The United States offers a plethora of world-renowned universities for doctoral studies, making it a prime destination for ambitious Indian students. However, admission to PhD programs in the USA can be quite competitive. Indian students must meet all the eligibility requirements as set by the university’s admission panel.
As far as PhD in the USA for Indian students’ cost is concerned, tuition waivers are granted to most of them, and a stipend is disbursed during the entire duration of the course.
Varies by university and program; generally between $20,000 and $60,000 per year
Duration
4-6 years
Research Areas
Sciences, Engineering, Humanities, Social Sciences, Business, Education, and more
Average Fees
$35,000 per year
Future Job Roles
Academic positions (professor, researcher), industry roles (scientist, consultant), etc.
Eligibility Criteria
Master's degree, GRE scores (varies), letters of recommendation, statement of purpose, resume/CV, language proficiency test scores (for international students)
Exams Required
GRE, GMAT, IELTS or TOEFL
Why study PhD in USA
Here are the main reasons why a PhD in the USA for Indian students is beneficial:
●Scholarship and financial aids: PhD students in the USA can apply for financial grants with guaranteed fee waivers. Not only this but the meritorious PhD students can also qualify to receive a fixed stipend during the course.
●World-class universities: A PhD program from a globally ranked university in the USA has its perks. The prestigious universities in the USA are known for innovation, research, academic excellence, and a plethora of post-study opportunities. The globally recognized universities like Stanford University, Harvard University, and Massachusetts Institute of Technology offer fully-funded PhD programs.
●Research and innovation: In terms of research and innovation, the USA is the world leader. The USA’s PhD curriculum and research facilities produce some of the most known research professionals every year.
●Student life: The country has an open, multicultural environment that benefits international students. In the USA, the education system is very flexible. The universities allow students to participate in various extracurricular activities actively.
●Career opportunities: Upon finishing the research degree, one can explore varied career opportunities such as positions in academia, adviser to policymakers, business consultant, entrepreneurs, or anything they may want.
How much does it cost to do PhD in USA
The cost of studying for a PhD in the USA for an Indian student can range between $28,000 to $40,000 (INR 20,97,999 – INR 29,97,142) per year. However, a big portion of the tuition fee may be waived off for deserving students.
The fee structure for private and public sector universities varies, with the latter being almost free. PhDs can be funded either by national research councils or by universities themselves.
On the other hand, private universities can be more expensive unless applicants qualify for a scholarship or funding opportunity.
Public institution fees: Public universities grant up to 100% funding options to deserving students. Some of the top public universities like Stanford University and Harvard University offer complete funding to PhD students. The funding is done for the first five years of the PhD program, after which the students need to search for external funding sources if they haven’t been able to complete the course.
Private institution fees: The average fees charged by private institutions ranges between $28,000 – $40,000 (INR 20,97,999 – INR 29,97,142) per year for a PhD program in the USA. The private universities do have funding options, but only for meritorious students. Private universities do not offer 100% funding for PhD programs.
How To Select The Right PhD Colleges In The USA?
Selecting the right PhD college in the USA is a critical decision that can significantly impact your academic and professional future. Here are some key factors to consider:
1. Program Reputation
Ranking and Accreditation: Look at national and international rankings to gauge the program's reputation. Ensure the program is accredited by recognized bodies.
Faculty Expertise: Research the faculty members to see if their research interests align with yours. Consider their publication records, industry connections, and mentorship experience.
2. Research Facilities
Laboratories and Equipment: Check the availability of state-of-the-art laboratories, research centers, and equipment relevant to your field.
Library and Resources: Evaluate the library facilities and access to academic journals, databases, and other research resources.
3. Funding Opportunities
Scholarships and Fellowships: Investigate the availability of fully-funded programs, scholarships, and fellowships. Some universities offer full funding that covers tuition, living expenses, and research costs.
Assistantships: Look for teaching assistantships (TA) or research assistantships (RA) that provide financial support and valuable experience.
Various PhD programs in STEM, social sciences, management and humanities fields.
University of Pennsylvania
11
Various PhD programs
Eligibility for PhD in the USA for Indian students
A good academic record: The minimum academic qualification for PhD programs in the USA is a full-time master’s degree. Applicants need to have exceptional academic grades in undergraduate and postgraduate courses. The requirement of marks will vary from one university to another, depending upon the rank and specialization.
Work experience: Academic projects, internships, and training records are important for PhD aspirants. Applicants with industry exposure and work experience are usually given preference. You will need to show your work experience certificates during admission.
Documents: As per the USA government, every student applying for PhD in the country needs to present original documents. The list includes transcripts, application form, fee payment slip, letter of recommendation, visa, passport, internship documents, statement of purpose, and a detailed curriculum vitae.
English language proficiency test: To get admission into PhD courses, the American education system and immigration services need a valid English language proficiency test score. The non-native English-speaking students need to take an IELTS or TOEFL examination to prove their English language skills.
Statement of Purpose: A Statement of purpose (SOP) is an important document required by the admissions committee to filter applicants. It reflects the purpose and goals of a PhD student in a unique manner. There are chances that many students may have the same degrees and scores, but the SOP will be unique for all.
Letter of Recommendation: Letter of recommendation (LOR) is an independent assessment of the applicant’s potential. Universities require a minimum of two letters of recommendation.
Standardized test scores: Apart from the English language proficiency test, applicants need to take other standardized entrance examinations for PhD programs. GRE or GMAT scores are important to pursue PhD programs in the USA.
Admission Process
The admission process for a PhD in the USA generally includes the following steps:
Research Programs and Universities: Identify programs that align with your research interests and career goals.
Prepare Application Materials: Gather transcripts, GRE scores, letters of recommendation, statement of purpose, resume/CV, and language proficiency test scores. Many programs may require a sample research summary or a portfolio.
Submit Applications: Apply through the university's graduate admissions portal.
Interviews: Some programs may require an interview as part of the selection process.
Admission Decision: Wait for the admission decision and respond to offers.
PhD in USA: University Requirements
University
Grade/GPA
IELTS Score
TOEFL Score
Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT)
Minimum 3.5/4.0
7
577 PBT/ 90 IBT
Stanford University
Minimum 3.6/4.0
Not accepted
600 PBT/ 100 IBT
Harvard University
Minimum 3.5/4.0
7.5
100 IBT
California Institute of Technology (Caltech)
Minimum 3.5/4.0
7
100 IBT
University of Pennsylvania
Minimum 3.5/4.0
7.5
100 IBT
Career Opportunities after PhD in USA:
A PhD opens doors to a diverse range of career paths, both within and outside academia. Here's a breakdown of potential career opportunities:
Academia:
Professor/Lecturer: Teaching and research at universities and colleges.
Postdoctoral Researcher: Continue research and gain further experience in a specialized field.
Research Scientist: Conduct research in government or private research institutions.
Industry:
Research and Development: Work in R&D departments of corporations, focusing on innovation and product development.
Data Scientist: Utilize analytical skills to extract insights from large datasets.
Consultant: Offer expert advice to businesses or organizations in your field.
Policy Analyst: Develop and analyze public policies based on research findings.
Entrepreneur: Start your own business based on your research or expertise.
Research Areas for PhD in USA
PhD programs in the USA offer a wide range of research areas, including but not limited to:
Women pursuing full-time graduate or postdoctoral study in the U.S.
$20,000 to $50,000
Joint Japan/World Bank Graduate Scholarship Program
The World Bank
Students from developing countries
Tuition, travel, and living expenses
Hubert H. Humphrey Fellowship Program
U.S. Department of State
Professionals from designated countries in Africa, Asia, Latin America, the Caribbean, the Middle East, and Eurasia
Full financial support for one academic year
Rotary Foundation Global Grant Scholarships
Rotary International
Graduate-level coursework or research for one to four academic years
Minimum $30,000
PhD in USA: Return on Investment
University
Total Tuition Fee (USD)
Average Graduate Salary (USD)
Harvard University
$55,656 per year
$84,918
Stanford University
$55,905 per year
$80,000
Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT)
$53,790 per year
$126,841
University of California, Berkeley
$16,847 per year (in-state), $31,949 per year (out-of-state)
$78,000
University of Chicago
$89,600 per year
$90,000
*Salaries as per Glassdoor
Conclusion
Pursuing a PhD in the USA offers numerous benefits, including access to world-class research facilities, diverse academic environments, and substantial financial rewards post-graduation. However, it also comes with significant costs, both in terms of tuition fees and the time commitment required.
Careful consideration of scholarships and financial aid options can help mitigate these costs and enhance the return on investment.
How many years does it take for a PhD degree in the USA?
A PhD degree in the USA typically takes around 5 years to complete, depending on the field of study and the individual's pace of research.
Can I work while doing a PhD in the USA?
Yes, many PhD students in the USA work as teaching assistants or research assistants, which can provide valuable experience and financial support. However, international students must adhere to the work restrictions set by their visa conditions.
Can I get a green card if I do a PhD in the USA?
While obtaining a PhD alone does not guarantee a green card, it can enhance your eligibility for employment-based immigration options, such as the EB-1 or EB-2 visa categories, especially if you have exceptional academic achievements.
Is post-graduation necessary for pursuing PhD in the USA?
Yes, most PhD programs in the USA require applicants to have completed a bachelor's degree. While some programs accept applicants with only an undergraduate degree, having a master's degree can strengthen your application.
What are the visa requirements for Indian students pursuing a PhD in the USA?
Indian students need an F-1 student visa to pursue a PhD in the USA. The process involves obtaining an admission offer from a U.S. institution, paying the SEVIS fee, completing the DS-160 form, and attending a visa interview at the U.S. embassy or consulate.
What is the difference between a PhD and other doctoral degrees like a DBA or EdD?
A PhD (Doctor of Philosophy) focuses on original research and is typically pursued by those aiming for academic or research-oriented careers. A DBA (Doctor of Business Administration) is geared towards practical business solutions and leadership roles. An EdD (Doctor of Education) focuses on applying research to educational practices and policies.
She is an experienced writer and journalist who has extensively covered the education sector in India and Abroad. Now helping Indian aspirants realise their foreign education dream by providing them with relevant content and information through upGrad Abroad. Amateur traveller, loves to read Architectural Digest!
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