Frequently Asked Questions

These are the answers to frequently asked questions about Wesleyan University's Biology PhD program. If you have a question not answered with the information below or by visiting our page on applying to our PhD program, please email biology@wesleyan.edu.

• Is there an application fee and can it be waived?
  There is no application fee for our program.
• Can I use an unofficial transcript during the application process?
  Unofficial transcripts uploaded by the applicant are used during the application process. Official transcripts are only required if an applicant receives and accepts an offer of admission.
• What is the minimum GPA?
  Applications are weighted on more than GPA alone, so there is no standard minimum requirement.
• Is a GRE (Graduate Record Exam) required?
  GRE scores are not required for our program.
• What is the minimum IELTS/TOEFL/Duolingo score for international students?
  While the department does not have a standard minimum, higher scores help strengthen an application.
• English was the language of instruction for my academic years. Can the IELTS/TOEFL/Duolingo requirement be waived?
  If English is the language of your higher education institution(s), you will be able to indicate this in your application and the testing requirement will not be required in your application.
• What is the rate of acceptance?
  This varies from year to year and is generally in the range of 3-10%.
• Do I need to obtain funding before applying? What is the possibility of getting funding after securing admission?

  No, you do not need to obtain funding before applying. Student stipends are funded by the university and outside research grants.

  To read more about financial support, including stipend amounts, visit the Financial Support page from the Office of Graduate Studies. 

• Do I need to secure or contact an advisor before applying?
  No, you do not need to secure an advisor before applying.
• I completed a four year ND+HND (National Diploma + Higher National Diploma) program. Is this acceptable for consideration to your program?
  Applicants who have completed all four years of the ND+HND and have received both degrees are welcome to apply. During the application process, the ND and HND should be listed as two separate entries in your academic history. Any transcripts should be uploaded as separate documents.