The application with all required enclosures must be registered in the system at https://is.vu.lt/pls/dokt/isas.register?p_kalba=en and sent by e-mail
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Find more about PhD studies at Vilnius University
Admission 2024
Applications and documents for admission to the PhD studies in can be submitted from 2024.05.02 to 2024.06.24.
IMPORTANT: For those who have received their education in a non-Lithuanian higher education institution and who do not have a document confirming the recognition of their diploma in Lithuania, the application period is from 2024.05.02 to 2024.06.01.
Application procedure:
In Step 1, all the documents must be submitted from 2024 May 2 to June 1 (until 23:59):
- a short description of the prospective research project in PDF format (see section Research Project regarding dissertation topics and other details);
- an application addressed to the Rector;
- a copy of the passport or any other valid identification card;
- copies of the Master’s diploma or of a higher education diploma equivalent to it and their supplements;
- Curriculum Vitae;
- a completed questionnaire with a photo;
- a list of research works and their copies, conference presentations, works awarded at academic competitions (if there is any);
- recommendations by two academic referees from the topic of the relevant field of science
- a certificate proving the level of English (not lower than B2);
All documents issued in a language other than English, Russian or Lithuanian should be supplemented with an official translation. Doctoral committees can require to submit additional documents which are not provided for in Vilnius University regulations on doctoral studies.
After Step 1, all applications are processed through the initial evaluation, which consists of assessment of the research project. Candidates are assessed on a 10-point scale by all members of the Admissions Committee. Applicants who gain the average initial evaluation score of 7 points and above are eligible to proceed to motivational interviews.
In Step 2, the Admissions Committee holds motivational interviews with selected applicants. Interviews are held remotely via Microsoft Teams app.
Assessment procedure
Applicants’ final competition score is calculated as follows:
- the assessment of the research project and the interview (60%),
- average grade of the Master's diploma (30%),
- the assessment of the importance of scientific publications (10%).
On the basis of the final score, the PhD Admissions Committee shall rank the applicants for the admission to the state-funded positions.
PhD at Vilnius University was a great way to start researcher‘s career. I liked the fact that the course is taught by researchers who publish their own papers in high-level academic journals and love their work. This allows me to get to know both modern methods and current issues, as well as the researchers themselves and their peers. I also liked the fact that VU is providing more and more resources for PhD students: helping with the editing and publication of the dissertation and scientific articles, reimbursement of presentation costs, travel expenses, and even part of the costs of courses or research. I am happy to be able to continue publishing my papers and attending high-level conferences after my PhD.
The central goal of pursuing a PhD is to become an independent researcher. PhD study at the Faculty of Economics and Business Administration was full of learning and grooming. Experienced researchers from diversified economics fields, a strong academic infrastructure, and a working environment that deeply motivates one to harness potential are the hallmarks of the faculty. The knowledge and experiences I acquired during my study tremendously helped me to understand behavioral environmental economics from a widened horizon. My stay at Vilnius University not only shaped me academically and personally but also opened opportunities for my future endeavor
I was particularly impressed by the quality of the PhD studies in economics and the sincere support of the faculty staff during my studies. The lectures were taught by the most highly qualified professors, and the PhD supervisors never wasted any time or effort in guiding me along the path of my PhD. The financial support provided by the Faculty's Doctoral Fund has contributed significantly to my ability to carry out my research and to present my results at international conferences. Internships at foreign universities have also contributed to the quality of my research and allowed me to establish relationships with foreign researchers and to create opportunities for new projects. I highly recommend PhD studies in Economics at Vilnius University!
Pursuit of continuous improvement and in-depth knowledge lead me to join VU PhD programme. Top level professors, great infrastructure and assistance when it‘s needed warrant only the best feedback for the faculty. What is more, there are plenty of workshops, seminars and conferences organized by the university, thus PhD candidates get introduced to latest research performed by their peers and colleagues. Most of the programme is spent on the research, so a PhD candidate needs to be motivated and willing to invest themselves into their topic of research. If you are prepared, it truly is an opportunity of a lifetime.
In my prior experience as a professional, I was always concerned about a gap between the science and practices in financial markets, where great academic ideas do not always translate into great professional practices. Motivated to bring more academic insights into financial markets, I started my PhD studies at VU. The courses were beneficial and introduced me to the up-to-date research methodologies and tools. I found that the program provides a lot of flexibility, as well as students are encouraged to take a responsibility on how to structure their research project. In addition, I was impressed about international opportunities available, including visiting speakers and exchange programs, that allowed to start building my research network from day one.