NORTHWESTERN UNIVERSITY · UNITED STATES
Biomedical Engineering (PhD)
PhD · Taught in en
At a glance
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Duration
7.0
IELTS
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Tuition / yr
en
Language
PhD
Level
The PhD program in Biomedical Engineering at Northwestern University is designed to train highly capable researchers and innovators in the field. The program focuses on interdisciplinary scholarship and preparing students for cutting-edge research and development. Admissions are offered exclusively for the fall term. The department emphasizes a rigorous academic environment combined with opportunities for students to explore research beyond traditional disciplinary boundaries.
Frequently asked questions
- What are the application deadlines for the Biomedical Engineering PhD program?
- Applications for the PhD program open in September for the following year's admission. The application deadline is December 1st at 5 PM CST.
- What are the English language proficiency requirements for international students?
- International students can demonstrate English proficiency with a TOEFL score of 90 or better, an IELTS score of 7.0 or better, a MET score of 61 or better, or by having completed a degree where English was the language of instruction.
- What academic qualifications are needed for the PhD program?
- A minimum GPA of 3.0 is required, along with an undergraduate or graduate degree. While a background in biological sciences, coding, physics, and engineering is important, degrees in other engineering fields or quantitative sciences are also considered.
- How do I apply to the Biomedical Engineering PhD program?
- Applications are submitted online through The Graduate School website and require an online application form, academic transcripts, three letters of recommendation, academic and personal statements, and a resume/CV.
- Are there any funding opportunities available for PhD students?
- All admitted PhD students are automatically considered for University/School Fellowships if external applications are filed by the deadline. Research and Teaching Assistantships are also provided to admitted students.
- What is the expected duration of the PhD program?
- The provided data does not specify the program duration.
Entry requirements
Undergraduate or Graduate DegreeA minimum GPA of 3.0 is required. Applicants with degrees in other engineering fields or quantitative sciences are eligible, provided they have a foundational understanding of biological sciences, coding, physics, and engineering. A background in calculus (single, multi-variable), linear algebra, differential equations, statistics (linear regression, hypothesis testing), and vector calculus is recommended.
TOEFL90 or better (taken before Jan 21, 2026), 90 or better (taken after Jan 21, 2026 - *Note: The provided text seems to have a typo here, it should likely be a different score for the post-date*) - University code: 1565
IELTS7.0 or better
MET61 or better
English DegreeAn undergraduate or graduate degree from an accredited institution where the language of instruction is English.
Test scores must be within two years of the intended quarter of entry. GRE scores are not required and will not be accepted.
Fees
Tuition (international)Please refer to the McCormick School of Engineering and Applied Science graduate tuition information.
Tuition (home)Please refer to the McCormick School of Engineering and Applied Science graduate tuition information.
LivingInformation regarding housing and meal plans can be found through Graduate Housing and Northwestern Dining.
Tuition and fees are set by the specific school and program. Further details can be obtained from Student Finance or the Financial Aid Office.
How to apply
1. Complete the Online ApplicationSubmit the online application form via The Graduate School website.
2. Submit Academic TranscriptsUpload unofficial transcripts to the application. Official transcripts will be required only if admitted and upon enrollment.
3. Provide Letters of RecommendationThree letters of recommendation are required. Recommenders will submit these electronically via ApplyWeb.
4. Write Academic and Personal StatementsSubmit an Academic Statement (500-1000 words) addressing academic interests, preparation, and program fit, and a Personal Statement (125-250 words) on influential experiences or other relevant information.
5. Demonstrate English ProficiencyInternational students must meet the English-language requirements through TOEFL, IELTS, MET, or by having completed a degree in English.
6. Submit Resume/CVInclude education and relevant work experience, research, publications, and awards.
7. Complete Lab/PI StatementIn a few sentences, describe which BME faculty you are interested in working with and why.
8. Submit Optional Writing SamplesApplicants may provide abstracts from papers or articles.
Scholarships
University/School FellowshipsNot specified
External FellowshipsNot specified
Research AssistantshipsNot specified
Teaching AssistantshipsNot specified
Frequently asked questions
What are the application deadlines for the Biomedical Engineering PhD program?
+
Applications for the PhD program open in September for the following year's admission. The application deadline is December 1st at 5 PM CST.
What are the English language proficiency requirements for international students?
+
International students can demonstrate English proficiency with a TOEFL score of 90 or better, an IELTS score of 7.0 or better, a MET score of 61 or better, or by having completed a degree where English was the language of instruction.
What academic qualifications are needed for the PhD program?
+
A minimum GPA of 3.0 is required, along with an undergraduate or graduate degree. While a background in biological sciences, coding, physics, and engineering is important, degrees in other engineering fields or quantitative sciences are also considered.
How do I apply to the Biomedical Engineering PhD program?
+
Applications are submitted online through The Graduate School website and require an online application form, academic transcripts, three letters of recommendation, academic and personal statements, and a resume/CV.
Are there any funding opportunities available for PhD students?
+
All admitted PhD students are automatically considered for University/School Fellowships if external applications are filed by the deadline. Research and Teaching Assistantships are also provided to admitted students.
What is the expected duration of the PhD program?
+
The provided data does not specify the program duration.