PhD student and PhD candidate are two terms you may have run across if you have ever looked into getting a doctorate degree. But it's crucial to realize that the two are very different from one another. As you work towards your doctorate degree, you will initially be classified as a PhD student before advancing to the status of a PhD candidate.
Who is a PhD Student?
A PhD student refers to an individual who has registered for a doctoral degree program. These students, often known as learners, may complete their coursework on campus, online, or in both settings. Students must fulfil a minimum number of academic credits and pass prerequisite tests to enroll in a standard PhD program.
Also Read, FIVE THINGS YOU SHOULD KNOW BEFORE YOU START A PHD
Once this phase is completed, the student progresses to the dissertation phase, which involves research, writing, and defense.
The distinction between a PhD student and a PhD candidate is that the former is still undertaking coursework and has not yet commenced the dissertation process or passed the qualifying exams, although they may be in the process of doing so.
PhD students' education is defined by a predetermined structure, which also sets forth their schedules.
Who is a PhD Candidate?
A person who has finished all the necessary coursework and passed their qualifying tests is considered a PhD candidate. Once this goal is met, the individual gains the unofficial status of all but the dissertation (ABD).
In general, PhD students eagerly anticipate the transition from PhD student to PhD candidate since it will provide them with the opportunity to focus on their original research and start writing their dissertation with the help of their committee advisors.
Know more about Dissertation and Thesis and what are the major differences between these two,
PhD student vs Candidates: What Are the Main Differences?
The main distinction between a PhD candidate and a PhD student is that as a student, one is still engaged in course-related activities such as attending classes, writing tests and exams, and completing assignments. On the other hand, becoming a PhD candidate puts you one step closer to earning a doctoral degree and adding the title PhD to your name after passing the tests and writing your thesis. It is important to note that you have to be a student before you become a candidate.
While the differences between being a Ph.D. student and a Ph.D. candidate may appear slight, they carry a lot of weight. Transitioning to a Ph.D. candidate can feel like stepping into a new realm, with new demands and expectations. Despite having completed their coursework, many Ph.D. candidates choose to take self-directed study courses with faculty members whose research aligns with their own, as it can help guide their own research and even influence their dissertation.
If you're part of the PhD community or considering pursuing a doctorate degree, it's important to understand the distinction between being a PhD candidate and a PhD student. Knowing where you stand in your academic journey can help you make informed decisions and set realistic expectations. Keep learning and growing as a PhD researcher, and remember to seek guidance and support from your peers and advisors along the way.
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