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School of Biological SciencesGraduate StudiesApply

Application

To Apply

Applicants must apply online to the Graduate School (see below). Review of applications for Fall semester starts on January 10th and review of Spring semester applications starts on September 15th. International applicants should note the WSU Graduate School deadlines on the Application for Admission.

This is a suggested timeline for applicants applying for a fall semester start. Note that, SBS also accepts applications for spring semester start. If you are interested in applying to our department, the most important thing is to reach out to a faculty member. If, after contacting a faculty member you both feel you would be a good fit for our graduate program, we would be happy to work with you to complete the application process.

The School of Biological Sciences does not require GRE scores.

We are now accepting applications for Fall 2026. Applications are due by January 10th.

Contact the Graduate School

PO Box 641030
Pullman, WA 99164-1030

Phone: 509-335-1446
Email: gradsch@wsu.edu
Website: gradschool.wsu.edu

Application Steps

Step 1: Email prospective faculty advisors

SBS only admits students to work with a specific faculty thesis advisor (i.e., no rotations). We encourage prospective students to email potential faculty advisors to learn about their labs. It is most helpful if your email includes a resume or CV and a brief statement (4-8 sentences) describing your research interests and reasons why you think this lab would be a good fit for you. Check faculty lab websites for more detailed instructions on what to include in the introductory email. View our current faculty and their research interests.

Step 2: Apply directly to the Graduate School

Be sure to carefully follow all instructions. If you have questions or want further information please contact the Graduate School directly.

WSU Graduate School

Applications must include:

In addition to the above, your application must include:

  • Three letters of recommendation which will be submitted online (follow instructions on the Graduate School application page).
  • TOEFL scores (international applicants only): Official scores must be sent to the Graduate School. WSU Institutional Code: 4705
  • Transcripts: These must be sent directly to the Graduate School (follow instructions on the Graduate School application page).
  • Statement of Purpose: The goal of the statement of purpose is to provide the admissions committee with more detail on who you are as an applicant, and how you would fit into the program.
    • Do: Write about your research and professional experiences to date, skills and strengths you have developed, and the research plans you would want to pursue if accepted. Describe your long-term professional goals and what you would want to do with your degree. Write about what you hope to gain from the program, and what you would contribute to the program. Demonstrate that you have had conversations with potential advisors in the department about research directions.
    • Don’t: Just reiterate what is on your CV. This statement is meant to provide more detail to the roles and experiences you list there. Write a generic statement–tailor it to the school you are applying to. Miss spelling and grammar mistakes. Seek out proofreading assistance if necessary.
    • Writing Tips: Give yourself enough time to write and edit your statement multiple times. Starting 6-8 weeks before the submission deadline is recommended. If you want to share your statement of purpose with your letter writers, start even earlier. Research the program and school thoroughly, be sure you familiarize yourself with the structure and any specific guidelines for the statement. Brainstorm why the program and school are a good fit for you. It should be clear why you have chosen to apply here, and specifically how you think you would fit in and contribute to the program.

If you have questions, please contact us at sbs.gradstudies@wsu.edu