How to Apply
The following materials must be submitted in order to be considered for admission to the GPIBS Ph.D. Graduate Program:
- Application: Please fill out the application through Workday Student.
- Please note that in the Workday Student application portal, the GPIBS PhD program is listed as “Biomedical Sciences Doctor of Philosophy”. The GPIBS MS program is listed as “Interdisciplinary Biomedical Sciences Master of Science.”
- Resume/CV: This can be uploaded after you submit your application in Workday.
- Three Letters of Recommendation: Please enter your recommenders’ names and their email addresses in the application.
- Undergraduate Degree: All official transcripts must be in English and on a 4.00 GPA scale. If not, the Graduate School requires an official foreign transcript evaluation from an agency such as World Education Services (WES) or Educational Credential Evaluators (ECE). We are especially interested in applicants with solid preparation in chemistry, biochemistry, and advanced biology courses such as cell biology, microbiology, neurobiology, immunology, and/or molecular biology. Official transcripts are required for all coursework, including those reflecting transfer credit.
- GPA: To be competitive for admission, applicants should have a 3.0 GPA equivalent or higher.
- Statement of Purpose You will be able to upload your Statement of Purpose after you submit your application in Workday: Persuade the Admissions Committee of your potential for success in GPIBS by describing the following:
- Research experience: Describe your research experience, including summer programs and internships. Focus on explaining the hypothesis or goal of the work, why it matters, and key conclusions and implications.
- Fit and motivation: Be clear about why you are applying to GPIBS. Explain how GPIBS suits your professional goals, and how the program will help you achieve them.
- Readiness for graduate school: Describe your work ethic, resilience, and ability to contribute positively to the program.
- Additional context: If needed, you may address circumstances not covered elsewhere, such as academic challenges, gaps in your record, or other factors affecting your application. It’s fine to skip this if you have nothing further to add.
Proofread carefully and get feedback from mentors, letter writers, and peers. A polished, error-free statement demonstrates maturity and attention to detail.
- GRE Scores (Optional): GRE scores are no longer required for the GPIBS program. However, you may submit official GRE scores to support your application. The ETS institution code for the UAMS Graduate School is 6901.
All materials should be submitted in Workday upon completing your application. If you are unable to submit all information in Workday, please email the outstanding documentation to graduateadmissions@uams.edu.
International Students
Find out more information on the international (F-1 Visa) application process here
FAQ
-
Is there an application fee for GPIBS?
The Admissions Committee assesses applicants based on research experience, work ethic and resilience, fit with the program, and motivation to contribute to GPIBS.
-
Must I identify a faculty mentor before applying to GPIBS?
No. During your first fall semester, you’ll complete three lab rotations to help identify your dissertation mentor.
-
When does GPIBS accept new students?
GPIBS admits students for the fall semester only. Spring and summer admissions are not available.
-
What funding do GPIBS students receive?
Ph.D. students in good standing receive full tuition remission plus a competitive stipend (currently $35,000/year) throughout their program.
-
Are GRE scores required?
No. GRE scores are optional. If submitted, they may be considered, but they are not required for admission.
-
What is the deadline for letters of recommendation and English proficiency scores?
All materials, including recommendation letters and test scores, must be received by December 1. Plan ahead by taking required tests (TOEFL, IELTS) early and giving recommenders ample time to submit letters.
-
Have more questions?
Contact the UAMS Graduate School Admissions office at GraduateAdmissions@uams.edu