GITNUX MARKETDATA REPORT 2024

Phd Program Application Statistics

A competitive Ph.D. program can receive hundreds of applications each year, with an acceptance rate typically ranging from 5% to 15%.

Last Updated: June 20, 2024

Written & Summarized by: Jannik Lindner

How we write

In this post, we will explore a comprehensive set of statistics related to Ph.D. program applications and outcomes. From acceptance rates and field distributions to completion rates and demographics, these figures provide valuable insights into the landscape of doctoral education. Whether you’re considering applying for a Ph.D. program or simply curious about the realities of pursuing a doctoral degree, these statistics offer a clearer picture of what to expect in the competitive world of academia.

Statistic 1

"Approximately 50% of all successful PhD applicants have been out of school for one year or more."

Statistic 2

"The estimated acceptance rate for a Ph.D. program average is as low as 15%."

Statistic 3

"Women represent 57% of all the advanced degree applicants."

Statistic 4

"The applications to social sciences were the highest with a percentage of 28%."

Statistic 5

"During the 2019-2020 academic year, PhD programs received over 2.2 million applications."

Statistic 6

"27% of doctoral degrees were awarded in the field of Engineering and Computer Science."

Statistic 7

"Approximately 40% of PhD candidates never complete their dissertation, and therefore never obtain their PhD."

Statistic 8

"Around 45% of applicants for STEM fields are women."

Statistic 9

"60% of public universities report a decline in international applications to their doctoral programs."

Statistic 10

"Only 50% of applicants who are accepted into a PhD program actually enroll."

Statistic 11

"In 2020, about 20% of graduate degree programs in the US did not require the GRE for admission."

Statistic 12

"Only 56.6% of PhD students complete their program within ten years."

Statistic 13

"Around 50% of PhD students in the US study part-time."

Statistic 14

"The average age of a PhD candidate in the US is 33.7 years."

Statistic 15

"Average monthly stipend for Ph.D. students is $2,500–$3,000."

Statistic 16

"The average length of time it takes to finish a PhD program is 8.2 years."

Statistic 17

"Only 3% of the adult population in the US holds a doctoral degree."

The statistics related to PhD program applications and outcomes reveal a complex landscape with various trends and challenges. From the high number of applications received to the low acceptance rates and completion rates, it is evident that pursuing a doctoral degree requires persistence and resilience. The representation of women in advanced degree programs is encouraging, but disparities in fields like STEM and international applications indicate areas for improvement. The average age and completion time for PhD candidates highlight the long-term commitment involved in obtaining a doctoral degree. Overall, these statistics underscore the rigorous nature of PhD programs and the need for ongoing support and reform to ensure the success of candidates.

Jannik Lindner

Jannik is the Co-Founder of Gitnux and has been working in the digital space since 2016. He is specialized in content and tech.

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