phd entry requirements usa

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Ph.d. requirements.

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• Programs & Requirements

Brown University awards more than 200 doctor of philosophy degrees annually.

The Brown Ph.D. is primarily a research degree. Teaching is an important part of many doctoral programs, and many departments require candidates for the Ph.D. to have teaching experience.

Brown University offers substantial financial support to doctoral students. All incoming doctoral students are guaranteed five years of support, which includes a stipend, full tuition remission, health-services fee, and a health-insurance subsidy. Doctoral students in the Humanities and Social Sciences are guaranteed six years of support. All promises of student support are subject to students making satisfactory academic progress, as determined by their programs of study. Please see related links for additional details regarding the University's commitment to doctoral education.

Ph.D. Funding

Funding guarantee, four general requirements for the doctor of philosophy.

The candidate must be formally admitted to his or her degree program.

The normal residency requirement is the equivalent of three Academic Years of full-time study beyond the bachelor's degree. Students who enter a PhD program at Brown already holding a master’s degree in a related field have a residency requirement equivalent to two Academic Years of full-time study upon entering the PhD program at Brown. Use of a previously earned master’s degree to reduce PhD residency requirements is contingent upon approval of the program Director of Graduate Study. Graduate work done at other institutions and not used in fulfillment of the requirements for any doctoral degree elsewhere may, on the approval of the program Director of Graduate Study, be counted in fulfillment of up to, but not exceeding, one year of the residency requirement. A student who desires credit for work done elsewhere should file a timely application with the program Director of Graduate Study; transfer credit forms are available through the  Office of the Registrar .

A student is advanced to candidacy for the Ph.D. when he or she has completed satisfactorily all the requirements, departmental and general, requisite to beginning work on the dissertation. Candidacy is determined by the department or program of study and certified by the Registrar. Most departments require a preliminary examination before advancing any student to candidacy. Most departments also require a final examination or defense. The examination is conducted by professors in the department and by such other members of the faculty as may be appointed.

The candidate must present a dissertation on a topic related to his or her area of specialization that presents the results of original research and gives evidence of excellent scholarship. The dissertation must be approved by the professor or committee under whose direction it is written and by the Graduate Council. All requirements for the Ph.D. must be completed within five years after advancement to candidacy.

Faculty Member Leaves Brown

If a faculty member working with a doctoral student leaves Brown for any reason before that student has completed his or her degree requirements, it may not always be possible for that faculty member to continue working with the student as an advisor. In such cases, departments will work with students to help them locate a new advisor.

Additional Requirements

Individual departments and programs may have additional requirements regarding the number of courses to be taken, proficiency in foreign languages, special examinations, and theses. The department should be consulted for specific information.

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How to Apply for a PhD in the US

Last Updated: January 18, 2024 Approved

This article was co-authored by Carrie Adkins, PhD . Carrie Adkins is the cofounder of NursingClio, an open access, peer-reviewed, collaborative blog that connects historical scholarship to current issues in gender and medicine. She completed her PhD in American History at the University of Oregon in 2013. While completing her PhD, she earned numerous competitive research grants, teaching fellowships, and writing awards. wikiHow marks an article as reader-approved once it receives enough positive feedback. This article received 20 testimonials and 96% of readers who voted found it helpful, earning it our reader-approved status. This article has been viewed 629,106 times.

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

Ask the wikiHow College Coach

Researching Schools and Programs

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

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

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

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

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

Carrie Adkins, PhD

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

Meeting the Basic Requirements

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Writing Your Statement of Purpose

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

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

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

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

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

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

Submitting Your Application Packets

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

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

What Are The Main Reasons People Go To Graduate School?

Expert Q&A

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

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

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

About This Article

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

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

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

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

Table of Contents

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

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

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

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

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

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

Also read: Ultimate guide PhD in the UK

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

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

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

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

Also read: PhD Scholarship for Pakistani Students

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Also read: PhD in USA without GRE

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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Admissions & Financial Support

Interested in applying to one of our fully funded PhD Programs? Before you begin, learn more about our application requirements. Please note that applicants are only required to possess a bachelors degree. Undergraduate applicants in their senior year are welcome to apply

We realize that the Coronavirus Disease (COVID-19) pandemic, recent natural disasters, and other extenuating circumstances may have significant impacts on applicants’ academic and personal lives, including the ability to provide all required application materials prior to our stated deadlines. If this pertains to your circumstances, please review the information below for next steps.

Required Application Materials

• Completed online application form
• Statement of Purpose
• Personal Statement
• Transcripts for all college/university degrees and courses Self-reported transcripts are accepted for both all programs at the application stage. Applicants must upload copies of his/her transcripts to the online application system. Hard copy transcripts will only be required if admitted to a program, prior to enrollment.
• Current GMAT or GRE scores (see details below)
• TOEFL or IELTS scores (non-native English speakers see details below)
• Three letters of recommendation (at least one from an academic source). Recommendation letters must be submitted online through the online application system. Hard copy recommendation letters will not be accepted.
• $105 application fee via credit card
• Optional writing sample (no more than 10 pages)

GMAT & GRE

All applicants are required to take either the Graduate Management Admissions Test (GMAT) or the General Test of the Graduate Record Examination (GRE). Submitted test scores are valid for no longer than five years. If you are applying for admission for fall 2024, you may submit scores from tests taken no earlier than January 5, 2019. There is no minimum test score requirement, and admissions committee does not have a preference in tests.

• Institution Codes for PhD Programs
• GMAT: HRL-X8-30

A department code is not required for score submission.

We realize that the Coronavirus Disease (COVID-19) pandemic, recent natural disasters, and other extenuating circumstances may have significant impacts on applicants’ academic and personal lives, including the ability to provide all required application materials prior to our stated deadlines. If you are unable to take the GRE or GMAT before the deadline, we still encourage you to apply, even if your scores are missing. Our application form includes a section for you to let us know about any of your materials that may be unavailable or delayed.

International Applications

Adequate command of spoken and written English is required for admission. Applicants whose native language is other than English and who do not hold a Bachelor degree or its equivalent from an institution at which English is the language of instruction must submit TOEFL or IELTS scores.

Submitted scores are valid for no longer than two years. If you are applying for admission for fall 2024, you may submit scores from tests taken no earlier than January 5, 2022. The committee prefers scores of at least 100 on the the TOEFL internet-based test and at least 7.5 on the IELTS test. Applicants are strongly encouraged to choose the TOEFL internet-based test when possible.

Institution Codes for Toefl score reports PhD programs: 3451

Instructions for submitting IELTS score reports Designate Harvard University, Graduate School of Arts and Sciences as a recipient of your test results. Our address, for the record only, to identify us in the IELTS system, is 1350 Massachusetts Ave. Smith Campus Center 350, Cambridge, MA 02138. Paper test report forms will not be accepted at this address.

Accomodations for COVID-19 pandemic, natural disasters, or other extenuating circumstances

Reapplicants.

Applicants who applied last year are considered reapplicants. Those reapplying must submit a completely new application. The new application must include all required documents to be provided by the applicant - we will not re-use material previously submitted. These materials include an updated statement of purpose, transcripts, test score reports, updated letters of recommendation, the application fee, and any other supporting materials

Please note, Harvard University will accept no more than three applications from any one individual over the course of their lifetime. If your 2023 application is incomplete and you are denied admission, GSAS will not count it toward our lifetime limit of three total applications that an individual may submit due to the global pandemic.

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PhD Program Requirements

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Harvard Griffin GSAS strives to provide students with timely, accurate, and clear information. If you need help understanding a specific policy, please contact the office that administers that policy.

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In addition to the common degree requirements expected of Harvard Griffin GSAS students, students must meet additional requirements specified by their department or program. This section provides additional degree requirements by academic program.

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Studying a PhD in The USA - The Complete Guide

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

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

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

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

1. PhD course length

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

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

2. World-class universities

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

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

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

3. International community

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

4. Affordable tuition fees 

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

5. Student experience

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

6. Student Support

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

7. Land of opportunity

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

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

Studying a PhD in the USA: top tips

Who is eligible for a phd in the usa.

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

Can I get a PhD without a masters degree?

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

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

How to apply for a PhD in the USA

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

Completed application form – provided by your preferred university.

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

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

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

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

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

The application fee. 

Method of study

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

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

Application for PhD In USA

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Funding your PhD in USA

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

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

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

Can a PhD be fully funded?

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

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

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

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

Top 10 ranked American universities

Based on 2023 worldwide rankings, the following table shows which US universities rank the highest.

Our PhD bursary winner & funding opportunity

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PhD Minimum Admission Requirements

Minimum requirements for admission to doctoral study at uf.

A.         A Graduate Record Exam (GRE) score: While preference will be given to students with scores above the 50th percentile, scores from the GRE will be used in the context of a holistic credential review process

B.         A satisfactory previous academic record: an upper division undergraduate GPA of not less than 3.4 and/or a graduate GPA of not less than 3.5

C.        At least three letters of recommendation indicating strong potential for success in the doctoral program from individuals qualified to assess such abilities (Follow-up calls to these individuals may be made by the Graduate Committee or concerned faculty).

D.        An application portfolio prepared by the applicant to indicate potential success in research, writing, teaching, etc. The packet should include as many as possible of the following:

• A well-written essay on career goals and objectives (required of all applicants),
• Reports of research projects in which applicant has participated,
• Copy of master’s thesis or project if completed,
• Copies of reprints, convention papers, etc. if any have been completed, and,
• Other supporting material that the applicant wishes to submit for consideration.

E.         An interview with the applicant if deemed necessary by the Graduate Committee and other relevant faculty. This can be done on campus or via Skype.

F.         International students must submit a satisfactory score on the TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language), IELTS (International English Language Testing System), MELAB (Michigan English Language Assessment Battery) or successful completion of the University of Florida English Language Institute program.  Please see below and the graduate catalog for exemptions to this requirement.

G.        For fall admission, priority will be given to applications completed by  December 1 st  However, applications received after December 1 st  will still be considered for admission pending, available space and funding.

H.       Information for international applicants to our program should carefully read

I.        General information about the Ph.D. in Rehabilitation Sciences

J.       General information on graduate admissions can be found on the  UF’s Graduate School admissions page .

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

Accessibility

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

World-leading universities and research

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

International community

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

Innovation :

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

Breadth of opportunity :

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

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

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

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

PHD is free/Cheap:

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

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

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

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

PHD saves us from the worst possible outcome:

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

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

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

Networking:

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

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

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

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

Friendships with Mentors:

“ PHD students are like 10 year projects”

• University Mentors

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

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

Come out of it matured and better:

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

Pros and Cons of Studying in USA

Pros of studying in the usa .

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

Cons of studying in the USA

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

1.3) Is PHD the right choice for you?

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Ph.D. in psychology

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

Stanford University

Yale university, university of california.

• University of Arizona

Ph.D. in Computer science

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

Harvard University

• Massachusetts University of Technology
• Carnegie Mellon University 

Ph.D. in Marketing

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

• University of Pennsylvania
• University of Michigan 

Ph.D. in Biotechnology

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

Maschasuettes institute of technology

John hopkins university, ph.d. in microbiology.

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

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

Ph.D. in Physics

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

Princeton University

• University of Chicago

Ph.D. in Public Health

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

• Ohio State University

Ph.D. in Pharmacology

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

• University of Washington

Ph.D. in Design

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

• University of Buffalo
• Cornell University
• Kansas State University

PHD FAQ’s: Eligibility and More

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

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

• August-December 
•  January-May.  

These will be when your classes and assessments take place. 

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

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

2.2) Duration of the PHD Program

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

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

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

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

Coursework : 

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

Dissertation : 

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

2.3) AGE A FACTOR FOR PHD?

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

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

2.4) PHD AFTER BTECH?

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

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

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

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

2.5) INTERNSHIPS DURING PHD:

Internships during PHD, Recommended or not?

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

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

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

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

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

3.1) phd in usa - requirements:.

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

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

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

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

LSAT – for JD programmes

MCAT – for MD programmes

DAT – for dental programmes

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

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

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

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

Application Process :

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

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

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

Step 3 : Begin your application online

Step 4 : Schedule a visa interview 

Step 5 : Receive your visa 

Application and Visa Fee details :

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Additional Information

Phd types :.

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

Fees and funding :

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

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

Common types of assistantship include :

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

Top Universities for pursuing PHD in USA

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

Acceptance rate: 5%

Average fee: $75,000

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Acceptance rate: 7%

Average fee: $75,462

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

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

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

• Is GRE required for Ph.D. in MIT?

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

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

Average fee: $78,218

List of the Ph.D. courses

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

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

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

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

California Institute of Technology

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

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

• How hard is it to get a Ph.D. here?

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

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

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

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

Acceptance rate: 11%

Average fee: $67,667

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

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

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

• Does John Hopkins offer Ph.D. programs?

Yes, they offer Ph.D. programs.

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

Acceptance rate: 14%

Average fee: $52,000

https://graduate.universityofcalifornia.edu/admissions/

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

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

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

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

Acceptance rate: 6%

Average fee: $68,044

List of the Ph.D. courses: 

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

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

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

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

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

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

Average fee: $45,700

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

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

• Can you get a Ph.D. at Yale?

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

Columbia University

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

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

• How hard is it to study here?

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

Duke University

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

Acceptance rate: 8%

Average fee: $40,000

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

• Is Duke a top university?

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

• How hard is it to get into Duke?

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

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

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

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

Selecting Dissertation Advisors:

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

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

Comprehensive/Qualifier Exam:

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

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

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

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

Committee of professors and Proposal Defense:

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

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

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

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

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

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

PHD Experience FAQs

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

LIFE AFTER PHD:

Employment opportunities after phd in usa.

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

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

POST DOC POSITION :

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

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

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

• Professors 
• PHD students

RESEARCH ORIENTED WORK IN THE INDUSTRY IN THE SAME AREA:

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

JOB IN A ACADEMIC RESEARCH SETTING IN THE SAME FIELD:

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

PROFESSOR JOB IN A TEACHING FOCUSED UNIVERSITY:

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

PROFESSOR JOB IN A RESEARCH UNIVERSITY:

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

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

CONTRACT BASED TEACHING POSITIONS IN UNIVERSITIES:

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

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

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

OPPORTUNITY IN AN UNRELATED FIELD:

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

UNEMPLOYED:

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

ENTREPRENEUR:

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

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

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

OTHER FAQs ON LIFE AFTER PHD IN USA

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Written by Sai Subramaniam

Guided by Pavitra Srinivasan and the Galvanize In-house Experts

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

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Doctorate (Ph.D.) Admission Requirements

Here you will find 18 admission requirements that apply to prospective International students interested in studying for a doctorate (PhD) degree in the USA. If you want to study for a PhD degree in the USA, continue reading to find out which areas of your application that admission officers place more emphasis on.

The largest difference in terms of the application is the heavy focus on research, which will be particular important in your statement of purpose and from your letters of recommendations. At this level, institutions are not placing too much weight on your extracurricular activities (unless directly related to your research) or your childhood, but interest and emphasis are on your proposed area of research, what you have previously contributed to the field, or any other research field, and what you will contribute in the future.

Although all requirements applicable to Master’s admission also tend to apply to doctoral admissions, there are some subtle differences. For instance, many universities/colleges do not require:

• A Master’s degree
• A minimum level of work experience
• A minimum GRE or GMAT score
• A minimum GPA
• Related field of undergraduate/graduate study

As you will notice, we have listed more requirements than are typically listed by other sites or even by the universities/colleges themselves. Based on our experience as former admission officers and international recruiters, we know you are likely to encounter the majority of these requirements, regardless if the university/college is listing them initially on their website or not. Many of them you will not be aware of until you start filling in the actual application form.

See below for a comprehensive list of admission requirements for US PhD programs.

It will take time to fill in the application form, much due to the time spent on collecting information before being able to start completing the actual form. Typically, time consuming areas of the application form involve gathering information pertaining to family members, writing the short essay, confirm academic references, and complete the English and admission entrance tests. Below are examples of information you can expect to complete on an application form:

• Basic information (Full name, Home address, Date of Birth etc.)
• College, department, and area of research
• Explain your proposed program of study
• Expected start date
• Bibliography & citations
• Do you intend to apply for fellowship and/or assistantship?
• Do you intend to live in dormitory (on campus housing)?
• Demographic questions (citizenship, birthplace, first language etc.)
• Family information (mother, father, siblings, legal guardian details)
• Your education history (academic history)
• Credentials (scholarships, fellowships etc. you have been awarded)
• Academics (class rank, TOEFL, current classes)
• Standardized Test (GRE, GMAT, LSAT, MCAT)
• Personal Statement/Essay (2-5 pages)
• Extracurricular activities and work experience

Today most applications are submitted online via the university’s/college’s website. Generally a prospective student creates a user account and completes the application, submit supportive documents, and pay the application fee online.

Prospective international students will generally pay a non-refundable application fee when submitting the application. It is very common to both apply and pay the application fee online via the institution’s website. Although, there is no set amount and each US university/college has its own application fee, the fee generally ranges from $75 to $125. The exact application fee is prominently displayed in the same area where you find the other admission requirements.

Typical ways of paying the application fee:

• Directly on the institution's website with a debit or credit card
• Sending a check with your application
• Sending an international money order with your application
• Pay by phone

However, it is increasingly common for the application fee to be paid by credit card at the time of submitting the application online.

To be considered for doctoral study in the USA, international students should hold a degree equivalent to a US Bachelor’s degree from a recognized academic higher education institution. This means an international student is expected to hold a degree equivalent to four-years of full time study at university level. Bear in mind that Bachelor’s degrees awarded by non-US universities/colleges may or may not be considered equivalent to a US Bachelor’s degree. For instance, some three-year Bachelor’s degree commonly found in many countries around the world are not considered equivalent. It is for this reason that you have to not only translate your transcripts but also have your degree evaluated and translated.

Students not holding a US equivalent Bachelor’s degree will not be eligible for doctoral admission. This include individuals holding professional degrees or diplomas, such as accounting, health education, librarianship, or a four-year degree/certificate/diploma from a technical or vocational specialist school.

Normally students do not need to have a Bachelor’s degree in the same field as the potential doctoral program. Always review the individual program’s admission page for the most updated and relevant information.

Many universities/colleges accept translated unofficial, scanned or faxed transcripts during the initial applications period, but some do not. Since having your academic documents translated and certified could take weeks or even months, it is strongly recommended that you give yourself ample time to ensure that the documents reach the university ahead of any potential deadline.

Ask the university/college if it requires the translated and certified documents to be sent directly to them from the translation provider (e.g. your previous education institution(s) or professional translation service provider), or if you can send them personally. Failure to comply with university/college guidelines could delay your application or, even worse, have your application denied.

Be aware that some institutions require students to upload certified translated transcripts at the time of submitting the online application. This means you need to organize to have the transcripts translated before you can complete the online application.

Most US universities/colleges accept and recognize the following translation agencies and organizations:

• Your former academic institution
• Academic Credentials Evaluation Institute
• American Education Research Corporation
• Members of the American Translators Association
• Global Services Associates
• International Educational Research Foundation
• World Education Services

Ask if the US university/college you are interested in has a preferred translation service provider. If they do, then use that translation provider.

If you have earned a Bachelor’s degree in the USA, all you have to do is to submit an official transcript from each post-secondary institution attended. Official transcripts must oftentimes be sent directly from your former university/college to your new institution, either electronically or by mail. Usually you have to complete a transcript request form and pay a fee.

International applicants must generally also submit official evaluation of all post-secondary degrees earned from outside the United States, in addition to official transcripts and the English translation. This is an evaluation of the courses making up the degree and not just a translation of the transcript (grades, course names etc.). Most universities/colleges recognize the following organizations:

• World Educational Services (WES) www.wes.org
• Educational Credential Evaluators (ECE) www.ece.org

Many US universities/colleges require prospective international students to take a standardized entrance test for doctoral admission. Review the admission page for each individual program for updated information of which test the program require for admission. Typically, standardized tests cannot be waived and scores must not be older than five years.

The most common standardized tests for doctoral admission are:

GRE (Business School test) – stands for Graduate Record Examination and is a standardized external graduate entrance examination administered by the Educational Testing Service (ETS – official website: www.ets.org ). GRE is often an alternative exam to the GMAT and is designed to measure verbal reasoning, quantitative reasoning, and analytical writing. Make sure you obtain the ETS code for each university/college that you are interesting in applying for admission. The institution code is program specific and can be obtain by contacting each individual program (e.g. College of Business).

GMAT (Business School test) – stands for Graduate Management Admission Test and is a 3.5 hours standardized external examination consisting of four sections; analytical writing (30 minutes), integrated reasoning (30 minutes), quantitative (75 minutes), and verbal (75 minutes). The exam is required as part of the application process to many doctoral programs and is often an alternative to the GRE exam. Make sure you obtain the education code for each university/college that you are interesting in applying for admission. The institution code is program specific and can be obtain by contacting each individual program (e.g. College of Business). The test is administered by the Graduate Management Admission Council (official website: www.mba.com ).

LSAT (Law School test) – stands for Law School Admission Test and is a standardized external entrance examination used by law schools to assess students reading comprehension, logical, and verbal reasoning proficiencies. The exam takes half a day and is administered four times per year by the Law School Admission Council (LSAC) at test centers around the world. The exam consists of five (35-minutes each) sections of multiple-choice questions, followed by a 35-minute writing sample that is not scored. Although the writing sample is not scored it will be submitted to each law school you have applied for admission. (Official website: www.lsac.org ).

MCAT (Medical School test) – stands for Medical College Admission Test and is a computer-based standardized external entrance exam used by US medical schools as part of the admissions process. The multiple-choice exam is designed to test applicants in the areas of physical sciences, verbal reasoning, and biological sciences, and is given in 17 countries around the world. The approximately 5 hours test is generally taken by undergraduate students in their junior or senior year (third or fourth year). The exam is changing in 2015, please visit the official website ( www.aamc.org ) for more information.

It is common for doctoral programs to demand a higher scholastic average (GPA) than what is required for both undergraduate and Master’s admission. Although it varies, typically doctoral programs require applicants holding a Bachelor’s degree to have a minimum GPA of 3.0 and for applicants holding a Master’s degree a minimum GPA of 3.5. The required scholastic average, if any, is always clearly stated under the list of admission requirements for each program.

By far the two most common and accepted English tests are TOEFL and IELTS. Each university/college will have its own minimum acceptable scores, which you will find on their respective websites typically under a menu labelled “Admission,” “Applying for Admission”, or something to that effect.

For more information about TOEFL and IELTS in your country, go to:

• TOEFL: www.ets.org
• IELTS: www.ielts.org

The proof of English proficiency requirement can potentially be waived if you have earned a bachelor’s degree in the US or any other English speaking country. It is strongly recommended that you ask your university/college of interest if the English proficiency requirement can be waived and under what conditions.

US Ph.D. programs generally provide financial aid to admitted doctoral students in addition to support for living expenses covering the duration of the study period. Based on satisfactory academic performance, doctoral students typically receive financial aid covering full tuition, health insurance coverage, and a fellowship or assistantship stipend to cover year-round living expenses.

The amount and scope of the financial aid vary by institution.

The statement of purpose, also known as Essay or Personal Statement, is a 2-5 page statement where students outline the proposed area of research and the reasons for pursuing the doctoral degree.

The personal statement is an influential component of the admission process and admission officers consider written communication skills, clarity, and structure, in addition to the actual content.

Make sure you follow the outlined instructions carefully. Generally, a statement of purpose for doctoral study should focus heavily on previous relevant research conducted, your interest in the chosen field, and possible areas of research you are interested in pursuing. You should highlight if you have pursued a research project with a faculty member, especially if the faculty member is also your recommender.

As doctoral programs aim for diversity in each class, you could highlight life and work experiences, background, ethnicity, race, extracurricular activities, socioeconomic status, advanced studies etc. in your statement of purpose in an attempt to differentiate yourself from other applicants.

Writing a statement of purpose can be time consuming but there are many online sources giving helpful advice to help you get started.

Recommendations at doctoral level are primarily used to evaluate a student’s potential and ability to pursue independent graduate work. The recommendation should provide an overall evaluation of the student’s readiness and potential to successfully undertake doctoral studies and succeed as a researcher and professor.

Depending on doctoral program, students are generally asked to submit at least three recommendation letters, preferably all from academics such as former professors, instructors, advisors etc. Nonacademic recommenders may be accepted as long as they can testify to your academic abilities.

Most universities/colleges will only ask you to provide the name and email address of your recommenders on your online application. The university/college will then contact your recommender by email asking the person to return the recommendation within a short period of time – sometimes within 24 hours. You are wise in informing your recommenders in advance that they can expect an email from a certain university/college.

Regardless if the recommender is an academic (former professor or lecturer) or a professional (former manager or supervisor), the recommendation letters are a crucial part of the admission process and will be given great attention by admission officers. Speak with the persons that will serve as your recommenders and make sure that they know you well enough to testify to your academic abilities.

Depending on university/college, students may be required to have taken undergraduate classes related to the program they are applying for admission. Other institutions may require that prospective international students submit a portfolio, writing samples, or other supplemental items. Writing sample is a common requirement and is covered below as a separate requirement.

Individual doctoral programs may also have program specific prerequisites, such as students must have studied a certain level of math (e.g. calculus, probability, real variable etc.) or taken advanced classes related to the proposed area of study.

Always check with the individual program office for any specific program requirements.

Some US universities/colleges require that students submit one or two writing samples as part of the application process. These can be academic papers from different disciplines, but ideally the subject should be related to the proposed research project. Often the writing samples have a page range limit, such as 20-25 pages, and can be an excerpt from a longer work.

When you decide to pursue a doctoral degree, you are dedicating yourself to the field of research and possibly teaching. Naturally, Ph.D. programs want to be assured that you have the ability to conduct research and have an analytical mind. This is partially accomplished by reviewing students’ previous work.

Overall, you should submit your best work that demonstrate your ability to conduct both primary and secondary research using multiple sources, draw fact-based and analytical conclusions, write analytically, and develop logical context and arguments.

As neither the US federal government nor state governments bear the cost of health care for its residents, any person in the USA must cover their own health expenses. As such, international students are required to maintain adequate health insurance while attending a US university/college. Generally, this means that F-1 and J-1 students are required to have medical health insurance in addition to both evacuation and repatriation coverage. It is common for US higher education institutions to require international students to purchase health insurance from a partnering insurer. However, sometimes this requirement can be waived if the student has a comparable insurance, either from its native country or from the US.

For doctoral students, health insurance is typically fully or partially covered by the university as part of the financial aid package.

In addition, some universities/colleges, such as in the State of New York, require students to be immunized against measles, mumps, and rubella. Generally this can be done once you have arrived on campus, but always double check with the institution and make sure to follow the directions given. You will not be able to register for classes before you have complied with this requirement. Not all universities/colleges have immunization as a requirement.

Interviews are less frequently used as part of the graduate admission process. Interviews are dependent on the academic program and are very often optional. The most likely programs to have an interview are medical schools and some business schools. The admission page for each individual program will clearly list interview as a requirement if it is part of the process. If it is not listed, you can be relatively sure that you will not be required to attend an interview. Always call or email the program’s admission office if in doubt.

If an interview becomes relevant, it is mostly held via phone or Skype, and only in rare cases will a student be required to physically visit the university/college to attend an interview. The student is generally responsible to pay for the travel expenses.

You should be proud to be invited to an interview since it means that you are on the shortlist of applicants that the university/college are seriously considering for admission. Common questions include:

• Why did you choose to apply to our program?
• What do you know about our program?
• How will you be able to make a contribution to this field?
• Tell us about your experience in this field? Challenges? Contributions?
• Describe any research project you have been involved in?
• How will this program help achieve our career goals?
• What skills do you bring to the program?
• Why should we accept you and not someone else?
• General questions about your strength/weaknesses, interests, what motivates you etc.?

Although work experience may not be a requirement, it is common practice for universities/colleges to require students to submit a résumé (CV) as part of the graduate admission process.

The résumé/CV should provide information about work and volunteer experiences, research, awards, recognitions, and activities pertinent to the program you are applying for admission.

Make sure you tailor your résumé to the program you are applying to and highlight any relevant skills, experiences, qualifications, awards, interests etc.

A common US résumé format is a so called “chronological résumé” where employment and education history is listed by most recent first (on top). A US résumé should not be longer than 2 pages unless you have extensive employment and education experience. Typically, a résumé would include the following sections:

• Basic Information – Name, street address, phone #, and email. No need to write date of birth or marital status.
• Objective – This is optional. It should answer the question, “What do I want to do?”
• Institution name
• City and Country
• Dates attended
• Degree & Major
• Relevant courses taken
• Company/organization name
• Key responsibilities
• Recognitions/Awards – list any awards, honors, or other recognitions here
• Interests – list interests and hobbies. Universities/colleges want to see that you are well-rounded and have interests outside of academia.

There are many online sources that offer helpful information on how to write and structure a US résumé. However, most résumés are filled in online as part of the online application form, so it is simply a matter of completing the requested fields and not worrying about the structure.

Although prospective international students are required to submit a resume (CV), it is not common for doctoral programs to actually require previous work experience. Any professional experience, including internships, community service, volunteer work, and academic work is beneficial, but not typically a requirement for doctoral admission.

Always check with the individual program’s admission office for information related to work experience.

Some universities/colleges require you to submit a color copy of your passport during the initial application period. However, usually universities/colleges wait to request a copy until you have accepted their offer of admission and you have been granted a student visa. The university will clearly state on their website or application material when you are required to submit a photocopy of your passport and visa. Call or email the university/college if you are not sure.

Some universities/colleges might ask you to submit a photo of yourself with the application. There might be some predetermined photo specification that you have to follow, such as the photo must be in a US passport format, color photo only, or that you have to type and sign your name at the back of the photo. Always double check with the university/college if you have to submit a photo and if they have any particular photo requirements or specifications.

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• Between two to four AP subjects, plus the SAT or ACT (see specific requirements below) taken in the final three years of high school
• The successful completion of one year of study at a recognised US university, Community or Junior College, with an overall CGPA of 3.3/4.0 (equivalent to a 2.1) may also be considered.

For equivalencies, please see the table below. Many courses will require A-Level or AP exams in specific subjects. You can find the exact entry requirements for all our courses on our undergraduate prospectus . Click on the course(s) you’re interested in and find the US entry requirements under the ‘International applications’ tab.

General entry requirements

Advanced placement programme, baccalaureate.

Please note that each undergraduate course has its own entry requirements. These are usually UK A-Level scores between ABB and A*A*A, or their equivalent in AP exams.

For a list of distinctive subjects please review the list found in the 'Other subjects' menu.

Please remember to include your full academic history from secondary school onwards on your UCAS application, this includes listing all APs and SATs subjects you are yet to complete but will be completed by August of the cycle in which you apply. Your applications will be reviewed based on the education history you submit via UCAS, so it is vital that this is complete at the point you submit your application. UCL does not consider updated qualification information following the submission of your application so in order for us to know all the exams you have/are sitting and how you meet our entrance requirements, you must include this on your UCAS application.

• Calculus AB or BC will be accepted for all Faculty of Engineering programmes, with the exception of Computer Sciences.
• Calculus BC is required for Computer Sciences and all other programmes that require mathematics at A level.
• Where Mathematics is listed as a preferred subject, Calculus AB or BC can be accepted. Calculus AB and BC will not count as two separate AP's.

Any programme which requires Maths A Level as either A* or A would require either Calculus AB or Calculus BC at grade 5, depending on the programme you're applying to (find futher information above).

Where an applicant has taken both Calculus AB and BC then we do not consider them as two separate APs as AB is a subscore of BC. However if an applicant has just taken Calculus AB it is considered as one standalone AP.  

Where A level Physics is a required subject, students must have AP Physics.

• Faculty of Engineering will accept either Physics 2, Physics C: Electricity and Magnetism or Physics C: Mechanics for programmes where Physics is required or preferred, except for Medical Physics.
• Medical Physics will require both Physics C: Electricity and Magnetism and Physics C: Mechanics. This will count as two separate AP's.
• All programmes in the Department of Physics will require both Physics C: Electricity and Magnetism and Physics C: Mechanics. This will count as two separate AP's.
• All programmes in the Department of Mathematics will require both Physics C: Electricity and Magnetism and Physics C: Mechanics. This will count as two separate AP's.
• Where physics is listed as a preferred subject, all AP Physics qualifications will be accepted.

Distinctive subjects for US study

Please note: AP CAP'stone (AP Research and AP Seminar) is not accepted.

UCL considers all subjects to be distinctive; the exception is Calculus AB and BC which are not considered to be distinctive subjects. UCL will only consider two Physics papers taken in the last three years of US schooling as distinctive subjects.

Graduate Entry Requirements

Entry to Master’s programmes at UCL requires a strong undergraduate degree. Please note entry to some doctoral programmes (e.g. MPhil/PhD) will also require a Master's degree. The entry requirements for individual courses can be found on the  graduate prospectus . The equivalent qualifications from the US can be found below in the minimum entry requirements.

Minimum entry requirements

Uk upper second-class (2:1).

The award of any of the following from a recognised institution:

• Bachelor's degree with a final CGPA of 3.3/4.0

UK Lower second-class (2:2)

• Bachelor's degree with a final CGPA of 3.0/4.0

Tuition Fees

Tuition fees vary by programme and you can find the exact fee on the specific programme page on the prospectus for both  undergraduates  and  graduates . 

• Average undergraduate tuition fees vary between £26,200 ($33,254) - £35,000 ($44,431)  
• Average graduate tuition fees vary between £29,000 ($36,798) - £35,000 ($44,431)

You can find further information about our fees on our  Fees and Funding  pages.  For more information about US Student Financial Aid at UCL, please visit our Student Financial Aid page.

Exchange rate correct as of August 2023.

Undergraduate Preparatory Certificates

The Undergraduate Preparatory Certificates (UCL’s International Foundation Year) prepare international students for a UCL undergraduate degree who don’t have enough AP’s - or an alternative qualification - to enter directly.

• More info on the Undergraduate Preparatory Certificates page

Scholarships

US students are eligible to apply for scholarships at UCL. You can find all available scholarships on our  Scholarship Finder . 

We are partners in  Fulbright  and  Marshall  Scholarships and encourage interested applicants to discover more. Each year we have a number of Fulbright and Marshall scholars attend UCL and are proud to participate in these schemes. 

Living Costs

We know that you will want to carefully consider your finances when thinking of studying abroad, so we have created an overview of your potential living costs  which we hope will help you plan and draw up a realistic budget.

Many of our students work part-time, and our  Careers  service and  Student Union  can help you find work. If you do plan to work, please ensure you’re abiding by the  conditions of your visa .

US Student Financial Aid

UCL participates in the William D. Ford Federal Direct Loan Program (Direct Loans). This is the main US Federal funding available to US students in the UK. Further information and eligibility criteria is available on our Student Financial Aid page.

What students say

Get to know Cesar Cortorreal, current Fulbright-UCL Institute of Education Postgraduate Awardee. In this video, Cesar shares more about his research and how he's adjusted to life in the UK.

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"I was amazed by how unique the programme offerings were, and wanted to gain a more international perspective on multidisciplinary fields" Sarah Pitafi MA - Philosophy, Politics, Economics of Health - Carbondale, Illinois

• Read the full story of Sarah Pitafi

"I enjoy the topics of discussion in my courses. Centring social justice within education allows for an interdisciplinary, critical approach toward education to inform better education practice, thought, pedagogy, theory, and more" Cesar (CJ) Cortorreal - MA Social Justice and Education - Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

• Read the full story of Cesar (CJ) Cortorreal

Student Life

UCL is located in the heart of London , in the green and lively area of Bloomsbury. London, and everything it offers, surrounds us and we actively encourage our students to make the most of everything this incredible city has to offer.

We have an active  Student Union  which offers over 300 clubs and societies . Some we think you might be interested in:

• American Society
• American Football Club
• Baseball Club
• Basketball Club (Mens)
• Basketball Club (Womens)
• Cheerleading Club
• Climate Action Society
• Drama Society
• Jazz Society
• Lacrosse Club
• Snowsports Club

Lists of Visits 

Representatives from UCL visit the US throughout the year to meet prospective students. This includes fairs, visits to schools and universities and independent counselling sessions. They are an ideal opportunity to speak to us and learn more about UCL and our courses.

You can find a list of our upcoming visits and events on our UCL Visits Your Country  page. You can also reach out to us for an individual appointment. See contact details above.

Alumni and after UCL

It’s really important that you’re part of UCL’s community for life, and we have a really proactive Alumni network in the US who can support you once you graduate.

The UCL Friends and Alumni Association (FAA) is a US non-profit organization dedicated to raising awareness and support for research, education and innovation at University College London (UCL).

We also have alumni groups who play an important role in supporting UCL’s thriving community. We have US alumni groups based in:

• UCL New York Alumni Club
• UCL Boston Alumni
• UCL Washington DC Alumni
• UCL Los Angeles Alumni
• UCL San Francisco Bay Area Alumni
• UCL Chicago Alumni
• UCL Houston Alumni

New York Alumni Event

In November 2023, our UCL New York Alumni Group had a fantastic social event with great highlights.

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Check out our UCL Alumni website for the latest news, exciting events and opportunities to stay connected with UCL and our vibrant, international alumni community.

• Accommodation
• Counsellors and Teacher Information
• Fees and Funding
• Immigration and Visa
• Scholarship Finder
• UCL Careers

Connect with us

• Ask a Student
• Book an appointment
• Book a campus tour
• UCL on Instagram
• UCL on Youtube
• UCL on Tiktok
• UCL on Twitter
• UCL on Facebook

Fiona Rushworth is our US contact and is happy to answer any questions potential applicants, guardians or guidance counsellors might have about studying at UCL.

Book an appointment on Wednesdays between 3:00 and 4:30 PM UK time and Thursdays between 12:00 and 1:00 PM UK time.

Book an online appointment with Fiona

Phone : +44 (0)20 7679 8810 Email : [email protected]  

For advice about completing an undergraduate application, please read our UCAS explained page but if you have any further questions please, do book an appointment.

Amaani Master is happy to answer any questions potential applicants, guardians or guidance counsellors might have about studying at UCL, as well as guidance for incoming Study Abroad students.

Book an appointment on Mondays between 2:00 and 3:00 PM UK time, Wednesdays between 3:00 and 4:00 PM UK time and Thursdays between 12:15 and 1:15 PM UK Time.

Book an online appointment with Amaani

Email: [email protected]

Your questions answered

Find out more details about entry requirements, admissions, careers, accommodation and study abroad on the Your questions answered page.

Chat to our students

Chat to our current students

Discover what it's like to study with us and chat with our students on Unibuddy.

Student testimonials

Browse our brand new Student testimonials page for inspiring stories from our students.

Alumni stories

Meet some of alumni from the USA.

Meet Affiliate Civil Engineering student Tobi, who is studying abroad at UCL, from Princeton University.

Tres Seippel

Find out more about UCL alumnus Tres and how he is now connecting UCL alumni across the US.

Julia Chaffers

Recipient of prestigious Marshall Scholarship chooses UCL Americas programme for her MA in the UK.

Nicole McKnight

From UCL PhD student to UCLFAA (UCL Friends And Alumni) board member, alumna Nicole reflects on her UCL experience.

Student news

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• How to Apply for A PhD Abroad – International Study
• Applying to a PhD

So you’ve decided to enrol onto a doctoral degree and study abroad at the same time. This is a great opportunity to develop yourself both personally and academically. However, do you actually go about securing a PhD as an international student? To help answer this for you, we’ve created this guide to explain how to apply for a PhD in foreign universities.

Why Do Your PhD Abroad?​​​​​​​

There are many benefits to studying abroad.

Some PhD students do so as a way to develop a new language, discover more about a different culture, and to meet new people.

Besides personal reasons, undertaking a doctorate degree abroad can also for academic purposes. For example, in some countries, a particular research field may not be very popular and so there may not be many doctorate options available. In these cases, undertaking a PhD abroad will open up many more opportunities. It could also offer greater funding, lower tuition fees, better laboratory equipment and more experienced supervisors. Not only would these factors result in a more enjoyable PhD, but they could also contribute to greater career prospects. For example, you will likely have more opportunities to write publications, attend conferences and collaborate with other researchers. All of these will help you establish yourself as a respectable researcher within your field.

Is It Difficult to Apply to PhDs Abroad?​​​​​​​

It’s not as difficult as you would imagine when it comes to applying to a PhD in a foreign country. Regardless of whether you’re applying to a university within the EU, such as the UK, Finland or Spain, or to universities within the US or Asia, the processes are relatively similar.

The differences in the application process can be categorised into three areas.

• the documents you need to provide,
• the prerequisite tests you need to sit,
• how much you need to communicate with the potential supervisors before applying.

We’ve provided a basic outline of the application processes below. Although this will provide you with a good starting point, we highly recommend you look at the university websites for specific instructions and guidance before applying.

Will I Need a Student Visa?​​​​​​​

This will depend on what country you are applying to. For example:

• In the UK, applicants from outside the EU will need a Visa Tier 4 (Student). This will allow them to undertake a full-time PhD. However, due to UK visa restrictions, international students are unlikely to be able to enrol onto a part-time degree.
• In Germany, most students will not require a student visa but will require a residence permit.
• In the US, applicants will need to hold an F-1 Student Visa.
• In Asia, the requirements differ depending on the specific country. For example, in China, you will require an X1 Student Visa whereas in Singapore you will require a Student Pass.

Because of the significant differences between countries, we highly recommend it is highly that you check the requirements on an individual case-by-case basis. This is best done by checking the government website of the country you wish to apply to.

General Process for Applying to PhDs Abroad​​​​​​​

When applying to a PhD position, most universities regardless of where they’re located will require:

• Online Application – An electronic form to provide your details and attach all supporting documents. You will also need to make any application fees during this process if required.
• Academic Transcripts – Most universities need a scanned copy of your transcripts when applying. You will only have to submit official hard copies once they have accepted your admission.
• CV – This should include details of your previous education, undergraduate degree and any experiences revenant to the field you’re applying to.
• Statement of Purpose/Personal Statement – A letter which outlines why you’re applying to the PhD and why you believe you’re suitable for the project.
• Letters of Recommendation – this should preferably be provided by your undergraduate degree course tutor or a professor who knows you well.

Language Tests

If your PhD is to be undertaken in English and English isn’t your first language, most universities will require you to sit an English language proficiency test. The most common tests, in order of popularity, are:

• IELTS (International English Language Testing Systems)
• TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language)
• PTE (Pearson Test of English)

The minimum test scores will change from university to university. They will also vary depending on the research field. For example, research projects related to English Literature or Law will require relatively high scores whilst projects in Science and Engineering will require slightly lower scores. To provide an example, the University of Leicester in the UK requires a minimum overall IELTS score of 7 for Law PhDs but has a lower overall score requirement of 6 for Engineering PhDs.

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

How to Apply for PhDs in EU Countries​​​​​​​

For UK universities, there are generally two ways of applying. You can either apply directly through the university’s website or you can make an application through the UCAS Postgraduate system .

In Spain, Italy and Germany, before applying to a PhD you will first need to pass a pre-application process. This involves checking that your qualifications meet their eligibility requirements. Before undergoing this pre-screening process, it would be beneficial to first speak to your government. They may offer advice on how your countries qualification system corresponds to the qualification system in the country hosting the PhD.

Once you’ve made your application, the university will review it and get in contact with you. For most EU institutions, they will invite you for a Skype or telephone interview with them if they believe you may be a suitable candidate.

If you require a student visa to study in an EU country, it’s recommended that you submit your application at least 3-4 months before the proposed PhD start date.

How to Apply for PhDs in USA

In addition to the English language exams mentioned previously, international applicants will also need to sit additional exams to be eligible for PhDs in the USA. These are the GRE General Exam and GRE Subject Exam(s). The GRE Subject Exam(s) you will need to undertake will be specific to your field and will be specified by the university as part of their edibility requirements.

Securing a PhD position in the United States is considered relatively difficult compared to other countries. As a result, it is commonly recommended that you apply to at least 9 different universities to increase your chances of securing a position.

How to Apply for PhDs in Asia

As Asia covers a wide range of countries such as China, Hong Kong, Singapore, South Korea, UAE and India, their application processes naturally differ from one another. Therefore, check the specific application process for each university you’re interested to get the most accurate information.

To summarise:

• China – uses two centralised application services, CUAC and CUCAS. Both these services help international students find and apply to a PhD project in China. Students can also apply directly to a University if they wish to.
• Singapore – rather than applying to a specific research project, you will have to apply to a faculty or department within a University. Only once you have been accepted into the university department will their research projects become available to you. Like US universities, most universities in Singapore will have required you to have sat a GRE Exams prior to applying to them.
• UAE – you must apply directly to your chosen university. To be eligible for a PhD in UAE, you must hold a Master’s degree and it must be from a university recognised by their government. You will also be required to undertake GRE Exams before making your application.

How to Apply for PhDs in Australia

To apply to a PhD in Australia, you will first be expected to find and email a potential supervisor. If you’re an international student and you make an application directly to the university without doing this first, it’s highly likely that you won’t be considered for the position.

Upon discussing the project with the supervisor, they will instruct you to put in a formal application. This formal application will require the information previously outlined above.

Similar to EU institutions, if an Australian university believes you’re a strong candidate, they will likely invite you to a Skype or telephone interview.

Unlike EU universities, PhDs in Australian universities can start at any time of the year. Therefore, unless a specific funding requirement is attached to the project, there are usually no deadlines associated with applying to their PhDs. However, try to apply 3 to 4 months before you intend to start your studies.

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How to Apply for PhD in USA in 2024?

PhD is the highest educational qualification one can get and indeed a quite prestigious one. A PhD in USA is globally recognised and known for its academic rigor, originality and contribution to the field of research, the perks of which you will enjoy once you complete your journey. PhD is not only a degree but a transforming journey altogether. It will demand your time, patience and dedication but the rewards will be worthwhile.

We have made it easier for you to understand how to apply for PhD in USA from India. In this blog, you will read about the basic necessary details about the admission process for PhD in USA as well as step-by-step guidance on how to apply for PhD in USA and answers to some of your most common questions related to PhD application process USA.

Overview of PhD in USA

Before we go on to understand how to apply for PhD in US universities , here are a few points about the admission process that you need to understand about PhD in USA:

Detailed guide to pursuing Phd in USA

Admission Process for Studying PhD in USA

You need to be familiar with the eligibility criteria for PhD in USA before understanding how to apply for admission. Take a look at the general requirements that must be fulfilled by all students seeking admission to PhD in USA:

• Master’s degree
• 16 years of formal education
• English language proficiency test scores
• Entrance test scores

Each university may have specific requirements related to GPAs and test scores. You will also have to provide a number of documents supporting your application that have been discussed in the upcoming sections. Let us closely understand each admission requirement for PhD in USA:

1. Master’s degree

To apply for a PhD in USA, the standard requirement is completion of a relevant master’s degree equivalent to the U.S. education system . Usually, applicants have a degree in a field related to the specialization they wish to apply for. You are expected to have a cumulative GPA of 3.0 and subject-specific GPA of 3.5 or above for admission to your choice of specialization.

2. 16 years of formal education

Not all universities in the US require PhD candidates to complete a master’s degree. 16 years of formal education before applying for a PhD i.e. completion of 10+2 and a 4 years of bachelor’s degree is sufficient.

3. English language proficiency test scores

International students whose native language is not English are required to submit accepted language proficiency test scores such as IELTS or TOEFL for proof of English language proficiency. An IELTS score of 7.0 or TOEFL-iBT score of 100 is expected for admission to top universities.

4. Entrance test scores

The entrance test score requirement for PhD in USA is similar to most other master’s degree programs in the US, especially MS. Universities look for competitive GRE scores while for seeking admission to management related PhD programs, GMAT scores will also be accepted. A GRE score of 310-330 or equivalent GMAT scores are required for admission.

How to Apply for PhD in USA?

From the above discussion, you must have got a clear idea about the PhD admission process in USA. Let's now take a look at the how to apply for PhD in USA from India:

• The first step in the process to apply for PhD in USA is to look for leading PhD universities in USA and shortlist the ones you wish to apply to.
• Finalize your research topic before jumping into the application process. Choose a topic of your interest.
• Visit the website of your shortlisted universities and understand their program structure and how to apply for PhD in USA from india.
• Next up, choose a professor with whom you would like to carry forward your research based on their previous work.
• After these steps, you can now apply for PhD in USA by completing the online application available on the university website.
• Also check for available funding at the university or external sources and how to apply for PhD in USA with scholarship.
• You will be asked to submit an application fee along with a list of documents required for evaluation.
• Take the GRE at least 2-3 months before you plan to apply for a PhD.
• Arrange all necessary documents such as letters of recommendations and start making drafts of your SOPs .
• Once you submit the application and supporting documents, wait for the response from the university.
• Meanwhile, prepare documents to apply for a student visa and submit the application on time.
• After receiving the acceptance, check how to enroll for PhD in USA and complete the enrollment process as directed.

This is how to apply for phd program PhD in USA. Now, you must be wondering what are the documents to be submitted along with the application. We have answered your question below:

Documents Required to Apply for PhD in USA

Applying for any degree abroad requires extensive paperwork. Now that you have got an answer to your question: how can I apply for PhD in USA, take a look at the list of documents that you will have to submit along with the application:

• Official transcripts from previously attended college/ university.
• English language proficiency test scores such as TOEFL, IELTS, etc.
• Entrance test scores for PhD in USA such as GRE , GMAT or other accepted scores
• Research proposal
• Statement of purpose
• Writing samples
• Letters of recommendation
• Up-to-date resume
• Copy of passport
• Financial documents including bank statements

With this we come to the end of our discussion on how to apply for PhD in America. We hope this blog will help you kickstart your academic journey in PhD smoothly. PhD is no doubt a challenging journey but if you have made a decision to pursue a PhD in USA, don’t look back, you got this. You will get knowledge and expertise in your field that will fetch you amazing job offers with lucrative packages. Earning a PhD will transform you into a dynamic individual and we wish you the best for your journey!

Upgrade to Yocket Premium today and get complete guidance from experienced counselors, answers to all your queries, one-to-one support, counseling services and a lot more to help you achieve your dream of an American degree.

Frequently Asked Questions about PhD Admission Process in USA

Is there an entrance exam for PhD in USA?

Yes, GRE is the most widely accepted entrance exam for PhD in USA. Universities ask students for GRE general test scores while others may also accept GMAT, LSAT, MCAT or equivalent scores.

What is the eligibility criteria for PhD in USA?

To be eligible for PhD in USA, you need to have a completed graduate degree with a minimum GPA of 3.0, proof of English language proficiency, GRE scores in addition to other supporting documents required for admission.

How much does a PhD in USA cost for Indian students?

A PhD in USA will cost Indian students around 20,00,000-32,00,000 INR per year.

How difficult is it to pursue a PhD in USA?

Pursuing a PhD in USA is not a cakewalk. At times, you may feel overburdened by deadlines and project submissions plus the amount of time and money you will have to commit for a PhD. But the results will definitely pay-off all your hard work and efforts.

Can PhD students work in USA?

Yes, international students with F-1 student visas can work up to 20 hours per week during sessions and full-time during breaks.

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• Schools & departments

United States of America

Postgraduate entry requirements for students from the United States of America.

You should have an undergraduate degree from a recognised university or college with a minimum 3.25 GPA . Please contact the School who offers your programme to check the exact academic entry requirements.

Standardized tests

The completion or submission of the GRE test is not required by any postgraduate programmes at the University of Edinburgh ( US graduate entrants to the Undergraduate Veterinary degree are required to submit the GRE ).

Any other standardized tests that are required such as the GMAT or MCAT will be clearly stated in the application guidelines and entry requirements for individual programmes.

Graduate entry to Medicine and Veterinary Medicine

For entry to most postgraduate taught or research degrees, the minimum requirement for students from the USA is an undergraduate degree from a recognised university or college with a minimum 3.25 GPA .

Medicine (MBChB)

Applicants with an undergraduate degree in a relevant discipline will be considered for the 6-year programme.

You will need a pass in a 4-year undergraduate degree with a GPA of 3.25 or better, preferably with a pre/medical related major (e.g. biomedical sciences/medical sciences/nursing/paramedic science).  We will also consider other science majors and non-science majors with the same GPA.  If you have not undertaken a science major you must have SAT II Chemistry at 650+ or AP Chemistry at grade 4 or better.

If you have not taken or cannot take SAT II or AP Chemistry we will also accept an MCAT score of 508 to include a minimum of:

• Biological and Biochemical Foundations of Living Systems - 128 
• Psychological, Social and Biological Foundations of Behaviour - 126 
• Chemistry and Physical Foundations of Biological Systems - 128
• Critical Analysis and Reasoning Skills - 126

Applicants must also take the UCAT.

There are well defined routes for graduates of a UK Medical degree to registration in the USA.

Refer to the British Medical Association website for full information:

British Medical Association - advice on using your degree to work abroad

Veterinary Medicine

• a minimum of at least two years of a pre-veterinary or science course at College
• a minimum of one year (two semesters or three terms) in Chemistry
• additional courses in Biology, Physics and/or Mathematics
• a minimum grade point average of 3.4, with more than 3.0 in science courses which have been completed

College leavers must apply through the Veterinary Medical College Application Service (VMCAS) not through the UCAS application system. Contact VMCAS directly to apply.

PhD Programmes

Application to PhD study typically requires a masters degree in a related or relevant subject, and a research proposal.

However, entry requirements vary by programme, and you should check the detailed entry requirements are listed under each programme on the Degree Finder.

Degree Finder

How to write a research proposal

Further guidance on academic entry requirements

You can also obtain further guidance on admissions requirements from staff in the College Admissions Offices.

College of Arts, Humanities and Social Sciences

College of Medicine and Veterinary Medicine

College of Science and Engineering

English Language requirements

All applicants are required to demonstrate a level of English language competency, regardless of their nationality or country of residence. These requirements are listed by programme.

English Language advice

Specific English language requirement by programme

Applicant support

Our representatives for the USA are Tessa Bell, Hillary Cementina, Mikaela Spencer and Aly Stewart.

You can contact us for advice and support by emailing:

[email protected]

Browse our events calendar to see if we are hosting an event in your area:

Events calendar

Review student visa requirements on our Student Immigration Service website:

Student Immigration Service

About Edinburgh

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Open Days and events

Student numbers

There are around 1875 students from North America currently studying at the University of Edinburgh.

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Studying Medicine in the USA

Thinking of studying Medicine in the USA? The process is very different from UK admissions - so read on for everything you need to know!

Studying in the USA

• Discover your options for studying Medicine in the USA
• Learn about the entry requirements and tests
• Get application advice

Jump to Section

• Deciding on Medicine
• Work Experience
• Choosing a Medical School
• Personal Statement
• Interview Guide
• Interview Questions
• NHS Hot Topics
• Medical Ethics
• Graduate Entry
• Studying Abroad

Study Medicine Abroad In Europe

• MCAT Sections
• MMI Prep for US Medical Schools
• Would Studying Medicine in the US Suit You?
• Study Abroad in Ireland
• Study Medicine In The Caribbean
• Study Abroad in Australia
• Study Abroad in Hong Kong
• How To Survive Your First Year Of Med School
• Science Hot Topics
• Veterinary Medicine
• Allied Health
• Physician Associate
• The NHS Guide
• Parents’ Guide

The USA has a very different process for applying to study Medicine, with much earlier application deadlines. What is MCAT? What is AMCAS? What are primary and secondary applications? Read on for everything you need to know!

Unlike in the UK, studying Medicine in the USA is only available as a postgraduate option, so you can start a Medicine programme after you complete a four-year pre-med degree in a subject like Biology, Chemistry or Neuroscience.

However, it’s important to note that a pre-med degree is not the only pathway to medical school in the US. Students from diverse academic backgrounds, including humanities and social sciences, can also apply as long as they have completed the necessary prerequisite coursework, which may include Biology, Chemistry, Physics, Mathematics, and English.

This degree will then prepare you for the  Medical College Admissions Test (MCAT) , which is required to get into medical school.

The MCAT score, along with their undergraduate GPA, extracurricular activities, research experience, and letters of recommendation, will be considered by medical schools during the application process.

Where Can I Study Medicine In The USA?

There are 172 medical schools in the USA which offer either a Doctor of Medicine (MD) or Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine (DO) degree – so there’s a lot to choose from if you’re thinking of studying Medicine in the USA.

The following universities are ranked the highest for their Medicine research in 2023-2024:

Entry Requirements For Studying Medicine In The USA

All US medical schools require the completion of a four-year pre-med undergraduate degree in a relevant subject and require you to demonstrate your scientific knowledge in areas of Biology, general Chemistry and organic Chemistry.

For this reason, many students choose to take undergraduate Biology or Chemistry programmes (and this also helps with your MCAT).

A good MCAT score is a very important requirement for studying Medicine in the USA, since it determines your acceptance into a good university. The MCAT consists of four sections and tests your ability to think critically and use your scientific knowledge.

It’s a sensible idea to practice for the MCAT in advance. One of the best options is  Magoosh , which offers full-length MCAT practice tests, customisable study schedules and tutorial videos. You can see their  plans here .

You should take this test the year before you intend to start studying Medicine – so make sure you  register for your MCAT  on time.

Examples of USA Medical School Requirements

For example, the University of California  requires that Medicine candidates study general Chemistry for one year with laboratory, organic Chemistry for a minimum of two quarters, Physics for one year with laboratory and General Biology for a minimum of one year with laboratory, including the study of vertebrae zoology.

They also state that students who chose to major in the Humanities or Social Sciences are also expected to take these science courses. To check the requirements of the medical school you’re applying to, review their website.

In turn, Harvard University  requires one year with lab experience for Biology, two years of Chemistry with lab experience, one year of Physics (desirable lab experience but not required), one year in Writing, an encouraged one year in Maths and encouraged coursework in Behavioral Sciences.

Harvard also doesn’t set a minimum grade point average or minimum MCAT scores but expects ‘academic excellence’.

Note: Requirements differ between different medical schools, so it’s best to double-check these with the school themselves if you’re unsure.

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Costs Of Studying Medicine In The USA

Attending medical school in the United States can be a significant financial investment.

On average, the cost of medical school is $58,968 per year. Public medical schools have a slightly lower average cost, with tuition fees averaging around $52,483 per year. Private medical schools, on the other hand, tend to have higher tuition fees, averaging around $65,453 per year.

Over the course of a medical school degree, which typically lasts four years, the average cost amounts to approximately $218,792. It’s important to note that these costs are subject to change, as the average cost of medical school tends to rise by about $1,158 each year.

Most medical schools offer a variety of scholarships, bursaries or grants for students, so check on their website to see whether there is anything you qualify for.

UK Vs USA Medical School Application Process

The application process for studying medicine in the US differs significantly from the UK. Here are some key differences to consider:

    1. Timeline

In the UK, applications are typically made through the centralized system UCAS and have specific deadlines. In the US, the application process starts much earlier, typically in late May to early June.

The primary application is submitted through the American Medical College Application Service (AMCAS) in the summer, and secondary applications are sent directly to individual medical schools between August and October.

    2. Standardized Tests

In the UK, applicants are required to take the UK Clinical Aptitude Test (UKCAT) or the BioMedical Admissions Test (BMAT). In the US, applicants must take the Medical College Admission Test (MCAT), a standardized exam that assesses knowledge of scientific concepts, critical thinking, and problem-solving skills.

    3. Personal Statement

In the UK, applicants submit a personal statement as part of their UCAS application. In the US, applicants are required to write a personal statement as part of their primary application through AMCAS. This statement should highlight their motivation for pursuing medicine, experiences, and personal qualities that make them a strong candidate.

     4. Letters of Recommendation

In the UK, applicants typically provide one or two references, usually from teachers or advisors. In the US, applicants are required to submit three to five letters of recommendation, usually from professors, physicians, or other professionals who can speak to their academic abilities, character, and potential as a future physician.

      5. Interviews

In the UK, medical school interviews are typically conducted by individual universities and may include multiple mini-interviews (MMIs). In the US, interviews are conducted by individual medical schools and can vary in format, including traditional one-on-one interviews, panel interviews, or MMIs.

      6. Curriculum

In the UK, medical education follows a traditional five or six-year undergraduate program. In the US, medical education is typically a four-year graduate program, leading to the Doctor of Medicine (MD) degree. The US curriculum combines preclinical coursework with clinical rotations, allowing students to gain hands-on experience earlier in their education.

How Do I Apply To Study Medicine In The USA?

To apply for most medical schools in the US, you’ll apply using the  American Medical College Application Service (AMCAS)  – but if you’re applying to the MD programme at Texas University, you’ll need to apply using the  Texas Medical and Dental Schools Application Service (TMDSAS) .

AMCAS will deliver your application (including details of your work experience, coursework transcripts and extracurricular activities) and MCAT score to your medical schools of choice.

Some medical schools also ask for additional material in the form of essays or letters of recommendation. This is known as a secondary application, and there may be an extra fee for this.

The AMCAS fee to apply to one medical school is $160 – and it costs an additional $38 to add extra schools to your application. The  Fee Assistance Programme  is available to help students in financial need with these fees, as well as with MCAT fees.

Generally speaking, applications open in the first week of May and stay open until submission closes in June – make sure you keep an eye on the exact deadline so you don’t miss it!

FAQ Section

How many years does it take to study medicine in the usa.

In the United States, it typically takes a minimum of 11 years to complete the education and training required to become a licensed doctor. Most students complete a four-year bachelor’s degree in a related field, such as biology, chemistry, or neuroscience. Then, they attend medical school, which typically lasts four years.

After graduating from medical school, aspiring physicians enter a residency program, which  can vary in length depending on the specialty, ranging from three to seven years.

Some physicians choose to pursue additional training in a subspecialty through a fellowship program. Fellowships typically last one to three years and provide advanced training in a specific area of medicine, such as cardiology, oncology, or gastroenterology.

Can a UK student study in the USA?

Of course, it is possible for a UK student to study Medicine in the United States. However, it is important to note that the process can be competitive and may require additional steps compared to studying in the UK. Students need to ensure that their undergraduate degree and coursework meet the requirements of US medical schools.

How much does it cost to study medicine in USA?

A medical school would cost, on average, $58,968 per year, with public medical schools having a slightly lower average cost, with tuition fees averaging around $52,483 per year.

Is it better to study medicine in the UK or the USA?

The decision of whether it is better to study medicine in the UK or the US ultimately depends on individual preferences. Both countries have reputable medical education systems, but there are some key differences to consider:

• Structure and Duration: In the UK, medical programs are typically five or six years in length, including an integrated undergraduate and postgraduate degree. In the US, medical education involves completing a four-year medical school program after obtaining a bachelor’s degree. The US system generally allows for more flexibility in choosing a major during undergraduate studies.
• Curriculum: The curriculum in the UK tends to have a strong focus on clinical training from an early stage, with students gaining exposure to patient care and clinical skills. In the US, the first two years of medical school are often more classroom-based, focusing on foundational sciences, followed by clinical rotations in the final two years.
• Cost: The cost of medical education can vary significantly between the UK and the US. In the UK, tuition fees for medical school are generally lower compared to US medical schools. However, US medical schools often have more financial resources available, including scholarships, grants, and loans, which can help offset the higher tuition costs.

You can take our quiz to see whether studying Medicine in the USA is the right choice for you.

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• Top 100 of the latest Shanghai Ranking or World-class universities or First-class disciplines (MoE, People’s Republic of China): 75 percent or above (Weighted Average Mark)
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All students applying to PhD programme must demonstrate that they are competent in the use of the English language and satisfy the University’s requirements. You should normally possess an appropriate IELTS, or equivalent score as listed on University of Liverpool webpage. Please note this is only valid for two years from the test report date to the start date of the programme.

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• You have completed/are completing a degree in XJTLU or in the following countries or territories (Chinese joint venture programmes are not included): Antigua and Barbuda; Australia; the Bahamas; Barbados; Belize; the British Overseas Territories; Dominica; Grenada; Guyana; Ireland; Jamaica; Malta; New Zealand; St Kitts and Nevis; St Lucia; St Vincent and the Grenadines; Trinidad and Tobago; UK; USA. Please note this only valid for two years from the date awarded the degree to the start date of the PhD programme.