Graduate Admissions
Advance your research. Shape your future.
Our graduate programs are designed for students who want to deepen their expertise through research, mentorship and discovery. You’ll work closely with faculty, contribute to active research programs and prepare for careers in academia, industry, health and public service.
🎓 Expert Mentorship
Study with faculty who are internationally recognized researchers and committed mentors. Graduate students work closely with advisors, research teams and peers in a collaborative environment that supports intellectual growth and professional development.
🌍 A City on the Rise
Buffalo offers the benefits of a major research city without the high cost of living. You will find strong connections to hospitals, research centers and community organizations in a place that values curiosity, innovation and collaboration. Discover the possibilities waiting in the Buffalo Niagara region.
💼 Career Preparation
Graduates of our programs pursue careers in research, education, health care, biotechnology, industry and public service. Through hands-on research, teaching opportunities and professional development, UB prepares you for what comes next.
Graduate admissions follow a centralized, department-level review process. Students are admitted to the program first and later explore research rotations or lab placements.
- You do not need to contact faculty before applying
- All admitted PhD students are automatically awarded an assistantship with funding
Funding Opportunities
Graduate education is a significant investment, and funding can play an important role in making it possible. Graduate students at the University at Buffalo have access to a range of funding options that support coursework, teaching, research and professional development. Opportunities vary by degree level and stage of study.
Applying to graduate study in Biological Sciences at the University at Buffalo is a straightforward process. All applicants apply through the UB Graduate School and are reviewed by the Department of Biological Sciences.
Before you begin, review the application deadlines and required materials carefully so you can plan ahead.
Application deadlines
- December 1: PhD and MS programs
- December 31: MA (SMP) Spring enrollment
- July 31: MA (SMP) Fall enrollment
Step 1: Review application requirements
When completing your online application, include the following materials:
Upload scanned copies of all undergraduate and graduate transcripts. Unofficial transcripts are acceptable for review. English translations are required when applicable.
BA/MS applicants:
To be eligible, you must be a current UB junior majoring in Biological Sciences with a GPA of 3.2 or higher and on track to complete BIO 200, 201, 203, 205 and 319 by the end of your junior year.
Include research experience when applicable. Your resume should show how you have applied ideas from coursework, developed research skills and built a foundation for graduate-level work.
Submit at least three letters. A minimum of two should come from faculty members, preferably in the sciences. Additional letters may come from supervisors or professional mentors.
MA (SMP) applicants:
Pre-health committee letter packets are acceptable so long as they contain the individual letters. Contact the SMP Director with any questions or for assistance.
Your personal statement should explain:
- Why you want to pursue a degree at UB
- Experiences that shaped your academic and research interests
- Research topics you would like to explore
- Faculty members you hope to work with and how their research aligns with your goals
- Your long-term career plans and how this program supports them
If your transcript does not fully reflect your academic ability, you may briefly explain the circumstances and how you’ve addressed them.
MA (SMP) applicants:
You can adapt one used for MD, DDS, or other terminal programs as your personal statement.
DAT, GRE, MCAT or PCAT scores may be submitted but are not required.
Step 2: Start your Graduate Application
Apply using UB’s online application system.
- Create an account
- Choose your program and term
- Follow the instructions for the College of Arts and Sciences
- Returning users: Log in to check your status or update your application
International Applicants
International applicants are strongly encouraged to apply early to allow time for student visa processing, which can take 1 to 4 months depending on your country of origin.
Please submit the following in addition to standard program requirements.
For admission review: (uploading unofficial versions is acceptable)
- Transcripts with English translations
- English proficiency scores (TOEFL 79, IELTS 6.5, PTE 55, Duolingo 120 or higher)
- Passport biographical page (showing name, date of birth, and expiration date)
After admission (for visa processing):
- International Applicant Financial Form
- Bank statements showing financial support equal to or greater than the full cost of the first year of graduate study
- Additional documents based on the program's funding, visa status or dependents, if requested
Non-refundable application fee: $75
After you submit your UB graduate application, you’ll be prompted to make your payment online by credit card or ACH through Nelnet.
U.S. citizens or current permanent residents may request a fee waiver through the application portal after completing the graduate application and uploading all required materials.
If you have questions about our programs, please contact:
