PhD students are expected to have completed all requirements for the PhD degree (exclusive of thesis research) by the end of the 3rd year of registration (at the end of 4 years for PhD Direct Entry students). PhD students who have not completed all course work, held at least 4 PAC meetings, and have an approved thesis topic by that time will have their candidacy for a PhD degree terminated and must obtain the approval of the IMS and the School of Graduate Studies in order to proceed. The IMS office will contact students whose candidacy is in jeopardy.