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MICHIGAN STATE UNIVERSITY
College of Natural Science
Department of Plant Biology

Application Process

Successful Applicants

The Plant Biology Department welcomes all to apply to our PhD program. We strive for a diverse community who can elevate our program and research in all forms of plant biology. Our department takes a holistic view of each applicant. 

The most successful applicants to the Plant Biology program typically have at least a bachelor’s degree with one year of biology, or its equivalent, and one year each of chemistry, physics and mathematics. 

Application Deadline: November 25, 2024

ESTIMATED TIMELINE

2024
September - October:  Contact faculty in labs who are conducting research that you are interested in
November 25:  Application due date - submit complete application
Late December:  Invitations will go out for Plant Science Fellowships - on-site visit 

2025
February 6-9: On-site visit to PLB for Plant Science Fellowships
Early March: Admission/Offer letters sent
April 15: Acceptance due

Summary of Application Process

Steps to Apply

  • Submit the required materials by November 25, 2024 to your Student Portal.
    • The required online application is found at MSU Graduate School’s website: https://grad.msu.edu/apply.
    • Choose either the “Domestic Applicants” (U.S. citizens) or “International Applicants” link. https://admissions.msu.edu/your-account/
    • You will be given an applicant ID number when you create the document. Save the applicant ID number as you will need it to log in to your application and to log in to your Student Portal, where all documents should be uploaded.
  • Submit your application when you have uploaded all required documents.
  • You will need to pay your application fee $65 (domestic) or $75 (international) for your application to be complete.
  • If you are financially unable to pay the application fee, go to the Application Fee Waiver site at: https://grad.msu.edu/application-fee-waiver for assistance.
  • We encourage you to contact faculty (up to 3) you are interested in working with to discuss your research and career goals.
Important Note: Please check your Student Portal for emails. If you do not see any emails, check your Junk Mail.

Required application materials include:

  • MSU Application for Admission to Graduate Programs
  • CV/Resume
  • Academic Statement
  • Personal Statement
  • 3 Letters of Recommendation
  • Official Transcript
  • Faculty and Research Interest Form
  • OPTIONAL: Graduate Record Examination (GRE)

International Students additionally need TOEFL scores, a Financial Affidavit, and Proof of Financial Support. 

For more information, go to Application Materials