Jan 5, 2025
For Fall 2025 Admissions
All application materials need to be submitted by this date:
How to Apply: PhD Programs
Thank you for your interest in our PhD in Biomedical Sciences program at SUNY Upstate Medical University.
We are excited to welcome ambitious and talented individuals like you to join our dynamic and innovative academic community. Below are the step-by-step instructions to guide you through the application process:
Before You Apply
Research the Program
Take the time to thoroughly research our PhD program in Biomedical Sciences. Familiarize yourself with our program curriculum details, faculty members, research areas, and facilities. Our website provides detailed information about the program, admission requirements, and frequently asked questions to help you get started.
Check Admissions Requirements
Before proceeding with your application, make sure you meet the admission requirements for our PhD program. These requirements typically include:
- A bachelor's degree or the equivalent of a U.S. four-year bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution in a related field such as biological, biochemical, engineering, or physical sciences. This degree must have been obtained from either a regionally accredited U.S. institution or an institution recognized by the Ministry of Higher Education in their home country.
- If your bachelor’s degree is not in one of the above-listed areas the requirement is that you have completed the following coursework:
- Biology 1 year
- Mathematics 1 year
- Chemistry 1 year
- Physics 1 year
- Minimum GPA (Grade Point Average) requirement of 3.0
- Prior research experience
- If your bachelor’s degree is not in one of the above-listed areas the requirement is that you have completed the following coursework:
- Minimum GPA (Grade Point Average) requirement of 3.0
- Prior and recent research experience
Gather Required Documentation
Prepare the necessary documents to complete your application. These include:
- Copies of transcripts from all previous institutions attended
- Curriculum Vitae (CV) or resume
- Personal Statement explaining your academic background, research interests, and career goals.
- Reach out to individuals who can write strong letters of recommendation on your behalf. These individuals should be familiar with your academic performance, research experience, and potential for success in our program. Once you identify your letter writers, let them know that they will receive an email from the Admissions Office with instructions on how to upload the letter to our secure portal.
- Our PhD program does not require standardized test scores for students that have or will have graduated from a regionally accredited US institution. Students who completed their bachelor's or master's degree outside the US are required to submit GRE scores.
Application Process
Expand allStep 1: Complete the Online Application
Submit your application through our secure online portal. Create an account or log in to an existing one to access the application form. Select PhD - (Biomedical Research). Provide accurate and up-to-date information, and carefully review your responses before submitting.
Step 2: Pay the Application Fee
An application fee is required to process your application. Please review our website for the current application fee policy, amount, and payment options. Application fee is waived automatically for all applicants who submit before December 1.
Step 3: Submit Your Application
Once you have filled out the application form submit your application. You will receive an email confirmation upon successful submission.
Step 4: Attend Interviews (If Applicable)
Shortlisted candidates may be invited for a virtual interview as part of the selection process. If selected, be prepared to discuss your academic background, research interests, and motivation for pursuing the PhD program in biomedical sciences at SUNY Upstate Medical University. The interview period is from December 15 – March 15.
Step 5: Wait for Admission Decision
Our admission committee carefully reviews each application, and the selection process may take several weeks. Be patient while we evaluate your qualifications and fit for our program. You will be notified of the admission decision via email.
Step 6: Acceptance & Enrollment
If you choose to accept our offer, follow the instructions provided in the acceptance letter to secure your place in the program. Pay attention to enrollment deadlines and additional documentation required for enrollment.
If you have any questions or need assistance at any stage of the application process, please don't hesitate to contact our admissions advisor at [email protected]. We look forward to receiving your application and getting to know you better as a potential member of our vibrant academic community.
For International Applicants
Please note that the admissions process and requirements are the same as the domestic applicants. English proficiency and GRE scores are not required if you attended a US regionally accredited institution.
- Create an Account for first-time users
- Select the College of Graduate Studies Application
- Select PhD to begin the application
Official transcripts and course-by-course with GPA evaluation of all previous post-secondary education are required if admitted to the program.
Veteran Applicants
SUNY Upstate, along with all 64 SUNY state-operated campuses, are proud to waive the application fee for US Veterans, Active Duty or Reserve military and their dependents! This waiver will cover the application fee for Upstate applications and SUNY applications (some programs do not require a SUNY application). Proof of military connection must be provided. Acceptable documents include:
- DD214 documents
- Military Identification card
SUNY Upstate Medical University does not discriminate on the basis of race, sex, sexual orientation, color, creed, age, national origin, disability, marital status or veteran status in the recruitment and employment of faculty or staff; in the recruitment of students, or in the operation of any programs or activities, as specified by federal and state laws and regulations.
For more information contact: Office of Diversity & Inclusion, 705 Jacobsen Hall, 315 464-5234