Why PhD Students Are Struggling More Than Ever—and What You Can Do to Succeed

Bismillahir Rahmanir Rahim

Pursuing a PhD is a dream for many, but the journey is anything but smooth. From mental health challenges and financial pressures to navigating complex supervisor relationships, the struggles faced by PhD students today are at an all-time high.

This blog dives into the realities of completing a PhD in the UK, uncovering the challenges, their root causes, and actionable strategies to overcome them. Whether you’re a current student or aspiring researcher, this guide will empower you to navigate your doctoral journey with confidence and resilience.

? Remember: Success isn’t just about academic achievement—it’s about thriving personally and professionally along the way!

1. The Reality of PhD Success Rates: What the Numbers Say

In the UK, PhD completion rates vary widely. Research by the Higher Education Funding Council for England (HEFCE) found that only 72% of full-time PhD students completed their degree within seven years, with completion rates dropping for part-time students. Disciplines like engineering and physical sciences tend to see higher completion rates compared to arts and humanities.

These figures highlight the challenges PhD students face, from rigorous academic expectations to balancing personal and professional commitments. Many students underestimate the time and effort required to complete their research, leading to delays or dropouts. For international students, additional barriers such as cultural adjustments and visa restrictions can add complexity.

Understanding these statistics is crucial because it reminds students that they are not alone in their struggles. Planning realistic timelines, setting clear goals, and seeking institutional support can significantly increase the likelihood of successfully completing a PhD in the UK.?

Action to take: Understand and highlight your blockers/ challenges from day one, followed by book an appointment with your university's doctoral office/ doctoral support team to get help and work with them to put solutions around your blockers.

2. Mental Health Challenges in PhD Students: What Research Reveals

PhD students face significant mental health challenges. A 2018 study published in Nature Biotechnology revealed that 39% of PhD students suffer from moderate to severe anxiety, while 41% report experiencing depression. In the UK, these figures are compounded by factors such as social isolation, financial stress, and academic pressure.

International students often face additional hurdles, such as adapting to new cultural environments and managing homesickness, which can exacerbate mental health struggles. Universities like Oxford and Cambridge have acknowledged this issue, offering counseling services and peer support groups tailored to PhD students.

Action to take- Mental health isn’t just a personal issue—it’s an academic one. Students should proactively seek support, whether through university resources, professional counseling, or peer networks. Building a routine that includes exercise, social interaction, and downtime can also help mitigate the mental health challenges that many PhD students face.

3. Financial Pressures: Balancing Tuition, Living Costs, and Research

Financial pressure is a significant issue for PhD students in the UK. According to a 2020 UK Research and Innovation (UKRI) report, the average annual PhD stipend is around ￡17,668—well below the living wage in cities like London, where average costs can exceed ￡24,000 annually.

For international students, tuition fees are often significantly higher than for domestic students, with some programs costing over ￡25,000 per year. Balancing these financial demands while focusing on rigorous research creates stress that impacts both well-being and productivity.

Action to take - students can explore scholarships, part-time teaching opportunities, or research assistant roles within their universities. Additionally, creating a detailed budget and cutting unnecessary expenses can alleviate some financial strain, allowing students to focus on their studies without constant worry about money.

4. Navigating Supervisor Relationships: A Key to PhD Success

The relationship between a PhD student and their supervisor is one of the most critical factors influencing success. Research from Vitae highlights that students with supportive supervisors are more likely to complete their PhD and report higher levels of satisfaction.?

However, mismatches in communication styles or expectations can lead to frustration. For instance, a supervisor who micromanages or offers minimal feedback can hinder a student’s progress. International students may also struggle with cultural differences in communication, which can create misunderstandings.?

Action to take- Set clear expectations early. Regular meetings, agreed-upon timelines, and constructive feedback sessions can build a productive working relationship. If issues arise, universities often have departmental advisors or mediation services to help resolve conflicts. Remember, supervisors are there to guide—not control—the research process. Taking ownership of your work while seeking their expertise creates a balanced dynamic.

5. Strategies for Thriving in the UK as a PhD Student?

Thriving as a PhD student in the UK requires a multi-faceted approach. Time management is key— online tools will help organize tasks, set priorities, and avoid last-minute stress.

Leverage university resources like career services and academic writing centers. For example, many UK universities offer online workshops for international students on adapting to academic life and improving research skills.

Action to take - Remember balance is essential. Set boundaries between work and personal life to avoid burnout. Remember about your family and to spend quality time with them during your studies! Thriving during a PhD isn’t just about academic success—it’s about maintaining your overall well-being.

Conclusion

Completing your PhD in the UK is within your reach! By understanding your resources, requirements, connecting with supportive networks, and continuously enhancing your skills, you can set yourself apart from other PhD candidates. Remember, with determination, perseverance, and the right resources, you CAN complete your doctoral journey.