With tuition topping $200,000 at elite universities, many students are turning to free and fully funded online PhD programs that cut costs to zero.
In the United States, there’s a relatively stable demand for PhD degree holders. But there are significant differences in demand depending on the industry, too.
In general, there’s a higher demand in the science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM) fields. Professionals with PhDs have premium value in colleges, think tanks, and R&D companies. Lucrative jobs are also available in highly specialized sectors, such as AI, data science, and biotechnology.
Indeed, PhD holders can earn high salaries compared to their non-PhD counterparts. Doctoral degree holders earn $2,109 median weekly earnings (Education Pays, BLS). Master’s degree holders earn less at $1,737 per week, on average. Even their unemployment rates – 1.6% versus 2% – reinforce the value of a PhD degree.
Earning a PhD degree has its non-monetary benefits, too. PhD degree holders have an innovative mindset and expertise in learning. The intellectual fulfillment and personal growth are unmatched, too.
However, earning a PhD degree is expensive. The average total cost is $40,900/year, but the actual costs vary widely. You can spend between $175,000 (University of Florida) and $450,000 (NYU).
Fortunately, there’s an effective solution to the cost issue – the best free online PhD programs. These programs offer free tuition and fees to eligible students. Many programs even offer living stipends to further bring down the cost.
Furthermore, these best free online PhD programs offer accessible and inclusive education. Graduates find lucrative career growth opportunities across diverse industries. Suffice it to say that the benefits of earning a fully funded PhD degree outweigh its costs.
Related:
- Top 15 Accredited Online PhD Programs
- Are There Easy, Accredited Online College Programs Where I Can Get My PhD?
- A Guide to Cheap Online Doctoral Programs
Why Choose a Free or Fully Funded Online PhD?
Of course, you can always choose an online PhD program that charges tuition and fees. But when you realize the benefits of the best free online PhD programs, you’ll choose them instead.
Cost Savings
The most compelling reason is the opportunity to earn your PhD degree for free (i.e., tuition and fees). You may even get a living stipend, a book and supplies allowance, and free housing. Many programs also provide travel and research grants, among other perks.
The key here is to explore all your options and combine financial aid. When you do, you’ll end up with less out-of-pocket costs.
You’re also less likely to take out student loans to finance your studies. This is a notable benefit because student loan debt is a huge issue among PhD students. According to EDI, the average PhD degree holder owes $80,210 in student loans.
Flexibility
Online PhD programs provide maximum flexibility for working professionals. This is made possible through:
- Asynchronous courses that enable self-paced study
- Synchronous courses that allow for classroom access anywhere via an Internet-connected computer
- 24/7 access to the learning management system (e.g., Moodle or Canvas)
You’re able to maintain a good work-life balance during your PhD journey.
Research Opportunities
Many fully funded online PhD programs also provide funding for research projects. These programs also offer access to state-of-the-art facilities and resources. Computer workstations, data analysis tools, and digital libraries are available for research.
Furthermore, you can engage in research with real-world applications. You’ll have the opportunity to present and publish your research papers, too.
Top 10 Best Free and Fully Funded Online PhD Programs
| School | Program | Cost | Funding Type | Notable Features |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| University of North Dakota | Ph.D. in Nursing Practice | ~$888/credit | Scholarships, grants, military aid | Low tuition, Yellow Ribbon benefits, strong support services |
| Open University (UK) | Fully Funded Doctoral Programs | Free | Full tuition waiver, stipends | Fields in AI, business, engineering; competitive entry |
| ESMT Berlin | PhD in Management | Free | Full funding + research support | Covers conference travel & overseas research |
| University of Edinburgh | PhD in Data Science & AI | Free | Full tuition + research funding | Focus on AI/data science; 3-year program |
| University of Oxford | DPhil in Sustainable Development | Free/Scholarship-based | Full & partial scholarships + research grants | Prestigious global program, sustainability focus |
| Johns Hopkins University | Doctorate in Public Health | Free (if funded) | Full scholarships | Designed for working professionals, part-time online option |
| ETH Zurich | Doctor of Sciences in Environmental Sciences | Free | Tuition waiver + research grants | Leading climate & sustainability research |
| Harvard Extension School | Doctoral Research Fellowships | Varies (aid available) | Scholarships, fellowships, grants | Prestigious fellowships, broad research support |
| University of Arizona Global Campus | Doctorate in Education | Fully funded (if eligible) | Institutional grants, assistantships | Flexible, focused on educational leadership |
| University of Cambridge | PhD in Engineering (Online) | Free/Scholarship-based | Full scholarships + project funding | Generous aid for research projects, global recognition |
University of North Dakota – Ph.D. in Nursing Practice
UND’s School of Graduate Studies makes it possible for diverse students to earn a PhD in Nursing Practice degree. Candidates enjoy low tuition and fees ($888.93/credit) and generous financial aid. Scholarships, grants, and military education benefits are available. The latter include active-duty tuition discounts and Yellow Ribbon Program benefits.
Open University (UK) – Fully Funded Doctoral Programs
The Open University offers fully funded research opportunities in high-demand fields. Candidates can earn tuition-free PhD degrees in fields like AI, business, and engineering. Admission into the fully funded PhD programs is competitive (i.e., with honors). Candidates must matriculate full-time.
European School of Management and Technology (ESMT) Berlin – PhD in Management
ESMT offers many accredited online doctorate programs, including its PhD in Management program. This is a fully funded program – participation is free of charge – for outstanding candidates. ESMT provides vital financial support for research-related costs, too, including conferences and overseas visits. Candidates challenge themselves through a rigorous curriculum that emphasizes innovation and global business strategies.
University of Edinburgh – Online PhD in Data Science and Artificial Intelligence
UoE’s three-year PhD in Data Science and Artificial Intelligence program offers full funding for eligible candidates. The School of Informatics administers a program that emphasizes AI and data-driven research. Candidates must have proficient knowledge in AI and data science to thrive.
University of Oxford – Doctorate in Sustainable Development (Online)
Oxon offers more than a thousand full and partial graduate scholarships. Candidates in its DPhil in Sustainable Development program have access to generous tuition and research grants. Here, candidates pursue rigorous research about global challenges in sustainable development.
Johns Hopkins University – Online Doctorate in Public Health
JHU also offers quality, if competitive, free PhD programs for working professionals. Candidates can receive full funding through scholarships. You must be a practicing public health professional to avail of full funding. Candidates can maintain a good work-life balance through part-time enrollment and online classes.
ETH Zurich – Online Doctor of Sciences in Environmental Sciences
Candidates can apply for a free education (i.e., tuition and fees) at this ETH Zurich program. You can also qualify for generous research grants. Popular research topics are climate change and sustainability. Applicants must have a Master of Science degree or its equivalent to be considered.
Harvard Extension School – Doctoral Research Fellowships
You’ll find many of the best online PhD programs with scholarships at Harvard. However, these programs have expensive tuition and fees. Fortunately, Harvard offers financial aid like:
- Scholarships (e.g., Kwan Fong Scholarship)
- Grants (e.g., Augustus Clifford Tower Fellowship)
- Fellowships (e.g., Edmond J. Safra Graduate Fellowships)
The Harvard Extension School is the primary resource for these opportunities.
University of Arizona Global Campus – Doctorate in Education
UAGC is also a top school for fully funded doctoral degrees. If you qualify, your education costs will be funded through institutional grants and assistantships. You’ll learn the best practices in educational strategies.
University of Cambridge – Online PhD in Engineering
If you’re looking for affordable online PhD education, consider Cambridge. You’ll be surprised by the generous financial aid. There are full scholarships for your research projects, too.
Key Features of Free and Fully Funded PhD Programs
Look for these key features when considering the best free doctorate programs online.
Scholarship Opportunities
The scholarship opportunities in these PhD programs go beyond tuition and fee waivers.
- Stipends for living expenses
- Graduate assistantships (e.g., research or teaching assistantships)
- Grants and fellowships
Explore these financial aid opportunities even before you apply for a PhD program.
Global Recognition
Be sure to enroll in an accredited online PhD program only. This way, you’ll enjoy the benefits of accreditation, including:
- Quality instruction
- National and global industry recognition
- Improved career prospects
No matter where you are in the world, you have a recognized PhD degree.
Customizable Research Tracks
You can tailor your research projects based on your interests and goals. Many programs even encourage interdisciplinary projects with real-world impact.
How to Apply for Free or Fully Funded Online PhD Programs
But there’s a catch to these excellent benefits and features. The best programs offering fully funded online research degrees have competitive admission. Here are useful tips to boost your chances of admission.
Research the programs.
- Identify your career goals and research interests first.
- Narrow down PhD programs that align with your interests and goals.
- Consider their accreditation, curriculum, quality of instruction, flexibility, and graduate outcomes.
- Ask about financial aid and funding opportunities. Determine if you’ll get extensive coverage for your PhD costs.
- Talk to current students, professors, and alumni for their experiences and insights.
Take down notes, compare program features, and take your time. Your future may well rest on your final choice.
Prepare application materials.
- Read and understand the required application materials and deadlines. Ask clarificatory questions, if necessary. Even a simple mistake can delay your application.
- Submit strong application materials, particularly your resume, letters of recommendation, and research proposal.
- Follow the application process to the letter. You want to highlight your ability to follow complex instructions, among others.
Leverage networking opportunities.
This isn’t about kissing ass. Instead, it’s about building positive relationships with your peers, professors, and alumni. You’re more likely to get into a fully funded online PhD program. Attend networking events, including the orientation for new candidates. Join groups for you and your peers.
FAQ
Are free online PhD programs legitimate?
Yes, free and fully funded online PhD programs are legitimate if they come from accredited universities. Top schools like Oxford, Johns Hopkins, and Cambridge offer tuition-free or fully funded PhDs through scholarships, fellowships, and assistantships. Always verify accreditation to avoid diploma mills.
How hard is it to get into a fully funded online PhD?
Very competitive. Admission rates are low because programs fund only a limited number of students. Applicants usually need a strong academic record, research experience, clear goals, and excellent recommendations. Fields like STEM and public health are especially selective due to high demand.
Do free PhD programs cover living expenses?
Often, yes. Many fully funded programs include stipends for housing, food, books, and travel in addition to tuition waivers. However, the amount varies by university and field. Some programs cover only tuition, while others provide full financial packages with monthly stipends.
Can international students apply?
Yes. Many fully funded PhD programs welcome international students, though eligibility varies by school. Prestigious universities in the U.S., U.K., and Europe often provide funding to international applicants, including tuition coverage and research grants. Competition is global, so applications must be strong.
What fields offer the most funded PhDs?
STEM fields dominate. The most fully funded PhDs are in science, technology, engineering, and math, plus public health, education, and sustainability research. These fields often receive government grants, industry sponsorships, and research funding, making it easier for schools to cover student costs.
Conclusion
The best free online PhD programs provide affordable yet quality education. These also offer flexible schedules, convenient access, and inclusive education. After graduation, lucrative career advancement opportunities await.
With these benefits, you should explore the best fully funded PhD programs. If you want more information to succeed, visit our Accredited Online Colleges website today.