Frequently Asked Questions about the Biology Graduate Application

1. How do I apply?
     All application processes are online at the application website graduateapp.ucsd.edu. To create an online application account you will need a valid email address. This email address will be your login name. It will also be the primary line of communication between you and UCSD. Be sure to use an address that will not change: do not use a temporary address. The activation email and additional instructions to complete your registration will be sent to this address.
     In addition you will need to create a password to the account. Your password can be 5-12 characters long and cannot contain any spaces. You will need your email address and password every time you wish to access or modify any of your application information.

2. What is the application deadline?
     The online application deadline for Fall 2009 enrollment is December 14, 2008. Supplemental materials (transcripts, GRE scores, letters of recommendation, etc.) will be accepted after this deadline, but your application will not be reviewed until it is complete.

3. Where do I send application materials?
     All supplemental application materials should be sent to the address below:
UCSD Division of Biological Sciences
Graduate Admissions Committee
9500 Gilman Dr., 0348
Pacific Hall, Room 1226
La Jolla, CA 92093-0348

4. Where should ETS send my GRE scores?
     School/Institution Code: 4836
     Department Code: 0203

5. I’m an international applicant. Is the application process the same for me?
     No, anyone who is not a United States citizen or a permanent resident of the United States must first complete a pre-application. If your pre-application is judged to be competitive, you will be invited to complete an official UCSD graduate online application.
Also, all international applicants whose native language is not English and whose undergraduate education was conducted in a language other than English must demonstrate proficiency in the English language.

6. How do I submit a pre-application (international applicants only)?
     Submission instructions and links to download the pre-application can be found at http://www.biology.ucsd.edu/grad/admissions/preapp_main.html

7. How do I demonstrate proficiency in the English language (int’l applicants only)?
     Two English proficiency exams are accepted for graduate study at UCSD:
• The Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) (institution 4836; department 35)
• The International English Language Testing System (IELTS) Academic Training exam