How to Apply
Applications for the Program in Neuroscience must be completed by December 1st.
Successful applicants have a bachelor's degree (or higher) with training in an appropriate major field, strong letters of recommendation, and high GPAs. Research experience is required. Admission to the program is highly competitive.
We holistically review research experience, personal statements, letters of support, and academic performance for applicant selection. We no longer accept GRE scores.
Completed applications include the following components:
- Completed online application: Note that you must fill out and submit the informational portion of the application before uploading the supplemental documents below and providing recommenders.
- Transcripts from past institutions: Unofficial copies of your transcripts may be provided for the application review process and should be uploaded as supplemental items to the online application. You must submit transcripts from each college/university attended, including coursework in progress at the time of application.
- Personal statement: Personal statements should include the applicant's background, motivation for pursuing a doctoral degree in neuroscience, and descriptions of past/current research experience with a scientific rationale for experiments.
- CV or resume
- 3 letters of recommendation
International applicants must also provide the following:
- English language proficiency exam score: We accept results from the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL), the International English Language Testing System (IELTS) exam, or the Duolingo English Test. Exemptions from the English Language Proficiency requirement can be found here.
- A transcript evaluation, for each international college or university attended, from an NACES member evaluation agency. We recommend using World Education Services (WES), Educational Credential Evaluators (ECE) or SpanTran. Please begin this step early, as these results will take time to obtain and are required for your application.
Please review more information about these additional requirements here.
Begin your application here.
Interested in learning more about our Program before applying?
To receive additional information by email, please complete our inquiry form.
To join us for a Virtual Open House on November 10, 2025 from 5-6 PM EST, register here.
If you have additional questions regarding the application or admissions process, please email us at neuroapps@som.umaryland.edu
Submitting Official Transcripts
Unofficial copies of your transcripts may be provided for the application review process. If you are offered admission, you must provide official transcripts from each college/university from which a degree was earned.
- By mail: The official transcript must be provided to the Graduate School directly from the prior, degree-granting institution in a sealed envelope in order for that document to be considered official.
Transcripts may be mailed to:
University of Maryland, Baltimore
School of Graduate Studies ATTN: Admissions
620 W. Lexington St., RM 1110
Baltimore, Maryland 21201
- Digitally: Alternatively, it may be provided to the Graduate School electronically by way of a secure, encrypted platform. Each transcript should bear the signature of the registrar and the seal of the granting institution.
- Transcripts (US only) may be obtained from/provided by one of the following secure, encrypted transcript services: Parchment or National Student Clearinghouse
- Official, electronic transcripts may be sent directly from your degree-granting institution to gradapply@umaryland.edu.
International applicants must provide 2 official transcripts for each international college or university attended: one (1) official transcript in English and one (1) official native language transcript or mark sheet from each college or university attended. Each set of documents must list subjects studied, grades or marks received, and rank in class or division.
Associated Dual Degree Programs
Students interested in pursuing a dual degree should note the Graduate Program in Life Sciences is associated with two nationally renowned dual-degree programs located right on our campus:
Students interested in pursuing a dual degree must apply directly to the dual degree program of interest.