Savanna Hoffman
Pursuing a PhD in a different country is an exciting prospect for many students. International students have a wide range of options when it comes to PhD programmes, with thousands of universities offering PhD degrees in the United States alone. The US is a popular choice for international PhD students due to its high standard of academic study, the wide variety of subjects, and the fact that a PhD is often required for high-level management jobs, government expert positions, and careers like university professor, researcher, or scientist in many fields. International students in the US are usually guaranteed a tuition waiver and a basic stipend for living costs, and some universities offer funding directly. However, international PhD students must also consider the challenges of obtaining a visa and securing employment after graduation.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Number of universities offering PhD degrees | Thousands |
| PhD as a job vacancy | Yes |
| Funding | Direct from the university, external scholarships or grants, fellowships, tuition fellowships, departmental funding |
| Stipend | Basic payment given twice a year |
| Visa options | EB-2 visas, F1 visa, OPT, Diversity visas, Establishment card, Orientation year visa, Graduate Route, Post-graduation work permits, Temporary Graduate visa |
| English language proficiency tests | TOEFL, IELTS, SPEAK |
| Application requirements | Academic history, test results, recommendations, personal statement, samples of work |
| Deadlines for applications | Between December and February |
| Master's degree required | No |
| Employability | High |
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What You'll Learn
Visa options for international PhD students
International PhD students have a variety of visa options, depending on the country in which they wish to study. Here is an overview of the visa options for international PhD students in the United States and the United Kingdom.
United States
In the United States, international PhD students typically start out on an F1 visa, also known as a student visa. This visa allows for up to 12 months of Optional Practical Training (OPT), with a 24-month extension for STEM fields. After graduating, students on an F1 visa can apply for OPT to stay and work in the US. They must find full-time employment within 90 days of the start date printed on their OPT card.
Another option for international PhD students is the J-1 Exchange Visitor Visa, which is valid for up to five years for individuals with specialized skills, researchers, professors, and teachers. This visa is often used by students in exchange programs or those with significant funding, and it comes with a 2-year home residency obligation. Accompanying family members of J-1 Visa holders can apply for the J-2 Visa.
After completing their PhD, individuals can also apply for the H1-B visa, a non-immigrant visa for those working in specialty occupations. This visa requires sponsorship from a US employer, and there is a cap of 65,000 visas per year, with an additional 20,000 visas for those with a master's degree or higher from a US institution.
Other visa options for international PhD students in the US include the O-1 visa for individuals with extraordinary ability in certain fields, and the EB-2 visa for professionals with advanced degrees who are employed full-time in the US.
United Kingdom
In the United Kingdom, international PhD students typically require a Student Route visa (previously known as the Tier 4 student visa) to study for their doctorate. This is a points-based system, and the visa application process usually involves applying from the student's home country before travelling to the UK. The visa will last for the duration of the degree and normally allows for multiple entries into the UK.
Some international students may be exempt from needing a visa, such as those who have been granted asylum, recognized as refugees, or have lived in the country for an extended period. The Graduate Route scheme allows PhD students to remain in the UK for up to three years after completing their doctorate.
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Funding and scholarships
Funding a PhD can be a challenging task, especially for international students. However, there are several funding opportunities available for international students who wish to pursue a PhD. These include scholarships, studentships, grants, and assistantships. Here is some information on funding and scholarships for international PhD students:
PhD funding varies across countries and universities. In some countries, such as the United States, PhD students are typically offered tuition waivers and annual stipends, while external employment is discouraged. Larger institutions, such as Ivy League universities, often have more funding opportunities than smaller private institutions. In Canada, PhD students may work outside the university, but some programs restrict working hours to no more than 10 hours per week. The Canadian government offers scholarships like the Vanier Canada Graduate Scholarships, which are open to international PhD students.
In the United Kingdom, international PhD students can explore funding opportunities through UK Research and Innovation (UKRI) studentships, Commonwealth and Chevening Scholarships, university-specific awards, and private organisations that support research in specific fields. The UK has also rejoined the Horizon Europe funding program, which provides funding for research projects at universities. The University of Suffolk in the UK, for example, offers funded PhD programs with partnerships in various organisations.
For PhD students in France, the French Ministry of Higher Education and Research provides short-term employment contracts called "doctoral contracts," regardless of nationality. Additionally, the Ministry offers the Eiffel Excellence Scholarships aimed at international students.
International students can also explore fully funded PhD scholarships at top universities worldwide. These scholarships often cover tuition fees, stipends, accommodation, health insurance, travel allowances, and other benefits. Notable examples include the Gates Cambridge Scholarship, Stanford University Scholarship, and Muhammad Bin Zaid University Scholarship. Other fully funded scholarship opportunities include the DAAD Scholarship for German universities, the MEXT Scholarship for studies in Japan, and the Fulbright Scholarship.
Country-specific scholarships are also available for international students from specific countries. For instance, the Australia Day Foundation offers grants to young Australians studying in the UK, while the Turkey Government Scholarship and Chinese Government Scholarship provide funding for international students pursuing PhD studies.
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English language proficiency tests
For international students, pursuing a PhD often involves demonstrating English language proficiency through standardised tests. These tests assess candidates' abilities in listening, reading, writing, and speaking, which are essential skills for understanding complex academic texts, participating in seminars, and communicating with peers and faculty members. While specific requirements may vary, here is an overview of commonly accepted English language proficiency tests for PhD applicants:
IELTS (International English Language Testing System)
IELTS is one of the most widely recognised English language proficiency tests globally. It evaluates candidates' proficiency in listening, reading, writing, and speaking. The IELTS Academic module is typically required for PhD applicants, with universities specifying minimum score requirements. The test takes around one and a half hours to complete and features a range of English accents.
TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language)
TOEFL is another popular language proficiency test accepted by universities worldwide. It assesses candidates' skills in reading, listening, speaking, and writing. The TOEFL iBT (Internet-based Test) is commonly required for PhD applications, with minimum score thresholds set by universities. TOEFL is more likely to include North American accents and is approximately three hours long.
Cambridge English Certificates
Cambridge Assessment English (CAE) offers two English language tests for higher education students: C1 Advanced and C2 Proficiency. These tests are aligned with the Common European Framework of Reference (CEFR) levels C1 and C2, respectively, with C2 being the more advanced level. Both tests use the same scoring scale, and the minimum requirement for PhD applicants is typically 176. The C2 Proficiency exam provides access to the highest scores on the Cambridge English Scale.
PTE Academic
Administered by Pearson, PTE Academic is a computer-based test that assesses candidates' listening, reading, writing, and speaking skills. The test takes two hours to complete, and the minimum score requirement for PhD programmes is usually 61, although this may vary.
Duolingo English Test
The Duolingo English Test is accepted by some institutions, although it may not be as widely recognised as other exams. The test date should typically be within two years of the graduate programme start date, and specific programmes may have their own score requirements.
GRE (Graduate Record Examinations)
The GRE is a graduate entry test accepted by some PhD programmes. While not all programmes require it, it is essential to check the specific requirements of your chosen programme.
It is important to note that preparing for these language proficiency tests requires dedication, practice, and familiarity with the test format. International PhD applicants should ensure they are well-informed about the English language proficiency requirements of their desired programmes and institutions.
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Application requirements and deadlines
The application process for a PhD in the US is extensive and competitive. It is recommended that you start applying 12-18 months before your anticipated start date. Applications for PhD programmes are made directly to graduate schools, and most applications open between August and December for admission in the following year. Application deadlines for PhD programmes are usually in the fall, between December and February.
Before applying, you should research programmes that match your interests and check their specific requirements. Most PhD programmes in the US prefer a CGPA of 3.0 or higher on a 4.0 scale, but competitive programmes may require 3.5 or higher.
To apply, you will need to submit a list of documents, including mark sheets, transcripts, recommendation letters, a statement of purpose, and a CV. Most programmes require applicants to take the GRE within five years of application, although some programmes are test-optional. Business programmes might ask for GMAT scores. As an international student, you will also need to prove your English proficiency with tests like TOEFL or IELTS.
Tuition costs for PhD studies in the US range from USD 10,000 to 60,000 per year, so funding is a major consideration. Fortunately, many PhD students receive funding through scholarships, fellowships, or assistantships.
If you are an international student, you will need to apply for a visa. You will likely need an F-1 student visa, which allows you to study at accredited US institutions. Once you have been accepted into a programme, you should apply for your visa as soon as possible.
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Benefits of studying in the US
The United States is one of the world's most popular destinations for international students, with over 1.1 million international students moving to the US to study between 2019 and 2020. Here are some of the benefits of studying in the US:
Variety of academic options
The United States has a wide range of educational institutions to choose from, increasing the chances of international students getting a quality education in their desired field of study. US universities are well known for the quality of their education, with many world-class academic programs available. There are plenty of opportunities to develop transferable skills and complete work experience placements, particularly if your university is in a large city.
Boost employment prospects
US companies increasingly value diverse perspectives, especially as they expand globally. International students bring unique insights, multilingual skills, and cultural knowledge that many organizations actively seek. This gives international students a competitive advantage when pursuing future career opportunities.
Funding opportunities
US universities offer funding opportunities for PhD students, including tuition waivers and basic stipends. PhD students in the US are usually guaranteed a tuition waiver and a 'basic stipend' for the duration of their studies. Students can also apply for fellowships, which are commonly given to students as merit-based awards.
Improve English language skills
If you are an international student learning English, studying in the US is a good way to improve your English language skills. Interacting with native speakers daily and submitting academic work in English will help you gain a better understanding of the language.
Explore the US
The US has many exciting cities in each state, with 14 of the QS Best Student Cities globally. Students can easily travel to neighbouring cities and states, explore different areas, meet new people, and have interesting experiences.
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Frequently asked questions
The US is a popular choice for international students due to the high standard of academic study and the wide variety of subjects. Thousands of universities offer PhD degrees every year, and their programmes tend to be popular among graduate students worldwide. Undertaking a PhD in the US will make you an internationally recognised expert in your chosen field. Additionally, US universities offer funding directly to PhD students, and students are usually guaranteed a tuition waiver and a basic stipend for living costs.
International candidates must have a college-level education equivalent to a four-year United States baccalaureate degree. Most US institutions recommend applying as early as possible. Deadlines for applications to PhD programmes in the US tend to be between December and February. 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).
International students in the US typically start out on an F1 visa, also known as a student visa. Before graduating from your programme, you should apply for OPT (Optional Professional Training) to be permitted to stay and work in the US. You will need to find full-time employment within 90 days of graduating.
International PhD students in the Netherlands can apply for an 'orientation year' visa, which gives them permission to search for a job for up to one year after graduation. Canada offers post-graduation work permits (PGWP) that allow international PhD students to remain in the country for up to three years after graduation. The UK's Graduate Route allows international PhD students to live and work in the country for up to three years after finishing their doctorate. Australia offers a Temporary Graduate visa that allows international PhD students to live and work in the country for 18 months.
Fellowships are commonly given to students as merit-based awards. Fellowship funding can last from one year to the entire duration of a PhD programme. Tuition fellowships are available from universities and are awarded based on merit and need. PhD students in the US are often encouraged to seek external funding through private research institutes or federal grants.
