I'm 35 and I want to noww start doctoral studies. Everyone around me seems to be much younger. I realize that my career would not even start till I am 40. Am I too old? Should I just continue in my well paying job and not bother?

Hi Maggie. I am also 35 and starting a PhD. I'm doing a part-time degree, combining this with my work. If you're really enthusiastic then supervisors will be more supportive of a mature student. Are you planning academia or using this to get a better job?

I'm thinking academia, which is why I am not so sure it's a good idea. I have a good job right now, but I don't like the schedule etc, and the Academic Schedule seems to fit with me more, even with all the publishing needed and such. My potential supervisor is great, but I think he has not noted my age- because I could pass for about 28.

follow your dreams Maggie, you're only as old as you feel. you don't want to miss an opportunity just coz of what a supervisor would think. go for it. you won't regret. don't let someone ruin it for you. i'd think the supervisor is only interested in your work, not your age. people past the age of 50 are doing postgraduate degrees..you're still young.

I will be starting at 40. I will not look for a job after a PhD as I already have a successful business.

You are never too old. I am 47 and am in my first year! True there are a lots of younger students, but I am doing something I have always wanted to do.

i went for a phd interview recently and didnt get it, they did ask me a few questions about my age (26) and kept saying the salaries not high considering ill be 30 when i finish and wouldnt i rather work in industry.
i can help thinking it was quite a contributing factor in why i didnt get it

26? I was almost 26 when I started my PhD and actually, most of my Post-doc pals were 25/26 when they started their studentships. As plenty of people work (or do an MSc) for a while between BSc and PhD, I don't think being in your mid-20s should be a problem. Good luck with your next interview.

go for it

I started my PhD at 35 years and didn't find age to be a problem. Most of my phd colleagues are in the early/mid 30's. It all depends on the subject and what you want to do after your PhD. Having more experience can be an advantage in some areas - what discipline are you in?

Hello, I am 29 and have opportunity for PhD, great subject. I have large work experience since got my BSc. and always wanted to get at least MSc. but never could e.g. ex-wife, financial, etc. I have very high paid job now but I miss to make PhD and was feeling too old for that. After reading your posts somehow changed my mind. My biggest concern is, what comes next after the PhD? industry work? with 33? the good thing is that I already have good experience, but 3 years in research is a lot. Best Regards, Giovanni