How to Apply to our Ph.D. Program

Requirements

Deadlines

The Process

Visiting

Frequently Asked Questions

Apply online

Requirements for admission to the PhD Program in Biomedical Sciences

All Ph.D. applicants must submit a complete application either online (free) or by hard copy ($40). Ph.D. applications require a statement of purpose, 3 letters of recommendation, GRE scores (code 1412), and transcripts. Foreign applicants must also submit TOEFL scores (code 1412). Applicants should demonstrate a clear interest and competence in science through their successful completion of undergraduate courses in biology and chemistry (or related science disciplines), as measured by grades and GRE scores, through laboratory-based research experiences, and through a well-written and enthusiastic statement of purpose.

Ph.D. applicaitons will be evaluated by a Centralized Admissions Committee consisting of representatives from each of the designated tracks of study in Biomedical Sciences. Admissions decisions are made based on the quality of the entire application package. Therefore, we do not list specific GPA an GRE requirements. The student should address potential weaknesses within their application as a (small) part of her/his statement of purpose.

Deadlines

The Centralized Admissions Committee begins review of applications by Dec. 15 each year. Completed applications received after Dec. 15th will be reviewed by the admissions committee and applicants who meet our requirements will be interviewed as space permits. We strongly encourage applicants as soon as they can, as we review applications in the order we receive them.

Students accepted into the program should inform the graduate school of their decision as soon as possible, but no later than April 15.

The Process

If selected you will be invited to visit Loyola and meet faculty in a formal interview that will allow you to learn about our program, faculty and research interests and allow us to learn about you. These interviews are scheduled throughout January, February, and March, typically on Fridays. An invitation to visit will be issued by phone or e-mail.


Typical Interview Schedule


	9:00-10:00am	Orientation/overview

	10:00-10:30am	Meet with faculty

	10:30-11:00am	Meet with faculty

	11:00-11:30am	Meet with faculty

	11:30-1:00	Break

	1:00-2:00pm	Lunch with current students

	2:00-2:30pm	Meet with faculty

	2:30-3:00pm	Meet with faculty

	3:00-3:30pm	Meet with faculty

	3:30pm	Tour campus then return to hotel

	6:30pm	Dinner in Oak Park with faculty and graduate students

Students may visit our list of Graduate Program Faculty and request specific meetings during their visit. We will try to accommodate such requests.

The admission decision typically occurs within 1-2 weeks following each candidate's visit. Formal paperwork is mailed to accepted students shortly thereafter. Students who receive an offer of admissions must inform the graduate school of their decision by April 15th.

Visiting

We welcome you to visit the Department of Microbiology and Immunology at Loyola University's Medical Center. If you have been invited for an interview, please coordinate your visit with Ms. Ann Kennedy. If you choose to visit our department in advance of an invitation to interview, we suggest that you contact both the chair of the Centralized Admissions Committee, Dr. Thomas Gallagher, and Ms. Debbie Hammer, who can facilitate the process and determine faculty availability on your behalf.

Department of Microbiology and Immunology
Loyola University Chicago
Building 105, Room 3846
2160 South First Avenue
Maywood, Illinois 60153

FAX number: (708) 216-9574

Frequently Asked Questions

	Q: What degrees do you offer?
	A: We offer a PhD degree. Students may also apply to the Stritch School of Medicine's MD/PhD program and, if accepted, receive a PhD through the Department of Microbiology and Immunology.
	Q: What is the deadline for applying to your PH.D. program?
	A: Review of PhD applications will begin by December 15 and complete admissions by April 15 of the following year. Applications received throughout this period are reviewed, but those received earlier have a greater chance of success.
	Q: Can I enter the Ph.D. program during the Spring semester?
	A: No. We admit students into our PhD program for Fall semesters only. We initiate our program of study at the beginning of August.
	Q: I have low GRE scores but a high GPA. Can you tell me whether I should consider applying to your PhD program?
	A: You should always consider applying. Once we receive your completed application, we can evaluate your entire package (GRE scores, GPA, letters of recommendation, research experiences). We look at all aspects of your application to make our admission decisions.
	Q: How many students do you admit to each class?
	A: The Centralized Admissions Committee admits up to 17 Ph.D. students in the Combined Biomedical Sciences.
	Q: Will I have the opportunity for a personal interview, and if so, how will I be notified of interview dates?
	A: We will interview up to 20 students each year. You will receive an invitation to interview with us by telephone - our admissions director will call you.
	Q: When do you interview prospective Ph.D. students?
	A: Our interview dates are on typically Fridays, on average twice per month, from January through March.
	Q: Is there any way that the GRE test requirement can be waived?
	A: No.
	Q: What is your GRE code?
	A: 1412
	Q: What should be included in the statement of purpose?
	A: The statement of purpose should include information about your reasons for wanting to obtain a PhD, your preparation for that degree to date.
	Q: Is there financial aid? / What is the tuition?
	A: Our stipend is $25,000. In addition, full tuition and health insurance are provided.
	Q: What about health insurance?
	A: Group health insurance is available through the university.
	Q: Is there housing available?
	A: While the medical center does not have on site housing, there are many varied and affordable accommodations near the medical center all within easy reach by public transportation.
	Q: What are the GRE/TOEFL requirements?
	A: We prefer to evaluate our candidates in their totality rather than by any single measure.
	Q: What should be worn to the interview?
	A: Business casual with comfortable shoes.