Should you apply for a PhD in the US now, in 2025?
In this video, I give you a no-fluff reality check on whether a US PhD is still worth it—and how to protect your future if you do apply.
We’re dealing with real challenges this year:
* Funding cuts across key research areas
* Stricter visa scrutiny
* Politicized admissions decisions
* Fewer spots for international students
And yes—SOPs that are getting flagged for “ideological risk”
🎓 HERE’S WHAT WE COVER:
How the 2025 budget is impacting PhD funding (and who’s getting cut first)
*Visa uncertainty & what international students need to know
* Which research topics could quietly hurt your chances
* My honest take on school list strategy this year
* How to write a SOP that doesn’t get flagged—and actually gets read
*What I’m telling my clients: be laser-focused, strategic, and funded
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🎯 Ready to Apply for a PhD, Master’s, or MBA? Let’s make your application stand out.
I'm Philippe, founder of Admit Lab and former admissions committee insider. I've helped hundreds of applicants get into top grad programs—and I’d love to help you do the same.
🗓 Book a free strategy session (limited spots):
https://admit-lab.com/free-admissions-consultation/
📌 Popular Free Resources:
– PhD Application Timeline: https://admit-lab.com/phd-application-timeline/
– Resume Guide for Master’s Applicants: https://admit-lab.com/the-ultimate-grad-school-resume-blueprint/
🔔 Subscribe for weekly tips on:
– Writing standout SOPs
– Interview + funding strategies
– Avoiding application pitfalls
No fluff. Just strategy that works.
00:00 Introduction
01:01 PhD Funding Cuts in 2025
02:47 Visas, OPT, and H1B Strategy
05:09 Political Landmines in Your SOP
06:04 How Admissions Committees Will Think in 2025
07:48 Crafting a 2025-Proof Application
11:24 My PhD Strategy for 2025
15:57 Should You Still Apply?
16:33 Conclusion