How to Apply

Application Procedures

January 14 is the deadline for admission. 

• Apply through the Graduate School using Apply Yourself, the University of Minnesota’s online application system.
• When you start an application, be sure to save your user name and password to return to it.
• A $75 application fee is due when you submit your application.
• Decisions will be made in early March, and you have until April 15 to accept or decline our offer. 

DEADLINE: All applications and supporting materials must be completed and received by January 14.

Application Guidelines 

• A firm grounding in mathematics is a must, especially for students from a biology-related background. Three calculus courses are preferred, and two are a minimum. The expectation is for strong grades in those courses.
• Most admitted students have a GPA above 3.5.
• The GRE is not required. 
• We require three letters of recommendation and a professional statement about how the Microbial Engineering program fits your career goals.
• Research experience is a critical component of most successful applications. Include letters of recommendation from your research/lab supervisors.
• International applicants are required to provide English language test scores (TOEFL or IELTS). 

Equity and Diversity 

Supporting a diverse student body is central to the academic mission of the University. Diversity includes economic disadvantage, unique talents, evidence of leadership qualities, race or ethnicity, a strong work record, and disability. The graduate program in Microbial Engineering provides equal access to educational opportunities through recruitment, admission, and support programs that promote diversity, foster successful academic experiences, and cultivate the leaders of the next generation. 

Financial Support

Research Assistantship positions are available to research track students with a biweekly stipend and subsidized tuition and health insurance. Applicants are notified of acceptance and financial commitments in early March of each year.