All but dissertation (ABD) is a mostly unofficial term identifying a stage in the process of obtaining a Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) degree or equivalent research doctorate (Ed.D., D.B.A., Sc.D., etc.) in the United States and Canada. At this stage the student has completed the preparatory coursework, qualifying examinations, comprehensive examinations, and defended his or her dissertation proposal. To complete the degree, the student must carry out the proposed research which must be original research and write the dissertation that defines a PhD or equivalent research doctorate.
This stage in the completion of the PhD degree is sometimes referred to on curricula vitae as PhD (ABD). This may mislead or confuse non-academics as it appears that the student has earned a doctorate. Indeed, in most scholarly fields, the dissertation is the most important part of the doctoral degree, because successful completion and defense demonstrates that the candidate has sufficient expertise, self-discipline, and originality to advance the field of inquiry.
"ABD" is used as an official classification by some universities. Others grant Candidate of Philosophy or Master of Philosophy degrees to students with this status.
In some places, the unofficial "PhD Cand." is used, an abbreviation of "PhD candidate".