<p>Is it common to apply to a PhD program after completing senior year as opposed to during senior year? I feel like the extra year would give me more time to do quality research. In case it matters, I’m an electrical engineering major interested in electromagnetics.</p>
<p>By the extra year, I mean another year’s worth of research to be considered in my application. I haven’t thought about what I’d do with the year off. Probably research.</p>
<p>There is usually a mix - most people apply right after college or within a year or two. It is a personal decision, and either way could be better depending on your circumstances. The extra time is usually best for those who need to bolster their credentials or focus their intentions.</p>
<p>You apply during senior year if you want to continue uninterrupted. If you could line up some research opportunities for the extra year, then it couldn’t hurt to apply later. It might be harder to get letters of recommendations from your professors the longer you wait.</p>