So—you’ve decided to apply for a PhD. First of all: amazing. Second of all: we know how quickly “excited” can turn into “overwhelmed.” Between deadlines, documents, supervisors, and proposals, it’s easy to feel like your brain’s juggling 17 tabs (and dropping most of them).
That’s why we made this: a simple but mighty PhD Application Checklist to help you feel more organized, less scrambled, and a whole lot more in control.
Whether you’re researching programs or drafting statements, this free guide breaks it all down into focused steps—no fluff, no panic.
What’s Inside the Free Checklist?
This isn’t just a to-do list. It’s a mini road map to help you move through your application process with structure, clarity, and sanity intact.
Here’s what you’ll find:
1. Core Application Materials
A clean overview of the essentials—CV, personal statement, proposal, transcripts, references—plus tips for customizing each one to your chosen programs.
2. Program & Supervisor Research
From identifying the right PhD programs to researching supervisors, scholarships, and department strengths, this section keeps you strategic—not scattered.
3. Timeline & Task Breakdown
Reverse-engineer your deadlines with a personalized timeline. Break big tasks into manageable milestones, and build in buffer time (because real life happens).
4. Communication & Admin
Track who you’ve contacted, what you’ve submitted, and all those little-but-important admin tasks—from email etiquette to portal logins.
5. Final Touches & Polish
Optional (but powerful) extras like updating your academic profiles, prepping for interviews, and sending thank-you notes to your referees.
Plus, you get space to note your top deadlines, program list, and any custom checklist items that reflect your unique process.
Why This Checklist Is Different
This isn’t a generic Google Doc with bullet points.
It’s a soft-toned, research-friendly PDF designed by academic minds—for academic minds.
We wanted something that feels calm, not clinical. Minimalist, not vague. Supportive, not overwhelming.
It’s part of the LucidLab Toolkit Freebies, a collection of science-backed, soul-friendly (digital) tools for researchers and students who want to do deep work without burnout.
Want to Go Beyond the Checklist?
Coming soon on Etsy:
LucidLab PhD Application Tracker—a dynamic, calming Excel tool that helps you organize every deadline, contact, and document across multiple programs, all in one place. It’s made to pair perfectly with the checklist and bring even more structure to your process.
Download the Free Checklist
Ready to make your PhD application journey a little clearer (and a lot calmer)?
Click below to access the Freebie Hub and grab your free copy of the Simple PhD Application Checklist, along with other available freebies!
P.S. You’re Doing Better Than You Think
There’s no one right way to apply for a PhD. But with tools like these, you’ll find your way—and it will be enough. Progress isn’t always loud. Sometimes it looks like printing out a checklist, scribbling a note, and feeling your shoulders drop just a little.
You’ve got this.
Your LucidLab Toolkit
