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APPLICATION REQUIREMENTS
What is the minimum accepted TOEFL score?
- International students are expected to have an outstanding command of the English language. Applicants must understand that biomedical sciences courses are conducted in English and all exams and papers must be submitted in English.
- Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL):
A total score of at least 600 on the PBT [paper-based test] TOEFL, 250 on the CBT [computer-based test] TOEFL - A score may not be more than two years old.
The University expects individuals who take the new iBT TOEFL to earn a score of at least 22 in writing, 22 in speaking, 23 in reading, and 23 in listening (total score: 90).
- International English Language Testing System (IELTS) exam:
A score of at least 7.0 on the IELTS - A score may not be more than two years old.
Should I take the GRE subject test?
The GRE subject test is not required for admission to the MCDB program.
Can I send a copy of my GRE scores, or do I have to have an original score report sent?
You can send a copy of your score report with your application, but if you are offered admission, you will be required to send an original score report.
What should my undergraduate GPA be?
At a minimum, you should have a B average or better (3.0 on a 4 point scale).
Do I have to have a Master's degree?
No. Applicants who are offered admission need only to have completed a Bachelor's degree.
Does the MCDB program accept foreign applicants?
Yes. Admission is offered to exceptional international applicants.
What percentage of offers go to foreign applicants?
The number of offers extended to foreign applicants varies each year.
What is the application deadline?
January 15th.
What is the application deadline if I want to be considered for financial aid?
January 15th.
APPLICATION PROCESS
How do I apply to the MCDB program?
Follow these instructions.
I am a foreign applicant. Should I apply online or send a hard copy of the application?
All applicants are strongly encouraged to apply online, however, there is still a paper option for applicants who have limited internet access.
Where should I send a hard copy of the application and/or supplemental documents (i.e., transcripts)?
Graduate School of Arts and Sciences Admissions Office; Post Office Box 400775; 437 Cabell Hall; Charlottesville, Virginia 22904-4775.
How do I know my application (and other materials) has/have been received?
The GSAS application process can now be monitored online once the application has been submitted electronically. Applicants create a user name and password as part of the application process and can return to the GSAS website to check the status of the application and supplemental documents (i.e., recommendation letters). In addition, applicants will receive an e-mail from the MCDB Program Administrator confirming receipt of the application by the MCDB program.
How long is the application review process?
The admissions period runs from December until late March, varying slightly each academic year.
How early can I apply?
Typically, the online application is available during the summer for the following academic year (i.e., the 2007-08 application was available starting in Summer 2006).
PROGRAM
How many lab rotations are required?
Most students schedule 3 lab rotations, though only two are required.
Can I start a rotation in the summer?
Yes. Students who begin the program with a lab rotation during the summer prior to starting courses in August the advantage of longer rotations and a more flexible rotation schedule.
What are the required courses?
Required courses are listed in the MCDB Faculty and Student Handbook and are listed on the web for current students.
What is BIMS?
Biomedical Sciences Graduate Programs at the University of Virginia.
What is Molecular Cell and Developmental Biology?
We have identified six major research/training areas in the MCDB Program that reflect the strengths and expertise of the program faculty: Cell Migration, Adhesion and Morphogenesis, Cell Signaling and Proteomics, Gene Expression, Cell Growth and Differentiation, Intracellular Transport, Trafficking, and Polarity, Neurogenesis and Cellular Neurobiology, and Reproductive Biology
How does MCDB relate to BIMS?
Molecular Cell and Developmental Biology is one of the seven graduate programs in BIMS. The other programs are Biomedical Engineering; Biochemistry, Molecular Biology and Genetics; Microbiology, Immunology and Infectious Diseases; Molecular Medicine; Neuroscience; and Structural, Computational Biology and Biophysics.
FINANCIAL
What is included in the financial package?
Graduate stipend, paid tuition and fees, and health insurance.
What is the current stipend?
The 2007-2008 stipend for the Biomedical Sciences Graduate Programs (BIMS) is $24,000.
Are all applicants eligible for financial assistance?
Yes, though its continuation is dependent on satisfactory progress in the program.
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