Thread by @VnVrinda

When I started my PhD, I got a few enquiries on how to apply for an international PhD and generally about my experience.

Here's a small breakdown of the process according to my knowledge.

A 🧵

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I am happy that you're taking a step ahead in your career. With this, you're going to experience more diverse options in your life. Beginning with a PhD abroad, there is so much to start with. Firstly, your choice of research and research group that matches your interest.

Ideally, PhD positions are advertised but if you're interested in a particular research group then you should start writing a cold email to the PI.

Depending on whether they have funding, interested in your profile and space in their lab they will respond to you (also not everyone will respond- just keep that in mind).

Note: Your academic achievements and skills will also, be seen mainly for scholarships and fellowships.

So there are funded and non-funded PhDs, funded will technically fund your project but sometimes you are responsible for paying the international tuition fee difference [if you didn't get through the scholarship (also depends on the university)].

Also, there are internal and external scholarships available for international students and they will be mentioned in the application package or elsewhere. When you start shortlisting the university and researching them.

Keep in mind that, universities have an application fee starting from $75 up to $150 but some universities don’t have an application fee. So, remember if you're applying to quite a few universities then a good chunk of money needs to be invested in the application process.

That being said, for advertised funded PhD positions you can directly apply and your application will have the scholarship and financial aid applied to it.

Technically you don't have to apply separately but if it says only financial aid is available then remember you have to bear the international tuition fees. If you get a scholarship or a fellowship then technically it covers all the costs (sometimes except health insurance).

So, it all depends on where you're applying and which place and what the conditions are concerning the PhD process. You might consider sending cold emails to the PI(s) you are interested in working with and then discuss the possibility of getting things started.

Or you can go to the advertised PhD positions which are always available on various websites. Once you're selected and get the offer letter (this might take a few months) then starts the formalities like applying for a visa, accommodation and miscellaneous.

At first, the payment (your stipend) will take some time (again it will depend on the university) so get some funds ready for the initial months. At times, you will get paid enough to live comfortably or else you can always take up part-time jobs.

It might sound like a huge step because you will get out of your comfort zone and move to an international place but it will also be full of discoveries. Overall. I would say it's a lengthy process at times and figuring out yourself is sometimes challenging.

So when in doubt always ask but also remain independent because that will help you eventually.

Thank you for reading.