Admission Requirements

Potential applicants can directly contact a potential supervisor to see if opportunities exist in his/her research group. A detailed and informed enquiry is more likely to elicit a response than a form letter or generic enquiry. You should include your academic and research record, contact information for references and an explanation of why your research interests are a good match with the potential Supervisor. If a potential Supervisor reaches an informal agreement to accept you, you must still complete a formal application to the Faculty of Graduate Studies.

All graduate students must meet the minimum admissions requirements as set by the program but beyond that, each faculty member can set their own standards for evaluating students wishing to join their labs. This may include evaluating academic accomplishments, research experience, demonstration of leadership, and community involvement. Faculty may request that prospective students provide samples of scientific writing, undertake a brief assignment/review on a research topic, and/or undergo an interview. Securing a position in a research lab can be a very competitive process and students are encouraged to contact supervisors very early and apply by February if possible.

You may apply to the Biology graduate program without having secured a supervisor. In this case, your application will be drawn to the attention of all potential supervisors in the Program, and any faculty member interested will contact the applicant and discuss details further.