Frequently Asked Questions

What is the application deadline?
The application deadline for Fall 2010 is January 8, 2010.

Does the program offer only Fall admissions? When is the next admission window?
Yes. Fall 2010.

Is there an online application available?
Yes. Please apply online at http://graduateapp.ucsd.edu. No hard copy applications are available.

What are the required documents for admission and where should I send them?
Along with a complete electronic application you must submit the following:

1. Statement of Purpose - electronic submission only through the electronic application available at: http://graduateapp.ucsd.edu.
2. Three letters of recommendation (either electronically at http://graduateapp.ucsd.edu. or hard copies). Hard copies should be mailed to the Bioinformatics & Systems Biology Graduate Program Office address listed below.
3. Official GRE scores and TOEFL scores (TOEFL required for international students only). Prospective students should take the general GRE and TOEFL by December 2009. Request ETS to send official GRE scores to UC San Diego institutional code 4836 and departmental code 1603; TOEFL code is 69.
4. Official transcripts of prior institutions attended. Send to the Bioinformatics & Systems Biology Graduate Program Office address listed below:

Do I apply through one of the seven participating Departments to get into the Bioinformatics & Systems Biology Graduate Program?
No. You may apply directly to the Ph.D. Bioinformatics & Systems Biology Program (major code BF76). If you are interested in one of the majors with a Specialization in Bioinformatics please contact the department and apply through the respective department. For more information on the degrees with a specialization in Bioinformatics see http://bioinformatics.ucsd.edu/page/63/.

What are the UC San Diego Institutional and Department codes?
The UC San Diego Institutional code is 4836, the Departmental code is 1603, and the TOEFL code is 69.

Does UC San Diego offer a master's program in Bioinformatics, if not are there any plans of having a master's program?
No. We currently do not offer a mater's program nor do we intend to establish a master's program.

Can one enter the Ph.D. program and receive a terminal master's degree?
No.

In applying for the Bioinformatics Graduate Program does an applicant need to supply any particular GRE Subject test score?
No, the subject GRE is not required only the general GRE.

How long are GRE scores valid?
Educational Testing Service (ETS) will report GRE scores for 5 full years, only. For specific information, visit the GRE website at http://www.gre.org.

Is it possible to pursue the Ph.D. in Bioinformatics on a part-time basis?
Currently we are only accepting students into the program on a full time basis.

Is there any supplementary application form that I should fill out in addition to the online application?
No, there is no supplementary application needed when applying to the program, just the online application and submission of all official documentation is needed.