CORNELL UNIVERSITY · UNITED STATES
Graduate Programs in Biochemistry, Molecular and Cell Biology (BMCB), Genetics, Genomics, and Development (GGD), and Biophysics
PhD · Taught in en
At a glance
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Duration
7.5
IELTS
—
Tuition / yr
en
Language
PhD
Level
- 100+ faculty across 18 departments and institutesFaculty & Departments
- Interdisciplinary research focus areasResearch Areas
- State-of-the-art facilitiesFacilities
- Emphasis on rigorous scientific trainingTraining Focus
- Diverse career preparationCareer Outcomes
- Welcoming and inclusive environmentEnvironment
Cornell University offers top-ranking, multidisciplinary graduate training in Biochemistry, Molecular and Cell Biology (BMCB), Genetics, Genomics, and Development (GGD), and Biophysics. These programs are designed to educate research scientists for successful careers in the biological sciences. Administratively overseen by the Molecular Biology and Genetics (MBG) Department, these fields provide interdisciplinary research opportunities across various departments and institutes on campus, fostering a rigorous training environment with state-of-the-art facilities and collaborative opportunities. The graduate programs emphasize foundational scientific knowledge and skills, preparing students for diverse careers in academia, industry, government, law, and the private sector. The university is committed to providing a welcoming and inclusive training environment for all students.
Careers
Our graduates pursue rewarding careers in a wide array of fields, including academia, industry, government, law, and the private sector. The rigorous training provided prepares students for leadership roles and successful contributions to scientific research and development.
- Academia
- Industry
- Government
- Law
- Private Sector
Frequently asked questions
- What are the English language proficiency requirements for international applicants?
- International applicants can demonstrate English proficiency with a TOEFL score of 100 (prior to Jan 2026) or 5.0-5.5 (Jan 2026 onwards), an IELTS score of 7.5, a Duolingo score of 130, or a Cambridge C1 Advanced or C2 Proficiency score of 191. Proficiency is also waived for US Citizens/Permanent Residents, native English speakers, or those whose secondary education was entirely in English.
- How do I apply for financial aid as an international student?
- International applicants seeking financial aid must complete the CSS Profile by the application deadline. Admissions decisions for international students are need-aware, and admitted students who do not apply for aid initially are ineligible for future aid.
- What are the application deadlines for the graduate programs?
- The application deadline is November 1 for Early Decision and January 2 for Regular Decision. Supplemental materials are due November 14 for Early Decision and January 16 for Regular Decision.
- What documents are required for the application?
- You will need to submit the Common Application, the Cornell Writing Supplement, and any program-specific materials like portfolios. International applicants seeking financial aid must also submit the CSS Profile and official English proficiency test scores if required.
- What are the typical career outcomes for graduates of these programs?
- Graduates pursue careers in academia, industry, government, law, and the private sector. The rigorous training prepares students for leadership roles and contributions to scientific research and development.
Entry requirements
TOEFL (prior to Jan 2026)100
TOEFL (Jan 2026 onwards)5.0 (minimum), 5.5 (recommended)
IELTS7.5
Duolingo130
Cambridge C1 Advanced or C2 Proficiency191
Proficiency can also be demonstrated if you are a U.S. Citizen/Permanent Resident, English is your native language, or English has been the primary language of instruction throughout your secondary school career.
Fees
Tuition (international)Not specified
Tuition (home)Not specified
LivingNot specified
Cornell University admissions decisions for international applicants are need-aware. International applicants seeking financial aid must complete the CSS Profile by the application deadline. Admitted students who did not apply for aid initially are ineligible for future aid.
How to apply
1. Prepare Application MaterialsThe Common Application and the Cornell Writing Supplement are required. For specific programs, portfolios, video interviews, or design supplements may be necessary. Ensure you have your official test scores ready if required for English proficiency.
2. Submit ApplicationSubmit the Common Application and Cornell Writing Supplement by the deadline. An $85 application fee or a fee waiver is required. Any program-specific materials, like portfolios, must also be submitted.
3. Apply for Financial Aid (if applicable)International applicants seeking financial aid must apply when submitting their admission application. Complete and submit the CSS Profile by the specified deadline. Failure to apply for aid with the initial application will make you ineligible for financial aid later.
4. Supplemental MaterialsEnsure all supplemental materials, excluding portfolios and design supplements, are submitted by their respective deadlines.
5. Receive DecisionAdmission decisions and financial aid offers are typically announced in mid-December for Early Decision applicants and at the end of March for Regular Decision applicants.
6. Respond to OfferIf admitted, reply to the offer of admission by the specified reply deadline (January 20 for Early Decision, May 1 for Regular Decision).
Frequently asked questions
What are the English language proficiency requirements for international applicants?
+
International applicants can demonstrate English proficiency with a TOEFL score of 100 (prior to Jan 2026) or 5.0-5.5 (Jan 2026 onwards), an IELTS score of 7.5, a Duolingo score of 130, or a Cambridge C1 Advanced or C2 Proficiency score of 191. Proficiency is also waived for US Citizens/Permanent Residents, native English speakers, or those whose secondary education was entirely in English.
How do I apply for financial aid as an international student?
+
International applicants seeking financial aid must complete the CSS Profile by the application deadline. Admissions decisions for international students are need-aware, and admitted students who do not apply for aid initially are ineligible for future aid.
What are the application deadlines for the graduate programs?
+
The application deadline is November 1 for Early Decision and January 2 for Regular Decision. Supplemental materials are due November 14 for Early Decision and January 16 for Regular Decision.
What documents are required for the application?
+
You will need to submit the Common Application, the Cornell Writing Supplement, and any program-specific materials like portfolios. International applicants seeking financial aid must also submit the CSS Profile and official English proficiency test scores if required.
What are the typical career outcomes for graduates of these programs?
+
Graduates pursue careers in academia, industry, government, law, and the private sector. The rigorous training prepares students for leadership roles and contributions to scientific research and development.