how long to wait after phd interview

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How Long Does It Take To Hear Back After A PhD Interview?: Key Interview Tips.

You had the doctoral interview and now you are in the waiting stage after you finished the interview. I am sure that you are asking yourself, “how long should you wait to hear from the selection committee on your PhD interview?”

It is reasonable to wait anywhere from a few weeks to a few months to hear back from the selection committee on your PhD interview. It varies a lot depending on how put together the university is on their selection process and how many applicants that the university is looking at. (Once you are done reading this post, you should look at the longer post of PhD interviews).

Why does it take so long to hear back from a PhD interview?

Guaranteed that you are freaking out right now. I do when I wait to hear back from any selection committee. What a stressful time for you! I know that you are wondering why it takes so long to hear back from the selection committee. The ultimate truth is that you are paying more attention to the time than the selection committee is. You have to see it from their perspective: They have probably done this job several times before, and it feels like a job to them. Not to diminish the importance of your waiting, but the selection committee just as a different perspective than you do.

Read this post to help you prepare for your PhD interviews. So helpful!

The other thing that you have to think about is that the selection process generally has to go through many ‘hoops’ and administrative discussions before they can communicate back to you. The university that you are waiting to hear back from has to double and triple check that they have the resources to fund your doctoral journey. They also want to make sure that you are the right person for the position. (You should read this post we wrote on what PhD students do all day – you might be surprised.)

Should you send a thank you email after PhD interview?

Absolutely. You should send a nice note to everyone that you talk to during the interview process. You should likely send this email about 1-5 days after your interview. It should say something like this, “Dear so and so, I just wanted to let you know how much I enjoyed the discussion with you. I looked further into what you were talking about, and your research interests. I very much enjoyed the research article on blaa. Most importantly, I want to say thank you for having the discussion with me and sharing your time. I know that you are very busy, and that spending even a bit of time with me, has inspired my doctoral journey. Best, Student.

Before you go through with your PhD, you should read this article on bad PhD experiences.

Do you need to know what PhD students actually do? You should read this!

No Response on the PhD Interview?

If you get no response after a period of time (say 2 months) after the PhD interview, I would move on. This generally means that you likely did not get the position, or you were put on a wait-list. It is likely that the person forgot to contact you.

If you want to make sure, you can prompt your contact during the PhD interview once again about how you enjoyed the PhD interview, and whether the position is still open. I would be quite subtle with this prompt, and wait a bit of time before you sent it.

If you need help on tips for applying to PhD programs and help through the whole process, you should check out this video:

PhD Rejection?

Remember, getting a PhD position is generally very difficult, so don’t feel bad about not getting the position. If I were you, I would ‘try, try again,’ until you find the position you were looking for! If you need motivation with your PhD, check out this post on the importance of doing difficult things in your life. The career is all about persistence, and the sooner you learn this idea, the more prepared you are going to be for research. You got this!

Read this why you need to be consistent and persistent in your PhD journey! Check out this post on why we really need to be cheering for each other a lot more.

Here are 20 super PhD tips that you should know.

The R3ciprocity Project started out as a side-project, where David Maslach created an App to help others get feedback on their work (r3ciprocity.com – it is seriously inexpensive and easy to use. You have to try it!) , but it is beginning to grow into a real movement.

Did you benefit from this post? Do you know of anyone at all that could use feedback on their writing or editing of their documents? I would be so grateful if you read this post on how to get feedback on your writing using R3ciprocity.com or let others know about the R3ciprocity Project. THANK YOU in advance! You are the bees knees.

Check out the YouTube channel , or some of these posts if you want to understand more:

If you like this post, you should check out:

Ace Your PhD Interviews Easily.

Five Frustrating PhD Questions To (Never) Ask A PhD.

How To Deal With Self-Doubts As A PhD?

David Maslach

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After the interview, reflect and assess.

After the interview, take between 15-30 minutes to think about how it went. Consider writing or typing out notes while things are still fresh in your head so you do not have to rely on memory later. These notes will help you better assess your level of interest in the position and prepare for future interviews.

Here are some recommended questions to ask yourself for interview reflection:

• What questions did they ask?
• How did I answer? What stories did I tell?
• What seemed to matter to them?
• Did I learn anything new about the position? About the employer?
• What was the vibe like? How did the interview "feel?"
• If asked to another interview, what would I want to emphasize in the next stage?

For more advice on post-interview reflection, read What to Do Immediately After an Interview .

Thank You Notes

Always send a thank you note to your interviewers to convey your appreciation for their consideration and reiterate your interest in the opportunity. This is a small but impactful gesture in the interview process.

Here are some general tips:

• Send your notes in a timely manner, ideally within two days of the interview.
• Email is appropriate, and typically the best way to guarantee your note will arrive in a timely manner. If you prefer to send a handwritten thank you note, consider sending an email and a mailed letter.
• Send a note to everyone who interviewed you or had a meaningful interaction with. If you do not have contact information for everyone, try researching online or asking your main point of contact at the organization. You can also include them by name in your thank you note to your main contact. For example, "Please extend my thanks to Dr. Lee and Ms. Brown for taking the time to speak with me."
• Personalize your note by addressing something specific from your interview. For example, mention something you learned during the interview that makes the position or company desirable to reiterate your interest.
• Be brief and positive. You may include additional information about yourself or clarify an issue that was not adequately addressed while interviewing.

If you return from an interview certain that you do not want this position, you can send a note to politely inform them that you have determined you are not interested. For example, "Thank you again for the opportunity to interview. At this time, I have decided to withdraw from consideration for the position."

Following Up

During your interview, it is a good practice to ask when you should expect to hear back from them. If you have not heard anything after this time, you may follow up with a polite communication restating your interest in the position and inquiring about the status of the search. If no timeline was offered, two weeks is considered an acceptable amount of time to wait before following up. Remain professional at all times and follow-up only once.

How To Prepare for a PhD Interview

• Katie Baker
• September 26, 2023

So, you’ve written your personal statement, you’ve sent through your application and now you’ve been invited to a PhD interview, the first step is to congratulate yourself; only 30 – 50% of PhD applicants make it through to the initial interview stage. The invitation is a sure-fire sign the admissions team were impressed by your academic track record, essays, research proposals and personal statement, but you aren’t out of the woods and in the door just yet. 

PhD interviews are conducted by universities to discuss the PhD program or your research proposal with you in more detail. You can also expect to be asked questions about your academic background, skills, and career goals. By asking these questions, university admissions teams will assess whether you are capable enough to carry out doctoral research. With enough preparation, your PhD interview doesn’t need to be daunting. 

To help you prepare for your interview, this page will outline advice on how to prepare for a PhD interview and give you an insight into what typically happens at PhD interviews. However, it is worth bearing in mind that each university interviews its potential PhD candidates differently. 

Along with following the advice outlined here, you will also want to ensure you have a good idea of what to expect from your interview. For example, some university boards will ask you to do a short presentation; others will only ask you questions based on your research proposal and other application materials that spurred them to pick up the phone and invite you to elaborate on your application. 

Know What To Expect From a PhD Interview

Even though PhD interview questions can vary significantly from institution to institution, depending on the circumstances of your PhD application or be formulated specifically around your subject area, every interview serves the same purpose. 

So while it is difficult to give you an idea of a standard PhD interview format, the principle is the same; you will be discussing the finer details of your research proposal or your academic background if you are applying for a program with pre-determined aims and objectives. 

Formal interviews will put you in front of a postgraduate recruitment panel, potentially comprising admission tutors and PhD supervisors; on the other end of the spectrum, you could be asked to meet your potential supervisor for lunch or in a coffee shop on campus to discuss your research interests. Some universities even choose to include orientation activities in the initial interview process; this will give you the chance to explore the research facilities and meet staff members and peers. 

Whichever setting your interview takes place in, and whoever is present, remember that the focus will always be on your achievements, academic interests, and goals.

PhD Interview Presentations

If a PhD interview presentation is required, you will be informed by the university well in advance to allow you to prepare. Your prospective department will also outline their expectations for the presentation, including how long it should be, what needs to be covered, and how it should be delivered. 

Typically, PhD interview presentations should take no longer than 15 minutes to complete, be delivered via PowerPoint and cover your academic achievements and background, research methods and the impact of your research. However, for students interviewing for advertised positions, there may be a requirement to give a short presentation on a specified topic related to your field.

How Long Does a PhD Interview Take?

There is no one-size-fits-all answer for how long a PhD interview takes; the duration depends on the format, how quickly you provide the information that the postgraduate recruitment panel and several other factors.

With some interviews, you should block out an entire day in your calendar as the university may invite you to meet the recruitment panel in the morning, have lunch on campus, explore the department, and have your formal interview afterwards. With others, you can expect to meet your future supervisor and speak with them for an hour over coffee. Whichever interview format you are invited to, remember you’ll be doing the degree be prepared to make the most of it!

PhD Interviews for Advertised Positions

Most STEM PhD programs come with pre-defined aims, usually part of a research program with broader research objectives; your doctoral research will contribute to the body of research. Furthermore, many advertised PhD projects will also have secure funding. With these kinds of positions, all applicants must prove via their interviews that they can carry out the research to a high standard and prove they deserve the secured funding or studentship.

For example, imagine a particular PhD degree involving the analysis of a particular protein. Being a talented and competent life scientist can get you the interview, but exhibiting your knowledge of the specific proteins and familiarity with the techniques and equipment you need to run your analytical research will seal you the position. You don’t need to be an expert; you need to prove your capacity to become an expert – given the chance.

With advertised positions, the interviews are typically more formal, and the main component will comprise a question-and-answer session where you will be in front of a qualified postgraduate recruitment panel involving three or more people, including project supervisors, postgrad admissions staff, lead investigators and funding reps.

The panel will focus on your research goals and interests and how they correlate to your academic background. You may also be expected to expand on sections of your application which need more clarification. 

It isn’t heard of for interviewers to ask you to give a specific presentation in addition to answering questions. However, this presentation shouldn’t be too long or complex. Alternatively, you may be asked to cover your research proposal in more intricate detail or summarise previous research projects. 

At the end of the interview, you will get the opportunity to ask your own questions; prepare some in advance; this will show your interest and enthusiasm, and you will also gain clarification that the program is right for you.

PhD Interviews for Self-Proposed Research Proposals

If you have applied for a position with a self-proposed research proposal, the interview will differ from the interviews for students hoping to complete doctoral research with pre-defined objectives. 

With self-proposed research proposals, you won’t only need to prove your competency, but you will also need to prove the value and originality of your project. Once accepted, you will have freedom over the research you conduct – to a certain extent – however, you will still gain access to similar levels of support, training and resources. 

Even though you have to defend your research proposal, these interviews are typically more flexible and relaxed; you won’t have the pressure of competing for secured funding or affirming why you deserve studentship above other applicants. However, you will face just as much scrutiny as students competing for advertised positions as you will need to confidently convey that the project is viable in terms of time, methodology, and facilities available at the university. 

It is more likely that interviews for students proposing their own research will be more casual; don’t take this as an indication that they are any less important. The postgraduate research panel or your potential supervisor will still need confirmation that you have the right skills and knowledge to go in-depth with research in their field. 

Taking on a new doctoral candidate is a big multi-year commitment for PhD supervisors; you will want to assure them it is worth their time. Typically, this process will include going through points already illustrated in your proposal and expanding on uncovered areas. If funding is on the cards, it will be allocated on a merit basis; with this in mind, elaborate on the value of your project.

How to Prepare for a PhD Interview

Regardless of how your interview is conducted, you will still need to speak about your research proposal and previous work and experience. Spend ample time reviewing your former essays, considering your previous feedback, and going over your proposal with a fine-tooth comb. You should always be prepared to defend any claims you have made with evidence and examples.

During the interview, expect the academic work carried out in your bachelor’s and master’s degrees to be brought up. The merits of them won’t seal your acceptance offer, but discussing your academic background can exhibit your enthusiasm and show how your interest in your research topic developed.

In addition to re-reading your work, take the time to familiarise yourself with the current or recent research carried out by your supervisor. This familiarity will prove that you will relish the opportunity to work with them. If you aren’t sure who your PhD supervisor will be, review the research carried out in the department. 

The lack of originality in research proposals is one of the main reasons for PhD application rejections, which typically happens before the interview stage. However, during your PhD interview, you will also need to verify, if you have self-proposed your own research, that you have investigated the field to ensure your thesis will be completely original.

For PhD projects with pre-set aims, never overlook any of the details of the program. Beyond reviewing the objectives, take an interest in who will be involved, clue yourself in about external funders, and note the available development and training. 

Practice doesn’t only mean perfect; it also means you are committed, capable and confident. Enlist the help of your current academic contacts and peers while practising your interview or presentation material. This is especially important if you don’t have much experience with public speaking or giving presentations.

What To Wear and Bring to a PhD Interview?

Appearance isn’t everything in a PhD interview, but it can go a long way for potential candidates wanting to make the best first impression. Even though academics don’t typically share a similar wardrobe with CEOs during their average workdays, you should present yourself how you would if you were attending a job interview for your dream job. 

The PhD admissions team will inform you if you need to bring anything specific to your interview, such as a presentation. However, if it makes you feel more comfortable and prepared, you can bring hard copies of your previous essays or dissertations, which you can re-read or reference where appropriate. It may also be beneficial to bring a hard copy of your research proposal if you submitted one. 

A notepad and pen will also help you to take notes after you have asked your questions at the end of the interview. Remember, like a job interview, a PhD interview will assess your suitability for the university and the suitability of the university for you. Doctoral research is a big commitment; you will want to ensure that the institution is right for you; your initial interview may be your only chance to explore the campus and meet the staff.

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PhD Interview Questions and Answers (13 Questions + Answers)

Most PhD applications include an interview. This allows your university (and perhaps even your prospective supervisor) to discuss the PhD with you in more detail.

This article lists some of the most common PhD interview questions along with their answers. The goal is to help you prepare for a PhD interview and pass with flying colors.

1) How did you develop this proposal?

When responding to this question, demonstrate your thought process, research skills, and the evolution of your ideas. Let's choose the subject of "Renewable Energy Integration in Urban Planning" as an example.

Sample answer:

"My proposal on 'Renewable Energy Integration in Urban Planning' originated from my undergraduate thesis on sustainable cities. Intrigued by the potential of renewable energy in urban environments, I conducted a literature review to identify gaps in current research. This review highlighted a lack of comprehensive strategies for integrating renewable technologies at a city-wide level. I then consulted with experts in urban planning and renewable energy, which provided practical insights into the challenges and opportunities in this field. I designed a methodology that combines spatial analysis with energy modeling to explore optimal renewable energy integration in urban landscapes. This proposal represents an amalgamation of academic research, expert consultation, and innovative methodology development."

This answer is effective because it mentions a literature review demonstrates the ability to conduct thorough research and identify gaps in existing knowledge.

2) Why do you wish to pursue a PhD?

For this question, it's important to articulate your passion for the subject, your long-term career goals, and how the PhD program aligns with these aspects.

Let's choose the subject of "Artificial Intelligence in Healthcare" for this example.

"I am passionate about leveraging technology to improve healthcare outcomes, and pursuing a PhD in Artificial Intelligence in Healthcare aligns perfectly with this passion. During my Master's, I was fascinated by the potential of AI to revolutionize diagnostic processes and personalized medicine. I believe a PhD will provide me with the deep technical knowledge and research skills necessary to contribute significantly to this field. My goal is to develop AI systems that enhance medical diagnostics, ultimately improving patient care and treatment efficiency. This PhD program, known for its pioneering research in AI and strong healthcare collaborations, is the ideal environment for me to develop these innovations and achieve my career aspirations in healthcare technology."

This is a great answer because you clearly state that the PhD will provide the necessary skills and knowledge, indicating a clear understanding of the purpose of the program.

3) Why do you think you are the right candidate for this PhD program?

Discuss how your research interests align with the program's strengths and the faculty's expertise. Explain how the program's resources, courses, and research opportunities can help you achieve your academic and career goals.

"I am deeply passionate about environmental science, particularly in the area of sustainable urban development. This passion was ignited during my master's program in Environmental Studies at XYZ University, where I completed a thesis on urban green spaces and their impact on city microclimates. This research not only honed my skills in data analysis and GIS mapping but also highlighted the importance of interdisciplinary approaches to environmental issues. I am drawn to your PhD program at ABC University because of its innovative research on sustainable urban planning and the renowned work of Professor Jane Smith in this field. Her research aligns with my interest in integrating green infrastructure into urban planning to mitigate climate change effects. My perseverance, attention to detail, and ability to synthesize complex data make me an ideal candidate for this challenging program. Pursuing this PhD is integral to my goal of becoming an environmental consultant, where I plan to develop strategies for cities to reduce their environmental footprint."

This response is effective because it mentions particular aspects of your experience and the program, avoiding generic statements. It also outlines how the PhD fits into your career path.

4) What do you plan to do after you have completed your PhD?

Be specific about the type of career you aspire to, whether it's in academia, industry, research, etc. Explain how the PhD will equip you with the skills and knowledge for your chosen career path.

"After completing my PhD in Computational Neuroscience, I plan to pursue a career in academia as a university professor. My doctoral research on neural network modeling will provide a strong foundation for teaching and conducting further research in this area. I aim to develop innovative courses that bridge computer science and neuroscience, addressing the growing demand for interdisciplinary knowledge in these fields. Additionally, I intend to continue my research on applying machine learning techniques to understand brain function, which has potential implications for developing new treatments for neurological disorders. This academic pathway allows me to contribute significantly to both education and research in Computational Neuroscience."

This is a great answer because it connects the PhD research directly to future career plans.

It also articulates how your work can impact both academia and the broader field of Computational Neuroscience.

5) Why have you chosen this specific PhD program?

Mention specific aspects of the program that attracted you, such as the curriculum, research facilities, faculty expertise, or reputation.

Explain how the program aligns with your research interests or academic background.

"I chose the PhD program in Artificial Intelligence at MIT because of its cutting-edge research and interdisciplinary approach, which perfectly aligns with my academic background in computer science and my passion for machine learning. The program's emphasis on both theoretical foundations and practical applications in AI is particularly appealing. Additionally, the opportunity to work under the guidance of Professor [Name], whose work in [specific area, e.g., neural networks or AI ethics] has deeply influenced my own research interests, is a significant draw. This program is an ideal fit for me to further develop my skills and contribute to the field of AI, ultimately aiming for a career in AI research and development in the tech industry."

This answer connects your background and goals to the program's offerings.

Including a specific professor's name shows detailed knowledge about the program and faculty.

6) What impact would you like your PhD project to have?

When answering this question, convey both the academic significance and the potential real-world applications of your research. Let's choose a project focused on developing eco-friendly battery technologies for electric vehicles for this example.

"My PhD project aims to develop new eco-friendly battery technologies for electric vehicles (EVs), addressing both the environmental impact of battery production and the efficiency of energy storage. I hope my research will contribute to the academic field by advancing our understanding of sustainable materials for energy storage, potentially leading to publications and patents. Beyond academia, I envision this project significantly impacting the EV industry by providing a more sustainable and efficient battery alternative. This innovation could play a crucial role in reducing the carbon footprint of transportation and supporting global efforts towards a greener future. Ultimately, I aspire for my work to not only advance scientific knowledge but also drive real-world changes in how we approach energy sustainability in transportation."

This is an excellent answer because it connects the project to larger environmental goals and societal benefits. It also reflects a forward-thinking approach, demonstrating your understanding of the project's potential long-term implications.

7) What difficulties would you expect to encounter during this project?

It's important to demonstrate awareness of potential challenges and convey a proactive mindset toward problem-solving. Let's choose a project focused on the development of a novel AI-driven diagnostic tool for early detection of neurological diseases for this example.

"In developing an AI-driven diagnostic tool for early detection of neurological diseases, I anticipate several challenges. Firstly, the accuracy and reliability of the tool depend heavily on the quality and diversity of the data used for training the AI algorithms. Obtaining a comprehensive dataset that adequately represents the population can be difficult due to privacy concerns and data availability. Secondly, ensuring the AI model's interpretability to be clinically useful while maintaining high performance is another challenge, given the complexity of neurological diseases. To address these, I plan to collaborate with interdisciplinary teams, including data privacy experts and neurologists, to source and utilize data ethically and effectively. I also intend to continuously refine the AI model, focusing on both its predictive accuracy and clinical applicability. These challenges, while significant, present valuable opportunities for innovation and interdisciplinary collaboration."

This response is effective because it clearly outlines realistic challenges specific to the AI diagnostic tool project. It also presents a proactive approach to overcoming these challenges, showing problem-solving skills.

8) How will you fund this project?

When answering this question, show that you've thought about the financial aspects of your research and are aware of funding sources that are available and applicable to your project. 

"I have identified multiple funding sources to support my renewable energy research project at Stanford University. Firstly, I plan to apply for the DOE Office of Science Graduate Student Research (SCGSR) Program, which offers substantial support for projects focusing on sustainable energy. My proposal for this grant is already in progress, highlighting how my project aligns with the DOE's priorities in advancing clean energy technologies. Additionally, I'm exploring departmental fellowships at Stanford, particularly those aimed at renewable energy research. I am also keen on establishing industry partnerships, given the project's relevance to current energy challenges and the potential for collaborative funding and technological exchange. Last but not least, I will seek conference grants to present my research findings, which can lead to further academic collaborations and additional funding opportunities."

Notice how this answer mentions funding sources that align with the renewable energy focus of the project and the resources available at Stanford University.

9) Tell us about a time you experienced a setback

Focus on a situation relevant to your academic or research experience. Let's use a real-world example where a research experiment failed due to unexpected variables.

"During my Master’s thesis on the effects of soil composition on plant growth, I faced a major setback. My initial experiments, which involved growing plants in different soil types, failed to produce consistent results due to unanticipated environmental variations in the greenhouse. This was disheartening, especially as the deadline approached. However, I responded by reassessing my experimental setup. I consulted with my supervisor and decided to control more variables, such as humidity and temperature. I also refined my data collection methods to include more frequent soil and plant measurements. These adjustments led to more reliable results, and I successfully completed my thesis. This experience taught me the importance of adaptability in research and reinforced the value of meticulous experimental design."

This is a great answer because it shows how you’ve encountered and overcame a specific problem, demonstrating resilience and adaptability.

10) What are your strengths and weaknesses?

When answering this question, it's important to present a balanced view of yourself, showing self-awareness and a commitment to personal development. Choose strengths that are relevant to a PhD program and weaknesses that you're actively working to improve.

"One of my key strengths is my analytical thinking, which I demonstrated during my Master's project where I developed a novel algorithm for data analysis. This required me to not only understand complex theories but also apply them creatively to solve real-world problems. As for weaknesses, I sometimes struggle with overcommitment, taking on too many projects at once. This occasionally led to stress during my undergraduate studies. However, I am actively working on this by improving my time management skills and learning to prioritize tasks more effectively. I've started using project management tools and setting clear boundaries, which has already shown improvements in my workflow and stress levels."

This answer maintains a good balance between strengths and weaknesses. It also shows self-awareness, demonstrating a proactive approach to personal development.

11) Why have you chosen to study for a PhD at this university?

Mention specific aspects of the PhD program that attracted you. Explain how your research interests align with the work being done at the university.

"I am drawn to the PhD program in Astrophysics at Caltech due to its outstanding reputation in space research and the unparalleled resources available at the Owens Valley Radio Observatory. My research interest lies in the study of exoplanets, and Caltech's active projects in this area, such as the Zwicky Transient Facility, align perfectly with my academic goals. The opportunity to work under the guidance of Professor [Name], known for pioneering work in exoplanetary atmospheres, is particularly exciting. Additionally, Caltech's collaborative environment and emphasis on interdisciplinary research are conducive to my professional growth, providing a platform to engage with experts from various fields in astrophysics."

This response directly connects your research interests with ongoing projects and facilities at Caltech. It also shows you’ve done your research on faculty members and their work.

12) What can you bring to this research group?

Focus on your unique skills, experiences, and perspectives that will contribute to the research group's success. Let's choose the field of Biomedical Engineering at Johns Hopkins University for this example.

"As a prospective member of the Biomedical Engineering research group at Johns Hopkins University, I bring a unique combination of skills and experiences. My expertise in microfluidics, honed during my Master’s research, aligns well with the group’s focus on developing lab-on-a-chip devices for medical diagnostics. I have also co-authored two papers in this field, demonstrating my ability to contribute to high-impact research. Additionally, my experience in a start-up environment, where I worked on developing portable diagnostic tools, has equipped me with a practical understanding of translating research into applications. I thrive in collaborative settings, often bringing interdisciplinary insights that foster innovative problem-solving. I am excited about the prospect of contributing to the group’s ongoing projects and introducing fresh perspectives to advance our understanding and application of biomedical technology."

This response shows your relevant expertise, ability to work in a team, and the unique perspectives you can offer, positioning you as a valuable addition to the research group.

13) Do you have any questions for us?

Asking good questions demonstrates your motivation. It also shows that you’ve given some genuine consideration to the project and/or program you’re applying to.

Some questions you can ask the interviewer include:

• What will the supervision arrangements be for the project?
• What kind of training and skills sessions are offered as part of the PhD program?
• How many other PhD students has this supervisor seen to completion?
• Are there any major developments or partnerships planned for the department?
• Are there likely to be any changes to the funding arrangements for the project?
• What opportunities will I have for presenting my research?

Remember: you’re a good student, with lots of potential. You’re considering at least three years of hard work with this university. You need to know that you’ll get on with your supervisor, that your work will be appreciated and that there are good prospects for your project.

What to wear to a PhD interview

Wear formal attire for a PhD interview. Your best bet is to wear a suit. A navy blue suit is the best and most versatile option. No matter your gender, a suit is always very professional.

For men, wear a suit with a tie, dress shirt, and dress shoes. For women, wear a suit (pantsuit or skirt suit) with a blouse, or conservative dress, and closed-toe shoes.

When in doubt, it’s better to be slightly overdressed than underdressed. The goal is to make a professional impression and feel confident, without your attire distracting from the conversation.

What to expect from a PhD interview

At its core, a PhD interview will consist of questions that allow your potential supervisors to get to know you better and have an understanding of what you’d like to study, why you’ve chosen your field of study, and whether you’d be a good fit for the PhD program.

You should expect general questions to help the interviewer get a sense of your likes and dislikes, and your overall personality.

Next, expect questions about your personal motivations for studying a PhD. Your interviewer will also be interested in any relevant experience you have to qualify you to study this PhD.

In the next section, expect questions about your PhD project. You should be prepared to discuss your project idea in detail and demonstrate to the interviewer that you are the ideal candidate.

Last but not least, the interviewer will discuss your future ambitions and give you an opportunity to ask questions. Remember that this interview goes both ways.

It’s important to ask the interviewer relevant questions to show your engagement and the serious consideration you are giving their program.

You are preparing to spend several years of your life at this school. Think about what is important to you and what would make or break your decision to attend this university.

Prepare a list of questions ahead of the interview.

Understanding the interviewer’s point of view

During a PhD interview, interviewers are typically looking for a range of traits that indicate whether you are well-suited for the rigors of a doctoral program and a research career.

These traits include:

Intellectual Curiosity and Passion: A strong enthusiasm for the subject area and a desire to contribute to and expand knowledge in the field.

Research Skills and Experience: Demonstrable skills in conducting research, including designing experiments, collecting and analyzing data, and interpreting results. Prior research experience relevant to the PhD topic is often a plus.

Resilience and Perseverance: The capacity to handle setbacks and challenges, which are common in research, and to persist in the face of difficulties.

Collaboration and Teamwork: Although PhD research can be quite independent, the ability to work well with others, including advisors, faculty, and other students, is crucial.

Self-Motivation and Independence: The drive to work independently, manage one's own project, and stay motivated over the long term.

Fit with the Program: Alignment of the candidate’s research interests and goals with the strengths and focus of the PhD program and faculty.

These traits not only indicate your readiness for a PhD program but also your potential to contribute meaningfully to their field of study and succeed in a research-oriented career.

Related posts:

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• Strength-Based Interview Questions (21 Questions + Answers)
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• Waiting it Out

The after interview wait

By peachypie February 3, 2014 in Waiting it Out

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For those of you who have already gone through this process or those that are early enough in the application season, how long did you expect or did it take before schools were contacting you regarding your admission following your interview?  I have started my interviews recently and am already a nervous wreck as I wait to hear the results.  Some schools have been able to tell me a general time period but others only said they'd be meeting after the interviews.  When did you get nervous and what is a normal time to have to wait?  

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MadtownJacket

Waiting time varies, but I'm pretty sure most people find out by April 15th.  I had an interview at the beginning of January and heard back from them in mid-January.  I also just had another interview today and they said they'll let us know within a week for sure, so once again it depends on the program.

AmandaLemon

Had an interview yesterday. Already nervous.......

omegamarkxii

I also had an interview a week ago, haven't heard anything from them yet, super duper nervous... 

I know that people ask "what are my chances after interviews" all the time, and then the answer would always be: "It varies by the departments"..

But could anybody tell us your personal experience? Accepted after interviews? Rejected after interviews? And how long did it take to hear from them?

I know that for one of the schools I interviewed at already, the acceptance rate of interviewees from the first weekend was only 20%. I think these were "first round" picks though, as there are three interview weekends, and I expect they will make more offers at the end.

I heard back in roughly 2 weeks after my first interview.  I expect about the same on this second interview based on the data in the results search. I suggest you do the same to help calm your nerves.  

Results Search -> look up school and department you're interested in. Look at when the interviews were (hopefully they will be listed) and see when the acceptances (and rejections) were. While I imagine every year is slightly different, this should give you a pretty good estimate of when to expect to hear back.

I heard back in roughly 2 weeks after my first interview.  I expect about the same on this second interview based on the data in the results search. I suggest you do the same to help calm your nerves.     Results Search -> look up school and department you're interested in. Look at when the interviews were (hopefully they will be listed) and see when the acceptances (and rejections) were. While I imagine every year is slightly different, this should give you a pretty good estimate of when to expect to hear back.

Yeah I tried this but the program is small enough that I can't find any results actually going back.  I was the only one who even posted an interview this year, so the n is very small on this one.  Trying to keep distracted for now.

Aw darn that sucks.  What school is it?

scottdickson86

I got interviewed this week and was told that the final decision will come out Monday or Tuesday next week. Sleep is definitely eluding me. 

My two post-interview admissions came 1) one week and 2) two days after the final visiting days.

In most cases, departmental admissions committees are permitted to notify applicants of their admission (or, more accurately, their recommendation for admission) to a program before official notice of admission is issued by the graduate school itself. There are, however, a handful of schools that don't permit this, and it's these schools that tend to have the >1 week notification time.

But in other instances, it might simply be the case that a professor on the admissions committee can't immediately sit for the post-interview "decision" meeting, usually owing to some prior obligation. For example, this was the case for Harvard's neuroscience Ph.D. admissions committee this year; though they typically render decisions a week after interviews, the unavailability of a single member has delayed notification by at least one additional week.  

seeingeyeduck

Two interviews within four days of each other. One I interviewed on a Friday, they called on Sun. Still waiting on the other one but they said one week for decisions to be made and "you'll hear soon after that."

I had my interview last Friday we were told that they would be making their decisions *definitely* before March 1st, but, there would be two rounds of committee meetings to go over applications. One this week and one next week. Every morning I've gotten up and thought, "Is today the day?" Nope. Sigh. 

I interviewed somewhere in mid January and was told I would hear back on March 1st

I am not sure yet

I asked the professor when I should expect to hear back from the program, he told me around 3 weeks, so 2 more weeks to go! I don't know if I can handle waiting for any longer!

I had an interview in mid January after being told that they were impressed by my application and that I was being actively considered. Since then I haven't heard anything! Should I send a mail to ask what the situation is, or wait it out some more?

for one of my schools it took 3 weeks, but for another it was only 1.

• 1 month later...

I interviewed March 5 - still haven't heard back... and interviewed March 20 for another - still nothing. It's killing me!!!!!

Veet Voojagig

Had an interview 2/20-2/21 and still haven't heard anything back. I get the impression they might be trying to hold out for NSF GRFP results before sending out their last round of offers/rejections. Glad I already accepted a fully funded offer elsewhere, otherwise I'd be a wreck.

aphdapplicant

Whew! Go me! Interview at the beginning of February! Stil nothing...at least have the courtesy to reject me.

haha! Same here!

Isn't it UCF you are waiting for?

Because I was interviewed there on the 3d of Feb and still, I mean STILL nothing! 

It's the 26th of March now by the way!

Dear UCF, you are killing me!

I also have another one from George Mason - interviewed on the 4th of March. They said that decision would be in several weeks... Apparently it's more than several weeks by now.

One course that only interviews international students when they are as good as in came back to me two days later.

I had a large range when it came to interview response times.  Examples: One place informally told me their decision while I was still at my visit.  Another place took a few days before letting me know.  A third school took 3.5 weeks.

All of those were acceptances.

haha! Same here! Isn't it UCF you are waiting for? Because I was interviewed there on the 3d of Feb and still, I mean STILL nothing!  It's the 26th of March now by the way! Dear UCF, you are killing me!   I also have another one from George Mason - interviewed on the 4th of March. They said that decision would be in several weeks... Apparently it's more than several weeks by now.

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How to Properly Follow Up After an Interview

You passed the phone screening and aced the job interview . Now, you wait.

Constantly checking your inbox to see if the hiring manager reached out will grow tiring fast. That’s why knowing how to follow up after an interview is key.

The follow-up can seem stressful. You want to strike a balance between staying top of mind and not pestering the hiring manager. But through this process, you’re given the opportunity to reiterate your interest in the role. Plus, even if you’re not a fit for the position, you could be perfect for future roles—making properly conducting yourself post-interview crucial.

Here are some tips to help you effectively follow up after your next job interview.

During the Interview

At the end of the interview, ask what next steps are. The hiring manager will likely provide a timeframe of when you can expect to hear from him or her, which you can use as a guide. If the response is, “We plan to make a decision within the next two weeks,” and you’re 16 days in without word, it’s acceptable to contact the hiring manager.

Keep your email succinct. The message can simply say:

I hope all is well. You mentioned that the team would be making a hiring decision within the next two weeks, and I was wondering if there were any updates. Also, if there are any additional questions I could answer that might help ease the decision-making process, please let me know. I look forward to chatting again soon and, hopefully, taking on this role.  

Immediately After the Interview

Within 24 hours of the interview, send an individual email to everyone you met. Thank them for taking the time to interview you and re-express your enthusiasm for the role. If there was something the two of you bonded over during the conversation—perhaps you share an alma mater or favorite author—note that in the email. That way, you stand out and stay top of mind.

You can also use the email to highlight anything you forgot to include in the interview, or elaborate on a question you were asked. Maybe you discussed a business challenge the company is facing and brainstormed ideas after the meeting based on experience from your previous roles. Share that, and tie it to results you’ve produced to remind the hiring manager why you’re right for the job.

Just be sure to keep the email concise. You want the hiring manager to remember you and respond to your email, not overlook you because your message was too long.

In the Weeks Following the Interview

If you sent a “thank you” email and then followed up again because you hadn’t heard anything within the initial timeframe proposed, you might need to start periodically checking in. Rather than repeatedly ask, “Have you made a decision yet?” there are tactics you can leverage that add value to the hiring manager—similar to how you build and maintain your professional network .

• Forward Content : Share an article you think he or she might find interesting and, in your email, explain why that article made you think of him or her. If you stumble upon a relevant industry event or webinar, forward it along and ask if he or she plans on attending or tuning in.
• Offer Congratulations : If exciting news is published on the company or you notice that the hiring manager was promoted, send a congratulatory note.

When periodically checking in, refrain from asking for anything or pestering for a hiring decision. Your goal should be staying top of mind and showing the hiring manager that you can provide value in a variety of contexts, whether it’s on the job or as part of his or her network.

If You Don’t Get the Job

If you do hear back and were, unfortunately, not the chosen candidate, ask if the hiring manager would be willing to provide any feedback as to why. Their advice will not only help you during future interviews, but also reaffirm your professionalism and drive to improve. You might also consider saying, “If you think I could be the right fit for any future roles, please let me know. I’m still very interested in working for the company.”

Just remember that, no matter how you’re corresponding with a hiring manager, to always keep it professional. Kelly McDonald, senior HR business partner for startup accelerator Cogo Labs , reiterated that point in a recent post about how to properly reach out to a hiring manager , saying:

You want to leave the impression you put thought into your email—not that you tapped out a hasty note with a “Sent from my iPhone” signature. Show that you took applying seriously and that you respect the hiring manager’s time, and he or she will do the same.

While the follow-up might seem stressful, with these tips, you can hopefully start feeling as confident after the interview as you did during it.

Are you looking for more interview advice? Check out our posts on “ How to Ace 7 of the Most Common Interview Questions ” and “ Interview Etiquette 101: How to Impress Employers .”

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