PhD students in the USA typically receive financial support that covers tuition and provides a stipend for living expenses. If a program does not offer this support, it is advisable to seek alternatives. Most PhD applications are due in January, although some lower-ranked state universities may accept applications until April. For those looking to start in January, applying now could be a viable option. Entry points for PhD programs generally occur in the fall, with some programs also allowing for January starts. Discussions also touch on the competitiveness of securing scholarships, noting that it can vary between public and private universities. Financial assistance often includes teaching positions, which can be a significant source of support for graduate students.
