Frequently Asked Questions

What is the average GPA and what are the average GRE and TOEFL scores of students who have been admitted to the BMCB program?

We require a GPA of at least 3.00 for admission to the BMCB graduate program. The average of admitted students is approximately 3.50. For the GRE, the verbal and quantitative scores added together should total approximately 1100-1200. The average verbal score for admitted students is 500-510, and the average quantitative score is 690-700. For international students, the minimum acceptable score for the TOEFL is 600 (paper-based test), 250 (computer-based test), and 100 (internet-based test).

Does the BMCB program require a subject test on the GRE?

No, we do not require a subject test. It is optional.

Is it possible to provide photocopies of TOEFL and GRE scores?

It is possible to provide photocopies of test scores for evaluation purposes. However, official scores are required before an applicant can be admitted to the BMCB program.

How many students are accepted to the BMCB program each year? Of those accepted, how many are international students?

The BMCB program usually receives 150-200 applications each year from domestic and international students. We extend offers of admission to 30-35 students each year, and this includes offers to perhaps 4-5 international students. In an average year, perhaps 10-12 students will accept the offer of admission to the BMCB program. This number includes perhaps one or two international students. The BMCB program welcomes applications from international students and has admitted students from such countries as Canada, China, India, Lebanon, Mexico, and others.

Does the BMCB program offer financial assistance for students who enroll?

The BMCB program offers financial assistance to all students who are accepted, including international students. Each student receives a waiver of out-of-state tuition, funds to pay for registration fees, and paid health insurance. In addition, students receive a stipend to cover their living expenses. This stipend rate as of the 2006-2007 academic year is $20,772, but this amount may increase to reflect cost-of-living or other mandated increases in the stipend rate.

Does the BMCB program accept students who wish to pursue a Master’s degree?

No, the BMCB program only accepts students whose intention is to pursue a Ph.D. degree.

Does the BMCB program accept students for the Spring semester?

No, the BMCB program only accepts students for the Fall semester.

Are students invited for interviews if they are accepted into the BMCB program?

With the exception of international students, we do not accept students into the BMCB program until they have visited the University of Arizona and interviewed with faculty in the program. In almost all cases, students who visit and interview with faculty are given an offer of admission. For a number of reasons, it is not possible to invite international students to visit unless they are already residing in the U.S.. When possible, international students are interviewed via telephone.

Is it recommended that applicants personally write to the BMCB faculty for research positions prior to gaining admission?

It is not required that students seek a faculty sponsor prior to being admitted to the BMCB program. During the first year in the program, new students are given the opportunity to complete laboratory rotations in the three or four different laboratories to determine where they would like to perform their Ph.D. research.

How long does it take to complete a Ph.D. in the BMCB program?

The average length of time to obtain a Ph.D. degree in the BMCB program is five and a half to six years.

Do students just apply through the BMCB website or do they also need to apply to the University of Arizona Graduate College?

Yes, there is a two-part application process that students need to complete. Students need to apply to the University of Arizona Graduate College through their website at http://grad.arizona.edu. There is a $50 application fee that is required and cannot be waived. Students should also apply to the BMCB program through our website at http://bmcb.biology.arizona.edu/GA.html. Students should complete the online portion of the application, download and print three (3) copies of the letter of recommendation form for their recommenders, and mail official transcripts from all colleges or universities that have previously been attended.

Is research experience required for getting admitted to the BMCB graduate program?

Yes, it is very important that students have previous research experience as an undergraduate before applying to the BMCB Ph.D. program.

Please e-mail any comments to:
bmcb@email.arizona.edu