How To Find Fully Funded PhD Programs

Pursuing a PhD is a significant investment in your academic and professional career, but the cost of tuition and living expenses can be a daunting hurdle. However, what if you could earn your degree without breaking the bank?

Fully funded PhD programs offer a golden opportunity to pursue your research interests without the financial burden, allowing you to focus on your academic goals without worrying about the cost. But, how do you find these elusive programs?

In this article, we’ll demystify the process of finding fully funded PhD programs, providing you with practical tips, resources, and strategies to increase your chances of securing funding for your graduate studies.

Whether you’re a domestic or international student, this guide will help you navigate the complex landscape of PhD funding and achieve your academic dreams without financial stress.

Step 1: Research Universities and Departments

• Start by researching universities and departments in your field of interest
• Look for universities with a strong reputation and research focus
• Check departmental websites for information on funding opportunities

Step 2: Check University Websites and Funding Pages

• Visit university websites and search for “fully funded PhD programs” or “graduate funding”
• Look for funding pages or sections on financial aid
• Check for deadlines and eligibility criteria

Step 3: Utilize Online Resources and Databases

• Use online resources like ProFellow, GradFund, or PhDs.org to search for fully funded PhD programs
• Filter by field of study, location, and funding type
• Sign up for newsletters and follow social media accounts for updates

Step 4: Network with Current Students and Faculty

• Reach out to current students and faculty in your desired department
• Ask about funding opportunities and application tips
• Attend graduate fairs and recruitment events

Step 5: Consider Teaching Assistantships and Research Assistantships

• Many universities offer teaching assistantships (TAs) or research assistantships (RAs) to PhD students
• These positions provide a stipend and sometimes tuition remission
• Check departmental websites or contact faculty members for information

Step 6: Look for External Funding Opportunities

• National Science Foundation (NSF) Graduate Research Fellowship Program
• Ford Foundation Fellowships
• American Association of University Women (AAUW) Fellowships
• Check with professional associations in your field for funding opportunities

Popular Fully Funded PhD Programs

• Stanford University
• Harvard University
• University of California, Berkeley
• University of Michigan
• Carnegie Mellon University
• Ph.D. in anthropology at the University of Chicago: Funding for up to eight years of study, including a full-tuition scholarship, health insurance, and a living stipend.
• Ph.D. in biological sciences in public health at Harvard University: Tuition, a stipend, and health insurance for five years, as long as the student maintains satisfactory academic progress.
• Ph.D. in business at Massachusetts Institute of Technology: Full-tuition scholarship, a monthly stipend of $4,267, capped at $51,204, medical insurance, new laptops at the beginning of the first and fourth years of study, and $4,500 over five years for conference travel expenses.
• Ph.D. in business at Rice University: Full financial assistance upon admission to the Ph.D. program, including a tuition waiver and a $40,000 annual stipend.
• Ph.D. in business at the University of Iowa: Full funding, including tuition and fees, a minimum nine-month stipend of about $20,000 with annual adjustments, and comprehensive health insurance covered at 90%.
• Ph.D. in chemical engineering at Cornell University: Full tuition waiver, health insurance, and a stipend, which can come from a teaching assistantship, research assistantship, or fellowship.
• Ph.D. in clinical psychology at Columbia University: Fully funded tuition and a $25,000 stipend annually for three years, with the stipend also carrying into a student’s fourth year.
• Ph.D. in computer science at Brown University: Full financial support while completing the degree, plus the option to take classes at nearby schools without incurring additional costs.
• Ph.D. in computer science at Georgetown University: Scholarships and assistantships that cover full tuition, a stipend, and health insurance for the first five years.
• Ph.D. in computer science at Washington University in St. Louis: Full tuition support and health insurance, a generous stipend to cover living expenses, and a new, high-end Apple laptop computer.
• Ph.D. in counseling psychology at the University of Wisconsin—Madison: Full funding for the duration of the time that they are expected on campus, including a benefits package that includes health insurance.
• Ph.D. in economics at Emory University: Full funding, including a stipend of $36,376 per year for five years and a full tuition scholarship worth $70,200 per year.
• Ph.D. in education at New York University: Full-time NYU Steinhardt Ph.D. students are eligible for a funding package that includes an annual stipend, tuition coverage for required coursework, and student health insurance for five years.
• Ph.D. in education at Stanford University: A five-year funding guarantee that provides tuition aid, fellowship stipend, and assistantship salary, and covers the standard cost of attendance.
• Ph.D. in education at the University of Pennsylvania: Full funding to Ph.D. students as part of a fellowship and research apprenticeship package, including a living stipend, health insurance, and coverage of tuition and fees for up to four years.
• Ph.D. in engineering at the University of Michigan—Ann Arbor: All engineering doctoral students are guaranteed full funding, a monthly living stipend, and health insurance.

Conclusion

Finding fully funded PhD programs requires research, persistence, and creativity. By following these steps and exploring available resources, you can increase your chances of securing funding for your graduate studies.

Remember to start early, be proactive, and showcase your academic potential to stand out from the competition. Good luck on your academic and education journey!