How to Apply
We are no longer requiring or accepting GRE scores from applicants. We holistically review research experience, personal statements, letters of support, and academic performance for applicant selection.
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. International students must take the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL), the International English Language Testing System (IELTS) exam, or the Duolingo English Test. Admission to the program is highly competitive.
To receive additional information please complete our inquiry form.
To learn more about the application process and/or start your application, go to the official graduate admission form and fill out an application.
Completed applications include the following components:
- Completed online application (including a personal statement)
- 3 letters of recommendation
- Transcripts from past institutions
- CV
Please note that 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.
Individuals identifying with groups considered to be underrepresented in the sciences may request feedback on their CV and personal statement prior to applying for PIN. For feedback from Program Directorship, please email materials to neuroapps@som.umaryland.edu by November 15th (earlier is preferable).
Transcripts
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.
If you are offered admission, you must then provide official transcripts from each college/university from which a degree was earned. The 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. 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
National Student Clearinghouse
Have your transcripts sent to:
ATTN: Admissions
University of Maryland, Baltimore
The Graduate School
620 W. Lexington St., 5th Floor
Baltimore, Maryland 21201
Official, electronic transcripts may be sent directly from your degree-granting institution to gradapply@umaryland.edu.
International applicants must provide 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.
The Graduate Programs in Life Sciences (GPILS) requires international applicants to provide a transcript evaluation from a NACES member evaluation agency in addition to the official, translated transcripts or mark sheets. We recommend using one of the following companies:
If you have additional questions, contact our program coordinator at neuroapps@som.umaryland.edu
Additional information for international applicants can be found here.
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:
Note: Students interested in pursuing a dual degree will need to apply directly to either one of these programs.