PhD. candidates in India and other nations have been forced to reconsider their motivation for entering academia. A person’s academic abilities prepare them for a wide variety of difficulties in several spheres of society. After getting a Ph.D., the most logical career path is to become a professor, a researcher, or a startup supervisor. Following is a list of the options one has after earning a degree:

  • Academia: After finishing the Ph.D. program, academia has always been a preferred career path. The job description under this is comparable to the person’s Ph.D. work. Teaching, delivering lectures, creating PowerPoint slides, conducting research, running an office, occasionally representing the university, and conducting conferences and seminars on a certain topic are all part of the job. The academic world is for you if you enjoy conducting research and imparting knowledge. 
  • Consultant: Most consulting businesses only hired MBAs ten years ago. Now, circumstances have improved! The proportion of PhDs employed by these companies has significantly increased as a result of the technology-based corporate sectors’ continual expansion. These days, management consulting businesses are primarily searching for individuals with an orbital perspective of the issues. More consideration is given to Ph.D. holders because they have a significant technical foundation and are equipped precisely to tackle challenging situations.
  • Government Sector: If you have the ambition of being in service to the country then you can opt for jobs provided by the government sector. You might be employed by one of the ministries, where you would be required to comprehend difficult issues and aid decision-makers. Another option is to use your sharp mind to rise through the ranks of a political party and, ideally, become a politician to support your nation. The post of military analyst is yet another well-liked one. In addition to this choice, there are other chances and jobs with the state and federal governments. Additionally, there are possibilities for those who work for the government as civilian employees.
  • Entrepreneur: The partnership between academia and start-ups has only been stronger over the previous decade. In the modern world, everyone wants to stand out from the competition, and Ph.D. holders want to use their education to the fullest extent feasible. For this, most degree holders choose to launch their own firm. Many students would rather work for a start-up and gather experience before starting their own business than become entrepreneurs.  

Why Study Ph.D.?

  • There are many perks for students who take a Ph.D. degree. Through this degree, students can widen the scope of their particular chosen subjects and increase their knowledge level.
  • Students who get enrolled in the Ph.D. program do all the work of designing, organizing, and managing the research tasks individually, and this way they become able to be very good at managing higher positions.
  • When the research Ph.D. is completed students are successfully called doctors and researchers and they get a good research profile to get more opportunities.
  • The levels of jobs offered to a Ph.D. holder are higher than those provided to the master’s or bachelor’s degree holder and eventually, salaried or Ph.D. holders are more. Their salaries are INR 6 to 9 lacs per annum.

Salary After PhD Course in India

The salary of a Ph.D. varies in India based on factors such as experience, area of expertise, and location. Starting salaries range from 3.9 lakhs per annum to 29 lakhs per annum. Some of the highest-paying Ph.D. programs are in legal, economics, biotechnology, etc. Depending on the field of specialization, the salary can also vary. Below are a few top profiles you may find useful.

Top Universities Offering PhD Admission 2024

Read also other courses, frequently asked questions.

Question 1: How does the Ph.D. process work?

Ans: Any undergraduate student with a minimum of 75% marks (it may vary) in aggregate or equivalent grade is eligible for a Ph.D. program under UGC’s new Ph.D. regulations. A Ph.D. programme is only open to those who meet the minimum qualifications set by the UGC.

Question: Can I get admission into PhD course without NET?

Ans: For PhD course, students can apply based on different entrance exams like JRF, NET, and other equivalents. 

Ques: What is the qualification for PhD admission?

Ans: To get admission in PhD, a candidate must have a Master’s degree in the relevant field with a minimum grade of 55% or as required by the university.

Ques: Can I do PhD without entrance?

Ans: Yes, some universities allow direct admission to PhD only to candidates having good academic records or qualifying national level examinations like NET, GATE or equivalent.

Ques: What is the age limit for PhD?

Ans: Generally, there is no age limit for PhD admission, but some institutions may have age restrictions for specific categories.

Ques: What is the fee for PhD in India?

Ans: PhD course fees in India vary widely depending on the university. On average, it can range from Rs 10,000 to lakhs of rupees per year. Fees are often lower in government institutions.

Ques: Can I do PhD part-time?

Ans: Yes, many universities offer part-time PhD programmes. This allows working professionals to pursue a PhD while continuing their jobs.

Ques: Can we do PhD online?

Ans: Some universities offer online or distance PhD programs. However, the credibility and acceptability of online PhD can vary, and it is essential to choose accredited institutions.

Ques: Is distance PhD valid in India?

Ans: Yes, distance PhD programs from recognized institutions are recognized in India. It is important to ensure that the university and program are approved by the relevant authorities.

Note: Dates are tentative & subject to change. Visit the University’s official website for more admission information.

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  • Applying for Graduate Research Study at UCL

We've made this guide to help you to apply for graduate research study at UCL.

If you’re applying for Graduate Taught Study, see our separate guide .

Before applying

Selecting your programme.

See our Graduate Prospectus for our available programmes.

Each prospectus page has information about a programme’s content, entry requirements and application deadlines. Find more specific information about a programme’s content from that academic department’s website.

Most opportunities (and potential funding) are not advertised or packaged as studentships. If you meet the entry requirements, be proactive to identify opportunities with UCL academics whose recent research closely match your interests.

There are three main ways to identify an appropriate supervisor to contact:

  • Browse research programmes to find centres of research in your area of interest. Click through to the department or centre website to find staff profiles.
  • Search for relevant academic units and potential supervisors by keyword using UCL’s Institutional Research Information System (IRIS) . Not all academics are listed in IRIS but it is a good place to start.
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Deciding when to apply

See your programme’s prospectus page for deadline information.

If your programme has a set application deadline, you must submit your application before 5pm (UK time) on the day of the application deadline.

If your programme has no application deadline, we recommend you apply at least 4 months before your intended start date.

if you are applying for funding, there may be separate deadlines set by the academic department

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Instructions for submitting online application form for PhD 2024 programme

1) Click on link below "Login/Register" to apply for the PhD 2024 programme.

2) Before applying and paying for application fees check the eligibility criteria for PhD 2024 programme at the admission page of IIM Kashipur.

3) If eligible, then click on New User Sign-Up Here to register yourself and enter the details.

4) Check for the activation email on your registered email for the activation. Users are also requested to check the spam folder too.

5) Click on the activation link to activate your account to fill the form.

6) Application Fees- To be paid through Debit/Credit Card or Internet Banking/ or UPI

7) The application fee (Non-Refundable) -

8) Documents to uploaded in Application form-

  • i)   Category Certificate, if applicable
  • ii)   Physical Disability certificate, if applicable
  • iii)   Qualifying Test score card
  • iv)   All Educational Certificates (i.e., X, XII, UG and PG etc)
  • v)   Work Experience certificates, if any.
  • vi)   Published research articles, if any.

1. If your payment get failed please wait for 2 to 3 hours for the update. 2. If your payment is successful then return to application page to fill the declaration and complete the form.

In case of any technical support, please contact [email protected]. IIM Kashipur

phd form apply online

Application registration for admission in Ph. D. 2024 (Regular) program is open now.   New

Physical verification of documents of ph.d candidates   new, corrigendum to list of candidates called for interview, phd admission 2023   new, list of shortlisted candidates for interview: ph.d. admission - 2023.

Filling of Application Form for Ph.D Admission (2023-2024) - Phase II is now closed.   New

Your parent portal will be active after physical verification and email will be active from Monday evening.   New

Applications are invited from interested and eligible candidates for admission to the PhD programs of IIT (ISM) Dhanbad.

(a) Candidates with External Funded Fellowships Such as DST-INSPIRE, CSIR/UGC-JRF Or Any Other National Level Fellowship Can Apply Throughout The Year. Please Check Information Brochure for More Information. Click Here to Apply.

Candidates Applying under Institute Assistantship (IA)/Part-time/Sponsored Category (GATE/NET (Assistant Professorship)/CAT, etc. can apply as per the schedule provided below. Please Check Information Brochure for More Information. Click Here to Apply.

Important dates for IA Category Applicants. #

## Any of the dates may be changed due to unforeseen circumstances. *Appropriate academic criteria/methodology will be adopted by the respective departments for shortlisting of applications received against the Ph.D. admission call. **In normal situation, the interview will be held physically in the campus at respective departments. However, it may be online if situation arises.

Admission for PhD in the Electronics Engineering under the Visvesvaraya Ph.D. Scheme is now open. Please click here for information

Please click here for applying under the Visvesvaraya Ph.D. Scheme.

Visvesvaraya Ph.D. Scheme for Electronics & IT- Phase II   (Department of Electronics Engineering) - Click Here

How to apply Visvesvaraya Ph.D. Scheme for Electronics & IT- Phase II   (Department of Electronics Engineering) - Click Here

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It is an affiliating and teaching University which aims at facilitating and promoting studies, research and extension work in emerging areas of higher education with focus on professional education, for example engineering, technology, management studies, medicine, pharmacy, nursing, law, etc., and also to achieve excellence in these and connected fields and other matters connected therewith or incidental thereto.

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COMMENTS

  1. How to Apply For a PhD: Step-By-Step

    Step 1: choose your research area. The first, and most obvious, step to applying for a PhD is to decide what research area you want to work in. Whether you're looking for an Arts and Humanities PhD or a STEM one, each individual subject is made up of a vast array of research topics. Most PhD courses will expect students to have a degree in a ...

  2. How Grad Schools Evaluate Your Application

    Most graduate programs look for a minimum 3.0 GPA. A Graduate Record Examination (GRE) score of at least 318 is considered strong and can help your application. A professional resume with work experience related to your program is often helpful or required. Programs typically ask for letters of recommendation and a graduate school admissions ...

  3. PhD Application and Admission Requirements

    First generation U.S. citizen or first generation in family to graduate from a four-year college. 4. GRE scores. A GRE score is not required for applicants who apply for Fall 2024 PhD. 5. Three letters of recommendation. If you apply online, we encourage you to submit your letters electronically.

  4. How to Apply

    Select One Program. Out of the graduate degree programs listed on the Explore Graduate Programs page, you may apply to only one program per academic year. The only exception is within the Biosciences PhD programs, where you may apply for two programs within a single application.

  5. Apply

    The degree program application becomes available in September. You should review Completing Your Application before starting your application. All components of the application to a degree program are due by 5:00 p.m., Eastern Time, on the deadline date. Applications for the Visiting Students Program are accepted twice a year.

  6. Applying for a PhD: Step-by-Step Guide

    Here is a checklist of what you need to consider when applying for a PhD: Choose your subject area. Choose your type of PhD. Check application deadline. Draft a research proposal. Contact potential PhD supervisors. Check PhD entry requirements. Check PhD fees and funding. Make your PhD application.

  7. Guide to Applying for Graduate School

    Guide to Applying for Graduate School. Guide to Applying for Graduate School. The process of preparing for and applying to a PhD program can be overwhelming. The University of Pennsylvania has created this webpage to help prospective PhD students think through the process so you can put together a strong application. Why Get a PhD?

  8. Applying for a PhD in the USA

    To apply for a PhD at an American university, you'll need to submit a list of documents which include: academic transcripts; personal statement; letters of recommendation; CV; research statements - A research statement is different from a research proposal (required if you're applying for a PhD in most other countries).

  9. Application Requirements for All Doctoral Programs (PhD)

    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 ...

  10. How to Apply for a PhD

    Before you formally apply to funded PhD projects, most PhD supervisors will prefer you to apply informally by sending them an email with your CV. This is so they can better understand your motives for applying and where your academic strengths lie before you start the formal application process. 3. Online Application Form.

  11. How to apply for a PhD : PhD : Study with us : University of Sussex

    Apply to Sussex. You apply directly to Sussex using our postgraduate application system. You can apply for up to three postgraduate courses. If you are applying for more than one degree, you must submit a research proposal/statement specific to each area of study you apply for. degree certificates and transcripts.

  12. How to Apply for a PhD: Unlocking Your Path to Success

    Each PhD programme will have a different procedure and requirements, so pay attention to detail, especially if you're applying to multiple programmes. Double-check all of your documents. Edit, proofread, and make sure that your work reads well and is free of mistakes. Try to submit well ahead of the deadline.

  13. PhD Admission 2024: Important Dates, Eligibility Criteria, Entrance

    PhD Admission 2024: Application Deadline for Top Colleges. The table below includes the top PhD colleges and their application dates for PhD admission 2024: College. ... GAT-B Application Form Correction 2024 starts on March 12: Important instructions; Trending Now. Top Colleges Accepting KEAM Scores- Check List, Admission Process ...

  14. How to Apply

    A bachelor's degree in physics is not required to apply; however, applicants are expected to have a strong background in physics. Applications for the Ph.D. program open each year in early September, and the deadline is December 15. The Sc.M. program has rolling admissions, with an application deadline of April 1. Apply Online.

  15. Admissions

    Admissions | Admissions. University Admissions Portal. Instructions pertaining to Reservation of Seats, Fees, general eligibility criteria and Exam pattern for PhD Entrance Test - 2023. Submission of application for PhD Programme will be online only. The candidate can only apply for one Programme as the Entrance Test shall be conducted for ...

  16. PhD Admission 2024: Important Dates, Selection Process, Last Date to

    PhD Admission 2024 is done based on an entrance exam for several top colleges. IITs, IIMs, DU, JNU, etc are some of the top colleges offering PhD Admission 2024. UGC NET is a national entrance exam conducted by NTA to offer PhD Admission in central universities.

  17. Doctoral applications

    If you are applying for a PhD or named doctorate, here's our step-by-step guide for doctoral applications, admission and enrolment. Step 1. View the doctoral entry requirements. To view the academic eligibility requirements for entry into a PhD or named doctorate programme, see Doctoral entry requirements. Step 2.

  18. Amity University

    Ph.D. Online Application Form : Instructions for Submission of Online Application Form : At the start of form filling choose your PhD program and campus of study carefully. Fill in the Application Form only if you are satisfied about your eligibility for admission to the program and will be able to submit all the required documents in time.

  19. PhD Admission 2024: Eligibility, Entrance Exam & Fees

    PhD admission 2024 will be based on an entrance exam at this University. Those students who qualify for UGC-NET, UGC-CSIR-NET, SLET, and GATE are eligible for this PhD entrance exam 2024. Students can register themselves at www.phd.uoc.ac.in, and the application form fee is Rs 850.

  20. Applying for Graduate Research Study at UCL

    Submitting your application Applications should be submitted online. Before you submit your application, please carefully check the information you have provided or uploaded. Once you have submitted your application, you can only update your name, contact details, referees' details (if applicable) and passport details (if you require a visa).

  21. PDF Howard University Graduate School

    Course Title. Grade. Term Completed. Cr. Hrs. Holder of Bachelor's AND Master's Degree. D. List courses accepted from master's degree program to satisfy Ph.D. degree requirements. NOTE: A maximum of 24 credit hours (with a grade of "B" or better) may be recommended from the master's degree. SUBJ Code & Course No.

  22. Savitribai Phule Pune University : Registration for Ph. D. Entrance

    Online Ph. D. Registration System. Savitribai Phule Pune University (formerly University of Pune) offers research programmes in different subjects listed in Statute No. 160 and in inter-disciplinary areas leading to the Degree of Doctor of Philosophy. An applicant shall ordinarily work in a recognized place of research including the University ...

  23. Indian Institute of Technology Kharagpur

    Commencement of Online application form submission: February 13, 2024: Website closure for submission of online application form: March 25, 2024 March 15, 2024: Last date for receipt of hard copy of completed application (for Ph.D through Project category only) at the Academic Section: March 29, 2024 March 22, 2024

  24. Programmes at IGNOU

    Last date extended of form submission till 31st March 2024 for the IGNOU SCDS Recruitment 2024 22 March, 2024. Interview schedule of PhD for July 2023 PhD admission 13 March, 2024. Scheme of fee support to IGNOU students belonging to SC/ST categories for the January 2024 13 March, 2024.

  25. Admission To Doctoral Programmes

    Ph.D. Admission under Visvesvaraya Scheme 2023-24 (in ECE and CSE Departments) List of selected candidates. Information Brochure. Apply Online.

  26. IIM Kashipur : Doctoral Programme Admission

    1) Click on link below "Login/Register" to apply for the PhD 2024 programme. 2) Before applying and paying for application fees check the eligibility criteria for PhD 2024 programme at the admission page of IIM Kashipur. 3) If eligible, then click on New User Sign-Up Here to register yourself and enter the details. 4) Check for the activation email on your registered email for the activation.

  27. Phd Admission

    June 06-10,2024. Physical Admission (in Campus) & joining of admitted students. July 15,2024. ## Any of the dates may be changed due to unforeseen circumstances. *Appropriate academic criteria/methodology will be adopted by the respective departments for shortlisting of applications received against the Ph.D. admission call.

  28. Guru Gobind Singh Indraprastha University

    NEWS & EVENTS. Important Notice regarding closing of filling up of Online Application Forms for CET based programmes and MBA ( Admissions through CAT), LLB ( Admissions through CLAT-UG) & LLM (Admissions through CLAT-PG) based programmes vis-a-vis advisory to admission seekers for Academic Session 2024-2025 dated 08.04.2024