Admission requirements

To be considered for admission

You should have a strong background in the biological sciences and chemistry (general and organic chemistry).

For applicants who do not have a degree in the biological sciences, the following course work is desirable: chemistry through organic chemistry, physics, cell biology, molecular biology, and genetics. Other courses recommended in preparation for graduate training in genetics include population genetics, evolutionary biology, cell and molecular biology and developmental biology.

You must also complete the forms and send us the materials outlined in the instructions on how to apply. Applications are accepted for Fall semester admission only.

Assessment of applications

Important criteria for assessing applicants include the following:

• Undergraduate Grade Point Average (particularly in courses listed above)
• General Graduate Record Examinations (GRE) Aptitude Test scores (verbal, quantitative, and analytical). The Institution code for Penn State is 2660 and the Genetics Department code is 0210.
• Research experience
• Supportive letters of recommendation (from research advisors, teachers, and/or employers)
• Strong commitment to graduate training. Research and training in genetics involves a broad range of techniques that span the breadth of chemistry and biology. Consequently, graduate training in genetics requires an unusually large investment from the program, the advisor, and the student. This is particularly true in the first few years of a doctoral program. Therefore, we expect all students who enter the PhD program to be prepared to make this commitment to both themselves and the Intercollege Graduate Degree Program in Genetics.
• With some exceptions (noted below), international candidates are required to take the TOEFL (Test Of English as a Foreign Language) or the IELTS (International English Language Testing System) and submit the results of the test with application for admission.
  • Minimum acceptable TOEFL scores are: 550 on the paper test, 213 on the computer-based test, or 80 points on the internet-based test with a minimum of 20 points on the speaking portion. (Penn State's Institution code is 2660 and the Department code is 06).
  • The minimum composite score for the IELTS is 6.5.
  International applicants are exempt from the TOEFL/IELTS requirement who have received a baccalaureate or a masters degree from a college/university/institution in any of the following: Australia, Belize, British Caribbean and British West Indies, Canada (except Quebec), England, Guyana, Republic of Ireland, Liberia, New Zealand, Northern Ireland, Scotland, the United States and Wales.

Interviews

Selected domestic applicants will be invited to attend a visitation weekend to meet with program faculty and students and to view the campus, facilities and community. A member of the Genetics faculty may conduct personal interviews of selected international applicants in their home countries.