How to Apply

Application Materials:

Documents required

1. Application form (a two-page interactive PDF file that can be submitted to us by e-mail; this form includes sections for a personal statement, educational summary and test scores.)

2. GRE scores (official copy of test scores)

3. Transcripts (one official copy of transcript from each college or university attended)

4. Letters of recommendation (three or more)

5. TOEFL score (only for applicants whose native language is not English)

Criteria for admission

Admission decisions are based on the following factors--not necessarily listed in order of importance

Application form
This form alone often anables us to identify the most promising applicants and should be submitted as early as possible. It includes a section for a personal statement that will help determine whether our program is well-suited to an applicant's educational and career goals. The personal statement should be articulate, with evidence of a strong commitment to research in microbial biology. Mention of specific, well-focused interests is useful, but not essential; overly vague statements may be detrimental. The statement offers applicants an opportunity to demonstrate critical thinking ability and to identify program faculty whose research interests them.

There is no application fee. Moreover, all students admitted to the program receive a stipend, tuition waivers and health insurance so a separate application for financial support is not required.

GRE scores
A strong performance on this test carries considerable weight. An official copy of the Graduate Record Examination aptitude test should be submitted. A subject test is not required. However, if you are planning to take a subject test, one of the following is recommended: biochemistry, cell and molecular biology, biology or chemistry.

Educational background
An official transcript from each college or university attended should be submitted. Ideally, the undergraduate record should be strong in all areas. However, evidence of ability to perform well in science courses, particulary those stressing quantitative skills is most important. Applicants should have some undergraduate training in biochemistry, genetics, cell biology, or biology. Students with strong chemistry, physics or mathematics backgrounds are encouraged to apply even if they have not had extensive coursework in areas of biology. Deficiencies in basic undergraduate courses can be remedied in the first year of graduate school.

Research experience
Many successful applicants have had some sort of independent laboratory experience indicative of an informed commitment to a research career. This experience should be spelled out in the personal statement section of the application.

Recommendations
Applicants should submit strong statements of support from at least three persons in a position to evaluate their potential for success as a graduate student. Strong statements have significant impact on admissions decisions. Statements from persons familiar with your research potential are especially encouraged. Because many faculty are slow to submit such letters, you may wish to ask for letters from more than three people. It is also wise to check back with reference persons to be sure that the letters have been sent. Provide each respondent with a copy of the personal reference form with your name and waiver information completed. Reference letters must be returned to us in hard-copy form.

Personal interview (North America residents only)
Promising applicants are invited to visit the University of Utah to meet graduate students and faculty members and to learn more about the graduate program, the university, and the local environment.

TOEFL scores (for applicants who are not native English speakers)
To avoid possible delays, it is advisable to include a photocopy of your TOEFL test reports with the completed application form. If you are accepted you will need to have an official copy of your scores sent to the Microbial Biology Program office.