When it comes to getting a PhD, students often ask questions like "What is a PhD?", "How do you get a PhD?", "How much does a PhD Cost?" and "What PhD jobs are out there?".

This guide will walk you through everything you need to know about getting a PhD - from tips on how to choose a PhD program to career options available to you after the program.

What is a PhD?

Here are some common questions students ask about PhDs, such as "What is a PhD?" or "How do you get a PhD?".

PhD meaning - What does PhD stand for?

"PhD" stands for Doctor of Philosophy.

What is a PhD degree?

A PhD degree, also known as a doctorate degree, is the highest level of academic achievement in a certain field. It is given out by universities worldwide in recognition of substantial advancements in academic disciplines.

PhD vs Doctorate

What is the difference between a PhD and a doctorate? A PhD is an academic degree, while a doctorate tends to be a professional degree:

How do you get a PhD?

PhD programs vary from program to program, but generally, you can expect to go through three stages:

1. Literature review: evaluate and analyze the existing research on the topic you've chosen. Your study should build on the work your peers have already done in the field, either by expanding on the knowledge, or by filling the gaps in the existing research.
2. In-depth, original research: on your the subject of your choice, guided by a supervisor. Usually lasts a few years. What separates a PhD from a Master's and Bachelor's is that a PhD dissertation should represent original contribution to your field.
3. PhD dissertation: a long-form document covering your PhD thesis and research outcomes, typically followed by an oral defense before an academic panel within the respective field.

How long does it take to get a PhD?

Short answer: 4-7 years, on average.

Long answer: It depends on different factors, such as the country you're studying in, your field of study, research obligations, and personal progress. Typically, you can expect to dedicate around 4 to 7 years to a PhD program; 3 - 4 in the UK, and around 5-7 in the US.

Why get a PhD?

Many students ask themselves, "Should I Get a PhD?", or "Is a PhD worth it?". Here are some of the tangible benefits of pursuing a PhD.

Career and salary potential

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics Education Pays 2022 report, PhD graduates earn 25% more than Master's degree holders, and 37% more than Bachelor's graduates.

Employers worldwide increasingly value advanced degrees like PhDs, because they show your expertise, knowledge, and commitment, reinforcing your suitability for specialized roles. This is especially true in STEM fields.

We cover some examples of PhD jobs you can pursue after your studies, and the average salaries of PhD graduates with those degrees, at the end of this guide, in the "Post-PhD Careers" section.

Furthermore, a PhD provides numerous networking opportunities, including attending conferences, collaborating with fellow researchers, and interacting with industry professionals, all of which are important for your future career advancement.

Become a central figure in research and innovation

According to a 2021 survey report, which covered postdoc career outlooks, an overwhelming number of 994 respondents agreed that "academia is most rewarding when you are truly passionate about scientific research and discovery" - the word "passion" being used 189 times.

By pursuing a PhD, you'll become entrenched in the world of academic research, journal publishing, and pushing the boundaries of your field.

Some of the world's most groundbreaking research came from postdoc and doctoral students:

• Peter Higgs, who discovered the "Higgs Boson" (God particle), began his academic research by publishing his thesis - "Some problems in the theory of molecular vibrations".
• Rosalind Franklin, who helped discover the double helical structure of DNA by producing X-ray diffraction images of them.
• Stephen Hawking began his academic career with his thesis on the properties of expanding universes.

Do you have the ambition to become your field's Higgs or Hawking?

Access advanced research facilities

Universities globally are renowned for their exceptional research facilities.

Alongside state-of-the-art laboratories and equipment, many institutions offer access to specialized libraries, datasets, and other resources to bolster your research.

How to choose the right PhD program

To find the right PhD program for you, consider the following:

• Your research interests, goals and long-term career objectives: Whether you aspire to become a professor or work in a specific industry, you should make sure that your chosen research area aligns with your career goals.
• The program faculty: This includes professors, supervisors and other researchers. Become familiar with their research interests, publications, and accolades - this will help you figure out whether or not their specializations align with your research interests. It will also make you stand out in your motivation letter and interviews.
• Funding opportunities: Assess the program's funding options, including scholarships, grants, and assistantships. To do this, you can check the university's website, talk to university representatives and recruiters at various events, or over email.
• University resources and student support: This may include funding for materials, equipment, or conference or research site travel. It may also involve student support in the form of access to mental health professionals.

How to apply for a PhD

PhD degree requirements

1. Academic transcripts and/or GPA requirements

As far as PhD requirements go, a transcript of your grades from your previous studies is always going to be necessary.

Your grades or Grade Point Average (GPA) can play a crucial role in securing admission into some PhD degree programs, especially in STEM.

2. Personal statement/motivation letter

Another important factor in your PhD requirements list is your personal statement (also referred to as a motivation letter).

To craft a compelling motivation letter, research the institution and the faculty under whom you'll be studying, and make sure to explicitly state why you're the right choice for this program and university.

Professors and admission committees actively look for clues that show how thoroughly you researched the institution you're applying for. This is to try to assess two things:

1. Your interest in the program. By putting in more effort into your research, you show maturity and genuine interest in the program. A lot of people drop out of PhD programs, and those that have a strong passion for the program are more likely to persevere.
2. Your research skills. Your motivation letter is the first point of contact where you can communicate directly with the university's representatives and showcase your research skills and what you can contribute to the faculty.

Check out our best tips on how to perfect your personal statement.

3. Professional or research experience

Some PhD programs may require you to have relevant professional or research experience. With others, it's a bonus.

Generally, a prior academic research experience is very beneficial, because it shows that you've been involve in academic research before, and you know what to expect.

With students who are completely new to this world, there's always the risk that they may drop out because they realized they might not like the process after all.

4. A PhD Research Proposal

You may be required to craft and submit a research proposal, unless you’re applying for a pre-defined research project - usually in STEM. Be sure to check if the program you're applying for has a research proposal requirement.

A good research proposal includes:

• A clear significance
• Realistic scope and timeline
• Most important details
• Passion

5. Language Proficiency

International students are usually required to provide proof of language proficiency, unless they are native speakers.

Different universities may accept different certificates, so make sure to check this requirement on the official program website.

Here are some commonly accepted certificates for different languages:

6. Additional Requirements

Your university or program of choice may have other PhD degree requirements, such as:

• Graduate Record Examination (GRE);
• A special clearance such as ATAS (Academic Technology Approval Scheme);
• Several (strong) letters of recommendation (check out our tips on how to ask for letters of recommendation for your PhD application);
• A CV/Resume;
• A portfolio of past projects.

The cost of getting a PhD

The cost of a PhD ranges from zero dollars to a small fortune, depending on the country and the university you're planning on studying in.

Here's a general overview of the cost of a PhD in different countries:

If you'd like to know more about getting a PhD in the United States, check out our comprehensive guide on getting PhD in the US as an international student.

PhD scholarships for international students

There are lots of scholarships for PhD students out there. They're given out based on merit, citizenship, need, or various other criteria. There's something for everyone. For example:

• The Gates Cambridge Scholarship - for international students who want to study at Cambridge. The scholarship is merit-based and covers the full tuition fee, a maintenance allowance of £17,500 per year and other travel and administration costs.
• Fulbright Visiting Scholar Program - for international students who want to get a degree in the USA. Covers the tuition partly or fully, and includes health insurance and visa costs.
• DAAD Grants and Scholarships - for international students aiming to study a PhD in Germany. The scholarship and grant amounts and requirements vary.

PhD jobs: Career opportunities after a PhD degree

Getting a PhD can unlock diverse career opportunities. Your job prospects will largely depend on your preferred sector. Some examples of potential roles post-PhD include:

• Academia: Working as a university professor - conducting research, publishing papers, and teaching;
• Research: Conducting research across a wide range of topics;
• Industry jobs: Serving as a research and development manager, senior scientist, writer, or any role related to your research area;
• Governmental roles: Working as a policy analyst, researcher, or consultant;
• Non-profit organizations: Working as a director of research or program manager.

Here are some examples of PhD jobs you can get, and how much they pay:

Data source: Payscale, 2024

Read more about getting a PhD:

• The Ultimate Guide to Getting a PhD in the USA
• PhD Funding Opportunities
• How Many Years Does It Take To Complete a PhD?