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Graduate Program in Biology Faculty of Graduate Studies
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How to Apply

Aerial view of Vari Hall with the Ross Building behind it

Applying to the graduate program in Biology is easier than you might think. Your first step is to contact “professors” you’d like to work with and explain why you are interested in their research program and what skills and passion you can bring to their lab. Once you’ve found a potential supervisor go online and complete the application to the Faculty of Graduate Studies. You will need contact information for three references, your transcripts, your statement of interest and your curriculum vitae.

  • Users can access the online application by clicking Apply Now
  • The application takes approximately 30 minutes to complete
  • No student is made an offer of admission unless a faculty member first agrees to supervise that student. However, applicants may apply without having secured a supervisor in advance
  • The program usually admits students only once per year beginning September 1st.
  • Application status can be checked at any time in MyFile
  • We accept applications until May each year, but students are advised to apply as early as possible to best secure a supervisor and be eligible for entrance scholarships.
  • Offers for major entrance scholarships are made in mid-February
  • International students should apply by May 15th but students are advised to apply as early as possible as our very limited number of international positions are filled quickly. Later applications will be accepted but you should first contact biogpa@yorku.ca to see if there are still positions open.
  • Our program has a quota on the number of domestic and international MSc and PhD students that can be admitted. Apply early before these positions are filled.
  • Supplementary Information Form
  • Referee List must include three (3) names and contact information to be added at the bottom of the Supplemental Information Form form. Your referees will then be emailed a link to upload their reference letter to support your Graduate Admission application.
  • Statement of Interest: a letter (500 words) addressed to the Program Admissions Committee, outlining your background in Biology and your reasons for wanting to pursue an advanced research degree.
  • Curriculum Vitae outlining your work experience, academic background, publications, awards, etc.
  • Transcripts from each post-secondary institution
  • Application fee (to accompany online Application for Graduate Admission)
    is $140 Cdn, payable by Visa, Visa Debit, or MasterCard. The application fee is non-refundable
  • If you do not wish to submit your credit card online, or if you do not have a Visa or MasterCard, please contact York’s Office of Admissions at 416–736–5000
  • Your application will be processed upon receipt of your fee payment

Entrance scholarships may be offered to high calibre applicants on the recommendation of the Biology graduate program. No separate application for the scholarship is necessary.

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The Graduate Program in Biology at York is an exciting environment to pursue innovative, socially engaging, career-ready education. Contact our Graduate Program Assistant to learn more.

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How to Apply