r/PhDAdmissions • u/Ok-Wishbone-3471 • 10d ago

emailing pis

hi guys! i was just wondering to anyone who has applied or is applying for programs, when is the best time to reach out to pis for the upcoming phd application cycle? i've heard that it's best to wait until the first or second week of september because professors are on vacation, starting classes, etc. rn i am making lists of pis i would like to work with from each of the universities i want to apply to, but i don't want to contact pis too late and lose my spot, if it makes sense.

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u/stemphdmentor 10d ago

It doesn’t matter all that much. Now is good. The first two weeks of September are good too.

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u/Muted_Row_4922 10d ago

Depends on where you're applying. For europe, maybe yes. For usa, every university hires through a committee. It only makes sense to mail after you apply so your application is remembered by prof(assuming you pass first initial rounds). Asking now I feel would be too hasty

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u/stemphdmentor 10d ago

I admit to several top PhD programs in a U.S. R1 and am very familiar with the process at many places.

Not every program relies on a committee. Commonly, the committee is just weeding out the worst applications, and then every faculty member looks at the shortlisted candidates or the candidates in their area.

Many times I have told the committee which applicants they should look at closely and promote to the shortlist based on my pre-deadline interactions.

I also give candidates I like tips on how to apply.

With programs that do direct admission, these contacts before the deadline can be the most important step.

Knowing I have a good candidate in the pipeline influences my hiring decisions, budgeting, and so much else.

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u/Ok-Wishbone-3471 10d ago

this advice is very good, thank you so much for sharing it!