How to apply to the Genetics Graduate program

The Genetics Program accepts applications for Fall Admission only

For the best chance of admission, applications should be completed by January 15th.  The completed application package, including letters of recommendation, official transcripts and GRE/TOEFL test scores, must reach the program office by these deadline dates:

Step 1: Complete a primary electronic application

All students must use the Electronic Application (fee is $45 U.S.). When completing the application, note that applicants will select one Penn State Graduate Program and one campus. The Genetics Program is offered at both the University Park Campus and the Hershey Campus. When completing the Electronic Application, you will choose either the University Park or Hershey campus. Prior to making this selection, applicants should review the information provided about the University Park and Hershey campuses and program faculty.

Applicants may also request to be considered for admission by both campuses. This does not increase the likelihood of admission and is recommended only for students with a strong interest in both campuses. All Genetics Program students are admitted to one campus, however students are eligible to participate in laboratory rotations on both campuses. For qualified applicants who wish to participate in interview visits on both campuses, the Genetics Program will make these arrangements. In order to be considered for admission by both campuses, please select one campus on the on-line application and send an email to genetics@huck.psu.edu stating your desire to be considered by both campuses.

Step 2: Mail in forms

Note: The Penn State Genetics Program and Penn State Graduate School are committed to verification of application materials, therefore please ensure that all of your documents (transcripts, diplomas, letters of recommendation, test scores, etc.) can be readily verified as being accurate and authentic.

Application fee (if you did not already pay online)

Applications without fees cannot be processed. If you are unable to pay online, see the instructions on the Application Fee Payment Form about how to send payment by check or money order.

Application materials.

Mail the following to: Genetics Program Applications, The Pennsylvania State University, 201 Life Sciences Building University Park, PA 16802-5301A.

1. Transcripts: Two official transcripts from all institutions of higher learning previously attended, including undergraduate and graduate schools.
• You may use the Transcript Request Form (download the pdf file you want: Print or Type on and Print).
• International applicants please submit official or attested university records including degree certificates and graduation certificates in their original language along with certified translations. Notarized copies are not sufficient.
• Prospective international applicants should contact the Office of Graduate Enrollment Services at gadm@psu.edu to determine if their degrees are deemed comparable to an American four-year baccalaureate degree before submitting a formal application.
2. Official test scores.
   • Official GRE scores are required for all applicants. The institution code for Penn State is 2660 and the Genetics Department code is 0210.
   • Official TOEFL scores are required for most international applicants (see Admission Requirements). TheTOEFL Genetics Department code is 06.
   Statement of purpose: Applicants should include a 1-2 page statement describing their motivation, goals and preparation for graduate study in Genetics.
3. Three letters of recommendation: All applicants must submit three letters of recommendation. There is no set form for the letters of recommendation. Recommenders may discuss academic record, research experience, overall aptitude for graduate study, or any other information relevant to the applicant's qualifications. Recommendations must be in sealed and signed envelopes. Recommendations may be submitted by the student or by the recommender.
4. Visa application (International applicants): All international applicants must complete the following form: Application for Visa Document. To fill out the Visa Application form:
   • Please include any support from your own funds on Line #1 and family funds on Line #2.
   • On Line #4 Stipend from Penn State graduate assistantship or fellowship, you may write "Anticipate funding from Penn State Genetics Program." Please leave the amount blank.
   • For the section entitled Anticipated source and amount of support for the subsequent years of study you may write on supporter(s) line "Anticipate funding from Penn State Genetics Program." Please leave the amount blank.
   • Please use the US dating system (Month, Date, Year).

How to check the status of your application

If you have submitted a graduate application to Penn State and wish to check your status, you may do so by using Penn State's on-line status inquiry system. If you have submitted your application via the web, it will take up to 72 hours before its status will appear in the on-line status inquiry system. Please note the status inquiry feature is not available between the hours of 3:00 a.m. and 7:30 a.m. U.S. eastern standard time. The status inquiry system is updated once each work day. Because the admission process is decentralized, your supporting materials (transcripts, letters of recommendation, test scores, etc.) should be sent directly to the Genetics Program.For more information please contact us.