#Passing the PhD Written Exam
Generally, doctoral programs in Morocco are only accessible after a pre-selection process, a written exam, and an oral interview. Sometimes laboratories proceed directly to the oral stage after pre-selection without a written test (each laboratory at each university organizes its competition independently). Usually, the written exams consist either of general knowledge questions on topics related to political, economic, financial, or social issues in Morocco and the world (you must follow current events closely and have solid information to argue effectively and demonstrate your awareness of the world, as well as master the art of writing a general knowledge essay), or questions on scientific research protocol (epistemological stance, methodological choices, research problem, fieldwork, data collection and processing methods, etc.), or case studies to analyze (for example, a topic for which you propose a research problem, an epistemological paradigm, a research method, etc.), or a combination of all of these.
#Understanding the Exam Format
Before starting your preparation, it is essential to understand the specific format of the written exam for the laboratory and university you are targeting. Each institution in Morocco has a degree of autonomy in organizing its doctoral competition. Some opt for a general knowledge essay, others for technical questions related to research methodology, and still others for a case study applied to the specific field. Reach out to current doctoral students or consult the laboratory archives to obtain past exam topics. This preliminary research will help you focus your revisions in a targeted and efficient manner.
#Mastering the General Knowledge Essay
The general knowledge essay is one of the most common formats in Moroccan doctoral competitions. It aims to evaluate your ability to analyze contemporary issues, build a logical argument, and mobilize diverse knowledge. To succeed in this exam, adopt a rigorous method: start by analyzing the topic and identifying key words, then develop a detailed outline in two or three parts, with an introduction that poses the research problem and a conclusion that opens up perspectives. Follow national and international news regularly by reading newspapers such as Le Monde, Jeune Afrique, Le Matin, or Médias24. Pay special attention to major contemporary debates: digital transformation, sustainable development, education system reforms, public health, social inequalities, and regional geopolitics.
#Deepening Your Knowledge of Scientific Research Protocol
A significant portion of the written exam may cover scientific research protocol. You must master the fundamental concepts: the different epistemological stances (positivism, interpretivism, constructivism, pragmatism), methodological approaches (qualitative, quantitative, mixed methods), and data collection and analysis techniques. Be prepared to justify your epistemological and methodological choices based on your object of study. For example, if you are studying a complex social phenomenon, a qualitative approach with an interpretivist stance might be appropriate. If you are testing hypotheses using numerical data, a quantitative approach with a positivist stance would be more suitable. Being able to explain these choices clearly and coherently is a major asset.
#Time Management During the Exam
Time management is crucial on exam day. You typically have two to three hours to write your response. Spend the first fifteen minutes analyzing the topic and developing your outline. Resist the temptation to start writing immediately: a good outline is the key to a well-structured paper. Then devote about two hours to writing, making sure to balance time between the different sections. Keep the last fifteen minutes for reviewing and correcting mistakes. A clean, well-presented paper without spelling errors always makes a good impression on the examiner.
#Practicing with Past Exam Topics
One of the best ways to prepare is to practice with past exam topics. Try to replicate real exam conditions by imposing a time limit and writing by hand. After each exercise, have your paper evaluated by a professor or an experienced doctoral student who can provide constructive feedback. This regular practice will not only improve your writing speed but also help you identify your weak points and address them before the big day.
#Conclusion
Preparing for the written exam of the doctoral competition requires time, discipline, and a well-defined strategy. By combining active monitoring of current events, a solid mastery of scientific protocol, and regular writing practice, you maximize your chances of success. Remember that the committee is evaluating your potential as a future researcher: your ability to analyze, synthesize, and argue is just as important as your knowledge. Good luck and may God help you!
Here are some examples of exams from certain laboratories (economics/management): Download