Admission to Graduate Studies in the Molecular Biosciences:

Applications to the graduate program in Molecular Biosciences are considered for admission in Fall Quarter only. The official deadline for all application materials is December 28; if possible, students should submit their materials by December 15.

Candidates applying to the Molecular Biosciences cluster must submit:

1. A completed application.
2. Official, final transcripts (copies are not acceptable).
3. International student documents must be sent directly from the registrar’s office of the university attended.
4. Three letters of recommendation from college or university professors who know the applicant’s work well. Individuals who have been away from school for several years may submit recommendations from their employers.
5. Graduate Record Examination scores. We require the GRE general test scores; subject test scores will be considered, but are optional.

Evidence of a sound background in the biological sciences is important, as well as academic credentials suggesting that the candidate has the ability to pursue advanced study and research successfully. Previous research experience, while not required, is considered an asset.

Applications are reviewed by a faculty committee, and qualified applicants are invited to visit in February or March for interviews with the faculty. This visit also allows applicants to become better acquainted with our program. Final decisions are usually completed by mid-March and formal letters of acceptance are sent from the Dean’s office by early April.

Financial Support of Graduate Students

The Division of Biological Sciences offers academically qualified applicants complete and equitable support. Students in good academic standing are guaranteed an initial four years of support, which includes full tuition, health insurance, and a living stipend. The graduate stipend is competitive with awards offered at comparable institutions, is established at a level affording a reasonable local standard of living, and is adjusted annually to keep pace with increases in the cost of living. Funding may come from one of several different sources, including interdepartmental training grants in Molecular and Cellular Biology or Genetics, or divisional graduate student support. After that time, continued support for graduate students is provided by individual faculty research grants. Some specialty fellowships are available, and new and continuing graduate students are encouraged to seek individual merit awards (NSF awards, Ford Fellowships, Department of Defense awards, etc.) whenever possible..

Frequently Asked Questions

• Q: What is the deadline for application?
• A: December 28th, 2007.
• Q: Is there a fee for processing the application?
• A: Yes, the cost is $55.
• Q: How do I get an application form?
• A: Fill out the application
• Q: What documentation do I need to go with my application?
• A: A transcript from your degree-granting institution, a GRE test score report and letters of recommendation from three faculty members who know your character and abilities.