by 
The Curious Bag
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The term ADB stands for "All But Dissertation," a status some universities apply to students in a doctoral or Ph.D. program. Rather than being a degree in its own right, an ADB signifies a degree-in-progress.
Background
In Ph.D. programs, students begin their studies by taking educational courses and seminars, followed by a series of challenging examinations known as the comprehensives, which demonstrate mastery of knowledge. The third element required for a Ph.D. is the dissertation, a lengthy research paper.
Identification
The ABD designation signifies the completion of all educational courses and passing of the comprehensives by students who have not finished their doctoral dissertations. The term implies that once the student completes the dissertation and the university approves it, the student will receive a Ph.D.
Time Frame
Some universities, such as Carnegie Mellon University, limit the number of years a student's status is ABD. If this time expires before the dissertation is complete, the student may have to re-take courses or exams.
Reasons
ABD status can be due to illness or family situations that postpone research, or a lack of money for tuition.
Considerations
Not all universities confer ABD status to students. Another designation, ABT or "All But Thesis," relates to master's-level studies rather than Ph.D. programs.
Source:
Carnegie Mellon University: Doctoral Candidate Policies for All But Dissertation (ABD)
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