Frequently Asked Questions
These are the answers to frequently asked questions about 911±¬ÁÏÍø'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.
- What is the application deadline?
The application deadline is December 12, 2026.
- Is a Master's degree required to apply?
No, a Master's degree is not required to apply to our program. Applicants with only a Bachelor's degree are eligible to be considered for admission.
- 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?
Minimum scores will be announced at a later date.
- Can unofficial IELTS/TOEFL/Duolingo scores be entered on the application?
Unofficial scores or the date of a future exam may be entered when beginning your application. However, official scores must be submitted by the Biology Department's application deadline: December 12, 2026.
Official electronic scores should be sent to 911±¬ÁÏÍø, school code 3959. Paper scores may be sent to the Office of Graduate Student Services, 911±¬ÁÏÍø, 265 Church Street, #128-132, Middletown, CT 06459.
- Can the IELTS/TOEFL/Duolingo requirement be waived?
Please view the information available on the Office of Graduate Student Affairs webpage regarding application requirements. Information regarding who is eligible for language testing waivers can be found under the Test Scores section.
Testing waivers are managed by the Office of Graduate Student Affairs. If you are eligible for a waiver, please email gradadmissions@wesleyan.edu.
- 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. Stipends are available to both domestic and international students.
To read more about financial support, including stipend amounts, visit the Financial Support page from the Office of Graduate Student Affairs.
- 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.
- What labs have project availability for new PhD students?
Project availability for Fall 2027 start will be available at a later date.