Top 6 Success Factors for PhD Applications
If you have decided to pursue a doctoral degree, it shows that you truly want to become an expert in your area of study. It also suggests that you are ready for dedicating years of your life in research and dive deep into your field of interest. Ph.D. programs have limited seats and they are highly selective over whom to admit. This is primarily because the university funds Ph.D. candidates and they want to make sure they are doing that for the cream of the crop.
To help you find your winning premise, I have written this article to make you understand the factors from a big picture standpoint. Being mindful of the points given below will help you play your cards right and grab the admit to a doctoral program -
1. Research Experience
It goes without saying that research experience holds immense importance for Ph.D. applications. However, you must give consideration to the fact that the other candidates will also have research experience. So what makes yours different from them? How can you differentiate yourself from the piles and piles of applications reaching the admissions committee?
The best way to do that is to share your vision for your research area in your statement of purpose and the potential problems that you foresee that require the attention of prominent researchers.
Is there any such problem that you have solved through your research experience?
Then you must narrate that story and explain the challenges you faced. It doesn't always have to be a success story! you only have to show that you are willing to solve real-world problems and work with the faculty in doing so.
2. Publications and Conferences
Was your research published in an international journal and did you present your work in a prestigious conference like INDICON? If your research received funding from government authorities or other significant bodies, that also boosts your application.
International research exposure is another factor that enhances your profile. If you traveled overseas to present your work at a conference, it's a real feather in your cap!
Having a paper published in a recognized journal and presenting them in conferences validates your research capabilities and adds extra points to your overall profile. In addition to that, you can showcase the awards and honors that you were conferred for research.
3. Statement Of Purpose (SOP)
As mentioned above, your statement of purpose should heavily focus on your research interests. Shed light on how you can build on your existing research experience by working with the faculty members.
You must lucidly explain what you want to achieve through the program you are applying for and how the university will help you achieve your goals.
The doctoral program is not the end-goal, it a step towards actualizing what you aim for. So, elaborate on what role does the university and the Ph.D. program play here.
You should also expound on what are the unique qualities that you have which will bring diversity to the graduate class you want to be a part of.
Must Read: How to write a winning Statement of Purpose?
4. Professor of Interest
You must be familiar with the faculty research and publications to identify the professor you want to work with. It is not a good idea to populate your Statement of Purpose with citations from several professors.
The most important part is to select one of the latest research works of your preferred professor and explaining how you can contribute to that.
Please do not choose a professor just because they are popular or you are attracted by their project's funding.
5. Letter of Recommendation (LOR)
For Ph.D. candidates, academic LORs hold tremendous significance especially if they come from a professor who has worked with them for over a year. LORs acquired from research advisors supervising candidates on research internships are also valuable.
Your recommender should provide insights into your research abilities and details of what they appreciate about your work.
Must Read: How to write a compelling Letter of Recommendation (LOR)?
6. Academics
Going for a doctoral degree calls for showing your dedication to academics because you will have to study for years on end once you enter the program.
Consequently, your GPA impacts your application considerably. Admitted candidates generally have a GPA of 3.5/4 ( or 8/10 on 10-point-scale).
A low GPA can be compensated with research experience and by providing a valid explanation in the SOP. Similarly, high scores in the standardized tests are also expected from the applicant and in case of poor performance, an explanation should be provided in the SOP.
The reputation of your undergraduate institution as well as the university where you pursued your master's from (if you have a master's degree) will also be taken into account.
A candidate's teaching experience is another factor that is considered by the admissions committee to admit them as a doctoral student. This is important for both research assistantships and teaching assistantships.
Ready to begin your application process? Wait, you must see this first!
