• Criteria for Admission
• How to Apply
• What happens once my application is complete?

Applications must be received by January 7 for Fall admission (December 1 preferred).
We do not accept applicants for the Spring semester.

Criteria for Admission

Incoming students typically have formal training in basic sciences - biology, mathematics, chemistry, and genetics. An undergraduate degree in entomology is not required. Students from non-science backgrounds are also encouraged to apply but may need to remedy deficiencies as determined on a case-by-case basis.

Acceptance into the department is based upon approval by the Graduate Affairs Committee, sponsorship by a faculty advisor who will provide laboratory space and guidance during your thesis research, and admission by the Graduate School. Admission is granted on the basis of the following criteria:

1. Quality of previous graduate and undergraduate work. The Graduate School requires as a minimum standard a B average (3.0 on a 4.0 scale in all undergraduate courses taken at a regionally accredited college or university.) For Ph.D. applicants, graduate as well as undergraduate grades are considered. Depending on the applicants' interests, performance within specific courses also may be considered. Official transcripts of all previous academic training must be submitted.


2. Graduate Record Examination (GRE) Scores. The aptitude test is required and the Biology Subject test is recommended because it may provide helpful information to evaluate the applicant.


3. Strength of three letters of recommendation from persons competent to judge the applicant's probable success in graduate school. These letters are usually from applicant's former professors who are able to give an in-depth evaluation of applicant's strengths and weaknesses with respect to academic work. Additional recommendations may come from employers or supervisors who are familiar with applicant's work experience.


4. Statement of Goals, Research Interests, and Experiences, and their relation to the intended program of study. These statements also help the Graduate Affairs Committee identify potential faculty sponsors with similar research interests.


5. International applicants must also submit Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) and the Test of Spoken English (TSE) scores. In general, a minimum TOEFL score of 600 is required. TOEFL scores less than 600 indicate that additional experience with the English language is necessary to perform successfully in the classroom and to complete a quality research project.


6. Acceptance by a faculty advisor is absolutely required; thus, it is important to make early contact with faculty that share your research interests.
   
   
7. Supporting evidence of graduate potential, such as publications, grant proposals, specific work experience, or special skills.
   
   
8. When applicable, official letters may be required, stating terms and conditions of support if applicant is entering a graduate program with previously arranged financial assistance from a granting agency, government, or employer.