are doctoral students exempt from non-competes​?

Whether doctoral students are exempt from non-competes depends on their role and local laws. In the U.S., most non-competes apply to employees, not students, so if you’re a PhD candidate without an employment contract (like a teaching/research assistant), you’re likely exempt. But if your program includes paid work (e.g., lab roles tied to corporate partnerships), universities or companies might try to enforce non-competes, though courts often strike these down as unfair (see FTC’s proposed non-compete ban). For example, a 2023 study found only ~18% of grad students face non-competes, mostly in tech or biotech fields.

Here’s the good news: Many states like California and Oklahoma ban non-competes for students altogether. Still, if you’re worried, always check your contract and consult your university’s legal office (most offer free advice!). We know signing confusing agreements feels overwhelming, so don’t hesitate to ask questions before committing.