How to Enroll in PhD Programs

PhD program enrollment requirements vary.

A Doctor of Philosophy, or PhD, is the most advanced degree that an individual can earn from a university. PhD programs are offered in many areas of study. Earning a doctoral degree can be an ideal option for individuals who want to become more qualified in their area of study, which can help them to advance their careers and will generally allow them to earn more money. Although PhD enrollment requirements vary according to the program and school, there are certain general requirements that must be met.

Things You'll Need

• Application
• Transcripts
• GRE scores
• Letters of recommendation

Instructions

1. Complete an application and statement of purpose. Individuals will be required to complete an application and pay an application fee. Applicants will also generally be required to complete a statement of purpose in which they discuss their reasons for wanting to enroll in the PhD program and their intended career goals. However, an alternate essay may be required by some schools.

2. Submit all required transcripts. There are some universities that only require PhD program applicants to submit transcripts from the school where they earned their master's degree. Most colleges require students to submit transcripts from any schools that they have attended to complete both their undergraduate and graduate degrees.

3. Submit Graduate Record Examination (GRE) test scores. The scores required for PhD enrollment vary according to the university and program. In order to fulfill this requirement, individuals must have taken the GRE within the past five years. Applicants who have not taken the GRE will need to take the test again prior to applying to a PhD program.

4. Ask professors or employers to write letters of recommendation. Most universities require PhD program applicants to have two to three letters of recommendation in order to be accepted. Professional letters of recommendation from professors and employers are generally acceptable. Applicants should ask professors and employers who are able to comment on their strong work ethic, leadership skills, and other qualities that demonstrate that they are ideal candidates for the PhD program.

5. Meet any work requirements. Some PhD programs require individuals to work in a job related to their intended area of study for a given number of years. Individuals may be required to submit a work resume, including references, along with their application to be considered for acceptance.

Tips & Warnings

• Students will generally be required to meet Grade Point Average (GPA) requirements.

• Most programs require students to have earned their master's degree in an area related to their intended field of study.

• An interview is generally required.

• International students may be required to complete the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL).

• Applying to more than one university increases the chances of acceptance.

• Meeting admissions requirements for a PhD program does not guarantee enrollment. Since spots are usually limited, acceptance is generally competitive.

References

• The University of Chicago Booth School of Business: "Admission Requirements."
• George Mason University: "PhD Admission Requirements."
• Western Michigan University: "Biological Sciences PhD admission requirements."