doing phd in the us

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

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

Why Do a PhD in USA?

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

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

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

Universities in USA

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

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

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

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

Method of Study

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

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

Teaching Requirements

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

Research Flexibility

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

PhD Admission Requirements in USA

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

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

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

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

How to Apply for PhD in USA

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

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

Application Deadlines and Fees

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

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

Funding your PhD in USA

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

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

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

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

PhD Duration in USA

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

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

Cost of a PhD in USA

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

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

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

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Studying a PhD in The USA - The Complete Guide

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

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

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

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

1. PhD course length

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

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

2. World-class universities

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

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

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

3. International community

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

4. Affordable tuition fees 

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

5. Student experience

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

6. Student support

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

7. Land of opportunity

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

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

Studying a PhD in the USA: top tips

Who is eligible for a phd in the usa.

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

Can I get a PhD without a masters degree?

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

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

How to apply for a PhD in the USA

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

Completed application form – provided by your preferred university.

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

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

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

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

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

The application fee. 

Method of study

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

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

Application for PhD In USA

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Funding your PhD in USA

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

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

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

Can a PhD be fully funded?

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

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

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

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

Top 10 ranked American universities

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

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

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Thinking about PhD? Think America!

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

Why Study PhD in the USA?

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

1. Course Length of PhD in the USA

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

2. Top-Notch Universities

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

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

3. Diversity in the College Campuses 

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

4. Availability of Scholarships for PhD in the USA

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

5. Availability of Jobs after PhD in the USA

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

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Best Universities for PhD Programs in the USA

1. harvard university.

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

US Ranking: 2nd

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

Intake Seasons: Fall/Spring

Famous Alumni: Bill Gates

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

2. Stanford University

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

US Ranking: 3rd

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

Intake Seasons: Fall

Famous Alumni: Elon Musk

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

3. University of Chicago

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

US Ranking: 12th

Intake Seasons: All Seasons

Famous Alumni: Susan Sontag

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

Top 3 PhD Scholarships in the USA

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

1. Fulbright Foreign Student Program

Amount: $35,000

Provider: Binational Fullbright Commission/US Embassies

Deadline: 17th May, 2023

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

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

2. AAUW International Fellowships

Amount: $20,000

Provider: American Association of University Women 

Expenses Covered: Full tuition and Fees

Deadline: 1st December, 2023

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

3. Campbell Fellowships for Transformative Research

Amount: $54,000

Provider: School of Advanced Research

Expenses Covered: Stipend, Tuition fees waiver, Registration costs

Deadline: November, 2023

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

Application Requirements for PhD in the USA

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

1. Applying 

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

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

3. Credible References

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

4. Competitive Exam Scores

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

Top 3 Jobs Options After PhD in the USA

1. professor/ lecturer.

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

2. Scientific Assessor

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

3. Research & development

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

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

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How to Apply for Phd in USA?

PhD in USA is globally recognised for its innovative research curriculum and wide range of courses available for aspiring candidates. PhD holders from recognised USA universities are among the highest-paid job seekers in the world. Therefore, how to apply for PhD in USA is among the major queries of international students.

PhD in USA Overview

How to apply for phd in usa, phd in usa for indian students: eligibility criteria, phd requirements in usa for international students, how to apply for phd in usa with scholarship.

International students often wonder "How to apply for PhD in USA ?", the application process for PhD admission in USA is very straightforward. Students can apply online directly by visiting the official websites of their selected universities. Students are recommended to conduct a thorough research of the leading PhD universities in USA and finalise their research topic before starting the application process.

TOP EXAMS: IELTS | TOEFL | GRE | G MAT Country Guide: UK | Ireland | Australi a | Canada

Students who wish to apply for a PhD in USA must fulfil the basic eligibility criteria such as English language proficiency, GMAT or GRE tests, basic age limitations, and academic qualifications to submit their application. Read the complete article to learn more about how to apply for PhD in USA 2024.

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We have provided a brief overview regarding PhD in USA for Indian students for a better understanding of prospective applicants.

PhD in USA for International Students

Follow the below-mentioned steps to learn "how to apply for PhD in USA" from India or for International students.

Look for the top PhD programmes and colleges in the USA. It is advisable to shortlist at least 8 to 10 PhD universities in USA.

Choose your major subject. Students who wish to pursue their PhD in another field have to present strong reasons and show proof of experience in the concerned field.

Visit the official website of the universities to look for the latest deadlines. There are several PhD programs, which offer rolling admissions in the USA, though the admission depends on the availability of seats. Usually, there are fewer seats in PhD compared to any other level. Also, the deadlines for application vary from department to department.

Choose a professor as a supervisor with whom you will carry forward your research.

Fill out the application form available on the university website.

Submit all the required documents.

Pay the mandatory application fee.

Look for various funding options like scholarships and grants to check funding options.

Submit your application form attaching the letters of recommendation, SOPs, and other supporting documents.

Prepare documents for USA study visa.

Look for the admission process once receiving the acceptance letter.

Before gathering the things and researching answers to the question “How to apply for PhD in USA?” firstly check your eligibility requirements for applying to PhD in USA. Here are the necessary PhD requirements in USA for international students

• 16 years of education: A minimum of 16 years of education is required, before applying for PhD. Therefore, the candidate must have completed at least 4 years of education (graduation or diploma) after 10+2.
• Master’s: Students who have completed their master’s degree are also qualified to apply for PhD in the USA for Indian students. It is the standard norm in many universities. It is, therefore, ideal for a student to choose a specialized program in which he/She has graduated.
• English Language Proficiency Tests: The admission procedure for PhD in USA is more or less the same as in the case for MS in the US . The candidate needs to sit for the same standardised tests. The application for the tests is the first step when you apply for PhD in USA. Students must mandatorily qualify for English proficiency tests like TOEFL , IELTS , and other accepted exams to demonstrate their English language skills.
• Standarised Tests : Qualification for the GMAT or GRE test is another significant PhD requirements in USA for international students.

However, not all universities require GRE or GMAT scores as part of PhD admission requirements in USA. Most of them require a summary of the previous work the candidate has done.

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Aspirants who are applying for a PhD admission in USA must demonstrate their eligibility through a list of documentation.

Statement of Purpose

Letter of Recommendation

Academic transcripts

An application essay sample

English language proficiency test scores such as TOEFL, IELTS, etc.

GRE, GMAT test results

Copy of passport

Financial documents including bank statements

Work experience certificates, if applicable

Photocopies of passport

Certificates for extra-curricular activities are mentioned in the application form.

WES Evaluation documents, if required by the university.

As the university fees are high for pursuing a PhD in USA for international students many organizations, NGOs, universities, and government bodies provide scholarships to students to support their financial aid. These scholarships have different conditions like gender, local and international students, merit, creative or art talents, sports, volunteering activities, disability, etc.,

While applying for scholarships check for this eligibility and apply. Scholarships are of two types fully funded and partially funded. Scholarships which are for fully funded PhD in USA, cover all your expenses like university, accommodation, insurance, travel, and other miscellaneous. Partly funded scholarships cover up to 50% of your university fees or accommodation fees.

For acquiring a fully funded PhD in USA for Indian students, a few of the scholarships are Full Bright Scholarships and Yale University Scholarships. The other partially funded scholarships are AAUW International Fellowships, Asian Cultural Council Fellowship Program.

List of scholarships to study abroad by country

Frequently Asked Question (FAQs)

Universities in the US usually require a GPA score of 3 to pursue PhD in the USA.

International students will have to apply for the F-1 visa to pursue PhD in the USA.

You can work in the US after your PhD but you will have to apply for an employment visa as your F-1 visa will expire 60 days after your PhD in the USA ends.

To study PhD in USA, the candidate have to clear the entrance exams like GRE or GMAT through which university accepts your application. Along with them an english proficiency test like IELTS/PTE/TOEFL score should also be submitted in the application. For more details check the information in this article.

Generally in USA, the master's degree is included with the doctoral program. So if completed your bachelor's degree, you are eligible to apply for PhD in USA. If you already completed the masters this acts as an added advantage during the PhD application process.

In order to get Ph.D. admission in USA  you must meet the eligibility criteria for Ph.D. You must also fulfil the general requirements to get Ph.D. admission in USA.

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Questions related to

Yes you can try to learn various courses that are for approximately 3 months to 6 months in duration.

Yes you can learn before going to us. Learning skills definitively adds some value to the life of a candidate and also improves in getting good recognition in life..

Below i have mentioned some courses  that you can try before visiting us:

• Social media marketing
• Content writer
• Content creation
• Video editing
• Photography skills
• Digital marketing
• Makeup artist course
• Hairstyling course.

So these are some courses you can try.

Hope this answer will help you. Revert incase of any query.

Thank you and good luck:)

Hello Samarasimha,

YES, you can MS in UA after completing Bsc in Statistics. . All you have to do is score good marks in your PG and prepare for GRE. You should also decide upon the country and the university in which you are going to study.

Furthermore, the requirements to pursue MS in USA are as follows :

• 3 to 4 years bachelors degree in relevant field.
• 3.5 or higher GPA, equivalent to 87% in bachelors.
• GRE score of 330 or above.
• Statement of Purpose.
• Research Internships/ Published Research Papers.
• Project work/Seminars.
• 2-3 Letter of Recommendation.
• Social & Leadership Activities.

Further, requirements for Software jobs in USA are as follows :

• Enroll in a software development program. The first step to becoming a software engineer is to enroll in a software development degree program. ...
• Gain internship experience. ...
• Choose your specialty. ...
• Pursue industry certifications. ...
• Continue your education.

I hope that this will help.

Dear aspirant hope you are doing well..

To study at foreign universities/abroad in U. S , the admission process will require the candidate to give one language exam and one standardized exam. However, depending on the country, course, college, or university you are applying for you may be exempted from standardized exams. The language test will showcase your English proficiency skills. These exams are required for pursuing almost all courses abroad. Different countries have different language exams such as

• TOEFL exam for getting admission to the universities in the US and Canada. The score of this exam is valid for two years after the declaration of results
• There are plenty of universities abroad where you can apply to do master-level course, MSc in statistics, MSc in Operation Research, and Applied Mathematics, MSc in Mathematical Modeling, etc are some of the Master level Course in Mathematics that are available abroad. Students who have completed their graduation or bachelor's degree in Mathematics can apply for these courses. Foreign universities like Uppsala University, Dublin City University, Oxford Brookes University, University of York, University of Liverpool, etc offer all the above-mentioned courses in mathematics.

Top university of The USA for master degree courses

• John Carroll University
• Missouri University of Science and Technology
• Michigan State University
• West Virginia University
• Rhode Island College
• University of Arkansas
• Vanderbilt University
• DePaul University
• Delaware State University
• Texas A&M University-Commerce
• University of South Florida
• California State University Northridge

You can get the detailed information about the process how to apply for MS in USA. read the given article. Link is given below

https://studyabroad.careers360.com/articles/how-apply-for-ms-in-usa/amp

Hope it's helpful for you..

There are many ways to choose your university such as fees, the ranking of the university, which state it is located and scholarships. My suggestion is to choose your research focus and write academic papers. In the US, PhD in Commerce admission into the university depends on what you want to study (your area of research) and your already completed research papers. You can begin your research by searching online for US universities offering PhD in Business Administration. One example is University of California Los Angeles (https://www.anderson.ucla.edu/degrees/phd-program/admissions#app-req) .

Hello  Student

You are aBHM means Bachelor in Hotel Management so after doing BHM,to gain a bright future  inthis trade you have to do MSc in Hotel Management,post graduation in Hospitality Management,Master degree in travel and tourism management,or MBA in hotel management,AFter doing post graduation in Hotel management or travel and tourism management will give you the best return in employment opportunity.

Hope this will help.

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How to apply for a PhD in the US

Lecturer giulia evolvi shares everything you need to know about applying for a phd in the us from start to finish.

Giulia Evolvi

GRE . TOEFL . Statement of purpose . I remember staring at these terms when visiting university websites and trying to understand what they meant. After studying at universities in Italy and France, I decided to apply for a PhD programme in the US.

There are useful online resources on how to write successful application essays or how to understand the differences between studying in the US and Europe, but not many discuss the PhD application process. Supervisors and mentors in non-US universities are often not able to offer much support. This guide will help you start your applications, based on my personal experience of applying for a PhD in the US.

Getting your tests: GRE and TOEFL

Applications for a US PhD programme usually require scores from GRE and TOEFL tests, exams that international students might be unfamiliar with. These tests are time-consuming and expensive, so it is important to start planning for them as soon as possible, especially because it can be difficult to find test locations outside the US.

The GRE is a test that every student, American or international, needs to take when applying to join a graduate programme. It has three parts: first is quantitative reasoning, which includes mathematical questions; second is verbal reasoning, which tests the knowledge of English words and can be challenging for international students because it is designed for English native speakers; third is analytical writing, consisting of two short essays where the student needs to critically assess a statement or position. Each university might require different scores for these three parts, and you send the scores automatically after the test to your selected list of universities.

International students also need to take the TOEFL to prove their knowledge of English. Students who come from English-speaking countries or who graduated from English-taught programmes usually do not have to take it, but it is important that you verify this with the universities you want to apply to.

For instance, students from countries where English is one of the official languages (such as India or Kenya) might nonetheless be required to take the TOEFL. Also, the results you submit must be from a test taken within the past two years old.

Each university will have different requirements in terms of the TOEFL score. The TOEFL has four parts (reading, listening, speaking and writing), and even if you are fluent in English it is usually best to get familiar with the format of each part to obtain a score that is high enough for graduate programmes.

Both are computer-based tests done through multiple-choice questions and writing/speaking exercises. Some students choose to hire tutors or attend courses to prepare for the GRE and the TOEFL, but it is possible to study for them individually by buying ETS books with exercises and/or using online resources.

PhD diary: Preparing for a PhD Is it possible to do a three-year PhD as an international student? How to decide if a postgraduate degree is right for you

Recommendation letters and transcripts

Applying for a PhD always requires a lot of paperwork, but documents for PhD applications in the US can be difficult to obtain for some international students.

Something quite crucial is the transcript of previous qualifications such as diplomas and degrees. Some universities in non-English countries offer diploma supplements that they send directly to American universities for the application process. In other cases, US universities require a certified translation, which can take time and money. It is important to communicate early and clearly with the universities you want to apply to and also with your home university to make sure it is possible to access all these documents.

Usually, PhD applications also require two or three reference letters. While this is a common practice across the world, US universities often want professors to send or upload them personally, which is not always the case in other countries. Deadlines are often non-negotiable, so I suggest that you identify people who can write reference letters for you and make sure they can do them in English and understand the submission process.

In some cases, you might also need to submit a bank statement. If you apply for programmes that offer full scholarship/funding (which I recommend), this is usually not necessary, but some universities may ask you to submit proof that you can support yourself throughout the programme. This is also required when you apply for a visa if you are not offered a scholarship.

The academic part: statement of purpose and writing samples

You might think that a long and detailed PhD project outline is the most important part of the application. While this is often true in many non-US countries, it is not always the case for US programmes. Instead, you usually have to write a one- or two-page statement of purpose in which you describe why you would fit in a given department.

Applications for US PhDs do not require personal connections with professors, and you do not need to have a supervisor in mind when you apply, but I suggest contacting professors in the department to verify whether your research interests match with theirs. Once accepted to the PhD programme, you will then select a supervisor and start writing your project.

In some cases, applications require a writing sample. Usually, it is advisable to send a university essay or a portion of your thesis. If you did not previously study in a programme taught in English, it is often possible to send a translation of your work or even a sample in another language.

Once all these documents and papers are gathered, you can start your applications. They are usually online, and there may be a fee for each application. It can be a long and expensive process, but many US universities welcome international students and offer an excellent education. In my case, it certainly was worth the effort.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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PhD in the USA vs. Anywhere Else

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

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

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

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

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

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

PhD in America 2021: Overview of Universities

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Most Popular Student Cities

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Information for International Students

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

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

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

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

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

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

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How the PhD Program Works

Program Overview

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

Admission to candidacy.

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

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

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

The Doctoral Dissertation

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

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

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

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

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

Policies and Procedures

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

Sample Program Sequence

Years 1 & 2.

Coursework Examination Research Papers Research Activities Field-Specific Requirements

Directed Reading & Research Admission to Candidacy Formulation of Research Topic

Years 4 & 5

Continued Research Oral Examination Dissertation

Hear From Our Doctoral Community

From phd student to colleague, from undergrad to phd, why this phd student chose to study business ethics at wharton.

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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Doing a PhD in Europe vs. the US

Are you thinking of doing a PhD abroad? There are some considerable differences between European and American PhD programs that you should know about before applying. Read on to determine which program is right for you.

Qualifications

It is often not possible to do a PhD in Europe without first earning a Master’s degree. In the US, many PhD programs accept applicants who only have a Bachelor's degree. Students usually earn a Master’s as part of the PhD program after they have completed a few years of coursework and passed certain exams. This doesn't mean that all doctoral candidates in American PhD programs have entered the program straight from undergrad. Several still choose to do a Master’s first before applying for a PhD. In some programs students who already have a Master's might not be required to take as many courses as students with just a Bachelor’s, but this isn't always the case. 

Time to Degree

European PhD programs are shorter than those in the US. For example, it takes three years to complete a PhD in France, Norway, the UK, and Germany. Across Europe, a three to four year PhD in common. In comparison, six years is the average time to degree in the US with many PhDs in the humanities taking seven or eight years to earn their degree.

Thesis Topic

PhD candidates in Europe must choose their thesis topic and supervisor during the application process. Students apply for specific vacant doctoral projects that are usually tied to a professor’s research. As part of their application, they must create a research proposal for this project. It is also possible (in the UK for example) to apply to a department rather than a specific position, but applicants must still include a research proposal and are advised to contact potential supervisors before applying. In the US, candidates apply to a department’s PhD program, rather than a specific PhD project. While they have to discuss their research interests and identify potential supervisors in their applications, students do not decide on their thesis topic until their second or third year. In fact, many science and engineering programs have students rotate between different labs in their first year before deciding on their supervisor and dissertation project.

Teaching Requirement

PhD candidates occasionally have the opportunity to teach in Europe, although teaching is not a requirement in many countries. In the US, PhD candidates are often required to teach undergraduates, often as teaching assistants for a large lecture class. A teaching assistant leads smaller tutorials for 20-30 students and grades their exams and papers. Most PhD students will TA one class each semester for two to three years. Several American PhD programs also have mandatory pedagogy courses for graduate students.

Many European PhD programs require students to do little to no coursework. Candidates start working on their dissertation projects right away. American PhD programs, regardless of the field, require students to take two to three years of courses and seminars about topics across the discipline before they being working on their dissertation.

Funding and Salary

In several European countries, PhD students are seen as employees and have work contracts. As employees, PhD students pay into health insurance, pension, and unemployment insurance. In countries where PhD students are not employees (such as the UK and Italy) students apply for university scholarships, external fellowships, or research grants for funding. Tuition fees are drastically lower in many European countries compared to the United States. Funding at American universities varies widely, as do tuition fees. Private universities have higher tuition than public state schools (though international students usually higher tuition at state schools). The top schools offer five-year funding packages which cover tuition and fees and provide a monthly stipend. They also often include health insurance and conference travel. At other schools, students must compete for fellowships at the university, state, or national level to fund their PhDs. In some departmnets students will be paid and receive partial tuition credit for take teaching assistantship or research assistantship positions.

Comprehensive Exams

Most European PhD programs do not require students to pass qualifying exams to progress through their PhDs. There are some notable exceptions, like Sweden, where PhD candidates do an oral and written exam at the halfway point of their PhD. In the US, students usually have to pass a series of comprehensive exams before they can start working on their dissertation. The exams test the student’s knowledge of the major fields within their discipline. While every university will have a slightly different exam structure, there is usually an oral and a written component. Sometimes students also have to orally defend their dissertation proposal. After the candidate has completed their coursework and passed all the required exams they are considered ABD (all but dissertation).

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• Jul 22, 2022
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Is a PhD Worth It? The Pros and Cons of Getting a Doctorate

To get a PhD or not to get a PhD? That is the question.

Valerie David

Lifestyle and Career Expert

Reviewed by Hayley Ramsey

Entering the job market for the first time can be a stressful experience, especially if you don't feel completely prepared. When deciding how to take those first steps toward your ultimate career , and how to give yourself a chance at the best jobs, you may find yourself asking: “Should I do a PhD?”.

While academics looking forward to a life of learning may consider this a no-brainer, there are important factors for everyone to consider. Finances, job prospects and quality of life issues can greatly affect the success of furthering your education.

To help you decide if the time and effort of a PhD is worth it, here are the major benefits and disadvantages of getting that doctorate.

After four or more years of intellectual pursuits, adding a PhD may seem like overkill. Before you make your choice, let's look at all the benefits that are exclusive to earning the most advanced degree.

1. You can contribute new knowledge to the world

Embarking on a PhD programme means delving into your preferred subject in a much deeper way than you have in any of your previous studies. The beauty of this advanced degree is that it allows you to sail in uncharted waters. Your goal is to find new information, draw new conclusions and, hopefully, make a significant contribution to your field.

Your intensive research, travel, collaboration and study will lead you on an unpredictable path to telling a story that no one has heard before. For some students, this pursuit of knowledge and discovery is enough to make all the hard work of earning a PhD worth it.

2. You'll have access to more prestigious jobs

One of the key benefits of a PhD is that it opens doors to careers at the highest levels. This can include leadership positions in science and engineering, government roles in economics and political science, and prestigious teaching posts for English and arts majors. Even if an advanced degree isn't required for the job you want, that PhD can give you an extra air of authority in your field and an edge over other candidates.

Another obvious upside to continuing your postgraduate studies is that landing these powerful positions can lead to large financial rewards. Some areas of study, like medicine and the law, tend to be more lucrative, but it can also depend on the type of job. For example, a university professor or researcher post can pay well for a wide variety of disciplines. Check out sites like the Bureau of Labor Statistics and the National Careers Service to investigate potential salaries.

3. Employers look for candidates with your superior writing skills

A study arranged by the National Commission on Writing discovered that blue-chip businesses (long-standing companies with stable stock growth) are spending more than $3 billion a year on remedial writing course for current employees. This includes staff with undergraduate degrees.

So, when a hiring manager peruses your résumé and sees that you've earned a PhD, they'll know immediately that you've spent years honing your skills at compiling research, organizing mountains of data and writing about your results in a cohesive and persuasive way. This will clearly set you apart from your competition, while landing your dream job will prove that pursuing that advanced degree was worth it.

4. You'll improve on all your soft skills

While pursuing your undergraduate degree, you likely noticed that you were learning more than just the subject matter taught in each class. Completing your studies also required time management skills , focus and problem solving .

Getting a doctorate degree requires even more of the soft skills that employers look for in applicants . Your intensive study and finished thesis should lead to improvements in your problem solving, critical thinking , patience and adaptability . These desirable skills won't just help you land a job but also excel in whatever career you choose to pursue .

5. You'll collect an extensive network of professional colleagues

When weighing the pros and cons of earning a PhD, consider all the professional contacts you'll make during the course of your studies. Working closely with professors, department heads, experts in your field, as well as fellow researchers, helps you develop an important resource. This network of colleagues can provide continual assistance with references, job leads, career advice and collaboration.

6. You can wait for a more favorable job market

Job prospects may not look that promising when you've completed your undergraduate degree, or even after you've been in the workforce for a few years. While there's no guarantee things will improve after a delay, some students may appreciate the benefit of a steady graduate assistant salary while they work on enhancing their résumé with a doctorate.

If you couldn't get a good internship during or after your undergrad studies, the PhD work also gives you the time to build that professional network . These contacts could prove to be the key to breaking into a specialized or highly competitive field.

You may still be thinking about all that time and commitment and wondering, “Is a PhD worth it?”. While there are always positive results from improving your education, there are some downsides to getting your doctorate.

1. It's expensive

This is a substantial factor for many students when weighing the merits of pursuing a PhD versus entering the job market right away. If you already have student loans , continuing your education will just increase your burden and add substantial pressure when you eventually begin your job search.

If cost is a concern, investigate graduate assistant jobs that help with expenses. Some programmes offer tuition assistance in return for teaching or research work. For those who already work full time and are hoping a PhD will help them advance in their career, consider keeping that job and pursuing your studies on a part-time basis.

2. Getting a PhD can be a lonely experience

Despite your interactions with professors and other students, pursuing a doctoral degree is ultimately a solitary pursuit. Your thesis topic is unique to you, and you'll spend a lot of time alone doing research and writing. Your social life can suffer, especially if you're also working in addition to your studies.

Career experts often talk about the necessity of work-life balance for physical and mental health, and this is just as important for PhD students as anyone else. It may take you a little longer to complete your degree, but it's worth taking the time to visit family and hang out with your friends. These positive interactions can help you stay motivated through the most tedious parts of your work.

3. You'll experience extreme stress and frustration

Pursuing a PhD may seem like a noble and interesting endeavor, and extended life as a student can appear more attractive than wading into the job market. You must be aware, however, that getting a doctorate can be a very stressful and frustrating experience.

A topic that seemed intriguing at first may not live up to years of scrutiny, causing boredom at best or requiring a complete thesis change at worst. Not all programmes are well-run, either, and you may have a supervisor who is too critical, offers poor advice or is just unavailable and unhelpful.

The difficulties of a PhD programme lead to rather substantial dropout rates. In the US alone, only 57% of PhD students obtained their degree within a decade of enrolling. If you want to be in the successful half of those stats, take extra time to review your choice of supervisor and topic focus. Ask every professor you have for advice on making the right decisions and talk with current graduate students to see what their experience has been.

4. There may be limited job openings

While getting a PhD can qualify you for better and higher-paying jobs , it can also put you in a position where you're competing for an extremely limited number of job openings. This is especially true of university jobs, where the number of advanced degree graduates far outpaces the need for full-time instructors, researchers and administrators.

Earning your PhD with a very obscure thesis in a niche speciality can also limit your options. When there are only a handful of jobs that suit your expertise, and they're already occupied, it can make you feel that your doctorate was a waste of time. Consider the job market before you make decisions about getting another degree. If you're determined to study in a niche area, think ahead of time about related fields or industries where your knowledge and skills will also prove useful to employers.

5. There may be little to no financial reward

While most studies concur that having a PhD increases your income potential substantially over the lifetime of your career, it's not a guarantee of job security or a financial windfall. A study by the Organization for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) found that 5 years after earning their doctorates , 45% of grads in Germany were still on temporary contracts and 13% ended up in lowly occupations.

Other European countries, including Slovakia, Belgium and Spain, had similar results. In the US, in fields like engineering, the difference in pay scales between employees with a master's degree and a PhD was a mere 7%. When that small bump in salary is weighed against the amount of debt taken on in order to get your degree, you may decide it's not worth it.

6. You could lose out on valuable job experience

New forms of technology continue to change how organizations operate, and those changes can happen fast. If you've already spent several years in school, toiling away in solitary study of obscure subjects can cause you to fall further behind in learning the skills you'll actually need for a future career.

Before you invest in getting a PhD, research your chosen field and learn which type of degree will give you the most value. Many scientific, financial and computing careers rely more on skills acquired on the job, rather than in coursework that can quickly become outdated.

Questions to ask yourself

You’ve listed out the pros and cons, but that still may not be enough to help make your decision. When it comes to a life-altering change like getting a doctorate, it’s okay to take enough time to ask yourself specific questions to ensure you’re making the right move. Consider asking yourself the following:

• Why do I want to get a PhD?
• Do I have the pre-requisites to move forward to a PhD?
• What are my strengths and limitations?
• Am I financially prepared?
• Am I mentally prepared?
• How will this affect my relationship with my family or friends?
• Where will I study?
• What am I trying to achieve?
• What jobs will be available to me after I get my PhD?
• Are there other options or avenues to consider?

Unfortunately, you may not have the answer to every one of these questions, because let’s face it, you don’t know what you don’t know. You might not know how it will affect your relationship with family or friends, but why not ask them? Reach out to those closest to you and see how you pursuing this degree could trickle down to them and allow that to play into your decision. Evaluate the answers to these questions and use it to help you make an educated decision on your future moving forward.

The best PhD degrees

If you’ve weighed out the pros and cons, asked all the important questions, and now you’re set on getting your PhD, congratulations! To help you along the way, let’s look at a list of the most valuable PhD programs to start you on your way to this degree.

• Criminal Justice
• Engineering
• Cybersecurity
• Business Administration

These fields are rapidly growing and are among the highest-paying doctorate degrees in 2022 , so they might be worth considering as you start your journey.

Key takeaways

Pursuing your PhD requires an incredible amount of commitment, and it's important to take the necessary time to make the decision. As you’re evaluating a doctorate degree, remember the following:

• Evaluate the pros and cons list right from the beginning to ensure you’re weighing out both sides of the coin.
• Ask yourself the necessary questions. A doctorate degree commitment can affect more than just you, so be sure you’re factoring that into your decision.
• Review specifically which PhD would be best for you and your field progression.
• Research your chosen field carefully and evaluate the job market before you finalize your degree choice.
• Once you’ve selected your degree, stay focused and stay driven. It’s going to be a hard few years, but it will be worth the work!

Who knows, this may prompt you to move on to postgraduate study — never stop achieving!

Have you decided to pursue your PhD, or are you still considering your options? Join us in the comments below and let us know what’s stopping or encouraging you from getting a PhD.

Originally published on July 24, 2019. Updated by Shalie Reich.

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11 Secrets of a PhD in Europe vs USA that Matter

A PHD in Europe or USA?

They’re VERY different!

If you are trying to decide between pursuing a PhD in the USA vs a PhD in the UK, you should think more about which fits you best. There are 11 major differences between the two systems and you need to choose the one that fits you best:

Masters Degree

Typically, in Europe, you would join a PhD program after completing your Master’s degree. In the US, you would spend a few years taking courses (alongside research) to get your Master’s degree.

If you already have a Master’s degree, you may get a course waiver, which could reduce the time needed to complete your PhD.

Most of the US universities ask for GRE and TOEFL in your application for PhD program. But this not mandatory for PhD in europe, including UK and German universities. Though TOEFL, preferably above 90, is highly recommended for international students.

Choose your project before starting your PhD

For PhD in the UK (and Europe) , you need to choose a project before starting your PhD program.

This is different from the US , where you typically apply to a department for your PhD first and your thesis and research evolves in a year or two.

There are no class requirements for a PhD in the UK . You begin your research right away. The assumption is PhD students know their research areas. After all, you start by applying to a professor / lecturer with a research area in mind.

Now, that might be true for some students. Others may want to get exposed to new ideas and potential research topics. In addition, they may also want to have a wider peer group that gets formed in classes.

PhD in US vs Europe: Time to completion

PhD programs in the UK (and rest of Europe) take around 3 to 4 years to complete .

After a PhD in the UK, students generally go on to their postdoctoral research.

In the US , a PhD may take up to 5 or 6 years.

After a PhD in the US , students tend to go directly from graduation to academia or research jobs without a postdoc.

In many UK (and European) universities, there are firm guidelines on just how long a PhD takes and those are more important than individual decisions by a student’s advisers. In comparison, in the US, some students can fly through their PhD in 3 years with tremendous amounts of research, while others can take as long as 8 to 10 years to complete their PhD.

There are different systems within Europe.

In Sweden and other Scandinavian countries, a PhD takes 4 to 5 years and includes additional teaching duties. Students in these schools are considered as employees. They receive monthly salaries which are comparable to the salaries earned by graduate students working in various industries and are taxable as well. A PhD student is allowed to either present or attend at least one conference anywhere in the world, expenses for which are taken care of by the research group.

In Germany, a 4-year PhD is considered too long and funding might not be available after the first three years of the PhD program.

Work-life balance

This point is less about the PhD in question, and more about the cultural difference between the UK (and Europe) and the US, but this could be a factor in your decision making if you are particular about the type of culture around you and the kind of lifestyle you wish to have.

The PhD lifestyle is much more relaxed in the UK (and in Europe). You will have more time for yourself as well as your friends and family in the UK, while pursuing your PhD.

In the US, PhD students are often overworked with more teaching and grading responsibilities. They also have a lot of class work.

PhD in UK vs US: Hierarchical Structure

In the US, PhD students report to and directly interact with their professors, but some of the PhD programs in the UK are headed by the Professor but there is also a Reader and a Lecturer. Students sometimes feel this hampers their flexibility to work, while restricting their exposure to the lab as well as the head of the lab.

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Future opportunities.

Some students feel that the US offers more opportunities to PhD students in academia as well as jobs. This can be true as the US has many universities offering teaching positions as well as companies offering jobs to PhD students.

However, irrespective of whether you earn your PhD from Europe or the US, some experts say you may have to hustle to find a great job after your PhD.

Different Stipend (salary)

For most PhD in the UK (and Europe), stipend (or salary) comes centrally from the universities or from Government research organizations. These stipends (or salaries) may be limited to only 3 years.

In the US , stipend (or salary) comes directly from your supervisor without any limitation on the duration of the PhD. Unlike in big US universities, there are fewer TA responsibilities for PhD students in UK universities.

In many cases, you don’t need to pay tax on your income as a graduate student in the UK (and Europe).

In Germany , international PhD students are funded for 3 years by the German government.

Less Publications

In the UK , you have less chances of getting published . Your time is more focused on your thesis document.

Less Chance of Faculty Position Afterwards

In the US , students opt for faculty positions after receiving their PhD .

This isn’t necessarily the case with PhD students in the UK , who opt for postdoc positions to remain in academia.

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More Similarity Than Differences

The UK (and European) universities are being influenced by the US system. Many UK universities’ Computer Science schools have Doctoral Training Programs which are essentially 4-year PhD programs, with the first year focused on teaching. These programs offer more flexibility about what you end up doing and who you end up working with. Also, these programs often are sponsored by industries, which means these have higher stipends and you may get an adviser in industry.

So, which one to choose – UK (or Europe) PhD vs US PhD?

Apart from the factors mentioned above, you should focus on the quality of the research group and reputation of the professor. You should look at the top conferences about your topic of interest and note where the papers come from. That’s your best clue as to which university / school you should choose.

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Olympic gymnastics highlights: Simone Biles, USA capture gold medal in team final

Editor's note: Follow USA TODAY's continued coverage of the latest news and live updates from the Olympics for Wednesday, July 31 .

PARIS – The U.S. women’s gymnastics team had framed it as a redemption tour. But in the end, it was more of a clinic, a showcase – a dominant show of twisting and acrobatic force.

Led by the incomparable Simone Biles , the Americans coasted to yet another Olympic gold medal Tuesday night at Bercy Arena, finishing atop the podium for the third time in the four most recent trips to the Summer Games. They finished nearly six points ahead of the silver medal winners Italy, with Brazil grabbing bronze. It was never really close.

"It was super exciting. We had fun. We enjoyed each other's time out there, and we just did our gymnastics," Biles said.

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Less than 48 hours after overcoming calf pain in qualifying , Biles competed – and excelled – in all four events , starting the night with a soaring Cheng vault and ending it with her signature floor routine, set in part to the music of Taylor Swift.

"I think it speaks volumes of her strength," said Chellsie Memmel, technical director for the U.S. women. "What she was able to come back from with the whole world watching — and a world watching with a magnifying glass again, just waiting to see what she was going to do.

"We all knew she could do it like. That wasn't ever a question in my mind that she could do it, and it continues to just solidify her place as the greatest gymnast of all the time."

Biles' teammates also more than did their parts.  Suni Lee , the reigning Olympic all-around champ, was masterful on balance beam and strong on uneven bars. Jordan Chiles, like Biles, competed in all four events and finished with just one notable mistake, on balance beam. And Jade Carey, who has been nursing an illness , hit a terrific vault in her only event of the night. (Hezly Rivera, who competed in qualifying, did not participate in the three-up, three-count format.)

More from Paris: Simone Biles' redemption and Paris Olympic gold medal was for herself, U.S. teammates

“Having this opportunity definitely felt really good,” Chiles said. “And being able to be a part of winning this gold medal and everything that I've just gone through, it's just been an amazing experience. So, I'm really just proud of each and every one of us that are up here. This smile is always gonna be smiling because it's just been an amazing experience.”

After the Fierce Five and the Final Five, this group – led by Biles – had talked about wanting to redeem itself after taking home silver at the 2021 Tokyo Games. "The four of them called it their redemption tour — that they certainly did," Memmel said.

It was at those same Olympics, and in this team final, where Biles withdrew from competition abruptly with what she later revealed was a case of the "twisties," which left her feeling disoriented and unsafe while twisting through the air. Perhaps it was fitting then that, in her first event of the final, she was back on vault – and back twisting with confidence in her Cheng vault, which is one of the most difficult in the world.

"As soon as I landed vault, I was like, 'Oh yeah we’re gonna do this,'" Biles said.

Just GOAT things. 🐐 Simone Biles kicks her day off with a solid vault. #ParisOlympics 📺 NBC and Peacock pic.twitter.com/jcxpj0GuRZ — NBC Olympics & Paralympics (@NBCOlympics) July 30, 2024

It was clear, from the start, that tonight would be different. All four gymnasts who competed for Team USA were also on the team in Tokyo, where restrictive COVID-19 measures had left the arena mostly and eerily empty. So after the U.S. won gold on Tuesday night, one of Biles' coaches, Cecile Landi, was asked what it too to get here over the last three years — for Biles and the team.

"A lot. That's all I have to say. A lot. It's been a roller coaster over the past three years, with a lot of good times and very difficult times," Landi said. "So today's just amazing."

On Tuesday, Biles' parents and husband, Chicago Bears safety Jonathan Owens , were able to watch and cheer for the Americans from the bleachers. The crowd also featured big-name celebrities and sports figures, including Michael Phelps, Serena Williams, Natalie Portman and Nicole Kidman. Chants of "U-S-A" rang out sporadically after almost every rotation, and American flags waved throughout the stands.

They had plenty to cheer for, of course, thanks to Biles and company. With Tuesday's gold, the 27-year-old passed Shannon Miller for the most Olympic medals won by an American gymnast . She now has eight – and perhaps a few more on the way over the next week, with the all-around and apparatus finals still to come.

"We know if they do their normal gymnastics, it should be good enough and that's what we really focused on," Landi said.

TEAM USA WOMEN'S GYMNASTICS STRIKES GOLD BY ALMOST SIX POINTS! 🇺🇸🥇 #ParisOlympics 📺 NBC and Peacock pic.twitter.com/nFMORJAvPP — NBC Sports (@NBCSports) July 30, 2024

Simone Biles, US gymnastics teammates leaned on each other to win this Olympic gold medal

Simone Biles and this U.S. women's gymnastics team have talked about powering through obstacles they faced, in part, by relying on each another .

Even while they were competing against one another in individual competitions over the course of the year, there were always signs of the genuine relationships that had grown between the returning members of this team. At the national championships earlier this summer, Biles noticed that Lee was struggling and walked across the gym during the competition to talk with her about it . In between rotations, it was normal to see Biles and Carey chatting, with Biles bursting out into laughter.

"Even (Monday) night, we were all having a little powwow − (Chiles, Lee and I) in the room, just talking about our age, what we're going through, how hard the Olympics is and all that stuff," Biles said. "... I think it translates out of the gym, as well. And once we're good and close and tight knit outside, then you see what you saw tonight. It was pretty good. It was fun. And we supported each other." Read Tom Schad's full story on the bond the U.S. women's gymnastics team has.

Simone Biles has more Olympic medals than any other American gymnast

Simone Biles and the U.S. women's gymnastics team  winning gold in the team final  gives Biles more Olympic medals than any other American gymnast. She has eight Olympics medals in three Games, breaking the tie she had with  Shannon Miller . It also gives her 38 combined Olympic and world championships medals, which is more than all other teams combined.

"Honestly, I would’ve had to Google that, I’m not really sure, I don’t keep count, I don’t keep stats," Biles said Tuesday night. "I just go out here and do what I love. It’s amazing now that I hear it, but I don’t think I’ll truly understand the depth of it until I walk away from the sport."

Jordan Chiles showed out in a big way to help US win gold

The Olympic gold medal around Jordan Chiles ’ neck more than makes up for the disappointment of missing out on the women's gymnastics all-around final. She will forever be  an Olympic champion , and she knows that the U.S. women wouldn't have won this title without her contributions. She competed on all four events Tuesday night, leading the Americans off on three of them.

“Having this opportunity definitely felt really good,” Chiles said . “Being able to be a part of winning this gold medal … it’s just been an amazing experience.”

Simone Biles' floor routine

Simone Biles closed out the entire Olympic women's gymnatics team final on floor and got a standing ovation from the crowd. She scored a 14.666.

WOW. SIMONE BILES JUST DID THAT. 🔥 #ParisOlympics 📺 NBC and Peacock pic.twitter.com/l4pLcI1QGg — NBC Olympics & Paralympics (@NBCOlympics) July 30, 2024

Simone Biles' beam score

Biles appeared to almost lose her balance on a wolf turn, then did lose her balance on an aerial, clinging to the edge of the beam with her toes. But she didn't let the wobble turn into a fall, and ultimately, her score of 14.366 was still be one of the higher marks of the night.

Team USA fans in Paris going wild for Simone Biles. 👏🇺🇸 #ParisOlympics 📺 NBC & Peacock pic.twitter.com/hxLLrwCaFt — NBC Sports (@NBCSports) July 30, 2024

Simone Biles ' uneven bars score

Simone Biles isn't a big fan of the uneven bars, nor is she quite as dominant on that apparatus as the other three. But she was smooth and steady in her routine, nearly sticking the landing en route to a score of 14.400. And she was grinning wide as soon as her feet hit the ground.

The U.S. gymnasts look almost relaxed as they reach the midway point, while some of their would-be rivals have already suffered mistakes. Both Brazil and China had falls on the balance beam in this rotation, which could only widen the gap between Team USA and the rest of the field.

Simone Biles' vault score

Simone Biles didn't do her signature Yurchenko double pike , opting for the second-hardest difficult vault being done these days. Biles scored a 14.9 for her Cheng, which included a small hop on the landing. She smiled and exchanged high fives with coach Laurent Landi and then Cecile Landi, who is both Biles' co-coach and coach of the U.S. women here in Paris. 

That Biles opted for the "easier" vault isn't a surprise. First, the U.S. didn't need it. Though the Yurchenko double pike is worth 0.8 points more than the Cheng, they still posted 44.1 points on the rotation. Second, Biles tweaked her left calf in qualifying. There's no reason to push it. 

Suni Lee, Jordan Chiles beam scores

The Americans gave themselves enough of a cushion on vault and uneven bars that they could have afforded to make a mistake or two — and still win gold. That meant Jordan Chiles' fall when mounting the beam wasn't reason to panic. Chiles recovered from the mistake and was relatively clean for the rest of her routine for a score of 12.733, and Suni Lee then followed with an outstanding performance and a 14.600.

Jordan Chiles finishes strong to close out her beam routine. 💪 #ParisOlympics 📺 NBC and Peacock pic.twitter.com/5vPcNlLZKU — NBC Olympics & Paralympics (@NBCOlympics) July 30, 2024

Suni Lee' bars routine

Suni Lee, who specializes on uneven bars, got a deduction for her feet touching the floor. She still scored a 14.566.

Absolutely STUNNING ✨ @sunisalee_ on bars is everything! 📺: @NBCOlympics & @peacock #ParisOlympics pic.twitter.com/zPwZuhlmj4 — Team USA (@TeamUSA) July 30, 2024

Jordan Chiles' bars routine

Jordan Chiles killed it on bars, scoring a 14.366, and she let out a huge scream after. We're verging into the territory when the competition becomes a coronation.

THE CHILES FAM IS LOVING IT. 👏 #ParisOlympics 📺 NBC and Peacock pic.twitter.com/AhytGNvJbt — NBC Olympics & Paralympics (@NBCOlympics) July 30, 2024

How many rotations in gymnastics final?

There are four. Here was the complete run-of-show for the U.S. women.

• Vault:  Jordan Chiles (14.400), Jade Carey (14.800) and Simone Biles (14.900)
• Uneven bars:  Jordan Chiles (14.366), Simone Biles (14.400) and Suni Lee (14.566)
• Balance beam:  Jordan Chiles, Suni Lee and Simone Biles
• Floor exercise:  Suni Lee, Jordan Chiles and Simone Biles

Jade Carey did NOT come to play. 😤 Starting things off strong for Team USA. #ParisOlympics 📺 NBC and Peacock pic.twitter.com/qKBellq0LB — NBC Olympics & Paralympics (@NBCOlympics) July 30, 2024

Simone Biles' calf was wrapped, but she was walking normally

Simone Biles was walking normally but had a wrap that covered almost her entire left calf. Remember, she tweaked the left calf on floor exercise warmups during qualifying, and briefly left the floor before returning and getting her ankle heavily taped. She remained in the competition and showed no ill effects, posting the highest individual score. Coach Cecile Landi said afterward it was a flareup of an injury that occurred several weeks earlier, but that it wasn't a cause for concern.

Who is Simone Biles married to?

She is married to NFL player Jonathan Owens , who is in the arena, sitting with Biles' parents and wearing a T-shirt with "BILES" on it and a huge photo of his wife in action on it. He landed in Paris on Tuesday morning. In addition to the team final, Owens will be able to watch Biles in the all-around final on Thursday, Aug. 1.

During the first rotation, Owens was seen with a pen in hand, possibly recording scores, as Biles performed her vault routine. Mic’ed up on NBC’s broadcast, Owens let out a healthy “let’s go!” after Biles recorded a 14.900 on the vault, the highest score among the three U.S. gymnasts.

Simone Biles' village runs DEEP. #ParisOlympics 📺NBC and Peacock pic.twitter.com/cywgWCscTA — On Her Turf (@OnHerTurf) July 30, 2024

What are the twisties?

Biles missed most of the Tokyo Olympics after developing a case of “ the twisties ,” which caused her to lose her sense of where she was in the air and jeopardized her physical safety.

How does Olympic gymnastics scoring work?

A gymnastics routine gets two scores: One for difficulty, also known as the D score or start value, and one for execution. Every gymnastics skill has a numerical value, and the D score is the sum total of the skills in a routine. The execution score, or E score, reflects how well the skills were done. A gymnast starts with a 10.0, and deductions for flaws and form errors are taken from there. Add the D and E scores together, and that’s your total for an apparatus. (Vault scores will always be higher because it’s a single skill.)

Simone Biles, U.S. women got huge welcome from crowd

The teams are being introduced to the crowd, Simone Biles and the U.S. women receiving the biggest of all from the crowd. Biles forgot they were supposed to pose and started walking onto the floor before catching herself. Her and Jade Cade were cracking up.

MOOD. #ParisOlympics pic.twitter.com/f1qsgmQl1N — Team USA (@TeamUSA) July 30, 2024

Simone Biles' moves named after her: What to know

Simone Biles has left her mark on the sport of gymnastics. In addition to her record number of medals — she has 37 at the world championships and Olympics, more than any other gymnast, male or female — Biles has five skills named after her. Skills are named after the first gymnast to do them in a major international competition, like the world championships or Olympics. She has two on vault, two on floor exercise and one on balance beam. Here’s are the Simone Biles moves named after her . — Nancy Armour

Simone Biles' Yurchenko double pike: What to know

The Biles II is also known as the  Yurchenko double pike , one of five moves named after Simone Biles . Vaults are categorized by “families,” which are based on the entry. On Yurchenko vaults, a gymnast does a roundoff onto the takeoff board and a back handspring onto the table. Biles then follows it with a double somersault in the piked position.

Few men even try this vault, which is so difficult because of the power it takes to get two somersaults as well as its lack of a bailout. If something goes awry, more likely to land on her head or neck than her knees.

Biles began doing this vault in 2021 but didn’t do it at a worlds or Olympics until the 2023 world championships. With a 6.4 difficulty value, it is the hardest vault in the women’s code.

When Biles did the vault last year, she took a half-point deduction for having coach Laurent Landi standing on the landing mat, ready to step in and redirect her into a safe position if it looked as if she was headed for a scary landing. But neither Biles nor Landi feel the need for him to do that anymore.

The most difficult vault commonly executed by other gymnasts is valued at 5.6, eight-tenths lower than the Biles II, so doing it gives Biles a huge scoring advantage.

Is Simone Biles the greatest gymnast of all time?

Biles is the greatest gymnast of all time . She has consistently dominated the sport for over a decade, which would have been an unimaginable feat just a few years ago as most gymnasts reach their peak in their late teens. Her ability to win is in a class of its own. With 37 Olympic and world championship medals — 27 of which are gold — Biles has won the most of any gymnast in history. She has also not lost an all-around competition since 2013. 

Biles redefines the possibilities of her sport not just in her record-breaking number of wins and medals, but also in the unmatched difficulty of the skills she completes. Biles has no less than five skills named after her — two on the vault and floor and one on the balance beam — because she was the first, and in most cases, the only athlete to complete them in competition. 

How many Olympic medals does Simone Biles have?

Biles has won eight Olympic medals , five of which are gold. At the 2016 Rio Olympics, Biles won three individual golds in the all-around, vault and floor exercise and led Team USA’s “Final Five” to the team gold. She also added a bronze medal on the balance beam. At the Tokyo Olympics in 2021, Biles added a silver medal in the team event and an additional bronze medal in the balance beam to her hardware collection. 

How many Olympics has Simone Biles been to?

The  2024 Paris Olympics  are  Simone Biles ' third Olympic Games.

Where Simone Biles trains and what it's like to train with her

Simone Biles trains at Champions Centre World, which is owned by Biles’ parents Nellie and Ron and is just outside Houston, has become one of the premier gyms in the country. WCC has two gymnasts on  the five-woman US team  at the  2024 Paris Olympics , Biles and Jordan Chiles, with  Joscelyn Roberson  a traveling alternate and Tiana Sumanasekera a non-traveling alternate. It also sent the most gymnasts, five, to the Olympic trials, and had three more at the  US championships .

"Training with Simone is, like, once in a lifetime," said Roberson,  who moved to WCC after the US championships in 2022 . "She's always so bubbly in the gym. Plus, she can hit. All the time. Like, she never has a bad day, which is insane to me."

How Simone Biles, US Olympic women's gymnastics shattered age stereotype

Simone Biles, 27, is seeking to become the oldest all-around Olympic champion in women's gymnastics in 72 years, and she is one of four athletes on the U.S. team who fit what used to be a rare mold, as repeat Olympians in their 20s. The other three − Jade Carey (24), Jordan Chiles (23) and  Suni Lee  (21) − all competed in college between their two Olympic appearances, which also used to be uncommon. ( Hezly Rivera , 16, rounds out the team.)

With an average age north of 22 years old, it will be the oldest U.S. women's gymnastics team to compete at the Olympics since 1952, according to USA Gymnastics.

"The longevity of this sport has been totally changed. Simone has changed that," Chiles said . not to control everything that I can’t control anymore,” Biles said.

The USA's favorite Olympian right now may just be 'Pommel Horse Guy' — a 25-year-old from Massachusetts

• Stephen Nedoroscik is the only pommel-horse specialist on Team USA's men's gymnast team.
• In his routine, he helped Team USA secure their first medal in men's artistic gymnastics since 2008.
• Despite his key role, he appeared relaxed while waiting for his turn, fascinating the internet.

While most male gymnasts train for a few routines, Stephen Nedoroscik specializes in one: the pommel horse. And it turned out to be a risk well taken.

The 25-year-old from Massachusetts scored 14.866 on his routine to help his team clinch a bronze medal in Monday's artistic gymnastic finals at the Paris Olympics . It was the team's first medal in men's gymnastics since 2008.

But Nedoroscik leaves the Olympics with more than a medal; he's earned a spot on the internet as the "Pommel Horse Guy."

While waiting almost three hours for his turn on the pommel horse, the last of the six rotations to complete, the bespectacled Nedoroscik lay back with his eyes closed, seemingly in a peaceful nap.

After a long wait, the electric-engineering graduate from Penn State finally worked his moves on the pommel horse in all but 40 seconds. His score put Team USA ahead of Team Great Britain, which came in fourth place, by two points.

The internet responded, as it usually does, with a string of memes.

"Obsessed with this guy on the US men's gymnastics team who's only job is pommel horse, so he just sits there until he's activated like a sleeper agent," one person posted on X .

Obsessed with this guy on the US men's gymnastics team who's only job is pommel horse, so he just sits there until he's activated like a sleeper agent, whips off his glasses like Clark Kent and does a pommel horse routine that helps deliver the team its first medal in 16 years. pic.twitter.com/0D1ZqJjFa1 — Megan 📚 (@MegWritesBooks) July 29, 2024

Another X user posted the whole routine. "He's the Clark Kent/Superman of the Olympics, He took off those glasses and brought it home," a comment read.

Obsessed that Stephen Nedoroscik’s only job was the pommel horse and bro COOKED pic.twitter.com/H4Nne8q79W — Brittany Sdao (@besdao) July 29, 2024

In gymnastics, the pommel horse is known as one of the toughest apparatuses to master. "It's really challenging because you're dealing with so many different balance issues, and constant motion," Randy Jepson, who coached Nedoroscik at Penn State, told USA Today .

Related stories

But Nedoroscik seemed to have a flair for it. In 2014, a coach who'd trained the national pommel-horse champion the previous year approached Nedoroscik and told him he could be the national champion one day, Time magazine reported.

Nedoroscik went a step further. In 2021, he became the first American to win a gold medal on the pommel horse at the World Championships, according to USA gymnastics .

As the only pommel-horse specialist on the US team, it was on him to complete the team finals and secure the bronze medal.

"Going up to pommel horse, the last guy up in the whole competition, I had a good feeling that our team was in a great spot. I just knew I had to go up there and do my job," he told NBC in an interview after the event.

And landing the dismount, he said, was the "best moment of my life."

Watch: What 12 Keanu Reeves stunts looked like behind the scenes

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Local School Districts Receive $30M from Michigan Department of Education for Clean School Buses

July 31, 2024

LANSING, MI – Twenty-nine Michigan school districts and intermediate school districts are receiving nearly $30 million from the Michigan Department of Education to replace school buses with ones that are more environmentally friendly. The funding from Michigan’s Clean School Bus grant program is to reduce harmful emissions and promote healthier air quality by converting pupil transportation fleets from diesel-powered vehicles to buses with low or no greenhouse gas emissions as determined by the Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy. Funding can be used for buses that operate using electricity, propane, or natural gas. Clean school busses offer low/no tailpipe pollution, reduced maintenance costs for districts, and improved air quality for children. “The Clean School Bus grant program supports Michigan’s Top 10 Strategic Education Plan by improving the health, safety, and wellness of learners by providing funding for cleaner school buses,” said State Superintendent Dr. Michael F. Rice. “Communities from around the state will have cleaner air due to the efforts of their local school districts.” Districts and intermediate school districts awarded grant funding for a total of 114 buses are:

• Allen Park Public Schools.
• Allendale Public Schools.
• Alpena Public Schools.
• Anchor Bay School District.
• Ann Arbor Public Schools.
• Britton-Deerfield Schools.
• Dearborn Public Schools.
• Detroit Public Schools Community District.
• Grand Rapids Public Schools.
• Hazel Park Schools.
• Kalkaska Public Schools.
• Kent Intermediate School District.
• Kentwood Public Schools.
• Lansing Public School District.
• Livonia Public Schools.
• Ludington Area Schools.
• Manchester Community Schools.
• Mason County Eastern District.
• New Haven Community Schools.
• Pellston Public School.
• Saline Area Schools.
• Stockbridge Community Schools.
• Three Rivers Community Schools.
• Troy School District.
• Ubly Community Schools.
• Van Buren Public Schools.
• Vanderbilt Area School.
• West Shore Educational Service District.
• Woodhaven-Brownstown School District.

"Hazel Park Schools is thankful to be awarded a Clean School Bus grant that will convert our buses into more environmentally friendly vehicles," said Hazel Park Schools Superintendent Dr. Amy Kruppe. "This is an exciting opportunity for Hazel Park Schools to provide clean-powered school busing services to our kids. In addition to cost savings, making the switch from diesel is healthier for our students and drivers since diesel exhaust is known to trigger respiratory conditions." Districts in Michigan have found that clean school buses start more reliably and reach a comfortable cabin temperature faster than diesel buses on cold mornings. Clean school buses are less expensive to operate than diesel buses and save districts a significant amount of money over time. In addition, with a fast-charging system, buses can be recharged between routes, which makes rural routes accessible for clean school bus use. The grant funding was provided under Section 74b of the fiscal year 2024 State School Aid Act. The Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy (EGLE), with funds from the federal Environmental Protection Agency through the Biden-Harris Administration Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, also has been investing in clean school buses . “The commitment by the state and federal governments to provide schools with more environmentally friendly buses is good for our children, good for our schools, and good for our communities,” EGLE Director Phil Roos said. “Under Governor Whitmer's leadership, we are investing in electric school buses, improving air quality, allowing schools to invest in the classroom, and advancing the goals of the MI Healthy Climate Plan . These efforts are accelerating Michigan’s transition to a prosperous, healthy, equitable, clean energy future.” In May, the Biden-Harris Administration announced an award of just under $24 million in rebates for Michigan to help 27 selected schools and districts buy 100 clean-energy buses – 97 powered by electricity and three by propane – through the EPA’s 2023 Clean School Bus Program, funded by the federal Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act. Before passage of this act, Michigan had just 17 electric school buses.

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The University of Chicago The Law School

Law school welcomes new faculty.

The Law School recently welcomed two new members to its academic faculty, Vincent Buccola, ’08, and Darrell A.H. Miller, whose appointments were effective July 1. In addition, William A. Birdthistle joined the faculty last April as a Professor from Practice. The three new faculty members bring a wealth of knowledge and experience in areas that include corporate law, constitutional law, civil rights law, business restructuring, and financial regulation.

Buccola, who most recently was Associate Professor of Legal Studies & Business Ethics at The Wharton School of the University of Pennsylvania, is a graduate of the Law School and a former Bigelow Fellow.

Miller joins the Law School from Duke Law, where taught for 11 years. Birdthistle recently served at the Securities and Exchange Commission and previously a faculty member of Chicago-Kent.

“These are three outstanding additions to our faculty,” said Thomas J. Miles, Dean, Clifton R. Musser Professor of Law and Economics. “They expand the scholarly insight and professional perspective in important fields of law in our intellectual life, and our students will benefit from these new colleagues’ splendid teaching.”

Professors of Law

Vincent buccola, ’ 08 .

Buccola’s scholarship focuses on corporate financial and managerial law, especially as it pertains to reorganization, distress, bankruptcy, and leveraged finance. After clerking for Judge Frank H. Easterbrook of the US Court of Appeals for the Seventh Circuit and serving as a trial lawyer at Bartlit Beck, Buccola served for two years as a Bigelow Fellow to explore the possibility of an academic career.

“My time as a Bigelow was very formative and a great way to start, although it was quite startling at first to start calling all my former professors by their first names,” he said.

After the Fellowship, Buccola taught at The Wharton School, where he received several teaching and scholarship awards. In the fall of 2023, he taught business organizations at the Law School as a visiting professor.

“What I love about teaching is that the students provide an endless supply of enthusiasm for new discovery, something that’s harder to find as you get older,” Buccola said. “Witnessing students have those moments is gratifying but also inspiring to me as a researcher, who is always looking for those moments.”

Buccola has a keen interest in the relationship between the financing and management of organizations, and how each one informs the other. “There is an inevitable tension between people who put up money for some kind of project or enterprise—and people who manage that capital to run the project or enterprise,” he said. “How investors and managers of capital negotiate those two ideas is at the core of a lot of the work that I do.”

One of Buccola’s current research projects explores the terms that go into loan contracts and how those terms are selected. His goal is to understand how lenders and borrowers create terms that show up in real contracts.

Another working paper, which he is coauthoring with Greg Nini of Drexel University’s LeBow College of Business, concerns how loan contract terms changed after surprising and aggressive forms of restructuring transactions had taken place.

In their paper, Buccola and his coauthor found that the terms in contracts actually changed quite rapidly, at least in one of the instances, contrary to what many people in industry were saying. “I think we were able to prove that the loan market is much more capable of adjusting, more so than what the skeptics had realized,” he said. That paper, “The Loan Market Response to Dropdown and Uptier Transactions,” is forthcoming in the Law School’s Journal of Legal Studies .

Darrell A. H. Miller

Miller served as the Melvin G. Shimm Professor of Law at Duke Law from 2013 to 2024. He is a distinguished scholar of civil rights, constitutional law, civil procedure, state and local government law, and legal history.

Miller's work on the Second and Thirteenth Amendments has been published in leading law reviews, including the Yale Law Journal , the University of Chicago Law Review , and the Columbia Law Review . His Second Amendment scholarship has garnered significant recognition, being cited by the US Supreme Court, US Courts of Appeals, US District Courts, as well as in congressional testimony and legal briefs. He is the coauthor of The Positive Second Amendment: Rights, Regulation, and the Future of Heller (Cambridge University Press, 2018), the first Second Amendment theory book to be written in the wake of the Supreme Court’s watershed decision in District of Columbia v. Heller (2008) and he is currently coauthoring a textbook on the Second Amendment to be published by Foundation Press. 

"What keeps me writing on the Second Amendment is that it’s one of the few areas of constitutional law that’s really brand new, where every Supreme Court decision is potentially ground-breaking,” Miller said. “Second Amendment doctrine is being constructed from the ground up, in real time, in our generation."

Miller also cofounded Duke’s Center for Firearms Law, an academic center dedicated to producing reliable and non-partisan information about the Second Amendment and firearms law for various audiences, and to establishing firearms law as an intellectually rigorous and respected area of scholarly research. 

Discussing his other scholarly work, Miller observed, “My Thirteenth Amendment scholarship has been about unpacking what the word ‘slavery’ means in the Constitution. The Thirteenth Amendment is remarkable because it’s the first—and the only time—the word slavery appears in the United States Constitution. And it appears there only to say that it shall not exist. … My future work on the Thirteenth Amendment is about using the tools of institutional analysis to understand better what antebellum Americans themselves described as the ‘peculiar institution.’”

Miller's academic career began at the University of Cincinnati College of Law, where he was honored twice with the Goldman Award for Excellence in Teaching. Before entering academia, he practiced complex and appellate litigation in Columbus, Ohio, and clerked for the Honorable R. Guy Cole, Jr. of the United States Court of Appeals for the Sixth Circuit.

A cum laude graduate of Harvard Law School, where he served as an editor of the Harvard Law Review , Miller also holds degrees from Oxford University, where he studied as a Marshall Scholar, and from Anderson University.

Professor from Practice

William birdthistle.

Birdthistle is an expert in investment funds, financial regulation, and corporate governance, with a special interest in securities law. He recently served as Director of the Division of Investment Management at the US Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC), where he worked from 2021 to 2024.

That role, Birdthistle says, was “the best job he ever had” because of how closely it aligned with the kind of scholarship he’d been doing as a professor at Chicago-Kent College of Law for the 15 years prior. It was a role that also made him much more interested in government lawyering.

“I think a revolving door between academia and the government is probably a healthy thing,” he said. “A lot of my colleagues here do or have done similar things: Jennifer Nou in the Office of Information and Regulatory Affairs and Eric Posner with the Department of Justice , for example. Now that I’m back here, I find it invigorating to be around extremely smart people who have served the country and are dedicated to thinking deeply and richly about problems.”

The SEC’s Division of Investment Management regulates around $130 trillion dollars and administers two securities acts that oversee funds and advisors. “We adopted approximately a dozen rules and proposed about fifteen, which is ambitious in just two and a half years,” said Birdthistle.

Birdthistle pours his governmental work experience into the classroom, incorporating real issues that regulators are grappling with right now into his investment funds course, issues such as artificial intelligence and cyber breaches and the rulemaking that’s happening in those areas.

“Understanding how money works is understanding how society works,” said Birdthistle. “By the time you’re done with a class on securities regulation or investment funds or business organizations, you’ll probably have a greater appreciation for how these institutions deal with things that you care about.”

Birdthistle himself is a student at the University. He is candidate for a Ph.D. in history with a focus on economic history and financial regulation in the late 20 th century.

Birdthistle received his MA in history from UChicago and his JD from Harvard Law School, where he served as managing editor of the  Harvard Law Review . Before his SEC work and his tenure at Chicago-Kent, he clerked for the Honorable Diarmuid O'Scannlain on the US Court of Appeals for the Ninth Circuit and practiced law at Ropes & Gray in Boston for five years as an attorney in the firm’s investment management practice.

• Doing A PhD - What's it Like to Study for a Doctorate?

Doing a PhD

No lectures, no modules, no coursework and just one (big) exam: it isn't hard to see that a PhD will be very different to any other degree you've experienced.

So, what's it like to actually study for one? Think of this section as your PhD crystal ball!

From an overview of the PhD journey and an insight into working with a supervisor to what you can expect from the PhD thesis and the final viva voce exam , we've covered the rhythms and routines of PhD research.

Still looking for a PhD?

You can filter our regularly updated course listings by topic, location and funding available.

Our postgrad newsletter shares courses, funding news, stories and advice

What happens during a typical PhD, and when? We've summarised the main milestones of a doctoral research journey.

The PhD thesis is the most important part of a doctoral degree. This page will introduce you to what you need to know about the PhD dissertation.

This page will give you an idea of what to expect from your routine as a PhD student, explaining how your daily life will look at you progress through a doctoral degree.

How to plan, structure and write your PhD literature review so as to demonstrate your understanding of your PhD topic.

This guide introduces some of the obligations and expectations that underpin a healthy supervisory relationship, as well as explaining how that relationship develops along with your PhD.

Many PhD students undertake some teaching or demonstrating for undergraduate students alongside their project, as a way of gaining professional experience (and earning additional money!). Here's what you can expect from this work.

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