Applying to graduate school in Molecular and Cellular Biology
Most students begin graduate studies in the fall semester. To ensure full consideration for admission and financial aid, the complete application should be received by January 31 prior to the fall semester in which studies will begin. All applicants are considered for financial aid on the basis of information in the main application. Applications received after January 31 will be considered, but with a lower probability of admission and financial aid. Students may also be admitted to begin study in the spring semester, although the probability of obtaining financial aid for the first semester is generally very low.

The goal of the admission process is to identify students who will thrive in the program and continue to successful research and/or teaching careers. The application should contain information that allows us to judge the applicant's academic and research potential, and that allows us to determine whether a suitable match exists with potential faculty mentors.

Prospective students are encouraged to contact one or more faculty members prior to the application process to discuss their research interests and to determine whether space is available in the research group. For the research interests of MCB faculty go here .

The full application consists of:

• A written application form, which includes the Statement of Purpose. The Statement of Purpose is an important part of the application, and should be carefully written to include the applicant's research interests and possible mentors among the faculty. The personal statement should also include motivations for undertaking graduate training in Molecular and Cellular Biology, and future career goals.
• Transcripts from undergraduate institution(s).
• GRE scores, sent to us directly by the testing agency. Copies of scores sent by the applicant are not acceptable. ( An advanced subject test is not required.)
• TOEFL scores, if English is not the applicant's native language. These scores must be sent to us directly by the testing agency. Copies of scores sent by the applicant are not acceptable.
• Three letters of recommendation, sent by faculty members who have direct knowledge of and can comment on the applicant's academic and research potential. Letters from friends, employers for non-laboratory jobs, clergy, etc. are usually not helpful.
• An application fee.

The University of Alabama Graduate School webpage contains detailed instructions and all of the application materials.