Is It Possible to Drop Out of a PhD Program After Being Admitted?

When you are admitted to a PhD program, it's important to understand the options and consequences if you decide to leave the program before completing it. While you are not a prisoner, you also won't receive a refund of the fees you've paid, and readmission can be extremely difficult.

Leaving a PhD Program

It is entirely possible to leave a PhD program after being admitted. The decision to drop out should be approached with careful consideration due to the various consequences, including financial and administrative matters. If you leave before completing the program, you may not receive a refund for the fees you have paid, and administrative charges may apply. You also have the option to take a leave of absence if you plan to return to the program at a later date.

Fees and Other Commitments

After leaving the program, you will need to return any items supplied to you, such as laptops or cellphones. You should also be aware that you might need to repay funds provided by the institution, such as grants or loans, and you may lose access to housing and other benefits associated with your studies.

Consequences of Dropping Out

The consequences of dropping out of a PhD program, while significant, are not insurmountable. Most are short-term and include the administrative and financial obligations mentioned above. One long-term consequence is that your withdrawal will be recorded on your academic record. However, this generally does not pose a barrier for future attempts to enter a different program.

Why Quitting Sometimes Makes Sense

While dropping out of a PhD program carries certain risks, it is not necessarily a sign of failure. Quitting can be a wise and self-preserving decision if the situation is not a good fit for your goals and aspirations. As an example, one of my colleagues who desired a career in Classics but struggled with PhD exams twice decided to quit. Later in life, they became a highly successful executive in a top-tier consulting firm, making significantly more income and living a fulfilling life.

Quitting a PhD program is only a failure if you quit on yourself. Often, choosing to leave a situation that is not conducive to your personal and professional growth is the smartest and most caring choice you can make. If you find yourself considering such a decision, it's essential to reflect on the reasons and implications thoroughly before taking any action.

Keywords

PhD program dropouts, academic refunds, leave of absence