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When Do I Become "Doctor"?

A Journey from Coursework to Dr.

Checkpoint 1: Welcome to the Program

Title: Doctoral Student

You’ve just entered your doctoral program! You’re on the path, a scholar in training, discovering your academic voice, but not yet a Doctor.

• It's okay to say: "I’m pursuing a doctoral degree in..."
• Save for later: Using “Dr.”

Checkpoint 2: You’ve Reached Candidacy!

Title: Doctoral Candidate

You passed your comprehensive exams! You are now a Doctoral Candidate. Celebrate because it is a big accomplishment!

• It is okay to say: "I am a doctoral candidate." Or add Doctoral Candidate to your signature."
• Still to come: Claiming the title “Doctor.”

Checkpoint 3: Dissertation Proposal Approved

Title: Doctoral Candidate

You’re deep in writing/research mode. Coffee is your co-author. Keep going!

Still a candidate, still not a Doctor, but now you're building the thing that gets you there.

• Not quite yet: “Doctor” is just ahead.

Checkpoint 4: Defense Scheduled!

Title: Doctoral Candidate

Your defense is on the calendar.

Presentation slides are built!

You're almost there!

• People may start calling you “Doctor” prematurely.
• Almost: The “Doctor” title is next.

Checkpoint 5: Defense Complete!

Title: Dr. You 

You have successfully defended your dissertation! This is the moment your committee will officially address you as Dr. You!

• Now introduce yourself to the world as Doctor!!!
• Update your email signature!
• Tell everyone the great news!

Checkpoint 6: Post-Defense 

Title: Dr. You (Still!)

You’re finishing revisions or waiting for official processing, but make no mistake — you are Dr. You.

Checkpoint 7: Degree Conferred!

Title: Dr. You

Your degree is formally conferred. It’s on paper, on transcripts, and probably on social media.