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Application Information

Applying to the Program

The standard start time is in September, although students may enroll in January or May if circumstances warrant. Although late applications may be considered at the discretion of the Biology Graduate Program, for full consideration students should apply by the following deadlines:

For admission in:
January
May
September

Apply before: 
June 1
October 3
January 31

For application forms and detailed instructions, visit the UBC Okanagan College of Graduate Studies website .

A complete application package will contain:

  • the UBC Okanagan College of Graduate Studies application form
  • The Supplemental application form for the Biology Program, which includes a 1 page Statement of Intent and a 1 page Summary of Experience 
  • 2 copies of official transcript(s)
  • TOEFL scores (for non-native speakers of English)
  • CV or resume
  • Application fee
  • 3 letters of recommendation

Admission to the program requires the support of a faculty supervisor.  Interested students are strongly encouraged to contact prospective supervisors prior to applying to the program.

Admission Requirements

Applicants to the M.Sc. program are expected to have a B.Sc. in biology or a related field, with a B+ (76%) average or better in their third and fourth year classes or at least 12 credits in third and fourth year classes in their intended field of study with an A- (80%) or better average.  Their background training must be sufficient for advanced work in their chosen field.   For non-native speakers of English, minimum acceptable TOEFL scores are 570 (paper), 230 (computer), and 86 (internet).

Ph.D. applicants will normally have an M.Sc. in biology or a related field, with a B+ (76%) average or better in their M.Sc. coursework and thesis.  Their background training must be sufficient for advanced work in their chosen field. For non-native speakers of English, minimum acceptable TOEFL scores are 570 (paper), 230 (computer), and 86 (internet).

In exceptional cases, applicants who do not meet the requirements stated above, but who have had significant formal training and relevant professional experience to offset such deficiencies, may be granted admission on the recommendation of the Biology Graduate Program Committee and approval of the Dean of the College of Graduate Studies.

Please be advised that all students accepted into the program must have a faculty member who has agreed to act as a research supervisor. Prospective students are encouraged to contact potential supervisors directly.

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Last reviewed 3/15/2012 8:02:56 AM

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