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How to Apply for PhD in USA?
Edited By Piyush Kohli | Updated on Sep 02, 2024 11:14 AM IST
The USA is one of the top study abroad destinations for Indian students seeking admission PhD degree abroad. According to the Ministry of External Affairs, around 1.5 million Indian students travel abroad to pursue a degree in PhD. USA is one of the top choices for PhD programme due to its global recognition, research infrastructure, and high quality of education.
This Story also Contains
- How many years does it take for a PhD degree in the USA?
- How much does it cost to do PhD in USA?
- How to choose the right university in the USA?
- Can I work while doing PhD in USA?
- PhD in USA: Highlights
- PhD in USA for Indian Students: Eligibility Criteria
- How to Apply for PhD in USA?
- How to apply for PhD in USA After Masters?
- PhD Requirements in USA for International Students
- Top Universities for PhD in USA
- PhD Scholarship In USA For Indian Students
PhD holders from recognised USA universities are among the highest-paid job seekers in the world. Apart from top-notch education, students get to experience better student life, network with leading industries, and learn about different cultures by studying with students from various countries. Therefore, how to apply for PhD in USA is among the major queries of international students.
How to apply for PhD in USA from India? The application process for PhD admission in USA is quite simple. Students can apply online directly by visiting the official websites of their selected universities, filling out the form with relevant information and required documents, and submitting by paying the application fees.
Candidates must meet the required admission criteria and submit IELTS or TOEFL scores as a mandatory language proficiency requirement. Some universities might also ask students to provide, GMAT or GRE scores, hence, they must extensively research the eligibility criteria before submitting the application form.
Some of the top universities offering PhD in USA include Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Harvard University, Stanford University, California Institute of Technology, and more. Applicants must conduct a thorough research of the leading PhD universities in USA and choose them based on their educational and career goals. Read the complete article to learn more about how to apply for PhD in USA 2024.
How many years does it take for a PhD degree in the USA?
Usually, it takes around four to six years to get the PhD degree in the USA, but on average, students take even more time than this to obtain the degree.
How much does it cost to do PhD in USA?
On average, the total cost for doing a PhD in the US is approximately around $40,900 per year. It includes the tuition fee and the living expenses.
How to choose the right university in the USA?
When choosing a university in the United States, you can consider things like:
Academic programs: Research the programs and majors that interest you
Location: Consider the campus environment and location
Cost: Evaluate the cost and financial aid options
Rankings: Assess the university's accreditation and rankings
Career opportunities: Explore career opportunities and alumni networks
Support services: Understand the support services the university offers
English language proficiency: Review the requirements for English language proficiency
Reputation: Higher-ranked universities often are more highly regarded, which sometimes is an advantage in hiring or graduate school
Can I work while doing PhD in USA?
You are permitted to work on campus at 20 hours a week while classes are in session and full time during breaks according to your F-1 student visa conditions.
Work off campus: Your student visa strictly regulates off-campus employment, which is only available after you have been here for a year. Your job must meet at least one of the following criteria:
OPT: Optional Practical Training This is supplementary work, closely related to studies, authorized for a period of up to 12 months.
Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) Optional Practical Training Extension: An extension of OPT offered to STEM students up to 24 months
Curricular Practical Training (CPT) – that is, work placements and opportunities that form an integral part of your PhD program
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PhD in USA: Highlights
Particulars | Details |
PhD Duration in USA | 4-6 years depending on the field of study |
PhD in USA Requirements | Master's degree, GRE/GMAT |
Top Universities |
|
Average Tuition Fees | Rs. 40 to 50 lakhs per year |
USA PhD Intake | August to December (Fall and Spring) |
Application Mode | Online |
USA PhD Application Fee | USD 75 to USD 125 |
English Language Tests | |
Job Prospects | Researcher, Lecturer, Professor, Analyst, Scientist and more |
PhD in USA for Indian Students: Eligibility Criteria
Before applying for a PhD in USA, candidates must check the eligibility requirements for PhD in USA. The entry requirements might vary depending on the university, and the programme of choice. However, the general entry criteria for admission to the PhD programme in USA are mentioned below:
Applicants wondering how to apply for PhD in USA after bachelor degree must have a minimum of 16 years of education before applying for PhD, this includes completion of 4 years of education after class 12.
Most universities accept students who have completed their master’s degree from a recognised college or university.
Candidates from non-English speaking countries must provide IELTS, TOEFL, PTE, or other accepted scores as proof of English language proficiency.
Students are also required to provide certain standardised scores such as GMAT or GRE as a part of PhD requirement in USA for international students.
Meet other course-specific requirements set by the chosen university.
Note: However, not all universities require GRE or GMAT scores as part of PhD admission requirements in USA, hence, students must carefully go through the eligibility criteria of their chosen programme at the university.
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How to Apply for PhD in USA?
International students seeking admission to a PhD programme in USA, must submit an application form with the required documents, and information before the application deadline set by their chosen university. Below are the steps on how to apply for PhD in USA as an international student:
Step 1: Research and shortlist universities in USA that offer PhD programme in your field.
Step 2: Visit the official website of the chosen university and go through the eligibility criteria at the official portal of the college to gather all the requirements.
Step 3: Fill out the application form before the deadline. The majority of PhD applications in US are open from August to December for fall and spring admissions.
Step 4: During the time of application, ensure that you have provided correct information, and submitted your research proposals and a statement of purposes along with required documents.
Step 5: Pay the application fees
Step 6: Search if the university provides PhD scholarships and financial aid offered to international students in USA.
Step 7: Submit your scholarship application form, along with relevant letters of recommendation, SOPs, and other supporting documents.
Step 8: Wait for the offer from the university.
How to apply for PhD in USA After Masters?
To apply for PhD in USA after Masters, candidates must have a bachelor’s degree of 3-4 years, and a master’s degree of 1-2 years from a recognised university. Students applying for PhD in USA after master’s must follow the steps mentioned below:
Visit the official website of the university, and choose the related field. Then apply by submitting the online application form with relevant information and required documents.
Provide a well written personal statement and attach related letters of documentation to enhance your application.
Submit English proficiency scores, and standardised test scores, if required.
Apply for scholarships, if you meet the eligibility requirements.
Lastly, pay the application fee and submit the form.
PhD Requirements in USA for International Students
Candidates applying for a PhD course in USA must submit the following documents as a part of their application process:
Completed application form
English language proficiency test scores such as TOEFL and IELTS
Standardies test scores (GRE or GMAT, if required)
Resume
Copy of passport
An application essay sample
Financial documents including bank statements
Photocopies of passport
Work experience certificates, if applicable
Certificates for extracurricular activities if mentioned in the application form.
WES Evaluation documents, if required by the university.
Top Universities for PhD in USA
Many universities in USA offer a wide range of PhD courses to international students at affordable tuition fees. Some of the top PhD universities in USA along with their QS World University Rankings 2025 are mentioned below.
Best Universities for PhD in USA
University | QS 2025 World University Ranking |
Massachusetts Institute of Technology | 1 |
4 | |
Stanford University | 6 |
10 | |
11 | |
12 | |
22 | |
23 | |
=32 | |
44 |
PhD Scholarship In USA For Indian Students
The cost of studying PhD at top universities in USA is approximately Rs 40-50 lakhs per year. To cover their educational and living expenses in USA, international students can apply for scholarships provided by various organisations, NGOs, universities, and government bodies. Scholarships in USA are provided on various conditions such as gender, residency status of students, academic merit, extracurricular activities, volunteering activities, disability, financial need, or more.
How to apply for PhD in USA with scholarship? International students can apply for both fully financed and partially funded scholarships. A fully financed PhD scholarship in the USA will cover all of your expenses, including university tuition, housing, insurance, travel, and other costs. Scholarships that are partially sponsored can only cover up to 50% of university or housing costs. To be eligible for the scholarship, students must meet all of the entry requirements.
Some of the PhD scholarships available to international candidates in USA are listed below:
Yale University Scholarships
AAUW International Fellowships
Asian Cultural Council Fellowship Program
Aga Khan Foundation International Scholarship
IBM PhD Fellowship Award Program
Kala Singh Memorial Scholarship
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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. What is the eligibility for PhD in the USA?
In the United States, eligibility for a PhD usually requires a bachelor's or master's degree in a relevant field, exceptional academic performance, along with the letters of recommendation, a statement of purpose, and GRE scores. Some programmes also require research experience and IELTS or TOEFL scores as proof of English language proficiency.
2. How do I go to the USA for PhD?
To pursue a PhD in the United States, research into colleges, select a program, and apply with a strong academic record, GRE scores, recommendation letters, and a statement of purpose. Secure funds or a stipend, accept an offer and apply for an F-1 visa to join the country.
3. When should I start applying for PhD in USA?
Start applying to PhD programs in the United States about 12-18 months before your anticipated start date. For programs that begin in the fall, application deadlines are typically between December and February. Begin preparing your application materials, such as GRE scores, recommendations, and research plans, in the spring or summer preceding.
4. How much does it cost to do PhD USA?
The cost of a PhD in the U.S. varies by institution and program. Tuition ranges from 10,000to50,000 per year. However, many PhD students receive support through stipends, scholarships, or assistantships, which can cover tuition along with providing a living allowance, reducing their personal expenses.
5. How to apply for PhD in USA after masters?
To apply for a PhD in the USA after a master's degree, research programs and faculty, prepare a strong statement of purpose, and secure recommendation letters. Submit transcripts, GRE scores (if required), and a well-crafted CV. Apply through the university's online portal and meet program deadlines.
6. Is the GRE exam compulsory for PhD in USA?
No, the Graduate Record Examination (GRE) is not always compulsory for doing a PhD in the United States.
7. What is the minimum requirement for PhD in USA?
The minimum requirements for a PhD in the United States vary with universities and programs, but normally include an academic record of at least 3.0–3.5 GPA on a 4.0 scale, good grades in major field of study and any master's coursework; proficiency in the English language: minimum score in an English language test, such as IELTS or TOEFL; and standardised test scores.
8. Which visa is required for PhD in USA?
Students who do PhD in USA require the F-1 visa.
9. Is it difficult to get PhD admission in USA?
Applying to a PhD degree in the USA can be quite an extensive and competitive process. Universities want students to end up on the right graduate programs, and thus universities make sure that their admissions are quite elaborate and detailed and require much time and efforts. Universities also expect you to invest equal time and effort into your application.
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Apr 04, 2025
Apr 04, 2025
Questions related to
Get answers from students and experts
Hi there
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
- Stiching
- 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:)
Anushri Varshney 12 June,2022
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.
Piyush kesarwani 13 May,2022
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..
Thank you
AVINASH KUMAR 23 February,2022
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) .
Tabitha 08 January,2022
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.
Sohamsengupta8 13 February,2022
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