Admission Requirements

Preparing your application to graduate studies at York University and/or other interested universities requires research and planning. Some students start preparing their plan for graduate studies as early as two years before they submit their application. Consider the following information below to help guide you through a successful application process.

Program Admission Requirements

The minimum admission requirements are as follows:

• An undergraduate degree in any area of biology, biological science, biochemistry, chemistry, life sciences or related field from a recognized post-secondary institution with a B+ average in the last two years (or equivalent) of academic work. Undergraduate degrees must include at least one course in statistics at the second-year level or above, as well as three courses in molecular biology, cell biology, biochemistry, genetics or equivalent at the second-year level or above.
• Work experience is not required, but internships or prior work experience is encouraged.
• Alternate admission requirement: Domestic graduates with other Science degrees or 3-year degrees may be admitted as well with at least one year of post-graduation work experience in a sector relevant to the program. (Note: Most 3-year international undergraduate degrees would require students to complete additional courses. For more information, please visit the International Credentials page.
• Proof of English language proficiency if prior studies were not completed in English: a minimum TOEFL score of 577 (paper-based), or 90-91 (internet-based); and a minimum IELTS score of 7 (Academic Module).
• Two letters of recommendation. Letters can be from previous professors, employers, or other persons with whom the applicant has had interactions and who can attest to their professional and/or academic qualifications. It is recommended that one of these letters should be from a professor if you graduated in the last 3 years.
• A supplementary application form with a statement of interest providing evidence of commitment to advanced work in the biotechnology sector. The statement should include a discussion of the applicant’s background, interests, skills, and career goals.
• and an up-to-date résumé or CV