I have been awarded my PhD long back and I have my official award certificate from the university given in the annual degree convocation. However, often a question comes to my mind - What is my actual date of award of PhD?
Is it the date I submitted the final version of thesis or the date I defended my thesis or the date of degree convocation on which I received my degree (the date of convocation is mentioned in the certificate, too)?
In all State-run organizations in India, it is often required to fill in the details about the date of PhD. However, I am not able to find an clear explanation anywhere.
PS: In India, unlike UK where you are often conferred with an award before the graduation ceremony, the degree is awarded only at the ceremony. However, the candidate can apply for a provisional degree certificate if the data of the ceremony is very far. Thanks.