At a glance
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Duration
7.5
IELTS
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Tuition / yr
en
Language
PhD
Level
The Ph.D. program in Microbiology at Cornell University offers research opportunities in a wide range of areas, including genetics, physiology, biochemistry, molecular biology, systematic and environmental microbiology, microbial ecology, and virology. The program emphasizes hands-on research experience, with access to modern laboratory facilities and instrumentation. Students are required to complete one semester of teaching as part of their doctoral studies. The curriculum is designed to build a strong foundation in microbiology and prepare students for advanced research and contributions to the field.
Frequently asked questions
- What are the academic requirements for the Microbiology Ph.D. program?
- Applicants should have undergraduate preparation in general chemistry, organic chemistry, physics, and introductory biological sciences. Training in physical chemistry and calculus is desirable, as deficiencies may extend the degree timeline.
- How do I prove my English language proficiency?
- You can demonstrate English proficiency through TOEFL (100 prior to Jan 2026, 5.0 minimum/5.5 recommended Jan 2026 onwards), IELTS (7.5), Duolingo (130), or Cambridge C1 Advanced/C2 Proficiency (191). Native speakers or those educated in English at a secondary level may be exempt.
- Are GRE scores required for this program?
- No, GRE scores are not required for the Microbiology Ph.D. program at Cornell University.
- What is the application deadline for the Microbiology Ph.D. program?
- The application deadline for Fall admission is December 1.
- What are the tuition and fees for international students?
- Please visit the Graduate School's Tuition Rates page for current international tuition information.
- What is the duration of the Microbiology Ph.D. program?
- The provided data does not specify the exact duration of the Ph.D. program.
Entry requirements
Undergraduate preparationApplicants should have preparation in general chemistry at an intermediate level, organic chemistry, physics, and introductory courses in the biological sciences. Training in physical chemistry and calculus is desirable. Deficiency in these subjects may extend the time to degree completion.
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
GRE scores (general or subject tests) are not required. Applicants must meet the Graduate School's general requirements and English language proficiency requirements. Three recommendations are needed.
Fees
Tuition (international)Please visit the Graduate School's Tuition Rates page for current international tuition information.
Tuition (home)Please visit the Graduate School's Tuition Rates page for current domestic tuition information.
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How to apply
1. Prepare Academic BackgroundEnsure you have the recommended undergraduate preparation in chemistry, physics, and biological sciences. Note that deficiencies may extend your degree timeline.
2. Meet English Proficiency RequirementsDemonstrate English language proficiency through an accepted test (TOEFL, IELTS, Duolingo, Cambridge) with the minimum required scores. Native English speakers or those educated in English at a secondary level may be exempt.
3. Gather Application MaterialsCollect academic transcripts, three letters of recommendation, and any other supporting documents required by the Graduate School.
4. Complete the Application FormSubmit your application through the Cornell Graduate School application portal. Do not submit GRE scores as they are not required.
5. Submit Application and FeeSubmit the completed application along with the application fee or a fee waiver by the deadline. Note that admission decisions for international applicants are need-aware, so apply for financial aid if needed at the time of application.
Frequently asked questions
What are the academic requirements for the Microbiology Ph.D. program?
+
Applicants should have undergraduate preparation in general chemistry, organic chemistry, physics, and introductory biological sciences. Training in physical chemistry and calculus is desirable, as deficiencies may extend the degree timeline.
How do I prove my English language proficiency?
+
You can demonstrate English proficiency through TOEFL (100 prior to Jan 2026, 5.0 minimum/5.5 recommended Jan 2026 onwards), IELTS (7.5), Duolingo (130), or Cambridge C1 Advanced/C2 Proficiency (191). Native speakers or those educated in English at a secondary level may be exempt.
Are GRE scores required for this program?
+
No, GRE scores are not required for the Microbiology Ph.D. program at Cornell University.
What is the application deadline for the Microbiology Ph.D. program?
+
The application deadline for Fall admission is December 1.
What are the tuition and fees for international students?
+
Please visit the Graduate School's Tuition Rates page for current international tuition information.
What is the duration of the Microbiology Ph.D. program?
+
The provided data does not specify the exact duration of the Ph.D. program.