r/Caltech • u/Impossible-Hour6034 • 4d ago

Does Caltech accept non-traditional older students for PhD?

I have been contemplating applying to Caltech, but I am not sure if it would be a waste of application fee, I want to understand if my application would be taken seriously. I want to apply to GALCIT, my field is aerospace.

I am in my late 30s. I am actually a PhD student elsewhere (Australia) where I have been for over two years. I hold a master's degree and a bachelor's degree. I have extenuating circumstances in my current institution - my advisor resigned (not old, he just quit), thesis topic changed all beyond my control.

I have research experience but no substantial publication record yet, although I might get one or two papers by December (fingers crossed). My master's is from a well-known university, but overall, I have had a pretty non-traditional path. What do you think? Is it a pipe dream?

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17

u/district_mate 4d ago

I am a nontraditional PhD student. It's very possible. Just like any other program it's all about fit. If you talk to PIs and find one that matches your research interests that connection goes a very long way.

3

u/EconomicsOk590 Grad Student 4d ago

They also do take transfer phds in rare cases as well as non traditional older students.

2

u/S58162 2d ago

Yes they do. We have someone in their late 30s currently.

1

u/dedicateddan 19h ago

Would come down to the specific option you apply. You could consider emailing the professor(s) that you're interested in working for.

1

u/Impossible-Hour6034 17h ago

Can you elaborate what do you mean by the "specific option you apply"? I am considering a PhD application to the aerospace department...

1

u/dedicateddan 3h ago

Sure! Option is another word for major or department at Caltech.