- What is the deadline for the application? For Autumn Quarter admission, the application deadline for all materials, including supplementary and letters of recommendation, is December 3 for all programs.
- What is the deadline for submitting my supplemental materials? All supplemental materials are due by December 3. Transcripts are to be uploaded to the field provided. Letters of recommendation are due from your recommender by December 3. The only exception to this policy is for students affected by widespread disruption such as natural disasters or political upheaval. See the Hardship Request page for more information.
- Am I eligible to apply? Any student meeting our basic requirements is welcome to apply. Your application will be reviewed during our review process along with all the applicants. You may also contact individual programs regarding your eligibility.
- May I contact a counselor before applying? If you are seeking advice or wish to make a visit before applying to our programs, please contact the individual program.
- May I speak with a faculty member before applying? We encourage you to seek information and advice from any of our programs or their faculty members.
- If I will not receive my degree until May or June of the application year, am I still eligible to apply? Yes, applicants to the University of Chicago's graduate and professional programs are expected to have completed a Bachelor of Arts (BA), Bachelor of Science (BS) or equivalent degree from an accredited college or university by the time they matriculate.
- Do you accept three year degrees? Applicants to the University of Chicago's graduate and professional programs are expected to have completed a BA/BS or equivalent from an accredited college or university. Applicants from a three-year bachelor's program will be given due consideration.
- What types of degrees do you offer? Our programs all lead to the PhD, with the exception of Public Health Sciences, which offers a Masters of Public Health (MPH) and a Masters (MS) degree for clinical professionals in addition to the PhD program. We also offer combined MD/PhD degrees through the ISTP Program.
- Do you offer a masters degree program? With the exception of Public Health Sciences, which offers an MPH degree and an MS degree for clinical professionals, all of our programs are PhD.
- Are international students welcome in your program? International applicants are welcome. Our financial package is available to all students.
- Can you evaluate my credentials? Because of the volume of applications and requests for status updates we receive, we are not able to evaluate individual credentials or resumes.
- What is the average GPA of accepted applicants? The Office of Graduate and Postdoctoral Affairs does not release information regarding the number of applicants, number of students accepted, number of international applicants or any other statistic pertaining to our applicants; however, some programs may share statistics for their individual programs.
- What is the average time to degree? The average time to degree is ~5.8 years. Additional data on time to degree, and other metrics, for our graduate programs can be accessed here.
- Due to extenuating circumstances, I have had a bad semester at school during my academic enrollment. Will that affect my overall chances? Applications are reviewed as a whole. The admissions committee takes into consideration the entire application package including letters of recommendation, research and personal statements and, especially, academic and research background.
What types of degrees do you offer? Our programs are designed to lead to a PhD. We also offer a combined MD/PhD degrees. In addition, the program in Public Health Sciences offers a master’s degree for clinical professionals.
What programs do you offer? The Biological Sciences Division offers a total of 16 PhD-granting programs, 14 of which are organized into four umbrella organizations (program clusters):
- Molecular Biosciences: for research in the areas of biochemistry, genetics, human genetics, cell and developmental biology.
- Darwinian Sciences: for research in the areas of ecological, integrative and evolutionary biology.
- Biomedical Sciences: for research in the areas of cancer biology, molecular metabolism, immunology, and microbiology.
- Neuroscience: for research in the areas of neurobiology and computational neuroscience.
In addition, we offer two additional degree-granting programs, Public Health Sciences and Medical Physics.
Please note that you may apply to the affiliated program in Biophysical Sciences at https://apply-psd.uchicago.edu/apply/.
May I apply to more than one program? Yes, but select no more than four programs, in no more than two clusters. Please narrow your choice to the program(s) that most closely align with your research interests.
Only one application may be submitted to the Biological Sciences Division.
Does it matter in what order I list the programs I am interested in? Yes, the programs will consider you in the order they are listed. Please be sure to list the program you are most interested in first.
Where should I apply if my interests are broader than individual programs? You may apply to up to four programs. Please list your top preference first.
Do I send multiple sets of supplemental materials for each program? No, since all materials are received electronically, you need only upload one set of documents for your application even if you apply to more than one program within the Biological Sciences.
What are the basic requirements for applying to the Graduate Programs in the Biological Sciences Division of the University of Chicago?
- All applicants for graduate study in the Biological Sciences Division must hold a BA/BS, or the equivalent, from a college or university of recognized standing.
- The GRE test is optional for all PhD programs. However, if you have taken the GRE test within the last 5 years and wish to submit your scores, you may do so by sending the results to institution code 1832. No department code is necessary.
- The Public Health Sciences Masters Program requires an MD, DO, or nursing PhD from an accredited institution, or must have completed pre-clinical training at an accredited medical school.
- Test of English Proficiency (if required).
What supplemental materials are required?
- An application is considered complete with 3 letters of recommendation, unofficial transcripts (displaying the seal of the degree granting institution) from each degree-granting institution, candidate statement and, if required, official TOEFL scores.
- If using a recommendation letter service such as Interfolio, the service must include the ability to upload each letter individually to the unique link provided. We cannot accept a single upload containing all of your letters.
What are the requirements for the unofficial transcript?
- We require an unofficial transcript that displays the seal of the degree granting institution. The most reliable way to obtain this is to visit the registrars office to obtain an unofficial copy (scan and upload to your application). If you can download a transcript showing the university seal from the academic information system of the school, that is also acceptable.
What are the requirements for the candidate statement?
- Your candidate statement should discuss your previous research projects and other relevant professional activities, and how these experiences have prepared you for graduate studies. Tell us about your future objectives; what kind of questions are you interested in and why, and what kind of expertise you would like to gain in graduate school and why the University of Chicago is the right place for you to pursue these goals. If relevant, you may also discuss any challenges you have faced or obstacles you have overcome during your preparation, and the personal strengths and/or unique characteristics that make you a qualified applicant.
Is the GRE Test Required for PhD applicants?
- No, the GRE test is optional for all PHD programs. However, if you have taken the GRE text within the last 5 years and wish to submit your scores, you may do so by sending the results to institution code 1832. No department code necessary.
- If you do choose to submit GRE test results, they will only be considered valid if they were taken within the past 5 years, based on the December 3 application deadline. Therefore, for example, if an applicant wishes to begin graduate study in Autumn 2025 (application deadline December 3, 2024), the applicant must have taken the GRE on or after December 3, 2019.
- Subject tests are optional for all programs.
Is the GRE Subject test required? No, GRE Subject scores are optional for all programs.
I have taken the GREs, should I submit my scores? The majority of UChicago Biosciences programs do not take GRE scores into consideration, and will not use them as part of the holistic review process even if they are supplied. However, the programs in Medical Physics and Biochemistry and Molecular Biophysics will take GRE scores into consideration if available. Although submission of GRE scores is optional, if you think your GRE scores are reflective of your ability and potential you may submit your test scores to UChicago.
Please see program-specific websites for additional guidance.
If I am scheduled to take the GRE after the application deadline, can I still apply? GRE scores can take up to a month after the test date to arrive, so please plan accordingly when scheduling to take the GRE.
How many years are the GRE scores valid? GRE test results are valid for 5 years based on the December 3, 2024 application deadline. Therefore, the test date must have occurred December 3, 2019 or later.
May I waive the English language proficiency requirement?
Applicants to the graduate schools and divisions of the University of Chicago who do not meet the criteria below must submit proof of English language proficiency. This policy applies to all graduate programs; the score level required for admission varies by program. Only the TOEFL iBT or IELTS Academic tests are accepted as proof of proficiency.
Waiver criteria:
English has been a primary language of communication and schooling for you since childhood; or you were enrolled for at least one academic year in full-time status in a course of study at an accredited English-medium post-secondary institution in one of the following countries or territories within the past ten years: Antigua and Barbuda, Australia, Bahamas, Barbados, Canada, Dominica, Grenada, Guyana, Hong Kong, Ireland, Jamaica, New Zealand, Saint Kitts and Nevis, Saint Lucia, Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, Singapore, South Africa, Trinidad and Tobago, the United Kingdom, the United States.
Education in English-medium institutions in other countries or territories does not qualify for the exemption.
I received my degree from an English speaking country. May I waive the English language proficiency requirement?
Applicants to the graduate schools and divisions of the University of Chicago who do not meet the criteria below must submit proof of English language proficiency. This policy applies to all graduate programs; the score level required for admission varies by program. Only the TOEFL iBT or IELTS Academic tests are accepted as proof of proficiency.
Waiver criteria:
English has been a primary language of communication and schooling for you since childhood; or you were enrolled for at least one academic year in full-time status in a course of study at an accredited English-medium post-secondary institution in one of the following countries or territories within the past ten years: Antigua and Barbuda, Australia, Bahamas, Barbados, Canada, Dominica, Grenada, Guyana, Hong Kong, Ireland, Jamaica, New Zealand, Saint Kitts and Nevis, Saint Lucia, Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, Singapore, South Africa, Trinidad and Tobago, the United Kingdom, the United States.
Education in English-medium institutions in other countries or territories does not qualify for the exemption.
What English language proficiency tests do you accept? We accept both of the following tests (only 1 score submission is required):
- Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL). The minimum score for admission to the BSD is 100 overall with subscores of no less than 26 in Reading, Writing, and Listening, and no less than 22 in Speaking.
- International English Language Testing System (IELTS) - Please note: only the Academic Reading/Writing test, not the General Training Reading/Writing test, is acceptable. The minimum score for admission to the BSD is 7 overall with subscores of 7 each.
How many years are the TOEFL and/or IELTS valid? TOEFL and IELTS scores are valid for two years based on the December 3, 2024 application deadline. Therefore, the test date must have occurred December 3, 2022 or later.
How do I know if my application is complete? You can login to the online application to monitor the receipt of your test scores and letters of recommendation. Please note: uploaded materials such as transcripts, research and personal statements, and CVs will not appear in your online application pdf.
I am worried because my GRE scores have not been checked in yet. Scores sent via ETS to institution code 1832 will be automatically matched to your application. Sometimes this can take a few days, so monitor your materials by logging back into your application. The application and supplemental materials deadline is December 3.
I have submitted my application. What is its current status?
You can check the status of your application by logging into the application site. Click on the link to your application at the bottom of the screen, then select "application status" to find current information.How will I be notified? You will receive an email when a decision has been made on your application. Please adjust your spam settings to ensure you are receiving email from our system (bsdadmissions@uchicago.edu), and be sure to enter a contact email that you use regularly.
Who reviews my application? Applications are reviewed by the admissions committees of the program(s) to which you applied. See the admissions timeline.
I haven’t heard anything yet about an interview. Does that mean I probably will not be accepted? Applications are reviewed by the Admissions Committees of the program(s) to which you applied. Until you receive a decision from the program, you are still under consideration. See the admissions timeline.
The University of Chicago offers most PhD students competitive funding packages, which cover tuition and student health insurance, as well as a stipend for living expenses and research support. Students must be legally authorized to work in the United States for the University of Chicago in order to meet the degree requirements to earn a PhD in most of the University’s PhD programs. (Note, the F-1/J-1 student visa permits on-campus employment when a student is active in their program; for more information, please visit the Office of International Affairs webpage related to on-campus employment.) Applicants are encouraged to review applicable program requirements.
What does the financial aid package include? The BSD financial aid package provides a stipend (2024-25: $45,000/year), your full tuition costs and health insurance fees. A one-time $1,000 relocation stipend is paid in the Autumn Quarter.
How long will financial aid be extended? The commitment of support extends for the first five years and is reviewed on an annual basis for cost of living and other possible increases. Support for each year beyond the first year is contingent upon your satisfactory degree progress, as determined by your degree-granting unit and the Office of Graduate and Postdoctoral Affairs. Every effort is made beyond the fifth year to provide financial assistance until the completion of the degree.
Can my application fee be waived?
Generally, an application fee of $90 is required and non-refundable. Applicants may qualify for specific fee waivers.
In order to request an application fee waiver, you must first submit an application. Once an application is submitted, your application status portal will display the option to request a fee waiver by filling out a short form and providing documentation, if required. If you are applying to one of the schools or divisions which allows multiple applications, you will need to ensure you are on the status page of the correct application; a separate waiver request must be submitted for each application.
Application fees are non-refundable. If you intend to submit a fee waiver request, do not pay the application fee until you receive a decision about your request. If you pay the application fee, and later have your waiver request approved, the fee will not be refunded.
Fee Waiver Categories and General Eligibility Criteria
- University of Chicago degree program students and alumni
This waiver category is available in most programs to any applicant who has received or expects to receive a degree from another UChicago program.
- Current or recent participants in qualifying programs
This waiver category is available if you have participated in one of the following:
- CIC Applicants
- Fulbright/IIE Fellowship Recipient
- Gates Millennium Scholars
- Leadership Alliance Summer Research Early Identification Program
- Maximizing Access to Research Careers (MARC)
- McNair Scholars Program
- Post-baccalaureate Research Education Program (PREP)
- Project 1000
- Research Experience for Undergraduates (REU)
- Society for Advancement of Chicanos and Native Americans in Science (SACNAS)
- U.S. armed forces or uniformed services: currently serving (active duty or reserves) or honorably discharged
- Current undergraduates receiving need-based aid from a U.S. institution
To qualify for this waiver, if offered by the program, you must be currently enrolled as an undergraduate in a U.S. college or university and must provide documentation that you are receiving need-based financial aid.
- Valid fee waiver codes received from an authorized representative of the University of Chicago
Codes will be reviewed to ensure that they are valid and were sent to you by an authorized representative. Programs may only accept their own codes, not those issued by other departments of the University. Do not contact faculty or staff to request codes.
- Other waiver categories
Application fee waivers are available for students who have graduated or plan to graduate from a post-secondary minority-serving institutions (Historically Black College or University, Hispanic-Serving Institution, Tribal College or University, Asian American and Pacific Islander Serving Institution, etc.). Institutions included on either the list maintained by the U.S. Department of Education or the current list published by the Rutgers University Center for MSIs qualify.
Do you accept Transfer students?
- Transfer students are accepted and follow the same application procedures as new applicants.
- To be considered for transfer, students must have a valid reason for the move and must provide a letter of recommendation from an appropriate faculty member from their current institution. If the student is accepted for transfer, the degree-granting unit in which he or she matriculates will decide whether the student can matriculate with advanced standing.
Applicants for whom a recent natural disaster or other major, widespread disruption has affected their ability to complete an application may submit a Hardship Request by visiting here.
Overview
The newly established joint program between the Marine Biological Laboratory (MBL) and the University of Chicago (UChicago) leverages the unique partnership between two leading research institutions and combines the best of both worlds – access to a collaborative and expansive research environment that spans the scales of biological discovery at the MBL in Woods Hole, MA and the first-class resources, faculty, and staff from the University of Chicago. The formal affiliation and collaboration between these institutions was established in 2013 and has resulted in synergies in research and teaching that now expand to the graduate community.
Program Structure
Current MBL/UChicago graduate student opportunities are available through the UChicago’s Integrative Biology (IB) Program and the Committee on Development, Regeneration, and Stem Cell Biology (DRSB) Program with additional options available in the near future. Candidates should apply directly to the IB or DRSB Program. If accepted, students will spend up to two years sharing time between Chicago and MBL, allowing them to complete curriculum requirements at the University of Chicago and research rotations in laboratories of affiliated MBL faculty. Students will then remain on site and complete their graduate research at the MBL. Additional course work and teaching can be completed remotely at the MBL with committee meetings, retreat participation and other activities accommodated by intermittent visits to Chicago throughout the graduate program.
Funding and Support
Students will be guaranteed full tuition, health insurance and generous stipend support. In addition, room and board will be provided during the first summer rotation at the MBL. After joining an MBL lab, students will be provided with funds to travel to Chicago (up to $3,000/year) for committee meetings and other events required by the IB and/or DRSB Programs. Finally, all students will be eligible for an additional research allowance to be used at their discretion for research support or to attend meetings.