PhDProfessionalby Marc Sleiman
All pages in this guide

Start here

  1. Getting in: start here
  2. Should you do a PhD?

Build your foundation

  1. Your undergraduate degree
  2. Math and coursework
  3. Graduate courses early
  4. Your graduate degree

Build your research record

  1. Research experience
  2. Predocs and research pathways
  3. Work experience

Apply

  1. Statement of purpose
  2. Letters, GRE and choosing programs
  3. Mentoring and support programs

Looking ahead

  1. Keep your options open

About

  1. About Marc Sleiman
  2. Contact

Other path

  1. Getting out ready

Before the PhD · Getting in

Prepare to be admitted, not just to apply.

Most students think about a PhD in terms of grades. Admissions committees think in terms of readiness: the right mathematics, real research experience, letters from people who have watched you work, and a clear sense of what you want to study and why their program fits.

Written by Marc Sleiman, Ph.D. in Economics · Free to read

Start where you are

The right next step depends on how far along you are. Pick the description closest to you.

Still decidingIs a PhD right for you, and which kind? Early in collegeChoose your degree and your math courses Late in collegeBuild research experience and letters Applying nowStatement, letters, GRE and programs

What committees are really looking for

I have advised many students who wanted a PhD in economics, and the same five things come up every time. Strong grades help, but they are rarely what separates admitted students from the rest.

Mathematics

Real analysis, linear algebra and mathematical statistics, with good grades. The single most consistent requirement.

Research experience

Evidence that you can do research, not only take courses. Increasingly, a predoc or research assistant role.

Letters

Detailed letters from economists who have supervised your research and can compare you with other students.

Fit and maturity

A clear research interest and a convincing reason why this program is the right place for it.

The right kind of PhD

Economics, policy and business PhDs look for different foundations. Apply where your background fits.

Support

Free mentoring and application programs, especially for students from backgrounds underrepresented in economics.

Think about where you are going, too

Most economics PhDs end up working outside academia. Whatever you plan today, it costs nothing to prepare for both paths from your first year. When you get there, the Getting out ready guide covers the rest.