Apply to multiple PhD's at a same time

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the process of applying to multiple PhD programs simultaneously, particularly focusing on the implications for obtaining recommendation letters from supervisors. Participants explore cultural differences in student-supervisor relationships and the expectations surrounding recommendation letters in different academic contexts.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Conceptual clarification, Debate/contested

Main Points Raised

  • One participant expresses concern about potentially inconveniencing their thesis supervisor by requesting multiple recommendation letters, particularly due to cultural norms from their home country.
  • Another participant reassures that applying to several positions is common and that supervisors generally expect to send recommendation letters multiple times, with minor modifications as needed.
  • A later reply notes that in the U.S., it is typical for professors to send recommendation letters 10-15 times for various applications, indicating that applying to multiple programs is an expected practice.
  • One participant mentions having three specific positions in mind, with two located abroad.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants generally agree that applying to multiple PhD programs is common and expected, particularly in the U.S. However, there is some uncertainty regarding the cultural implications and expectations in Europe, as well as the specific number of applications that may be considered acceptable.

Contextual Notes

Participants reference cultural differences in student-supervisor relationships, which may influence perceptions of requesting multiple recommendation letters. There is also a lack of consensus on the appropriateness of applying to a large number of programs.

Who May Find This Useful

Students considering applying to multiple PhD programs, particularly those navigating cultural differences in academic expectations.

blue_leaf77
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I'm currently a master student in the field of physics, so indeed it's not in US instead in Europe.

Now I'm approaching the end of my master studies and planning to go to a PhD program. I have found more than one destinations (which exclude my own current university) which seem to suit my interest, so it's clear that I'm wanting to try my luck applying to all of them. Since one of the requirements is recommendation letters from former supervisor I would have to ask my thesis supervisor to provide the letters multiple times. My question is what do you think, will I cause trouble for him for asking to send letters several times? The thing is I come from Asian country in which there is a common manner that students will always try to keep formal attitude in front of lecturers, and doing such thing mentioned above will probably be considered as inconsiderate to older people. I don't really know how relation between students and lecturers goes in western countries since I have been here for only 1.5 years.

In addition, as I have mentioned, I don't plan to stay in my current research group. So do you think my supervisor will be so professional so as not to feel disappointed over me and be willing to write the recommendation letters more than one? Also for you who have been admitted in PhD, did you also apply for more then one universities?

Thanks in advance for your time to share your thoughts.
 
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What is "multiple times"?
If you apply for a few positions at the same time, that is no problem - your supervisor will expect that (there is no guarantee that you get a specific position). Once he wrote the reference letter, it is no problem to send it more than once (maybe with small modifications depending on the position).
If you apply for 50 positions, it will look very odd.
blue_leaf77 said:
In addition, as I have mentioned, I don't plan to stay in my current research group.
That is very common, and it is expected that you change the group at some point.
blue_leaf77 said:
Also for you who have been admitted in PhD, did you also apply for more then one universities?
Yes.
 
That's really good to hear.
There are currently three positions in my mind. Two of them are abroad.
 
I do not know about in Europe, but in the U.S. generally a professor should expect to send a letter of recommendation maybe 10-15 times for various universities the student is applying for. It is expected, and they would be very concerned if the student were to only apply for one position.
 
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