How To Apply

Application Deadlines

• Fall 2025 priority deadline: February 15, 2025

• Fall 2025 deadline: April 15, 2025

We may begin reviewing completed applications for Fall 2025 entry as early as November 2024. Prospective students with strong applications are encouraged to apply earlier than the 2/15/25 priority deadline.

Application Instructions

The application process is entirely online. Please complete and/or upload all of the items listed below to your application account. There is no need to mail items to our office.

Bachelor's Degree

Applicants with a bachelor's degree in biology or chemistry are preferred. Both 3-year and 4-year bachelor’s degrees are acceptable. An overall GPA of 3.0 or higher is recommended, as well as in upper-division Biology coursework.

Tests

GRE test-optional. Applicants are not required to submit standardized testing to be considered for admission. Applicants who have taken the GRE general exam can choose to submit their scores, and their GRE scores will be considered as a part of their whole application. GRE is highly recommended if GPA is below 3.0.

An English Language exam score (TOEFL, IELTS, Duolingo or PTE) is required for some international students.

Instructions for International Applicants

Transcript (Academic Record)

Upload a copy of your transcript from each university and college attended. Please ensure the institution’s name and your name is on the document you upload. Transcripts from any schools and study abroad programs must be submitted since Bachelor's Degree institutions typically do not list transfer and study abroad courses with grades. If still enrolled in your Bachelor's program, submit a copy of your transcript showing in-progress courses. If admitted, an official transcript with proof of graduation is required. USF undergraduates upload their unofficial transcripts for admission review and do not need to send an official USF transcript.

Statement of Purpose

Provide a two-page+ (double-spaced) statement of purpose describing why you are a good fit for USF's Master's in Biotechnology PSM program. Your statement of purpose can contain some or all of the following:

• Highlighting strengths in your academic or work experience
• Explaining any weaknesses in your academic or work history
• Describe why you are interested in the field of biotechnology and where you would like to see your career in 5 or 10 years

Resume or CV

Your current resume or CV lists and describes your educational history, work or job history, coursework related to the Biotechnology program, and any experiences relevant to your pursuit of graduate studies – including internships, published articles or other published materials, volunteer/community service experience, study or work outside of your home country, and any interests or activities related to this graduate program.

Letters of Recommendation

A minimum of two recommendation letters are required for your application. Additional letters of recommendation are accepted. Recommendation letters from university faculty, work managers, or other professionals are accepted. Follow the instructions in the online application to provide the contact information for your recommenders.

You may submit your application before your recommenders upload their letters.

International Applicants

There are additional items and instructions for international applicants.

Instructions for International Applicants

Notification of Admission Decision

Applicants are typically contacted four to six weeks after the priority application date about an admission decision and any scholarships awarded by the program. Once the class is filled, other qualified applicants may be placed on a waiting list.

For More Information

Administrative Program Director
Luwei Xie
biotech@usfca.edu