Are fee waivers offered?
Yes, for certain circumstances a fee waiver can be issued by the Graduate School. Please find more information here. However, we do not offer fee waivers for international applicants.
Do I need to submit GRE scores?
MCDB does not require applicants to submit GRE scores, however, if a student would like to submit their scores for consideration, they are welcome to do so. Please find more information in our Handbook.
Do I need to take an English Proficency Test?
Applicants who are citizens of, or who have received a bachelor’s degree or higher by the time of matriculation from, one of the following countries (Australia, Belize, the British Caribbean and British West Indies, Canada (except Quebec), England, Ghana, Guyana, Ireland, Liberia, New Zealand, Nigeria, Northern Ireland, Singapore, Scotland, the United States and Wales), are exempt from submitting a score from an English Proficency test. Please find more information here. If you are required to submit English Proficency Scores, please note that Ohio State requires official scores sent directly from the testing agency.
Do I need a Master's degree to apply?
You do not need a master's degree to apply for our program although we do accept applicants with Master's degrees as well. Our students are able to
earn their Master's on the way to their PhD if they so choose.
Do I need to have an advisor chosen prior to admissions?
Students are not required to have contacted a potential PhD advisor until after admission. Students, however, are more than welcome to reach out to
faculty of interest to ask questions about their lab.
Is there funding/insurance for students?
Associateship and Fellowship awards are accompanied by Fee Authorizations that cover academic tuition and fees except for the city bus (COTA) fee, a student activity fee, a recreation facility fee, student legal services fee, student health insurance, and a student union fee.
When does the application open?
The application for our 2024 Cohort will open on August 1st, 2023, and close on December 1st, 2023.
What does MCDB look for in successful applicants?
MCDB looks highly recommends at least one course each in biochemistry, molecular biology, and genetics. Courses in developmental biology and cell biology are also recommended. In addition, the student should have prerequisite courses in physics, mathematics (including some calculus), and chemistry (at least through organic chemistry). Previous research experience is highly desirable.
Is the MCDB Graduate Program offered online?
Unfortunately, our program is 100% in-person on The Ohio State University Columbus Main Campus.
Are official transcripts required with my application?
Applicants can upload unofficial transcripts to their application via the Graduate School Application Portal. However, please do be aware that upon admission, official transcripts from all institutions attended will be required. Also, for international applicants, your transcripts do not need to be evaluated by third party agencies.