how much is a phd cost

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How To Pay For A Ph.D.

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Updated: Jan 25, 2024, 12:13pm

If your heart is set on earning a Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) degree, you’ll join an elite club. In the United States, only 4.9 million people—about 2% of adults—hold a Ph.D. or other doctoral degree.

A Ph.D. can lead to a significantly higher salary. According to The College Board, the median earnings for those with doctoral degrees was $120,700, 38% more than the median for those with master’s degrees.

However, earning a Ph.D. can be an expensive endeavor. To avoid racking up too much debt, learn how to pay for a doctorate with grants, scholarships and other sources of financial aid.

What Does a Ph.D. Cost?

If your goal is to earn a Ph.D., be prepared for a significant investment of both time and money. Depending on the type of university you choose and your program, a Ph.D. usually takes three to five years to complete. If you attend school part-time, it can take even longer.

According to the National Center for Education Statistics (NCES), tuition and fees cost, on average, $20,513 for the 2021-2022 academic year, so you’ll spend anywhere from $61,539 to $102,565 to complete a Ph.D. program. In addition, you’ll need to account for about $16,000 to $20,000 per year in added costs, such as room and board, supplies and other fees.

That total is on top of what you spent on a bachelor’s and master’s degree, so your education will likely cost well into the six figures. With such a high cost, it’s no surprise that many Ph.D. earners have substantial student loan balances.

7 Ways To Pay For a Ph.D.

Ph.D. costs can be significant, but a variety of financial aid opportunities can make the price tag more manageable. Paying for a Ph.D. is possible using the following options:

1. Fully Funded Ph.D. Programs

Fully funded Ph.D. programs typically cover the cost of tuition and fees, and they also provide a monthly stipend for living expenses and health insurance. Some examples of fully funded Ph.D. programs include:

• Boston University . Attendees of Boston University’s Charles River Campus can take advantage of a fully funded model. The program includes 100% tuition coverage, a health insurance credit and a living expense stipend. Depending on your program, the stipend ranges from $27,318 to $40,977 per year.
• Duke University . At Duke University, Ph.D. students are guaranteed five years of tuition and living stipends and up to six years of full health and dental insurance coverage. The amount of financial support varies by program and stipend amounts range from $2,538 to $3,217 per month.
• Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) Sloan School of Management . MIT’s fully funded Ph.D. program covers students for up to five years. The program pays for the full cost of tuition and provides students with a monthly stipend of $4,497, student medical insurance and a new laptop. Students also receive up to $4,500 for travel and conferences.

Not all universities offer fully funded Ph.D. programs, and existing programs are highly competitive. For example, the Stanford University Department of Political Science Ph.D. program selects 12 to 15 students per year.

2. Ph.D. Fellowship Programs

A fellowship program provides students with financial support so they can focus on their academic work. Issued based on the student’s academic merit or research achievements, fellowships may or may not have a service requirement attached.

Fellowships can come from universities, nonprofit organizations or government agencies. For example:

• American Psychological Association (APA) Doctoral Fellowship in Health and Substance Abuse Services . The APA fellowship is for full-time doctoral students who are committed to working in behavioral health. It provides up to three years of financial support, and the stipend amounts vary by year and program.
• Cornell Fellowship . Cornell University operates several fellowship programs. The Cornell Fellowship pays for one academic year of tuition, fees, health insurance and a stipend.
• U.S. National Science Foundation (NSF) Graduate Research Fellowship Program . The NSF Graduate Research Fellowship Program is a five-year fellowship that gives students three years of financial support. The fellowship includes an annual stipend of $37,000 and pays up to $16,000 per year in tuition and fees.

You can search for fellowship opportunities through the ProFellow database .

3. Doctoral Scholarships

Scholarships are available to Ph.D. students, and these merit-based awards can come from nonprofit organizations, private companies, states and government agencies. The award amounts vary, ranging from smaller awards that may only cover incidental expenses to more substantial awards of $20,000. For example:

• Accounting Doctoral Scholars Program . Certified public accountants (CPAs) intending to earn a Ph.D. in accounting can qualify for up to $20,000 through the Accounting Doctoral Scholars Program.
• American Library Association (ALA) Century Scholarship . The ALA Century Scholarship gives up to $2,500 to library school students with disabilities pursuing a doctoral degree.
• Washington State American Indian Endowed Scholarship . In Washington, Native American students can receive $500 to $2,500 to pay for their education at an eligible school within the state.

You can search for additional scholarship opportunities with tools like FastWeb or Scholarships.com .

4. Ph.D. Grants

Unlike scholarships, grants are usually awarded based on the student’s financial need. Ph.D. grants can be issued by states and nonprofit organizations. For example:

• José Martí Scholarship Challenge Grant Fund . This grant, issued to Hispanic students in Florida, is both need-based and merit-based. Eligible recipients can receive up to $2,000 per year.
• Organization For Autism Research Graduate Research Grant . Doctoral candidates conducting autism research can qualify for a grant of $2,000.
• Virginia Tuition Assistance Grant Program . Virginia residents attending an eligible university can receive between $5,000 and $12,500 per year in financial assistance.

You can find Ph.D. grant opportunities through your state education agency or CareerOneStop .

5. Employer Reimbursement

If you’re currently working full- or part-time, your employer may be willing to help with some of your education expenses. According to the Society for Human Resource Management, 48% of employers offer tuition assistance or reimbursement benefits.

Contact your human resources department to find out if tuition reimbursement is available and what you need to do to qualify for the benefit.

6. Federal Student Loans

Depending on the other financial aid you qualify for, you may need to borrow some money to cover your remaining expenses. Federal student loans are a good starting point since they have more borrower protections than other options, and you may qualify for loan forgiveness later on based on your employment.

Ph.D. students may qualify for either direct unsubsidized loans or grad PLUS loans. Unsubsidized loans have lower interest rates but have annual and aggregate borrowing maximums that your program may exceed. If that’s the case, you can use grad PLUS loans to pay for your remaining expenses.

To apply for federal loans, fill out the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) and contact your university’s financial aid department.

7. Private Student Loans

If you aren’t eligible for federal loans or need to borrow more than the federal limits allow, private student loans are another way to pay for your Ph.D. Private loans come from banks, credit unions and other lenders, and your loan eligibility is based on your credit, income and whether you have a co-signer (someone who agrees to repay the loan if you miss payments).

If you have excellent credit, you could qualify for private loans with lower rates than you’d get with federal loans, and private student loans can have terms as long as 20 years.

If you decide to take out a private loan, compare quotes from several lenders offering loans for Ph.D. programs. Consider the rates, terms and overall repayment costs to find the best loan option.

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Do PhD Students Pay Tuition? Unpacking the Cost of a PhD

Choosing to pursue a PhD is a major milestone, but it comes with a host of concerns and questions. As a prospective doctoral student, you might wonder if you pay tuition for a PhD and how much that will cost.

In many cases, the answer is no, PhD students do not pay tuition. Instead, universities often provide their doctoral students with tuition waivers and funding packages to carry them through their years of study. 

However, it's important to bear in mind that this isn't always the case and the specifics can vary greatly. Navigating PhD funding can seem daunting at first, but understanding how tuition, stipends and other sources affect the out-of-pocket cost of a PhD can help you feel more confident in your decision.

How Much Does a PhD Cost?

Contrary to popular belief, the costs of a PhD program aren't set in stone. Factors like the institution, geographic location, field of study and funding support all play a role in how much you’ll actually pay for a doctoral program. Depending on your field, some PhD programs pay you . 

To give you a clearer picture, let's break down expenses and potential support.

Tuition and Fees

Tuition and fees are typically the most substantial expense. How much you pay depends on the institution offering the program and the field of study you choose. According to the Education Data Initiative , the average cost of a PhD specifically is $106,860, while the average cost of a doctorate degree in general is higher at $150,835.

You can expect a lower cost at public institutions ($93,670 on average) compared to private universities ($129,395 on average). Considering the time to complete a doctorate degree ranges from approximately 4 to 8 years, the duration of your studies can influence the total price.

While figures like this seem substantial, it's important to remember that scholarships, grants, fellowships and assistantships significantly reduce the out-of-pocket expenses for most PhD students. For instance, the average grant aid for a doctoral degree is $16,502 annually, and 21.4% of PhD students surveyed by the Education Data Initiative offset their costs with teaching assistantships. 

As a result, actual paid expenses are often much lower than the listed tuition and fees.

Books and Materials

The cost of study materials, including textbooks and research supplies, varies depending on the specific requirements of your field of study.

For example, PhD students in Earth Sciences or Chemistry might need to invest in lab equipment and materials, while students in Humanities may require numerous books and subscriptions to academic journals.

However, it's essential to note that many programs provide funding resources that help offset or eliminate these costs. Universities often offer subsidies or funds for research materials, and there are numerous grants and scholarships specific to different fields of study. Libraries and interlibrary loan systems can also be a valuable resource for accessing required books and academic journals.

Healthcare and Living 

Cost of living and healthcare can vary greatly depending on your circumstances and location. Major cities, for example, tend to have higher living costs than smaller towns or rural areas. 

The higher expenses in cities often correlate with increased access to resources, research opportunities and a wide variety of entertainment and lifestyle choices. On the other hand, smaller towns or rural areas might offer lower cost of living and fewer distractions but may limit access to extensive resources or opportunities.

Luckily, many universities offer annual stipends as part of their financial aid packages for PhD students. These stipends are designed to help you manage your living and healthcare expenses, allowing you to concentrate on your studies and research. Some universities may also provide budget-friendly on-campus housing options to help mitigate overall costs. 

Navigating the Financial Landscape of a PhD

The path to earning a PhD isn't just an academic journey, but a financial one too. While it's true that in many cases, PhD students don't pay tuition, it's crucial to understand that it’s ultimately variable depending on where and what you choose to study. Financial aid packages and stipends can be a substantial help, providing relief to both domestic and international students.

At the Moody School of Graduate and Advanced Studies, we pride ourselves in providing an environment that fosters academic excellence, research innovation and professional development. With the generous support of the Moody Foundation, we have expanded our funding opportunities, enabling a diverse range of talented students to become part of our community.

Our suite of financial resources, including fellowships, assistantships, and travel grants, aim to facilitate interdisciplinary collaborations and reduce financial barriers. By helping our students focus on their academic and research pursuits, we build a vibrant, diverse, and inclusive environment that sets the stage for future leaders to thrive.

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How Much Does a PhD Cost?

How much does a PhD cost? Before you enroll in a doctoral program, you may have this pressing question on your mind.

The price of earning your PhD can vary greatly from one school to another, so it can help to pay close attention to the average costs at different institutions.

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Once you have a better idea of the cost of earning this degree, you can make a plan for your doctoral studies and work toward achieving your goals.

According to the National Center for Education Statistics, the average doctoral student earning a research degree pays $16,526 in tuition per year. [1]

Plus, on average, there’s an additional $16,320 in non-tuition fees and expenses each year. That makes the average annual cost of a PhD $32,846. [1] It’s common to spend 3 to 5 years or more in a PhD program. That can seem like a staggering amount of money at first. You may be relieved to know, though, that you might not have to pay the entire amount yourself.

Many PhD candidates receive a good deal of support to help with their studies. PhD students fund their educations in a variety of ways, including:

• Fellowships
• Program-based funding

Program-based funding may include a stipend, a tuition waiver, and even benefits like health insurance. Fully funded online PhD programs are available, and in these programs, students are not responsible for covering any of the expenses associated with their doctoral education. It’s not always necessary to go into debt to pursue doctoral studies. Many students graduate from PhD programs without having incurred any debt.

One of the biggest assets that can help you graduate debt-free is an assistantship opportunity. You may be able to secure a role as a teaching or research assistant. In exchange for your work, you might receive a tuition waiver, a stipend, and other benefits.

Both the tuition at your school and the stipend you may receive will vary depending on where you enroll. To learn more about Ivy League costs, you can review the following table.

• Brown University: Tuition , stipends
• Columbia University: Tuition , stipends
• Cornell University: Tuition , stipends
• Dartmouth College: Tuition , stipends
• Harvard University: Tuition , stipends ( Engineering & Biological Sciences )
• Princeton University: Tuition, stipends
• University of Pennsylvania: Tuition , stipends
• Yale University: Tuition , stipends

This chart will give you an idea of typical PhD expenses at some of the top public universities.

• University of Arizona: Tuition , stipends
• Florida International University: Tuition , stipends ( Business & Bridge to the Doctorate Fellowship Program )
• Georgia State University: Tuition , stipends
• Ohio State: Tuition , stipends
• Texas A&M: Tuition , stipends ( Chemistry & Chemical Engineering )
• University of Central Florida: Tuition , stipends
• University of Florida: Tuition , stipends ( Engineering & English )
• University of Illinois: Tuition , stipends ( Math & Communication )
• University of Minnesota: Tuition , stipends ( Management & Public Health )
• University of Texas: Tuition , stipends ( Computer Science & Biology )

These rates reflect general tuition and stipends at the above schools, but the rates may vary somewhat depending on your program and the terms of your assistantship.

For example, you’re likely to earn more for a half-time assistantship than for a quarter-time one, and you’re likely to earn more for a 12-month assignment than for a 9-month one.

Factors That Affect the Average Cost of a Doctorate Degree

Many different elements will play into the overall price of earning your degree. One major factor is the type of school you attend. The following figures are based on data from the Urban Institute. [4]

Choice of School

• Private for-profit : $13,520 average annual tuition
• Private nonprofit : $25,160 average annual tuition
• Public in-state : $11,000 average annual tuition
• Public out-of-state : $22,590 average annual tuition

How long it takes to earn your degree can make a difference as well. The National Science Foundation offers data on how long PhD students in various fields are often in school. [5]

Program Length by Field of Study

• Education : 5.7 years
• Engineering : 5.3 years
• Humanities and arts : 6.8 years
• Life sciences : 5.5 years
• Mathematics and computer sciences : 5.7 years
• Physical sciences : 5.6 years
• Psychology and social sciences : 6.0 years

Online studies may change your costs. The tuition is often similar, but on-campus residency can be more expensive than living at home. Consider, for example, the graduate housing costs at the University of Miami. [6]

Online vs. On-Campus Housing Costs

• Living on-campus : $24,120 annually
• Living with a relative : $8,664 annually

On the other hand, teaching and research assistantships are less common for online PhD programs than on-campus ones. Even with housing costs, you may, then, spend less for on-campus studies.

Professional Doctorate Degree Cost

A PhD is not the only type of doctorate. There are also professional doctorates available, such as a Doctor of Podiatry (DPM) or a Doctor of Medicine (MD).

The following data from the National Center for Education Statistics provides an overview of the average doctoral degree cost annually. [1]

• Books and materials : $1,196
• Non-tuition costs and fees : $23,745
• Tuition : $34,910

In general, professional practice doctorates are more expensive than PhDs. According to the Urban Institute, 30% of professional practice doctoral programs have published annual tuition rates of more than $30,000. [2] Only 22% of PhD programs fall into that price category.

It’s also worth noting that doctoral students in professional programs are less likely to receive stipends, tuition waivers, and other benefits that often make school more affordable for PhD students.

Paying for a PhD

There are many ways to handle your PhD program cost. Perhaps you have the means to pay for your schooling on your own. If not, you may benefit from an assistantship, federal student aid, or the financial support of your workplace.

According to the National Science Foundation, the majority of students fund their PhDs through assistantships. [7] Further NSF data about primary funding sources is listed here.

Also, data from the National Center for Education Statistics shows that students earning research doctorates took out, on average, $20,500 in loans. [3]

Graduate students may be eligible for Direct Unsubsidized Loans and Federal Direct PLUS Loans.

Student Loan Debt of PhD Graduates

When it comes to the cost of a PhD, what you study can be as important as any of the other factors. As a general rule, people who get research doctoral degrees in education are much more likely to graduate with debt than other doctoral students.

The following data from the Urban Institute supports this idea. [8]

According to the National Center for Education Statistics, the average non-education PhD graduate had a loan balance of $98,800. [9] For those with degrees in education, the average balance was $111,900.

If you are interested in a degree in education, you may want to pay particular attention to the tuition costs and benefits available at the schools you’re considering.

Is a PhD Degree Worth It?

Yes, a PhD degree is worth it for many students. The Bureau of Labor Statistics states that unemployment rates are quite low among people with doctoral degrees. The overall American unemployment rate is 4.7%.

Among people with doctorates, the unemployment rate is only 1.5%. [10] Plus, a PhD can put you on the path toward a research role or a tenured career in academia. In addition, it is an impressive personal accomplishment.

If you’re considering pursuing a terminal degree, then you’ve probably been wondering, “How much is a PhD?” Now that you know, you can start your search for the accredited school that’s right for you.

[1] National Postsecondary Student Aid Study: 2016 Graduate Students (NPSAS:GR). US Department of Education. National Center for Education Statistics.

[2] Figure 3. Baum, Sandy and Patricia Steele. The Price of Graduate and Professional Schools: How Much Students Pay (PDF). Urban Institute. NCES, NPSAS 2012.

[3] Table A-8: Average amounts of selected types of financial aid received by graduate students. US Department of Education. National Center for Education Statistics.

[4] Appendix A. Baum, Sandy and Patricia Steele. The Price of Graduate and Professional School: How Much Students Pay (PDF). Urban Institute. NCES, NPSAS 2012.

[5] Table 31. Median years to doctorate, by major field of study: Selected years, 1994–2019. National Center for Science and Engineering Statistics, Survey of Earned Doctorates.

[6] 2023-2024 Estimated Graduate Cost of Attendance . University of Miami. Graduate Professional Financial Assistance.

[7] Table 35. Doctorate recipients’ primary source of financial support, by broad field of study, sex, citizenship status, ethnicity, and race: 2019. National Center for Science and Engineering Statistics, Survey of Earned Doctorates.

[8] Baum, Sandy and Patricia Steele. Graduate and Professional School Debt: How Much Students Borrow (PDF). Urban Institute. 2018.

[9] Trends in Student Loan Debt for Graduate School Completers (PDF). Spotlights. The Condition of Education 2018. National Center for Education Statistics.

[10] Earnings and unemployment rates by educational attainment, 2021 . Bureau of Labor Statistics.

• Tuition, Funding, & Living Costs
• PhD/Master's Application Process

All PhD students at Yale are fully funded. On average, doctoral students at Yale receive more than $500,000 in tuition fellowships, stipends, and health care benefits over the course of their enrollment. Some terminal Master's degree students also receive funding.

Tuition for full-time study at the Graduate School of Arts and Sciences in the academic year 2024-2025 is $49,500.

More information on Tuition & Fees is available in our Programs & Policies handbook. Please note that we do not charge many of the fees common to other schools (e.g., technology fee, library fee, gym fee, student activities fee).

See Student Accounts for billing and payment inquiries.

For PhD Degree Applicants

All PhD students at Yale receive the following financial award, typically for a minimum of five years:

• a fellowship that covers the full cost of tuition ($49,500 for 2024-2025)
• a 12-month stipend (minimum of $49,538 for 2024-2025)
• comprehensive health insurance, including hospitalization coverage and specialty care for students, their legal spouse, and their children
• a family support subsidy for graduate students with children under the age of 18

Additionally, a Dean's Emergency Fund is available to help students with eligible, unanticipated emergency expenses. In some cases, the Continuing Registration Fee for advanced PhD students is also covered by the Graduate School.

Most PhD students complete their degrees without incurring debt.

For Master's Degree Applicants

Most students pursuing Master's degrees do not receive financial support from the Graduate School and are responsible for paying tuition, but some programs offer limited funding. Please check with the program that interests you for more information.

All Master's students registered at least half time receive Student Basic Coverage at Yale Health. You are also eligible to purchase Hospitalization and Specialty Care coverage at a group rate through the university.

Other Sources of Funding

Many of our students win external fellowships and grants. See our External Fellowships & Awards page for more information on how an external award will affect your Yale funding.

Some students choose to take loans, participate in work-study programs, or engage in part-time employment to supplement their funding while in Graduate School. More information is available on Other Means of Financing Graduate Education .

Living Cost Estimates

To ensure that our financial aid package provides enough support to enable you to live in New Haven and study full time, we developed a cost-of-living guide (see below). The Office of Financial Aid also uses these calculations to determine financial need as required by certain funding sources and for immigration processes.

Estimated average living expenses include housing and food, transportation, personal and academic expenses (excluding tuition), and hospitalization coverage and specialty care. Expenses for doctoral students may actually be less than the estimate below, since PhD financial packages cover the full cost of single-student hospitalization and specialty care coverage in the Yale Health Plan, as well as half the cost of two-person coverage (for spouses and partners), and the full cost to cover children.

2023-2024 Academic Year Living Cost Estimate:

9-MONTH LIVING COST (Master's Students):

• Single Student: $29,778

12-MONTH LIVING COST (PhD Students):

• Single Student: $38,260  

Graduate Financial Aid

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How Much Does a PhD Cost?

Cece Gilmore is a Content Writer at Scholarships360. Cece earned her undergraduate degree in Journalism and Mass Communications from Arizona State University. While at ASU, she was the education editor as well as a published staff reporter at Downtown Devil. Cece was also the co-host of her own radio show on Blaze Radio ASU.

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Maria Geiger is Director of Content at Scholarships360. She is a former online educational technology instructor and adjunct writing instructor. In addition to education reform, Maria’s interests include viewpoint diversity, blended/flipped learning, digital communication, and integrating media/web tools into the curriculum to better facilitate student engagement. Maria earned both a B.A. and an M.A. in English Literature from Monmouth University, an M. Ed. in Education from Monmouth University, and a Virtual Online Teaching Certificate (VOLT) from the University of Pennsylvania.

Obtaining a PhD is a great way to open up your career options and fulfill personal goals. If you’re deciding whether to go back to your school for a doctorate degree, make sure to get a picture of what it will cost you beforehand so you can make an educated financial choice. In this article, we take a deep dive into how much a PhD costs, including non-tuition expenses and hidden costs. We also list the pros and cons of earning a PhD, as well as ways to fund your degree if it is the right choice for you. Let’s get started! 

What is a PhD? 

“PhD” is the abbreviated title for “Doctor of Philosophy.”  A PhD is an academic degree that qualifies the degree holder to teach at the university level or work in specialized positions in certain fields. PhDs generally focus on STEM research and teaching fields. 

Keep reading : Everything you need to know about a doctorate degree

How much does a PhD cost? 

It usually takes around eight years to earn a PhD at an average tuition cost of 81,000 . 

The true cost of a PhD is very dependent on the following factors: 

• Choice of school
• Field of study
• Type of PhD 
• Location of school
• Dollar amount of student loans

Also see: What is the average amount of graduate school debt?

Other costs associated with receiving a PhD

Living expenses .

In addition to the cost of tuition involved in earning a PhD, there are numerous outside factors that add to the total spent. These predominantly include living expenses such as housing, food, insurance, and transportation. The cost of these necessities will vary depending on the state, city of residence, and number of years it takes to earn a PhD. Therefore, it is important to consider all these factors when planning to earn a PhD. 

Hidden costs of a PhD

Besides just the monetary cost of a PhD, receiving this degree has some hidden costs that can affect whether a PhD is truly worth it. Let’s look at some of the most important hidden costs.

Receiving a PhD takes a long time! If you want to earn a PhD, it will take up to eight years to do so. 

Delayed opportunities

Because receiving a PhD takes time, this means there may be work and life opportunities and experiences you miss out on or have to delay.

Lost income

While focusing on earning a PhD, you will need to focus on your education rather than maintaining a steady flow of income from a job. You will most likely not be able to hold down a full-time job while completing your PhD schooling. 

The chance of not finishing

Unfortunately, it is quite common to start but not earn a PhD. There are a lot of factors that hinder students from receiving their PhD, including the following: 

• Realization they do not want a PhD
• Lack of ability to pay for a PhD
• Inability to maintain a school work balance

Ways to fund your PhD 

Luckily, prospective PhD candidates have numerous options to help them fund their education. Typically, PhD students turn to a variety of funding sources, including scholarships, grants, studentships, loans, and employer sponsorships. 

PhD Scholarships

There are a variety of scholarships out there intended for PhD students to help them on their academic journey. These funds can typically be used for tuition, books, and other educational expenses. Try checking out our very own Gutsy Graduate Scholarship to get started!

Grants are very similar to scholarships. They provide money for students for tuition and other academic expenses.

Studentships

A “studentship” is a name that is most often used for PhD scholarships. Studentships are an opportunity for PhD students to receive funding in order to ease financial pressures. Traditionally, studentships are awarded based on merit and achievement. 

Loans are a common way of funding PhD students. The US Department of Education offers Direct PLUS loans as well as Direct Unsubsidized Loans to graduate and professional students. 

Assistantships

Graduate assistantships are opportunities to earn money while taking on a position that allows you to make connections and obtain skills in your field. There are various types of assistantships such as teaching and research assistants. Depending on your institution and professor, your role may vary widely depending on what your professor is working on. So, it is important to do your research before accepting an assistantship to determine if it is the right role for you. An assistantship typically functions as a job where you serve a certain number of hours and will be paid for your labor. 

Fellowships

Fellowships can vary widely depending on the institution; however it is essentially funding granted to students to help lower the cost of education. A fellowship is typically a merit-based scholarship for advanced study of an academic subject and is granted to the top candidates in their class. Graduate fellowships typically will cover the cost of tuition as well as a stipend to be used to cover the cost of living which makes graduate studies affordable for academically-driven students. 

Further reading : Assistantships vs. fellowships: What’s the difference? 

Employer sponsorships

In some cases, you may be eligible to receive employer sponsored funding to earn a PhD. In order to do this, you will usually need to demonstrate to your employer that receiving a PhD will also benefit the company as a whole. 

Also see: Top graduate school scholarships

Is a PhD worth it? 

The answer depends on the individual student’s goals and financial situation. There are many pros and cons associated with receiving a PhD. We include a few of the most common reasons below. 

• Access to more prestigious and high-paying jobs
• Development of skills
• Networking opportunities 
• Can make significant contributions to your field of study 
• Financial costs/debt
• Isolating and lonely experience for some
• Stress associated with academic rigor
• Limited job openings after graduation 
• Loss of valuable job experience and opportunities
• Length of time to earn a PhD

Some questions to ask yourself before pursuing a PhD

• Why do I want a PhD? 
• Am I financially prepared to fund a PhD?
• What jobs will be available to me after receiving a PhD?
• Do I have the prerequisites and experience to move forward to a PhD program? 

Related: What is a research university?

Overall cost of PhD

In total, earning a PhD involves a considerable investment of time and money. It can also put you in touch with incredible peer support, mentors, and resources, and be incredibly rewarding and help you start down the path towards your dream career. Be sure you are confident in your decision before starting your PhD journey, and best of luck to you! 

Also see: Grad school financing options

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Dollars and Degrees: How Much Does a Doctorate Cost?

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For many, obtaining a doctorate can come with a hefty price tag. The cost of a doctoral degree can vary depending on the field of study, the institution, and whether the student is attending full-time or part-time.

In this article, we'll talk about some of the factors that contribute to the cost of a doctorate and provide an estimate of how much it may cost.

What's the Average Cost of a Doctoral Degree?

Pursuing a doctorate is a financial commitment and an investment in knowledge and faith. According to the Education Data Initiative , the cost of a doctorate depends on the institution and the state it's in, the field of study (type of degree), the length of the program, and whether or not financial assistance is available.

However, the average cost of a Ph.D. is estimated to be around $106,860.

At DBU, we are committed to providing affordable excellence. The average cost of our doctoral programs reflects our dedication to making transformative education accessible.

Please visit the Cashier's Cost of Attendance webpage  for the latest Cost of Attendance rates.

Travel and additional expenses can also add to the overall cost of obtaining a doctoral degree.

Is a Doctorate Different From a Ph.D.?

A "Ph.D." or Doctor of Philosophy is a specific type of doctoral degree. The term "doctorate" is a broader term encompassing various types of postgraduate degrees, such as Doctor of Education, Doctor of Business Administration, and Doctor of Medicine.

In other words, a Ph.D. is a type of doctoral degree, but not all doctorates are Ph.D.s. For example, a Doctor of Education (Ed.D.) is a degree focused on education, while a Doctor of Business Administration (D.B.A.) is focused on business.

How Long Does a Ph.D. Take to Complete?

On average, it takes approximately four to eight years to complete a Ph.D. program. The length of time it takes to complete a Ph.D. program can vary depending on several factors, including:

• Field of study: Some fields, such as the humanities and social sciences, tend to have longer Ph.D. programs than others, such as engineering and business.
• Individual circumstances: Some students may be able to complete their Ph.D. program more quickly than others due to their prior academic experience, research experience, and time commitment.
• Program requirements: Different Ph.D. programs may have different requirements for coursework, research, and teaching assistantships, which can affect the overall length of the program.
• Funding availability: Students who receive funding or financial assistance may be able to dedicate more time to their studies and complete their Ph.D. program more quickly.

Tips for Financing Your Doctorate Degree

If pursuing a doctorate seems out of reach financially, don't give up hope. Start by getting in touch with DBU's Financial Aid Office . Below are several ideas to help you finance your doctoral degree:

• Research and apply for scholarships and grants specifically designed for doctoral students. Check out databases like Fastweb for comprehensive lists. Additionally, specific to Christian higher education, the Fund for Theological Education offers fellowships for those pursuing advanced theological studies.
• Look for funding opportunities from organizations, foundations, and government agencies related to your field. For example, the Baptist General Convention of Texas (BGCT) offers scholarships to part- and full-time students enrolled in a master's or doctoral degree program leading to the practice of ministry in a vocational church-related setting. National Science Foundation provides funding for various STEM disciplines, while the Social Science Research Council supports social science research.
• Consider taking on part-time work or freelance opportunities. Platforms like Upwork and Freelancer offer various freelance opportunities. Additionally, while DBU does not do so, other universities often have research or teaching assistant positions that allow you to contribute to your field while earning income.
• Seek out employer tuition reimbursement programs. Many companies encourage employees to pursue advanced degrees by providing financial assistance.

The Bottom Line

Pursuing a doctorate is an investment in your future. With thoughtful planning and strategic exploration, you can overcome these financial hurdles. Your investment today isn't just in education; it's a seed planted for a future harvest — harvests of academic triumphs and spiritual growth.

As you navigate this path, remember the comforting words of Philippians 4:19 (ESV) : "And my God will supply every need of yours according to his riches in glory in Christ Jesus."

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How much does a phd cost, published by steve tippins on february 1, 2019 february 1, 2019.

Last Updated on: 6th June 2024, 01:36 am

Many people have dreams of getting a PhD and returning to the classroom to guide young students. Others want to complete a doctorate to embark on a career of cutting-edge research.

These are admirable reasons to embark on the road towards getting a PhD. However, it’s important to consider the cost of a PhD before embarking on this journey. How much does a PhD cost? And more importantly, is it worth the price?

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Average Cost of a PhD

The average time it takes to complete a PhD is just over 8 years. That’s right, 8 years. The average cost of a PhD program is $30,000 per year, which comes to a grand total of $240,000 over the course of eight years. Almost a quarter of a million dollars.

Of course, this is just the average cost of a PhD–chances are your specific program will cost either more or less, and you might not take as long to finish. Then again, you might take longer. So, these are just estimates. You may be able to come up with a more accurate estimate by looking at your specific program and field. But no matter the details, it is vital to consider how much money you’ll actually be spending and whether it’s worth the investment.

However, when considering the cost of a PhD, tuition is just the beginning. If you only look at the price tag without considering the hidden costs, you may be in for a rough few years. In order to fully answer the question, “How much does a PhD cost,” we have to look at some other factors as well.

The Hidden Cost of a PhD

There are more costs than just dollars and cents when pursuing anything, and a PhD is no exception. Here are some of the hidden costs to be aware of when considering the cost of a PhD.

Eight years is a long time. Even three years is a substantial time investment. Getting a doctoral degree means that you will be investing a great deal of time into this quest. Before you begin, remember that you can only be in one place at a time so you will inevitably miss out on other opportunities. What do you spend your time on now? Consider whether you’re willing to give that up for the most part for a few years.

Lost/Delayed Opportunities

If you go to graduate school full-time you most likely will not be able to hold down a full-time job. That means that your career will be put on hold. If you go to graduate school part-time you can still keep your job but the demands of graduate school may mean that you might miss potential promotions.

Missed time with family and friends

The demands of a graduate program are substantial. There are classes and then there is homework. It is not like in undergraduate school where you might have been able to dash off a homework assignment 15 minutes before class. In graduate school you are expected to provide thoughtful and considered submissions. This can take a great deal of time.

This time commitment may mean missing events with your family and friends . I have seen many cases where a graduate student attends a soccer game or dance recital with her/his laptop and works on an assignment through the entire event. They are there, but are they really present? Make sure that your family is on board with you getting your degree. Their support can be invaluable, but their lack of support could mean having to pay back debt for a degree you never finished, or worse yet, resentment from those you love the most.

Income you could have had

If you do give up a career, you will lose that income. If you maintain your career, you may miss out on promotions and larger raises. This means lower income while in school. Recognize that there is no guarantee you will make this income back once you finish your degree. Depending on your field of study, you may actually make less money as a professor than you could at a professional job outside academia.

Foregone future benefits

You may have a number of benefits at work. For example, a 401(k) with employer matching. If you are not working, you will lose both your contribution and any employer matches. If your income is diminished, your 401(k) contributions may be lower. This will not impact your current income but it may reduce your retirement income.

The cost of not finishing

While your intention will obviously be to complete the program and get hooded at the end of the journey, the reality for 50% of those beginning a doctorate don’t finish . If you end up among them, will you regret beginning the program? How will you repay the student loans?

Is It Worth It to Get a PhD? Benefits of a Doctorate Program

With all of those costs, there must be some reasons people go through the mental and financial hardship of getting a PhD. And of course there are. Here are a few.

Positive income

On the bright side, at many schools PhD students go to school tuition free (at this point, tuition waivers are not considered income for tax purposes) and get small stipends to teach and help do research. This benefit can offset many of the costs, but you will find that these stipends do not allow for a lavish lifestyle. Many people in this position take out loans to cover living expenses.

Non-monetary benefits

If your ultimate career includes a full-time faculty job, then one of the benefits is a flexible schedule. Rarely do teaching faculty have to comply to a strict 9 to 5 schedule. Additionally, they get time off when students get time off. A flexible schedule can allow you to be more present in other areas of life, such as with your family. As a professor, I took the summers to spend time with family and explore the world. We bicycled through Northern France one summer and traveled to the Galapagos Islands another. These are experiences that I’ll always cherish.

There are also non-monetary benefits relating to creating a life of meaning. If you feel a sense of purpose in your job, you’ll have a happier daily existence than if you toil away at something that feels pointless. Since people with more education often get more control over their careers, the doctorate may enable more opportunities to find or create meaningful work.

Your getting a PhD might also be meaningful to those who know and love you. Will it serve your family or community to get a doctorate? How might your personal sacrifices be worth the effort, once you have achieved this goal on behalf of those you care about?

How Much Does a PhD Cost? Final Thoughts

The dream of getting a PhD drives many to enroll before considering all of the costs. I urge you to consider all possible costs and benefits when considering a PhD program. If you decide to enroll in a PhD program, consider options that can help you finish your degree faster, saving you money in the long run.

Asking the question, “How much does a PhD Cost” should always be followed by a second question: “Why do I want to get a PhD?” It’s important to consider the amount of money you’d be spending and consider whether it’s worth the investment. What else could you do with a quarter million dollars? Start a business? Buy a home? Feed the hungry?

Your reasons for getting a PhD are where you’ll find the answer to whether it’s worth the cost. If you’re confident your research could contribute to advances in developing a cure for cancer and you want to contribute what you can no matter the cost, it may be worth spending the money to get a PhD. If you’re deeply passionate about a certain subject and feel it’s your life purpose to ignite the same passion in young minds, getting a PhD may be the perfect choice for you.

But if you’re doing it to get a promotion or a better job, you might be better off looking into other options. In these cases, a PhD may not be worth the cost.

Steve Tippins

Steve Tippins, PhD, has thrived in academia for over thirty years. He continues to love teaching in addition to coaching recent PhD graduates as well as students writing their dissertations. Learn more about his dissertation coaching and career coaching services. Book a Free Consultation with Steve Tippins

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Tuition and Costs

There are many factors to consider when choosing a graduate program and cost is certainly one of them. Learn more about HGSE's academic programs in addition to our tuition and cost of attendance.

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The following tuition and fee charges are in effect for the 2024-2025 academic year and are subject to change for future years. Tuition and fee charges for the 2025-2026 academic year are published in March 2025. Summary (PDF) of tuition and cost information for the current 2023-2024 academic year.

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For full details regarding Ph.D. Program costs, visit the Graduate School of Arts and Sciences (GSAS) Cost of Attendance .

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Tuition and fee costs are subject to change and are determined each year. Please be aware that future tuition costs, fees, and standard student budget amounts may differ from year to year. Updated figures will be published on this website and in future editions of the Financing Your Education guide , which is updated on a yearly basis. Information regarding health insurance fees, coverage, and waivers can be found on the Harvard University Student Health Program website . Online part-time Ed.M. students will not be automatically enrolled into the comprehensive student health insurance program. Information regarding billing and payment dates can be found through Harvard Student Accounts .

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Financing Your Education - Doctoral Programs

A doctoral degree is a significant investment in your future, and financing your education is a critical factor to consider. While the funding we provide covers the basic standard cost of attendance determined by Stanford University for a modest life as a graduate student, accepting an offer from a doctoral program has significant personal, professional, and financial implications. Below you’ll find information on GSE and Stanford financial support for doctoral students, as well as other important considerations when it comes to financing your PhD.

Funding guarantee

Stanford GSE offers all admitted PhD students a five-year funding package that provides tuition aid, fellowship stipend, and assistantship salary which covers the standard cost of attendance. The funding is based on meeting the basic financial need of the student alone for the first five academic years of the doctoral program and entails assistantship work. The cornerstone of the GSE doctoral experience is the apprenticeship that all students undertake, typically under the guidance of their academic advisor, but often with other Stanford faculty as well. In this apprenticeship model, doctoral students are provided with a funding package that consists of opportunities to serve as teaching and research assistants for faculty members' courses and research projects. By this means, and in combination with the coursework, students are prepared to excel as university faculty, education researchers, and leaders in the field.

All funding is contingent upon satisfactory academic progress and performance on the research and teaching assistantships. There is no separate application for this funding.

Assistantships

As part of the academic and professional training and development, students undertake assistantships which provide both salary and tuition. Research assistantships are funded by faculty research grants, other faculty funds or as needed, by the GSE Dean’s Office, and can lead to joint publications with faculty or to dissertation topics. Students who have sufficient expertise and experience may also be selected as teaching assistants for courses at the GSE or other Stanford schools and departments. Assistantships are typically secured in consultation with faculty advisors. Students work 10 hours (25% assistantship) or 20 hours (50% assistantship) a week depending on their year in the program. 

• Research assistantship (RA): Various duties for research projects
• Teaching assistantships (3 types):
• Course Assistant (CA)—course preparation and grading
• Teaching Assistant (TA)—leads regularly-scheduled discussion sections
• Teaching Affiliate (TF)—full responsibility for course

Funding Details 2023-2024

Note: The above figures reflect 2023-2024 rates. Actual amounts will be adjusted to the rates for 2024-25 and future years.

Cost of attendance

Tuition depends on the units taken by the student. In addition to tuition expenses, the cost of attendance of a PhD program involves living expenses such as rent, food, and transportation. The sum of tuition and non-tuition expenses constitutes the standard cost of attendance. 

As you consider applying to graduate school, you can use the standard cost of attendance of your program —plus any additional expenses you might have—to create your financial plan, keeping in mind that tuition and non-tuition expenses of the standard cost of attendance are set by the university on an annual basis.

What you can do now to prepare financially if admitted

• Prepare for how your standard of living may change as a graduate student, especially if you are coming from a full-time job.
• Consider the length of your program, any dependents, existing debt, and additional financial commitments you may have. Students with children may review Stanford support programs for families.
• If you have personal or special circumstances that require additional expenses above and beyond the standard cost of attendance, plan accordingly.
• Start saving as much as you are able to cover any unexpected expenses you may incur while in graduate school.
• Familiarize yourself with federal as well as private student loans, their interest rates, fees, repayment options, deferment policies, and eligibility requirements, so that you are informed if you need to borrow.
• Be ready to cover all initial expenses, since fellowships and stipends will not be disbursed until a few weeks into your first quarter. Onboarding into a PhD program often requires up front out of pocket expenses for relocation.

Additional GSE resources

Once PhD students matriculate, the GSE has a variety of resources available to support academic work and unanticipated needs.

Students are eligible for up to three travel fellowships during their time at GSE if they are attending a conference or other professional development opportunity.

GSE Student Emergency Fund assists graduate students who experience a financial emergency or unanticipated expenses causing financial hardship. This fund is meant to support those who cannot reasonably resolve their financial difficulty through fellowships, loans, or personal resources. 

GSE Dissertation Support Grants help advanced PhD students who require additional financial support for dissertation research activities. These grants, available at up to $6,500 total per student, are available to students who do not have access to other funds to cover their dissertation costs.

Stanford University resources

Knight-Hennessy Scholars (KHS) program aims to prepare the next generation of global leaders to address the increasingly complex challenges facing the world. The program selects up to 100 students each year and provides three years of financial support that is integrated into the GSE’s funding package for PhD students.

Vice Provost for Graduate Education awards various fellowships for doctoral students and maintains a list of other Stanford fellowships that students may consider.

Cardinal Care subsidy is an automatic university-wide subsidy program for graduate students. Vaden Health Center manages the university’s Cardinal Care student health insurance.

Stanford Financial Aid Office oversees a number of financial support programs specifically for graduate students with challenging financial situations. 

Additional hourly work is available to students who wish to work for pay as "casual labor" at Stanford up to eight hours a week, provided work does not adversely affect the academic program. Requires approval from the student’s advisor and the Academic Services team.

Other funding sources

External fellowships are integrated into the GSE’s funding package. There are many funding opportunities offered outside of Stanford. The GSE admissions team has compiled an external fellowships and grants document for you to explore, though you should plan to do your own research as well. International students can find additional sources of funding on the Institute of International Education’s (IIE) Funding for U.S. Study website and this publication .

Stanford is committed to providing benefits through the Yellow Ribbon Program of the Post-9/11 GI Bill® to students in degree-seeking programs. GSE students who qualify for Chapter 33 benefits at the 100% level may be eligible for additional funding through the Yellow Ribbon Program. Please note that for GSE students receiving tuition fellowship funding, the Yellow Ribbon match may reduce and in some cases replace institutional grants and scholarships. For instructions, visit the page, Activate VA Education Benefits at Stanford .

International students are guaranteed the same funding package as domestic students. However, there may be restrictions regarding the number of hours and opportunities to work during the summer months. To learn more, please contact the Bechtel International Center .

To meet immigration regulations, international students must show proof of adequate financial support to cover the length of time of their graduate program. While international students are not eligible for U.S. federal loan programs, they may qualify for private/alternative loans. Many lenders, however, require that a U.S. citizen or permanent resident co-sign the loan. You can find information and tools to help you choose private loan programs most frequently used by Stanford students here. A comprehensive list of private loan programs is available at FinAid.org .

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In addition to tuition and fees, Harvard Griffin GSAS students should budget for living expenses and other costs associated with their academic program. This page outlines what you need to know about tuition, health fees, and more.

Harvard Griffin GSAS students are required to register continuously from the time they enter the Graduate School until they receive their degree or, in the case of special students and visiting fellows, until they complete their program. Harvard Griffin GSAS charges tuition or enrollment fees based on student status. 

Master’s students are charged full tuition; some programs have different cost structures. Students in some master's programs may receive grants and fellowships that cover this cost. 

PhD students are charged tuition based on a tiered tuition structure that reduces over time as they progress through their degree program. Because circumstances vary from student to student, the chart below is only a guide to potential tuition charges. PhD students may receive grants to cover the cost of tuition and fees as noted in their individualized Notice of Financial Support received upon admission. 

Students are required to register continuously from the time they enter a degree program until they receive their degree. 

Master’s and PhD Student Tuition Fee 2024–2025

Note: Subject to annual increases

SEAS Computational Science and Engineering (CSE) and Data Science Master’s Programs

The  SEAS Computational Science and Engineering  (CSE) and Data Science master’s programs have different tuition structures than other degree programs in the Graduate School of Arts and Sciences:

It is not uncommon for students in the above SEAS Master's programs to elect to be less than full-time status for part of their program length. In these cases, the tuition charged would be at the following per course rates. 

NOTE: In order to be eligible to receive financial aid in the form of loans, students must not fall below half-time status, which requires a minimum of 2 course per term. 

Special students  engage in coursework or a combination of coursework and research for academic credit for one term or one year only. While not candidates for any degree, special students are admitted to Harvard Griffin GSAS and access student privileges, which include a Harvard transcript with coursework and grades listed. Full tuition and student health fees are charged; Harvard Griffin GSAS does not offer financial aid, work-study opportunities, or student loans to special students. Audited courses and supervised independent research projects are charged the same tuition as courses for credit.

Payment of tuition and fees is due prior to registration.

Special Student Tuition Fee 2024–2025, Per Term Costs 

Scholars intending to conduct independent research, who hold a doctorate, have equivalent professional experience, or are advanced doctoral candidates who have completed all required coursework may register at Harvard Griffin GSAS as a visiting fellow . Visiting fellows are considered full-time research students, with access to Harvard University’s libraries and facilities, and may apply for membership in the Harvard Faculty Club. Visiting fellows are charged reduced tuition and student health fees . Harvard Griffin GSAS does not offer financial aid, work-study opportunities, or student loans to visiting fellows. Tuition cannot be waived or prorated and is non-refundable.

Visiting Fellow Tuition Fee 2024–2025

Students enrolled in a comparable health insurance plan may be eligible to waive the Student Health Insurance Plan. Waivers of the Student Health Fee may be accepted in very limited cases. Please visit the Harvard University Student Health Program website for more detailed information.

Required Harvard University Student Health Program (HUSHP) Fees

Graduate Student Council Fee 

All enrolled Harvard Griffin GSAS students are required to pay an annual fee of $35 to support programs and initiatives run by the Graduate Student Council. Students who are on leave during either the fall or spring semester, pay 50% of the fee (or $17.50). This reduced fee will be charged during the semester they are enrolled. 

Other Costs

Harvard Griffin GSAS students will incur additional costs for housing and food, books and supplies, and other necessities. 

Estimated 2024-2025 Living Expenses by Budget Category

Total Estimated 2024-2025 Living Expense by Housing Type 

The chart below takes the information above in the Estimated Living Expenses by Budget Category chart and provides a sum for each housing option. 

This estimated budget does not include the costs of fees for required tests, application fees, or such initial expenses as home furnishings. Your individual expenses may vary from these figures. 

Many graduate students are accompanied by their spouses, domestic partners, and children. Harvard Griffin GSAS maintains policies and provides access to resources that help balance family needs with the demands of graduate study. You can find a list of  family resources on the Harvard Griffin GSAS website (please note some resources are specific to PhD students).

If you plan to bring your family, it is important to understand how additional family expenses will impact your budget and expected resources. Most financial aid sources, including loans, have limitations on whether family expenses can be included when determining eligibility.

You must plan ahead to ensure that you have sufficient resources to cover these costs. The chart below provides an estimate of how much you will need to support a spouse and/or dependent(s). Keep in mind this is a general budget and your personal expenses may be higher or lower, but it is a great place to start when developing your own budget.

Estimated 2024-2025 Living Expenses Budget for Families

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PhD Program Costs

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Costs listed below reflect the 2024-2025 academic year.

Most of our PhD programs are fully funded, meaning that for 4-5 years, the program will pay for your tuition and fees, as well as provide you with a stipend. In 2024-25, the University minimum stipend is $39,425; some PhD programs provide more. After your guaranteed funding period, you may be responsible for paying reduced tuition and fees. These details can be explained by the PhD program to which you are applying. Living expenses and the cost of books should also be considered as you plan your budget for the academic year. 

Living Expenses

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Cost to Attend

Ph.d. students, master's students, other cost information, explanation of fees.

NOTE: All numbers below require annual approval by the Board of Trustees

Last updated: January 5th, 2024

Students must be registered each fall and spring semester until all degree requirements are completed. In some cases, they may also need to be registered for a summer term ( see policy ). For each term in which students are registered, they are charged the following tuition and fees. Rates are subject to change each year. Tuition typically increases by no more than 4 percent per academic year.

Generally speaking, The Graduate School covers the tuition and fees for a Ph.D. student’s first five years. After that, students are responsible for tuition and fees, and most students obtain external or departmental funding that helps cover those costs. The Graduate School also covers health insurance for years 1-6 if students choose the Duke student medical insurance plan. Visit our Statistics section to see the typical time to completion for your degree program.

More details on financial support for Ph.D. students

2024-2025 Estimated Cost of Attendance for Ph.D. Students in Years 1-3

Note: Tuition, fees, and health insurance (for the Duke student medical insurance plan) in years 1-3 are generally covered by The Graduate School's financial support package .

2024-2025 Estimated Cost of Attendance for Ph.D. Students in Years 4+

Note: The Graduate School's financial support package generally covers tuition and fees for years 4-5, as well as health insurance (for the Duke student medical insurance plan) for years 4-6. Starting in year 6, students are responsible for tuition and fees, and most of our students obtain external or departmental funding to help cover those costs. Duke also provides sixth-year tuition and fees scholarships for students who applied for but did not obtain external or departmental tuition-and-fees support.

Master's students are required to enroll in and pay tuition for at least three semesters of full-time study. After that, they will be charged per credit ( 24-25 estimated at $3,780 per credit ). Master's summer tuition will be charged at the per-credit rate up to a maximum of one-half the fall/spring full-time tuition. 

Rates are subject to change each year. Tuition typically increases by no more than 4 percent per academic year.

Information on financial support for master's students

2024–2025 Estimated Cost of Attendance for DOMESTIC Master's Students

2024–2025 ESTIMATED Cost of Attendance for INTERNATIONAL Master's Students

* – Estimated amounts due to bursar

Exceptions to the cost listed above

• Master of Arts in Liberal Studies
• Master of Arts in Teaching
• MFA (Dance or Experimental and Documentary Arts)
• Master of Arts in Bioethics and Science Policy

For all students: Estimated cost for room, food, transportation, personal, and miscellaneous: $2,994 per month

For international students:  

The chart below references funding required for international students to bring a spouse and/or dependent(s) into the United States while enrolled at Duke University Graduate School:

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School of the Environment 2023–2024

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Ph.D. Program Tuition and Fees

The 2023–2024 tuition for the Ph.D. program is $48,300. Most doctoral students receive a School fellowship that covers the cost of their tuition and provides a 12-month stipend for the first five years of their program. For 2023–2024, the stipend is $40,530. Doctoral students must pay a nominal continuous registration fee (CRF) for no more than three years thereafter. The continuous registration fee is $790 per term.

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• The Cost of a PhD

Written by Ben Taylor

This page gives you an outline of the typical cost of a PhD in the UK and other destinations, along with some additional expenses you may have to budget for.

UK students usually pay an average of £4,500 per year in PhD fees. International students pay a lot more as international Phd fees in the UK can be as high as £20,000-£35,000 per year . Internationally, there is huge variety in the cost of a PhD, with some countries even offering doctoral degrees for free. We've listed typical fees in some popular study abroad destinations below.

Having a better understanding of how much a doctorate might cost will aid you in your search for PhD funding and may make a difference to where you decide to study your PhD.

PhD fees in the UK

Postgraduate courses in the UK are generally cheaper, per year, than undergraduate courses. The typical tuition fee for PhD study in the UK is around £4,500 per year for domestic students. But they can range from £4,500-£20,000 depending on the subject area.

This is the amount that UK Research Councils pay to universities on behalf of funded students. Universities tend to set their fees close to the Research Council amount, though some may be higher.

These fees go up each year in line with inflation, so a PhD for self-funded students may be slightly higher in the second and third years of a UK doctorate.

International PhD fees in the UK

International students pay higher fees to study in the UK. These are set by individual institutions and vary by subject. As a general rule, you can expect to pay around £20,000-£35,000 per year . Some subjects cost more, for example in STEM due to the extra resources required such as equipment, servicing and tech support.

The cost of a part-time PhD

The costs of a PhD stated on this page are for full-time PhD study. Part-time PhD fees are generally about 50% of the full-time price, but this can vary. Always check if you are able to do a PhD project part-time particularly when doing a PhD abroad as some visas can restrict you from this mode of study.

Research support fees

Some PhD students also pay research support fees to cover the cost of specialist materials used during their project.

For laboratory-based students, these are known as bench fees , which cover the cost of consumables and the use of facilities required to do experiments. These costs may sometimes be included in the tuition fee or quoted separately. Bench fees are one reason why PhD fees for STEM subjects are generally higher than for Arts, Humanities and Social Sciences.

Specific costs vary depending on the nature of the programme and the kind of research you are undertaking. Because of this, details of bench fees are discussed during the application or are made available on request.

PhD funding

Universities offer scholarships, bursaries and full studentships to help students cover the cost of a PhD sudy (the latter are often provided by the UK Research Councils . Most university funding is provided on the basis of academic merit or to support widening participation. A government PhD loan is also available to some students. You can find more information on the different ways to fund your PhD here.

PhD living costs in the UK

Living costs will greatly depend on your lifestyle and circumstances – and you will definitely want a life outside of your PhD. Whether that involves going out once a week or once a month, we cannot predict, but we can give you a guide to what the average living costs (not including rent), in different UK university cities are for a postgraduate student.

If you are fortunate enough to get a full Research Council studentships, you will receive an annual stipend to cover living costs and maintenance. The stipend is currently £17,668 , and this also increases with inflation each year.

Paying for your PhD

Whatever costs you face during your PhD, there is a range of ways to help cover them. Our funding guides cover doctoral loans , studentships , charitable grants and international scholarships .

PhD fees in Europe

PhD fees elsewhere in Europe are often more affordable than those in the UK, and some countries actually provide opportunities to complete a doctorate for free.

The tuition fees below are indications of what EU citizens could pay in different countries, based on data from the OECD.

• Austria = €0
• Belgium = €474
• Czech Republic = €0
• Denmark = €0
• Estonia = €0
• Finland = €0
• France = €380
• Germany = €0
• Greece = €0
• Hungary = €5,000 – €12,000*
• Iceland = €0
• Italy = €900-4,000
• Netherlands = €0**
• Norway = €0
• Poland = €0
• Portugal = €1,500-€3,000
• Romania = €800-€1,365***
• Spain = €2,200-€3,600
• Sweden = €0
• Switzerland = €182-€1,995
• Turkey = €500-€1,000

*If not state-funded

**As doctoral students are classed as university employees

***Additional fee of around €1,050 for your doctoral thesis defence

International students may pay slightly more than these fees, though some European countries don’t distinguish between domestic and overseas students. See our guides to PhD study in Europe for more information.

PhD living costs in Europe

As with tuition fees, the living costs in different European countries also varies. The following table compares the cost of accommodation, travel, utilities and groceries across Europe.

International PhD fees

The average cost of a PhD for international students can range from £3,500 to £20,000 per year depending on the institution and course type. For international students, you can expect to pay the following in these different countries for PhD studies.

• Australia = USD $13,065 - $30,485
• Canada = USD $1,849 -12,500
• Hong Kong = USD $11,466-$33,761
• Japan = USD $5,599 - $6,349
• New Zealand = USD $4,783
• Singapore = USD $28,770
• South Korea = USD $1,100 - $20,900
• USA = USD $26,000+

Although PhD costs for internationals do seem high, most countries offer scholarships and other funding options to attract students. In addition to this, many of the UK Research Councils have partner universities in countries around the world and may pay for part of your PhD to take place in a different country. For example, the A*STAR PhD programme allows students to study in Singapore, as well as a UK based university.

To know precisely how much it will cost you to do a PhD abroad, it is best to get in touch with the university you are interested in researching at. These are some questions you can ask in an email and state whether you are international, EU or a home student:

• What are the programme fees and what do they cover?
• Are there any additional ‘departmental research costs’ e.g. administration fees or costs for printing etc?
• Are there any additional expenses such as for research equipment or fieldwork costs?
• Are scholarships or bursaries available?

Additional fees and costs

The main costs of a PhD will be from tuition fees and living costs, but there are also some other expenses you may have to account for.

If you are studying abroad, it is more than likely that you will need a visa. Most countries charge a fee for processing your visa application. However, studying abroad may not necessarily mean that you have to pay the visa fees. Some countries (such as the European Union) don’t require student visas for their member citizens.

Student visa requirements and the costs in different countries can be found in our guides to PhD study abroad.

Health insurance when studying abroad

Costs for health insurance will only apply if you are going to study your PhD abroad, as if you do your doctorate in your home country, you will already be covered by any existing public or private healthcare.

Application fees

Some universities charge a small fee to process PhD applications. This is not always the case, and isn’t very common in the UK, but it varies depending on the university you choose to do your PhD at.

Individual universities will provide detailed information about any administrative fees they charge and these are covered in our guides to PhD study abroad.

Language tests

In order to study a PhD in a second language, you must provide evidence that you have sufficient language skills. Universities will either accept existing experience studying in the relevant language or may require a certain score on a language test.

Different universities have their own preferred language tests, though many universities will accept more than one. For more information, see our guides to international language tests for postgraduate study.

Another important aspect of PhD fees, particularly if you are studying abroad, is getting to your destination country or city. This is something that is good to budget for in advance.

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Search our course listings for your perfect PhD programme . Results can be filtered by topic, location and funding available.

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You may also like....

Bench fees cover the costs involved in laboratory research during a PhD. This page is a guide to what they are used for, how much they cost and how you can pay for them.

Wondering how much you'll need to study in Australia? We look at the key costs for a student in Australia including tuition fees, visas and a comparision to the USA.

Ever wondered how much a PhD student can earn? Here's our introduction into the different financial sources PhD students can tap.

The guides in this section explain how PhD tuition fees work and how they differ between subjects.

Worried about money management? Some postgraduate students share how they managed their finances.

There are so much to consider when thinking about postgraduate study and costs are high up on the list. We've taken a look at some often overlooked costs of being a student.

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Studying a PhD in The USA - The Complete Guide

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The USA is a favourable postgraduate study destination for international students due to the high standard of academic study and the wide variety of subjects. By undertaking a PhD in the USA, you will find yourself becoming an internationally recognised expert in your chosen field.

A Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) from the USA is considered the highest awarded degree in many US universities and institutes for most fields of study. For many international students, it's a dream course that offers an exciting new life chapter.

Attending Grad School for a PhD in the USA is not the same as undertaking a PhD in Europe or the UK , it can often be a different experience. However, studying abroad will improve your global cultural understanding in addition to your network of contacts for your future career. A PhD degree is often required when you apply for high-level management jobs, government expert positions, and careers like a university professor, researcher, or scientist in many fields.

There are a multitude of reasons why the United States is a fantastic choice for your PhD studies. Here’s everything you need to know about studying a PhD in the USA.

1. PhD course length

The total length of a PhD in the USA is between 4-8 years for full-time students and 8-10 years for part-time students, depending on your field of study. PhDs can be completed in 4-5 years for students with a masters degree in an appropriate subject. Students typically dedicate 1-4 years on coursework, followed by 2-4 years of dissertation work. In the USA, the academic year is divided into two teaching semesters: August to December and January to May. 

Having a longer duration for your PhD allows for greater opportunities to adjust to your course and find your footing. This enables you to concentrate on developing a more comprehensive understanding of your chosen subject at a more relaxed pace.

2. World-class universities

The US repeatedly tops the charts of worldwide ranking universities , so what better place to do your PhD studies? Although rankings shouldn’t be the main deciding factor when making your PhD choice, they're a great indicator of educational expertise.

There are many factors to consider when choosing the location for your PhD. Does the university have a high employability rate after graduation? Are you wanting to go public or private university? What kind of research facilities do they have? 

Be sure to do some research before making a decision on your perfect place of study.

3. International community

The United States is a popular choice for international students from all over the world – making it an inspirational and cosmopolitan choice for your PhD studies. No matter what your choice of academic study is, you are guaranteed to find a diverse community that welcomes students from all backgrounds. 

4. Affordable tuition fees 

There are various tuition fee options available for PhD students regardless of your budget. The American higher education system is often associated with high fees and substantial student debt, but in fact, studying at an American university isn't always expensive, and many institutions offer affordable courses. For instance, PhD costs range from $28,000 to $55,000 annually, which shows that finding a PhD course that’s more affordable is possible. 

5. Student experience

American universities typically have vibrant campus communities with a wide range of extracurricular activities, clubs and organisations. As a student, you will have the opportunity to engage in various social, cultural and recreational activities alongside your academic studies.

6. Student support

American universities typically provide comprehensive support services to assist you on your PhD journey. These services may include academic advising, counselling, career services, libraries, writing centres and various student organisations aimed at fostering your personal and professional development.

7. Land of opportunity

It's fair to say that student life in the USA offers something for everyone, regardless of what you're looking for from a PhD. With 50 states, six time zones, and thousands of higher-education providers, there's an opportunity waiting for every individual across the globe.

So let’s take a look at some of the key factors to consider when studying for a PhD in the USA.

Studying a PhD in the USA: top tips

Who is eligible for a phd in the usa.

To be eligible for PhD in the USA, generally students should have completed a graduate degree with a minimum GPA of 3.0, provide proof of English language proficiency, GRE scores and other supporting documents.  The eligibility criteria for a PhD in the USA can vary depending on the specific university and program. 

Can I get a PhD without a masters degree?

Yes, you can pursue a PhD without having a masters. Universities in the USA do not require a masters for you to apply. Because of the graduate programs in the US, you will receive your masters degree once you have completed your coursework stage. This practice combines the masters and PhD into one.

The eligibility criteria and requirements for direct entry PhD programs vary among institutions and fields of study, so it is advisable to check the entry requirements of the specific university or course you are interested in.

How to apply for a PhD in the USA

When applying for your chosen subject in the USA, you should expect to provide relevant information and statements to the university. This will include:

Completed application form – provided by your preferred university.

A personal statement – on why you want to study the subject, your research interests and career goals. Be sure to include any extracurricular activities and achievements within the body of your statement.

References – universities will expect that your referees will recommend you for the chosen course.

Test scores and grades – you will generally need to submit scores from standardised tests like the Graduate Record Examination (GRE) or the Graduate Management Admission Test (GMAT). 

English language proficiency – international applicants whose native language is not English usually need to provide proof of English language proficiency through tests like the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) or the International English Language Testing System (IELTS). It varies from institution to institution, but international students in the USA are required to have a TOEFL score of about 90.

Samples of work – it is recommended that you provide some work you have done that is relevant to your chosen subject. You may even be asked to complete a small task during the application process.

The application fee. 

Method of study

Compared to the UK and Europe , studying a PhD in the USA involves several key differences. Students in the USA are usually in direct contact with their professor, compared with those in the UK where students might find that their PhD program is headed by a professor who gives them a little less flexibility to change their research and study areas. There can be several cultural differences between UK, Europe, and USA university lifestyles. US students are expected to undertake a great deal of teaching and marking, as opposed to PhD students in Europe. 

As a result, you may have less free time outside of the university when pursuing a PhD in the USA.

Application for PhD In USA

When applying for your chosen subject, you should expect to provide relevant information and statements to the university. This might include:

A personal statement on why you want to study the subject. Be sure to include any extra-curricular activities and achievements within the body of your statement.

References. Universities will expect that your referees will recommend you for the chosen course.

Test scores and grades. It is important that you provide a list of your awarded grades from previous courses you have studied.

Samples of work. It is recommended that you provide some work you have done that is relevant to your chosen subject. You may even be asked to complete a small task during the application process.

UK and Europe students decide on their PhD thesis subject area before they apply . While taking classes at a graduate level, prospective PhD students in the USA spend up to a year or two deciding on their specific research subject. It is normal to apply for up to six institutions for a PhD in the USA, and students apply to each institution separately as there is no central organisation. 

Students in the UK and Europe are expected to apply with an understanding of the subject already, usually in the form of a masters degree, and be ready to start studying at the PhD level straight away. In the USA it is expected that students do not have an in-depth understanding of their subject as they usually only have an undergraduate degree when they apply. 

When should I start applying for a PhD in the USA?

Deadlines for applications to PhD programs in the USA tend to be between December and February, and institutions should let you know about your application by April. Most US institutions recommend that you apply as far in advance as you possibly can to give them, and you, plenty of time to make arrangements. 

Universities in the USA do not require a masters for you to apply as well. Because of the graduate programs in the US, you will receive your masters degree once you have completed your coursework stage. This practice combines the masters and PhD into one.

It varies from institution to institution, but international students in the USA are required to have a TOEFL score of about 90.

Funding your PhD in USA

PhD students are very likely to receive financial support in the form of PhD scholarships ; some USA PhD students also receive PhD studentships .

Making your PhD application in plenty of time allows you more time to apply for and arrange your PhD funding. Many students find that funding can cover much, or all, of the cost of their PhD studies in the USA, which ranges between $28,000 and $40,000. Deadlines for funding applications can be as early as December before starting your studies in the Autumn/Fall. 

There are two types of PhD funding: fully funded, which pays for the student's graduate school tuition fees, accommodation, and living expenses, or partially funded, which pays for the student's tuition only partially or fully.

Can a PhD be fully funded?

Yes, many top universities in the USA offer fully funded PhD programs for eligible students. This funding pays for the student's graduate school tuition fees, accommodation and living expenses. Partially funded PhDs only cover the student's tuition in part or in full.

Some PhD students will receive a stipend from their institution with an assistantship position, but this varies between institutions and between departments within institutions. Other students can find funding from both their own and the American government, and there are plenty of American government schemes like The Fulbright Program that offer funds.

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How long does it take to study a PhD in the USA?

For part-time students in the USA, a PhD can take eight to ten years, but it usually takes five to six years for full-time students. PhDs can be completed in four to five years rather than five or six for students with a masters degree in an appropriate subject.

Top 10 ranked American universities

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How Much Does It Cost to Get a PhD in Psychology?

Key Takeaways

• Universities often offer PhD students tuition waivers and stipends to help them cover tuition costs.
• It is typical for PhD students to work as teaching assistantships, research assistantships, or at other positions within the university.
• Public universities are generally the lowest cost option for PhD in psychology students.

While a PhD in psychology can set you up for success for the rest of your life, the associated costs of this degree might turn away many prospective students. If the question “How much does it cost to get a PhD in psychology?” has ever popped up in your head, today is your lucky day because you’re about to get your answer!

Featured Programs

How much does it cost to get a phd in psychology.

The average cost of earning a PhD in psychology ranges from $500 to $1500 per credit hour, excluding personal expenses. The median program costs lie between $30,000 to $50,000 per year, making the degree a huge investment. With most programs requiring 60 to 90 hours, you can expect to spend at least 4-7 years at university before you graduate.

In addition to the tuition costs , other expenses like textbooks and supplies, living costs, and healthcare may add up to a significant amount. When picking out a psychology doctorate program, it’s important to factor in the additional costs. Once the expense sheet is ready, you can decide whether a PhD is worth the shot.

The good news is that, in most cases, you don’t have to bear the full tuition fee. Instead, universities often offer PhD students tuition waivers and stipends to help them cover the heavy costs. Your best bet is to check for these funding opportunities beforehand so that paying for your doctorate doesn’t interfere with your academic journey.

Factors that Influence the Cost of a PhD in Psychology

When it comes to the costs associated with a PhD program, there’s no one-size-fits-all situation. Luckily, the price tag of the doctorate isn’t set in stone. How much you’ll pay for it depends on a number of factors, some of which we have highlighted below:

Books and Materials

After the hefty tuition costs, the next big expense includes textbooks and supplies, which fluctuate based on the specific requirements of your chosen discipline.

For instance, when pursuing a doctorate in clinical psychology , you might need to invest in numerous books, journals, and therapy manuals. On the other hand, for industrial-organizational psychology, you might have to spend on surveys, data analysis software, or organizational assessments.

Regardless of your field of specialization in psychology , you’ll need specific materials and resources for research and study. However, just like other disciplines, most schools offer support to cut down on these expenses either through funding or by allowing access to institutional resources.  

Health and Living

When pursuing a PhD in psychology, it’s important to consider the costs associated with daily life and healthcare. These expenses vary depending on where you choose to study. For instance, major cities in the US tend to have much higher living costs as compared to suburban areas.

While city life offers greater access to resources, research opportunities, and lifestyle choices, it often comes with a hefty price tag. However, you may offset these costs by the annual stipends offered by your school. These stipends help cover living and healthcare expenses so you can focus on research without the financial strain.

Cost of Dissertation

Another critical factor to look for when planning on pursuing a PhD in psychology is the cost of a dissertation. For instance, if your research requires specialized equipment, data collection, or compensation for the participants, these expenses may quickly add up. Your expenses also depend on whether you choose to conduct experiments, surveys, or interviews.

To avoid straining your pocket, it’s important to budget for these expenses and explore research grants or departmental support ahead of time.

The costs you’ll bear for the doctorate also depend on the duration of your degree. Many PhD programs in psychology offer funding for a limited amount of time, typically around four to five years. However, if you require more time to complete your degree, you still have options to secure additional funding.

One common avenue is graduate student employment, such as teaching assistantships, research assistantships, or other positions within the university. You may also apply for “finishing fellowships” to help cover your expenses while you focus on the final stages of your degree.

Type of Institution

On average, tuition at public institutions tends to be lower, averaging around $11,554 per year. In contrast, tuition at private institutions is higher, averaging around $20,015 per year. This huge difference indicates that your decision on the type of institution to attend will play a significant role in deciding the financial burden you’ll carry while earning a PhD in psychology.

When considering your options, it’s best to know the type of institution you wish to attend and explore their aid opportunities. This is because most schools offering PhD in psychology may be way cheaper than the others.

Top Schools for PhD in Psychology

Fortunately, the US is home to some of the leading universities that offer PhD programs in psychology. Depending on your requirements, you may look into factors like program length, tuition fees, and accreditation prior to deciding which school to attend.

To save you the legwork, we have reviewed the top schools for PhD in psychology and highlighted the critical factors to consider:

Stanford University

• #5 Best Universities in the US Ranked for Prospective Students in 2024
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• #5 50 Best Colleges and Universities Ranked for Undergrads in 2024
• #5 50 Best Research Universities Ranked for Undergrads in 2024
• #1 The Most Influential Universities and Colleges Ranked by State 2024
• #1 Best Colleges in California 2024
• #1 Best Private Colleges in California 2024
• #1 Best Research Universities in California 2024
• #1 Best Grad Schools California 2024
• #1 Best Research Universities for Communications Degrees
• #2 Best Research Universities for Psychology Degrees
• #2 Best Research Universities for Engineering Degrees
• #2 Best Research Universities for Computer Science Degrees
• #2 Best Research Universities for Biology Degrees
• #3 Best Research Universities for Anthropology Degrees
• #3 Best Research Universities for Earth Sciences Degrees
• #3 Best Research Universities for Chemistry Degrees
• #4 Best Research Universities for English Degrees
• #4 Best Research Universities for History Degrees
• #4 Best Research Universities for Political Science Degrees
• #4 Best Research Universities for Physics Degrees
• #4 Best Research Universities for Math Degrees
• #6 Best Research Universities for Sociology Degrees
• #6 Best Research Universities for Philosophy Degrees
• #6 Best Research Universities for Economics Degrees
• #7 Best Research Universities for Religious Studies Degrees
• #1 Best Online Master's Programs in California 2024
• #5 The Best Traditional MBA Programs Ranked for Students in 2024
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Tuition + fees

Student body

Median SAT/ACT

Career Outlook for Psychology degree at Stanford University

Stanford University  is one of the top schools in the US offering a PhD program in psychology. The program offers a deep understanding of theoretical and empirical concepts and helps students cultivate independent research and analytical skills. At SU, academic courses, seminars, and research experiences go hand in hand.

To fulfill the requirements, PhD students need to complete five quarters of teaching assistantship (TA) under the supervision of faculty members. This provides valuable teaching experience and countless opportunities to mentor. Stanford University’s psychology department also actively collaborates with other departments to create a diverse academic environment.

• Program duration: 5 years (full-time)
• Accreditation: Yes (WSCUC)
• Tracks: Affective, Cognitive, Developmental, Neuroscience, or Social Psychology

When it comes to tuition fees at Stanford, here’s what you can expect:

• 8-10 units ($12,240) 11-18 units ($18,829)
• Each Graduate unit above 18 ( $1,255 per unit)
• 1-7 units (Summer only) $1,224 per unit

Harvard University

• #1 50 Best Colleges and Universities Ranked for Undergrads in 2024
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• #1 50 Best Private Grad Schools 2024
• #1 50 Best Research Universities Ranked for Undergrads in 2024
• #2 50 Best Private Colleges and Universities for Undergrads 2024
• #1 Best Colleges in Massachusetts 2024
• #1 Best Grad Schools in Massachusetts 2024
• #1 Best Private Colleges in Massachusetts 2024
• #1 Best Research Universities in Massachusetts 2024
• #1 Best Research Universities for Psychology Degrees
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• #1 Best Research Universities for Earth Sciences Degrees
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• #1 Best Research Universities for Chemistry Degrees
• #1 Best Research Universities for Philosophy Degrees
• #1 Best Research Universities for Biology Degrees
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• #1 Best Research Universities for Economics Degrees
• #3 Best Research Universities for Engineering Degrees
• #3 Best Research Universities for Computer Science Degrees
• #2 Guide to Free Online Courses for MBA Students in 2024
• #1 The Best Traditional MBA Programs Ranked for Students in 2024
• #1 Best Schools in the World for Earning an MBA Degree Ranked for 2024
• #7 The Fastest Traditional MBA Degree Programs Ranked for 2024

Career Outlook for Psychology degree at Harvard University

Harvard University  offers a comprehensive PhD program emphasizing four key areas: Clinical Science, Developmental Psychology, Social Psychology, and Cognition, Brain, and Behavior (CBB). These tracks offer students ample opportunities to explore different research topics and complete their dissertations in their preferred subjects.

What makes Harvard stand out is the university’s commitment to providing full financial support to its PhD students for a minimum of five years. These funds cover tuition costs, health insurance fees, and basic living expenses. Since the faculty has a proven track record of publication in various journals, you can expect to be under the guidance of field experts at Harvard.  

• Program duration: 4-6 years
• Accreditation: Yes (New England Commission of Higher Education) 
• Tracks: Social Psychology, Developmental Psychology, and Cognition, Brain, and Behavior (CBB).

When it comes to tuition fees at Harvard University, here’s what you can expect:

• Full Tuition -  Required first two years of study ($54,032)
• Reduced Tuition - Required third and fourth years of study ($14,048)
• Facilities Fee - Required post-fourth year of study ($3,574)
• Active File Fee - Minimum charge for approved non-resident status ($300)

University of Washington

• #6 Top Schools that Offer Free Master's Degrees Online
• #7 Best Value Colleges and Universities Ranked for Students in 2024
• #16 Best Universities in the US Ranked for Prospective Students in 2024
• #16 50 Best Graduate Schools Ranked for Prospective Students in 2024
• #1 Best Public Colleges in Washington 2024
• #1 Best Grad Schools in Washington 2024
• #1 Best Research Universities in Washington 2024
• #1 Best Colleges in Washington 2024
• #1 Most Affordable Colleges in Washington 2024
• #2 Best Research Universities for Criminal Justice Degrees
• #5 Best Research Universities for Social Work Degrees
• #15 Best Research Universities for Nursing Degrees
• #16 Best Research Universities for Education Degrees
• #16 Best Research Universities for Biology Degrees
• #17 Best Research Universities for Business Degrees
• #19 Best Research Universities for Earth Sciences Degrees
• #19 Best Research Universities for Computer Science Degrees
• #20 Best Research Universities for Communications Degrees
• #22 Best Research Universities for Physics Degrees
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• #24 Best Research Universities for Sociology Degrees
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• #6 Most Affordable Online Applied Behavioral Analysis PhD Programs
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• #10 Most Affordable Early Childhood Education Bachelor's (Online, On-Campus)
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• #13 The Best Traditional MBA Programs Ranked for Students in 2024

Career Outlook for Psychology degree at University of Washington

The PhD in psychology program at the University of Washington  is highly flexible and designed to gear you up for various career pathways in research. At its core, the program is mentor-based, so students can receive one-on-one attention from experts in the field. As a prospective PhD student, it’s best to identify potential mentors with expertise in your areas of interest.

Once admitted, you can join hands with your faculty members to dig deeper into the subject you have chosen. While the Department of Psychology at UW offers seven general areas of study, you can only pick one area to pursue. However, it’s worth noting that a PhD degree at the University of Washington typically requires a longer duration than other institutions.

• Program duration: 6-7 years
• Tuition fee: $18,057 (residents) and $31,530 (nonresidents) 
• Accreditation: Yes (NWCCU)
• Tracks: Clinical Psychology, Data Science, Advanced Data Science, Psychology and Astrobiology

Yale University

• #6 50 Best Research Universities Ranked for Undergrads in 2024
• #7 50 Best Private Colleges and Universities for Undergrads 2024
• #7 Best Universities in the World 2024
• #11 15 Colleges with the Happiest Freshmen
• #1 Best Colleges in Connecticut 2024
• #1 Best Private Colleges in Connecticut 2024
• #1 Best Research Universities in Connecticut 2024
• #1 Best Grad Schools in Connecticut 2024
• #2 Best Research Universities for History Degrees
• #2 Best Research Universities for Religious Studies Degrees
• #2 Best Research Universities for Philosophy Degrees
• #3 Best Research Universities for Psychology Degrees
• #3 Best Research Universities for English Degrees
• #3 Best Research Universities for Political Science Degrees
• #3 Best Research Universities for Biology Degrees
• #4 Best Research Universities for Anthropology Degrees
• #5 Best Research Universities for Sociology Degrees
• #5 Best Research Universities for Economics Degrees
• #6 Best Research Universities for Earth Sciences Degrees
• #7 Best Research Universities for Engineering Degrees
• #7 Best Research Universities for Chemistry Degrees
• #8 Best Research Universities for Math Degrees
• #9 Best Research Universities for Computer Science Degrees
• #10 Best Research Universities for Physics Degrees
• #2 Top 20 Best Business Schools for MBAs Ranked for Students
• #8 Best Schools in the World for Earning an MBA Degree Ranked for 2024
• #12 The Fastest Traditional MBA Degree Programs Ranked for 2024

Career Outlook for Psychology degree at Yale University

At Yale University , the primary goal of a doctorate in psychology is to train researchers for both academic and applied settings. The aim is to foster individuals who contribute to the expansion of the field of psychology. The university typically admits around 15 students each year who may select one of the five psychology tracks to pursue.

The best part? At Yale, you may also participate in programs that go beyond traditional disciplinary boundaries, such as cognitive, affective, and social neuroscience, as well as health sciences.

• Program duration: 5 years
• Tuition fee: $48,300
• Accreditation: Yes (New England Association of Schools and Colleges)
• Tracks: Clinical Psychology, Cognitive Psychology, Developmental Psychology, Neuroscience, and Social/Personality Psychology

University of California, Berkeley

• #2 Best Universities in the US Ranked for Prospective Students in 2024
• #2 50 Best Graduate Schools Ranked for Prospective Students in 2024
• #2 50 Best Colleges and Universities Ranked for Undergrads in 2024
• #2 Top Schools that Offer Free Master's Degrees Online
• #2 50 Best Research Universities Ranked for Undergrads in 2024
• #5 Best Universities in the World 2024
• #1 Best Public Colleges California 2024
• #1 Most Affordable Colleges in California 2024
• #2 The Most Influential Universities and Colleges Ranked by State 2024
• #2 Best Colleges in California 2024
• #2 Best Research Universities in California 2024
• #2 Best Grad Schools California 2024
• #2 Best Research Universities for Social Work Degrees
• #3 Best Research Universities for Communications Degrees
• #4 Best Research Universities for Engineering Degrees
• #4 Best Research Universities for Sociology Degrees
• #4 Best Research Universities for Chemistry Degrees
• #4 Best Research Universities for Computer Science Degrees
• #5 Best Research Universities for Anthropology Degrees
• #5 Best Research Universities for Math Degrees
• #6 Best Research Universities for Physics Degrees
• #7 Best Research Universities for English Degrees
• #7 Best Research Universities for History Degrees
• #7 Best Research Universities for Political Science Degrees
• #7 Best Research Universities for Philosophy Degrees
• #8 Best Research Universities for Earth Sciences Degrees
• #8 Best Research Universities for Biology Degrees
• #8 Best Research Universities for Economics Degrees
• #9 Best Research Universities for Psychology Degrees
• #9 Best Research Universities for Religious Studies Degrees
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• #2 The Best Traditional MBA Programs Ranked for Students in 2024
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Career Outlook for Psychology degree at University of California, Berkeley

The University of California, Berkeley , has a PhD program in psychology that strongly focuses on research and offers six tracks, each with minor specializations. Among these tracks, the Clinical Science track is the hardest to secure a spot in.

If you’re worried about costs, UC Berkeley offers funding through different internal awards to ease your financial burden. It also has external support sources like the National Science Foundation and a bunch of extramural fellowships to ensure you have the financial resources necessary to pursue your research.

• Accreditation: Yes (WASC)  
• Tracks: Behavioral and Systems Neuroscience, Clinical Science, Cognition, Cognitive Neuroscience, Developmental, and Social-Personality

When it comes to tuition fees at University of California, here’s what you can expect:

• California residents - $5,850
• Non-residents - $5,850

Financial Aid Programs for Students Enrolling in a PhD in Psychology

If you’re on a budget, earning a PhD in psychology is still possible with the available financial aid options . More often than not, universities and research departments offer teaching or research assistantships as well. Military aid, federal aid, and government scholarships can also help reduce the financial burden. Here’s a list of financial aid programs you can pick from:

Graduate Assistantships

Most universities offering a PhD in psychology also offer graduate assistantship programs. These programs provide tuition waivers and stipends for students undertaking duties such as teaching, research, or monitoring the admin department. These assistantships are a win-win, easing the financial strain while providing years of professional experience to students.

Federal Aid Programs

Alternatively, you may utilize federal aid programs  like the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) to get loans, grants, or work-study benefits.  Once you understand how these government initiatives work, it becomes simpler to get financial support to pursue your PhD in psychology.

Employer-Sponsored Assistance

While not many are aware of it, employer-sponsored assistance is highly popular among candidates pursuing a doctorate in psychology. Luckily, many organizations provide financial support for employees, which is worth exploring. This way, you can complete your degree while your employer looks after your professional development expenses.

Scholarships

You may also opt for scholarships and grants provided by many foundations, particularly to benefit psychology students. Research institutes like the American Psychological Association (APA) and other psychological foundations often open up scholarship opportunities. To maximize your chances of acquiring one, make sure your application stands out!

Private Loans

Once you’ve exhausted other options, you can turn to private loans to pay for your degree. However, don’t forget to thoroughly review terms and conditions, interest rates, and repayment plans before considering this option. Then, compare the benefits and drawbacks to see whether it’s worth it.

Related Questions

Is getting a phd worth it for psychology.

Yes, particularly if you’re more focused on the financial aspects of the journey. The average salary of a PhD psychologist  is around $115,454. Individuals with a doctorate in psychology have a higher earning potential than those with a master’s or bachelor’s degree in the field, making a PhD worthwhile.

How long does it take to complete a doctorate degree in psychology?

Once you’re done with a bachelor’s degree in psychology or a related field, a doctorate in psychology takes you anywhere between  4 and 7 years. However, if you have a master’s degree, your timeframe may be shortened by a few months.

Are there any doctorate psychology programs that are accelerated?

Yes. While the average time to earn a PhD in psychology may take anywhere from six to ten years, it’s possible to accelerate this timeframe. There are plenty of online doctoral degree programs in psychology  that can significantly shorten the time to complete your psychology PhD .

While the question, “How much does it cost to get a PhD in psychology?” can’t be answered with a specific number, we hope this article has given you a fair idea of what it could cost you. If you’re on a budget, we highly recommend thoroughly researching and evaluating different schools and programs before you make a final decision. Remember, there’s various ways to reduce costs. In the end, this degree is highly likely to get you excellent ROI!

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• How Much Does a PhD Cost in the UK?
• Funding a PhD

Choosing to dedicate the next few years of your life towards a PhD is no light decision. Not only will it require you to dedicate an extensive amount of your personal time, but you’ll also need to consider how you’ll fund it. This raises the question, how much does a PhD cost in the UK?

The cost of a PhD can be divided into three key areas; tuition fees, living expenses and research expenditures. The combined cost of these are approximately  £20,000 per year  for UK students and can increase to over  £40,000 per year  for international students. A more in-depth breakdown of these costs can be found below. We’ve also compared these costs to other countries and outlined the various methods available to you to fund your PhD studies.

Tuition Fees

For UK ‘home’ students, the tuition fee for a PhD varies between £3,000 to £6,000 per academic year. For 2023/24 programmes, most universities opt for £4,712 per year within this range. Although this number may seem a little odd, it’s commonly adopted due to being the indicative rate set by UK Research and Innovation (UKRI) for UK universities.

International Fees

Unlike for UK applicants, the rates for international students don’t align with the indicative level set by UKRI. Following the implementation of Brexit, EU students now follow the same fee rates as other international students. International students will find that their tuition fees are higher than those of home students. For example, at the time of writing, the average annual PhD tuition charge at the University of Dundee is £4,825 for home students undertaking an Engineering PhD. This same average is £25,305 for international students.

International applicants will also find that the fee for PhDs in STEM subjects are greater than those in non-STEM subjects. For example, at the University of Bristol, a doctorate degree in Mechanical Engineering costs £25,300 per year whilst a doctorate in Medieval Studies costs £20,100 per year.

To summarise, international students can expect a tuition fee of between £16,000 to £25,000 per year, with an average of around £19,600 per academic year. Non-STEM subjects will generally be at the lower end of the range, whilst STEM subjects will be at the higher end of the range.

Part-time Fees

The above fees are based on full-time postgraduate study. If you’re doing a part-time PhD, you can expect the fee to be half of these amounts. Although this may appear to be a cheaper option, keep in mind that the average duration of part-time PhDs are twice that of full-time PhDs. Therefore, the total tuition cost will amount to the same value and the end of both courses.

Other Degree-related Costs

Research support fees.

If your research project requires a high use of consumables, equipment or other resources, you may have to support the cost of these through an additional annual fee. This additional annual fee, often referred to as either a ‘research support’ or ‘bench’ fee, often apply to laboratory-based STEM research projects. Bench fees vary between different projects, even those within the same field. Therefore, it is best to speak to the admissions team on a project-by-project basis to receive anything useful.

Another cost you will need to account for is travelling. As part of your degree, many supervisors will expect you to attend conferences, training workshops, or other collaboration opportunities. As a result, you will often need to travel to various destinations which aren’t always limited to the UK. Although some programmes will cover these costs, it’s not unheard of that some positions will expect you to fund this yourself. It’s impossible to put a value on this, as the extent of travel depends on each project. Therefore, it would be wise to speak with the admissions team and current PhD students. They can provide you with an accurate estimate and let you know whether the university will cover the expenses.

Overtime Period Fee

When you’re enrolled into a PhD programme, you will be given a period to complete your PhD within. This period is known as your ‘registration period’ and is usually 3-4 years for a full-time PhD and 6-7 years for a part-time PhD. If you’re given an extension due to not completing your PhD study within this time, you will need to pay an overtime registration fee. Although the amount depends on each university, the University of Leeds sets theirs as £290 for 2023/24.

Living Costs

From a 2022 survey of over 2,300 university students , the average living cost, covering expenditures such as rent, bills, food and recreation, was £924 per month. This equates to £11,088 per year.

Although this is an average cost, your true cost of living will depend on your location. Living in major cities such as London will draw significantly higher rent and travel costs than living in more rural locations. Although your living situation will in large be driven by the university you undertake your PhD with, you should factor it in when deciding which universities to apply to.

To put this into perspective, the survey average of £11,088 per year uses a rent average of £418 per month. In London, this average increases to £650 a month and can surpass £1,000 if staying in university halls or private student accommodation. This is supported by University College London (UCL) who state you should expect an average rent of £1,028 per month if living in private accommodation around their university.

Tip  – You can use this handy calculator for an estimated average cost of living for any UK university. All you need to do is select the university, and the calculator does all the rest.

If you’re an international student, you should factor in return flights back home. Although this may seem like a small expenditure compared to tuition fees and rent, they can add up quickly depending on the frequency and distance of your trip.

Finding a PhD has never been this easy – search for a PhD by keyword, location or academic area of interest.

How to Fund Your PhD

Studentships.

A studentship is a form of scholarship for doctoral students. They can either be partially funded, which cover tuition fees only, or fully funded, which also covers living costs through a ‘stipend’.

Studentships can be found in various places. Research Councils (RCUK) and European Social Fund (ESF) make funding available to university departments, who in turn make the funding available to doctoral students. Therefore, you will find that there are many postgraduate funding opportunities available to you, with the best places to look being the RCUK and ESF websites and the university departments themselves. External institutions which focus on research and development such as research trusts and charities would also be a useful place to look for a funded PhD.

Doctoral Loans

If you’re a UK student, you may qualify for a Postgraduate Doctoral Loan from Student Finance England. This form of financial aid is available for nearly all postgraduate research degrees undertaken in a higher education setting. They will allow you to borrow up to a total of £28,673 for 2023/24 courses .

Graduate Teaching Assistantships

Graduate Teaching Assistantships are a form of studentships which allow you to teach undergraduates as part of your research degree. This not only helps improve your academic skills, but it also enables you to receive a salary whilst you’re studying. As well as teaching assistantships, some departments also provide opportunities for demonstrations, marking papers, and tutorial support. The amount you can earn through these schemes will depend on how many hours you work and what agreements you make with your supervisor or course leader.

Working Whilst You Study – Part-time PhDs

A research student may opt for a part-time PhD as opposed to a full-time one. Although this would double the duration of their studies, it allows them to take on a part-time job to improve their financial situation. For students going down this route, it would be highly beneficial to pick up a part-time role in a position related to your industry. This will help refine your skills and increase your employability within this career role should you choose to pursue it after your degree.

If you’re an international student, keep in mind that you’ll likely be on a study visa. Therefore, there’ll be certain restrictions on what you can and can’t do alongside your study.

How Does This Compare to the Fees in Other Countries?

When considering the tuition fee of PhDs across different countries, the United Kingdom is generally considered as being in the ‘middle-ground‘ region.

A handful of countries offer PhD programmes for free. These include, but are not limited to, Denmark, Greece, Iceland, Norway and Poland.

The middle-ground region comprises countries such as Austria, Spain, Russia and New Zealand where postgraduate fees range from £1,400 to £4,000 per academic year.

The upper-end region comprises countries such as Hong Kong and the United States, where postgraduate tuition fees for a PhD student can go up to £33,000 per year.

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How Long Does it Take to Get a Psychology PhD?

Obtaining a PhD in psychology comes with a number of benefits, from the freedom to start your private practice to the chance to dive deep into research.

But if you’re charting out the next steps of your academic journey, the big question is, “How long does a PhD in psychology take?”

Ultimately, it depends on a handful of factors, but you can expect to be in school anywhere from five to seven years. 1,2 Let’s break down the timeline together and explore why earning a doctorate in psychology may be well worth the commitment. 

Get Your PhD in Psychology Degree

Psychology PhD Program Overview

A doctorate of philosophy in psychology is a terminal degree that helps prepare graduates for a range of professional pathways. It’s often seen as an ideal choice for students who hope to gain teaching experience or produce fresh insights through scientific research. 3 PhDs in psychology may also earn their licensure and work directly with clients in clinical settings, such as a mental health clinic or a private practice.

PhD in psychology programs may vary from institution to institution. Yet, they’re typically broken down into four primary categories:

• Methods and statistics
• Assessment and treatment of mental health conditions
• Research – Research is an integral component of PhD in psychology programs. Throughout your program, you may fine-tune your ability to gather information, perform interviews, work with participants of your selected study (or studies), gather and evaluate data, conduct literature reviews, and present results.
• Clinical practice and research – The knowledge and skills you obtain through coursework and research are taken from theory into practice through supervised training and/or a doctoral internship. Depending on the school, you may also have the opportunity for teaching assistantships.
• Dissertation – Your dissertation and dissertation defense are the key to the completion of your PhD and a culmination of your academic coursework, research, and hands-on training. While some may compare a dissertation to a thesis, dissertations are much more substantial in scope and typically come in between 100 and 300 pages. 7 If you’re unsure about your focus, we have the top 10 clinical psychology research topics to explore for your dissertation.

Stages of the PhD Program

The phases of a PhD in psychology also range from school to school. Graduate students can expect the following:

• Comprehensive exams
• Research proposal
• Dissertation research
• Dissertation defense

Does this mean you’ll manage each of these one at a time? Not necessarily. You might attend a morning lecture, teach for an hour, see a patient for an intake assessment, and spend your evening working on your dissertation.

Factors Affecting the Duration of a PhD in Psychology

Several factors may influence your particular answer to “How long does a PhD in psychology take?” These may include:

• Part-time vs. full-time status
• Job obligations
• Family obligations
• Domestic circumstances
• Extenuating circumstances that occur during your program
• Area of specialization

The duration of your graduate program may also be contingent upon the strength of your relationship with your mentor/doctoral advisor and, importantly, what you bring to the program, such as time management skills, motivation, and momentum. 8

The Role of Internships and Practical Experience

Internships and clinical practicums are crucial to gaining the skills and confidence required to transition from your doctoral program into the “real” world.

The type of hands-on experience you gain—and where it will occur—will depend on your program and discipline, but PhD in psychology students usually observe a licensed clinical psychologist in action or work directly with clients or groups of clients. In both scenarios, you typically have the opportunity to ask questions and request feedback. 9

Where do these internships and practicums take place? In a range of settings, such as:

• Rehabilitation centers
• Substance abuse facilities
• Private practices
• Correctional facilities

The PhD in Clinical Psychology program at Alliant International University, for example, pairs doctoral candidates with clinical practicum opportunities within the community to further your professional development.

As mentioned, a PhD in psychology usually takes between five and seven years, plus, in most cases, a one-year internship. Bear in mind, however, that the factors noted above could potentially delay completion.

5 Tips for Staying on Track

There are several ways to remain on track throughout your graduate studies: 10

• Establish regular meetings with your mentor/dissertation advisor to evaluate your progress
• Set firm deadlines
• Select a manageable research topic
• Work at building a support system, inside and outside of your program
• Decompress with regular breaks, whether that means exercise, a staycation, or a quick weekend away

According to the American Psychological Association (APA), studies suggest that picturing the completion of your PhD and your future success can boost your motivation. Getting a PhD in psychology is no easy feat, but you are making a difference in the lives of others.

How We Support Our PhD Students

Alliant International University is intent on ensuring students receive the support they need to thrive throughout their academic journeys. We offer a number of resources to nourish your well-being, including libraries, labs, and online databases. Add an encouraging faculty to the list, and you can rest assured that we’ll help you stay on track.

Elevate Your Academic Career at Alliant International University

“How long does it take to get a psychology PhD” is case by case, much in the way your clients may be in the future. However long it does take is incomparable to what you may gain from your program, from in-depth knowledge of the brain to the finest research techniques.

Alliant International University nurtures these very things. We offer two doctoral degrees in Psychology: a PsyD and a PhD in Clinical Psychology . Both come equipped with attributes that can help students flourish—during their PhD degree programs and after.

Imagine your future in psychology by exploring our doctoral programs today.

• Kendra Cherry, MSEd. “Different Timelines for Doctorate-Degree Options in Psychology.” Verywell Mind, November 7, 2023. https://www.verywellmind.com/how-long-does-it-take-to-get-a-phd-in-psychology-2795131.  
• “Home.” Alliant Intl University. Accessed April 20, 2024. https://www.alliant.edu/psychology/clinical-psychology/phd.  
• “Doctoral Degrees in Psychology: How Are They Different, or Not so Different?” American Psychological Association. Accessed April 20, 2024. https://www.apa.org/ed/precollege/psn/2016/01/doctoral-degrees .
• “Psychology Doctorate Phd Defined: Explore Academic, Internship and Research Requirements for a Psychology Phd.” Psychologist, March 24, 2021. https://www.psychologist-license.com/types-of-psychologists/psychologist-doctorate-phd/.  
• “Best Doctorate in Psychology (Ph.D.. and Psy.D.).” Psychology.org | Psychology’s Comprehensive Online Resource, April 12, 2024. https://www.psychology.org/degrees/phd/.  
• “Daily Activities of a Clinical Psychology Phd Student.” Simply Mental Health, November 13, 2022. https://simplymentalhealth.ca/2022/11/13/daily-activities-of-a-clinical-psychology-phd-student/.  
• "How Long Is a Dissertation? Here’s the Average Length.” Dissertation Team. Accessed April 20, 2024. https://us.dissertationteam.com/blog/how-long-is-a-dissertation/.&nbsp ;
• Young, Sonia N, William R Vanwye, Mark A Schafer, Troy A Robertson, and Ashley Vincent Poore. “Factors Affecting Phd Student Success.” International journal of exercise science, January 1, 2019. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6355122/.  
• “Internships and Practicums.” Psychology.org | Psychology’s Comprehensive Online Resource, April 10, 2024. https://www.psychology.org/resources/internships-and-practicums/.  
• “Revive Your Drive--Six Empirically Supported Techniques for Getting Excited about Grad School Again.” American Psychological Association. Accessed April 20, 2024. https://www.apa.org/gradpsych/2008/09/grad-school.&nbsp ;

David Stewart

Dean, California School of Professional Psychology

David G. Stewart, PhD, ABPP, is a board-certified clinical child and adolescent psychologist and Dean of the California School of...

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Tuition and fees: the big ticket item

Beyond tuition: other expenses to consider, financial aid options, reducing costs: tips and strategies, the cost of medical school: a reality check.

Affiliate links for the products on this page are from partners that compensate us (see our advertiser disclosure with our list of partners for more details). However, our opinions are our own. See how we rate student loans to write unbiased product reviews.

• Going to medical school in the United States can be extremely expensive. 
• From scholarships to loans, there are plenty of options to pay for a medical education.
• In some cases, you might be able to avoid paying tuition altogether.

Medical school in the U.S. is very expensive. You can easily rack up hundreds of thousands of dollars in debt while earning your degree. There are, however, plenty of options to ease the financial pain of pursuing a medical career.

Public vs. private schools

The average total cost of medical school is $235,827, and the average yearly cost of medical school is $59,968, according to the Education Data Initiative . Total costs can vary widely by institution type and location, ranging from $161,972 for in-state public schools to $264,704 for out-of-state private schools.

In-state vs. out-of-state

In-state residents are afforded certain advantages when applying to state schools, and typically pay less at public schools than they would at private universities.

Books and supplies

The cost of textbooks and supplies varies depending on your school and which year you are in. At UCLA, the cost for the first year is estimated at $3,476 . That compares to the third year with an estimated cost of $2,703. At Harvard, the estimate is $1,498.

Health insurance and fees

There are also certain indirect costs to consider. Take insurance, for example. Medical schools should require that all medical students have an active health insurance policy. Schools should offer a policy, but medical students should be allowed to select a personal policy after providing documentation that the policy provides comparable coverage. 

Living expenses

Your cost of living can vary greatly depending on whether you live in a big city or in a rural area. For example, the average rent for a one-bedroom apartment in New York was $3,789 as of June 2024. That compares to $942 for a one-bedroom apartment in Iowa City, according to data compiled by Apartments.com , a website that connects renters and landlords.

Of course, in New York you may not need a car. In Iowa City, that could be a real cost that comes with fluctuating gas prices, and auto insurance and maintenance costs. You also have to eat. Grocery prices are nearly 20% higher in New York versus Iowa City, according to Numbeo, a crowd-sourced platform that compiles cost of living data.

Exam fees (USMLE, etc.)

United States Medical Licensing Examination (USMLE) parts 1 and 2 cost about $670 each. Step 3 costs $925. Licensure fees range from state to state. In New York, they cost $735 for the initial application fee. In Iowa, that will run you $450.

Scholarships and grants

Scholarships and grants abound and can vary greatly in terms of eligibility requirements and what they can be used for, from tuition to travel for activities like conferences. You can start your search using the best scholarship websites such as FastWeb and at the US Department of Education's student aid website . The Association of American Medical Colleges (AAMC) also has a database with opportunities.

Local hospitals, religious institutions, local business, nonprofits, and others may also offer scholarships, so it pays to dig around. And don't forget to check with your medical school. Many of them offer aid to students in financial need.

Federal student loans

Federal student loans are available to med students. File a Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) to see what programs might be available for you. You could qualify for:

• Federal Direct Unsubsidized Loans: Federal Direct Loans are unsubsidized, meaning you're responsible for paying all the interest on these loans.
• Federal Direct Graduate PLUS Loans: You may be able to get a PLUS Loan for funds beyond Federal Direct Loans. PLUS Loans are also unsubsidized. They tend to have a higher interest rate than Federal Direct Loans.
• Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) Primary Care Loan: This is a school-based program that offers loans for medical students who demonstrate financial need.

Choose an in-state public school

If you're a resident applying to an in-state school, you can expect lower costs overall than with private or out-of-state universities. State-based financial aid programs can also be beneficial. Apply through FAFSA to see if you're eligible for any state-based loans or other financial aid. Twenty-eight states and Washington, DC, offer loan repayment programs for medical students.

Apply for scholarships and grants

Scholarships and grants come in all shapes and sizes, and they can add up over time if you apply and qualify for more than one. Be sure to begin your application process early, as these funds can run out.

Consider military scholarships (HPSP/HSCP)

Military scholarships are another option for med students. The U.S. Army, for example, could offer a scholarship, stipend program or educational loan repayment, as well as the ability to train alongside dedicated healthcare professionals. The F. Edward Hébert Armed Forces Health Professions Scholarship Program, for example, pays 100% of tuition, plus required books, equipment, most academic fees, and a monthly stipend of $2,000. Qualifying medical and dental students are also eligible to receive a $20,000 sign-on bonus.

You will have to fulfill a service commitment for the funding. The active duty service obligation to the U.S. Army is one year of service for every year you receive the scholarship.  

Loan forgiveness programs

The Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) program offers forgiveness of qualified federal student loans after 120 payments are made while employed full time at a 501(c)(3) non-profit or government employer. PSLF can erase much of your initial debt balance tax-free, and some residency programs are 501(c)(3) organizations, allowing physicians to start making qualified payments as soon as residency starts.  

The Health Resources and Services Administration provides grants to assist states in operating State Loan Repayment Program (SLRP) for primary care providers working in Health Professional Shortage Areas (HPSA). The New Hampshire State Loan Repayment Program, for example, provides funds to health care professionals working in areas of the state designated as being medically underserved and who are willing to commit and contract with the state for a minimum of three years (or two if part-time). 

Finally, the National Health Service Corps (NHSC) is a federal program administered by the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) that provides scholarships and loan repayment to healthcare professionals practicing at approved sites located in/or serving Health Professional Shortage Areas (HPSAs) throughout the United States.

The cost of medical school FAQs

The cost of medical school application fees vary, but can be around $100-200 per school.

You might have a hard time trying to work during medical school, as there is limited time free time due to the intense demands of the program.

Yes, many medical schools offer scholarships, grants, and work-study options.

Yes, you can get your student loans forgiven through programs like Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) or state-specific programs for doctors working in underserved areas.

• Main content

• Johns Hopkins University Human Resources
• Benefits & Worklife
• Our Health & Life Offerings
• Student & Learner Health Benefits

PhD Benefits Overview

The following benefits are available to PhDs at Johns Hopkins University.

PhDs are auto-enrolled into individual medical coverage. The plan is administered by Wellfleet and utilizes the Cigna PPO network of providers. Prescription coverage is included in the medical plan. For more information about the plan, please visit: Wellfleet Medical Plan – JHU Human Resources

To enroll dependents into medical coverage, please visit: https://students.care26.com/login

PhDs are auto-enrolled into individual level dental coverage. The plan is offered in partnership with Delta Dental and utilizes the Delta Dental PPO + Primer network of providers. For more information about the dental plan, please visit: Delta Dental Plan – JHU Human Resources

To enroll dependents into dental coverage, please visit: https://students.care26.com/login

PhDs are auto-enrolled into individual level vision coverage through EyeMed on the Insight Network. For more information about the vision plan, please visit: EyeMed Vision Plan – JHU Human Resources

PhDs at the University are required to re-enroll their dependents each semester (Fall/Spring) or each Term (Term 1, Term 2, Term 3, and Term 4) for BSPH.

Effective 8/15/2024 , PhDs are eligible to be reimbursed for their dependent premiums if they enrolled a child or spouse/domestic partner that is not eligible to work in the US and does not have other insurance coverage. To complete the application for reimbursement, please follow this link.

PhDs submitting for reimbursement must do so within 90 days of payment and will need to upload a copy of their receipt for the student benefits office to review here .

As a PhD student, you can participate in a voluntary benefits program to purchase a discounted legal services plan. You can enroll during annual enrollment (7/1 – 9/15 each year).

The MetLife Legal Plan gives you access to a nationwide network of more than 12,000 attorneys, to help you and your dependents with vital legal matters such as estate planning, financial, and support with reproductive issues. You can receive a consultation over the phone or in person.

To enroll, please visit: phd.jhuvoluntarybenefits.com

As a PhD student, you can participate in a voluntary benefits program to purchase Pet Insurance. You can enroll in the program at any time.

Nationwide pet insurance helps you cover veterinary expenses so you can provide your pets with the best care possible without worrying about the cost.

For more information and to enroll into pet insurance, please visit: phd.jhuvoluntarybenefits.com

As a PhD student, you can participate in a voluntary benefits program to purchase Identity Protection. You can enroll in the program at any time.

With Allstate Identity Protection Pro Plus, you’ll get access to: identity and credit monitoring, dark web monitoring, social medical reputation monitoring, financial threshold monitoring, digital wallet storage and monitoring, data breach notification, and more.

For more information and to enroll, please visit: phd.jhuvoluntarybenefits.com

PhD students are eligible to be reimbursed for bus passes purchased through the MTA All Access College Program or through the U-Pass program. PhDs can be reimbursed for 2 passes at one time. Each pass is valid for 31 days. Reimbursement for passes will be processed through concur and must be submitted within 90 days of payment.

PhDs must opt-in to have their information shared with the MTA / U-Pass for discounted bus passes. To Opt-In, PhDs must complete this form.

To submit your receipt to Concur, please visit: https://login.johnshopkins.edu/concur

PhDs in full-time resident status will receive child subsidies of $4,500 per child per fiscal year for eligible children under the age of six (6) or $3,000 per child aged six (6) to eighteen (18), with a maximum of $12,000 per family per year.

Must be eligible dependents under the Student Health Benefits Plan (SHBP).

PhDs with adult dependents as defined by Section 152 of the Internal Revenue Code will qualify for this benefit at a rate of $3,000 per dependent per fiscal year.

Dependents are defined as anyone for whom you provided more than 50% of the financial support for the year, as defined in Section 152 of the Internal Revenue Code, and who resides in your home at least one-half of the taxable year.

The subsidies will be paid in installments over the course of the fiscal year.

To apply for the PhD Dependent Subsidy, please complete the online application.

At the end of the application, you will be required to upload copies of your dependent verification documents (child’s birth certificate or passport that shows their date of birth, copy of J-2 visa with dependents name and date of birth, or copy of marriage certificate with spouse’s name and date of birth). Please upload dependent verification documents here .

Student Health & Well-Being (SHWB) Primary Care consists of three clinic locations (Homewood, East Baltimore, and Washington DC) that provide a variety of medical services for the evaluation and treatment of an illness or injury, preventive health care and health education to the Johns Hopkins University student and trainee population. For more information or to schedule an appointment, please visit: Primary Care (jhu.edu)

Mental Health Services supports the diverse community of Johns Hopkins University students and trainees through the provision of accessible, high-quality and compassionate mental healthcare resources. We are committed to diversity, equity, inclusion, and justice and prioritize these values in our approach to clinical care as well as every aspect of the work we do. For more information or to schedule an appointment, please visit: Mental Health Services (jhu.edu)

PhD students are eligible to receive no less than 8 weeks of fully-paid new child accommodations. For more information please visit: New Child Accommodations for Full Time Graduate Students and Postdoctoral Trainees (jhu.edu)

The following benefits are administered by JHU Benefits & WorkLife.

Locate Search Child Care by the Maryland Family Network   (eligible at any time)

Child Care Voucher Program (eligible as of the date of appointment, application required annually)

Child Care Scholarships to JHU Partner Centers (eligible as of the date of appointment, application required annually)

Please contact 410-516-2000, [email protected] or [email protected] if you have questions about these programs.

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Michelle Goldberg

The Most Important Primary Election of the Year Is Also a Heartbreaker

By Michelle Goldberg

Opinion Columnist

Update: George Latimer defeated Jamaal Bowman in the Democratic congressional primary on Tuesday.

On Tuesday, voters in New York’s 16th Congressional District will cast ballots in the most expensive House primary race in American history, and if the polls are right, Representative Jamaal Bowman, a left-wing Democrat, is going to lose. In the primary four years ago, Bowman rode the insurgent energy of the Black Lives Matter movement to an upset victory against a longtime incumbent, Eliot Engel, one of Congress’s most reliable supporters of Israel. But the urgent utopian hopes of that moment have long since faded. Now Israel’s champions, many of whom have never been comfortable with Bowman, are striking back, capitalizing on a political environment transformed by Oct. 7.

Bowman’s challenger is the Westchester County executive, George Latimer, who refuses to criticize Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu of Israel, putting Latimer not just to Bowman’s right but also to the right of President Biden and Senator Chuck Schumer, the majority leader. A June Emerson poll showed Latimer leading by 17 points. If Bowman is defeated, he will be the first member of the Squad — a group of young, very progressive Black and brown members of Congress — toppled by a moderate. Given that the American Israel Public Affairs Committee’s super PAC has poured more than $14.5 million into the race, a Bowman loss will probably serve as a warning to other politicians about the cost of breaking with Washington’s pro-Israel political consensus.

“This is, in my view, one of the most important elections in the modern history of this country,” Senator Bernie Sanders of Vermont said at a rally for Bowman on Friday, speaking about the obscene sums being marshaled on Latimer’s behalf. I think Sanders was exaggerating, but the contest is probably the most important congressional primary this year. It’s setting a precedent for big money interference in local politics and tearing at the longtime progressive alliance between Black people and Jews. It could intimidate into silence Democrats who have qualms about Israel’s treatment of the Palestinians, or if Bowman manages an upset, it could embolden them. These high stakes make his carelessness in giving his enemies ammunition especially frustrating.

It was always going to be hard, after Oct. 7, for Bowman to bridge the gulf between his convictions and the expectations of many of his Jewish constituents. His district, which includes a small slice of the Bronx as well as the suburbs of southern Westchester, is among the country’s most Jewish, and many of his voters, traumatized by Hamas’s attack on Israel and by increasingly visible antisemitism in America, wanted someone who would stand resolutely with the Jewish state. Bowman was never going to do that; he was horrified by his encounter with Israel’s occupation during a congressional trip in 2021, and he’s been anguished by the mass death and suffering of Palestinians in Gaza, where he believes Israel is committing a genocide. There is something deeply admirable about his refusal to subordinate his values to political expediency.

But Bowman has also been reckless in stomping on ideological land mines. Among his greatest unforced errors was claiming that reports of Israeli women being raped on Oct. 7 were a “lie” used for “propaganda.” (He later apologized .) Though he says he continues to support a two-state solution, he’s fallen into the left-wing habit of using “Zionist” as an insult, such as when he referred to the “Zionist regime we call AIPAC.” Speaking to Politico , he complained about the “decision” some Jews have made to segregate themselves, which many saw as an insult to the Orthodox communities in his district. I suspect Bowman didn’t know that the idea of Jews as clannish is an antisemitic trope, but when you have lots of Jewish constituents, understanding their sensitivities is part of the job.

To be clear, Bowman isn’t the only one showing a lack of sensitivity. The campaign against him has been ugly and sometimes frankly racist. Latimer has accused Bowman of caring only about his “Black and brown” constituents and of having an “ethnic” advantage. After the candidates’ first debate, a vice chair of the Westchester County Democratic Committee called Bowman an “angry, lying Black man” on Latimer’s Facebook page, adding that she’d be glad to see him have a stroke. Before Friday’s rally with Sanders, which took place in the picturesque village of Hastings-on-Hudson, some residents sent a letter to local leaders fretting about the threat of “paid agitators” endangering the community.

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The White House 1600 Pennsylvania Ave NW Washington, DC 20500

FACT SHEET: President   Biden Announces New Actions to Keep Families   Together

Since his first day in office, President Biden has called on Congress to secure our border and address our broken immigration system. As Congressional Republicans have continued to put partisan politics ahead of national security – twice voting against the toughest and fairest set of reforms in decades – the President and his Administration have taken actions to secure the border, including:

• Implementing executive actions to bar migrants who cross our Southern border unlawfully from receiving asylum when encounters are high;
• Deploying record numbers of law enforcement personnel, infrastructure, and technology to the Southern border;
• Seizing record amounts of fentanyl at our ports of entry;
• Revoking the visas of CEOs and government officials outside the U.S. who profit from migrants coming to the U.S. unlawfully; and
• Expanding efforts to dismantle human smuggling networks and prosecuting individuals who violate immigration laws.

President Biden believes that securing the border is essential. He also believes in expanding lawful pathways and keeping families together, and that immigrants who have been in the United States for decades, paying taxes and contributing to their communities, are part of the social fabric of our country. The Day One immigration reform plan that the President sent to Congress reflects both the need for a secure border and protections for the long-term undocumented. While Congress has failed to act on these reforms, the Biden-Harris Administration has worked to strengthen our lawful immigration system. In addition to vigorously defending the DACA (Deferred Action for Childhood arrivals) policy, the Administration has extended Affordable Care Act coverage to DACA recipients and streamlined, expanded, and instituted new reunification programs so that families can stay together while they complete the immigration process.  Still, there is more that we can do to bring peace of mind and stability to Americans living in mixed-status families as well as young people educated in this country, including Dreamers. That is why today, President Biden announced new actions for people who have been here many years to keep American families together and allow more young people to contribute to our economy.   Keeping American Families Together

• Today, President Biden is announcing that the Department of Homeland Security will take action to ensure that U.S. citizens with noncitizen spouses and children can keep their families together.
• This new process will help certain noncitizen spouses and children apply for lawful permanent residence – status that they are already eligible for – without leaving the country.
• These actions will promote family unity and strengthen our economy, providing a significant benefit to the country and helping U.S. citizens and their noncitizen family members stay together.
• In order to be eligible, noncitizens must – as of June 17, 2024 – have resided in the United States for 10 or more years and be legally married to a U.S. citizen, while satisfying all applicable legal requirements. On average, those who are eligible for this process have resided in the U.S. for 23 years.
• Those who are approved after DHS’s case-by-case assessment of their application will be afforded a three-year period to apply for permanent residency. They will be allowed to remain with their families in the United States and be eligible for work authorization for up to three years. This will apply to all married couples who are eligible.  
• This action will protect approximately half a million spouses of U.S. citizens, and approximately 50,000 noncitizen children under the age of 21 whose parent is married to a U.S. citizen.

Easing the Visa Process for U.S. College Graduates, Including Dreamers

• President Obama and then-Vice President Biden established the DACA policy to allow young people who were brought here as children to come out of the shadows and contribute to our country in significant ways. Twelve years later, DACA recipients who started as high school and college students are now building successful careers and establishing families of their own.
• Today’s announcement will allow individuals, including DACA recipients and other Dreamers, who have earned a degree at an accredited U.S. institution of higher education in the United States, and who have received an offer of employment from a U.S. employer in a field related to their degree, to more quickly receive work visas.
• Recognizing that it is in our national interest to ensure that individuals who are educated in the U.S. are able to use their skills and education to benefit our country, the Administration is taking action to facilitate the employment visa process for those who have graduated from college and have a high-skilled job offer, including DACA recipients and other Dreamers. 

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