How to Apply

Academic Preparation

A Bachelor's degree or its equivalent in a Biological Science or a Science Degree with a biological context (with an upper-division grade point average of 3.0 or better). Average applicant GPAs are 3.5 or higher.

Explore Degree Offerings

Doctor of Philosophy
Master of Arts

MA Applicants

Please specify which track, MA by research thesis (2 years) or examination (2 year), you intend to apply in your statement of purpose.

Application Deadlines

PhD December 2nd, 2019
MA February 24th, 2020

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Notices

  • GRE is no longer required

Requirements

Application Requirements

Transcripts

Scanned official transcripts (watermark or seal) from institutions where you have completed 12 units or more must be uploaded to your application.

Letters of Recommendations

Three letters of recommendation are required for a completed application.

Statement of Purpose and Supplemental Documents

  • Statement of Purpose
  • Personal Achievements / Contributions Statement
  • Resume/Curriculum Vitae (CV)

There is no page length requirement for the three components of the Statement of Purpose.

GRE Scores and Grade Point Average

The GRE is no longer a requirement to apply to the MCDB Graduate Program. Average applicant GPAs are 3.5 or higher, with an upper-division grade point average of 3.0 or better.

International Applicants

International students from non-English speaking nations must demonstrate proficiency in the English language.

Admissions Timeline

Admissions Notifications

Spring and Summer

Prospective students should contact Faculty of Interest.

Late August / Early September

Graduate application available through UC Santa Barbara’s Graduate Division.

December

  • All PhD application materials must be submitted by Monday, December 2, 2019.
  • Applications are only considered for the Fall quarter of each year.

February

  • All MA application materials must be submitted by Monday, February 24, 2020.
  • Applications are only considered for the Fall quarter of each year.

Late February / Early March

Admissions and financial notifications distributed to prospective students

April

Statement of Intent and Financial Deadline – April 15, 2020.