About PhD Program,
Van Andel Institute Graduate School is intended for students seeking a Ph.D. in molecular and cell biology that prepares them for leadership positions in biomedical research.
The program is open to all applicants regardless of race, gender, ethnic or national origin, religion or age. Individuals from demographic groups that are underrepresented among professional scientists are especially encouraged to apply. The Graduate School welcomes international applicants (those who are not U.S. citizens or permanent residents). International applicants admitted to the Graduate School will be sponsored in the F-1 student visa program.
To ensure full consideration for fall admission, applications should be received by December 1 the year prior to that in which the student will matriculate. If you have any questions about the application process, please contact the Graduate School office at registrar@vai.org or call 616.234.5722.
PhD Program Degree Eligibility with GPA,
Students can apply to our program after completing their bachelor’s degree.
Unofficial college transcripts (must be in English)
U.S. GPA equivalent (4.0 scale) — You may use a free online resource such as WES; this must be your cumulative undergraduate GPA.
An official offer of admission cannot be made until the official evaluation is received and reviewed by the Admissions Committee. The evaluation may be submitted after an applicant is interviewed, if necessary.
PhD Funding Coverage,
Van Andel Institute Graduate School offers 100% tuition coverage for our graduate students. Tuition for non-graduate school students who wish to take courses is $25,000 for a full year (three semesters including summer). For individual courses, tuition will be assessed at a rate of $825 per credit hour.
Students in the doctoral program at the Graduate School are supported by institutional (internal) fellowships for five years. These fellowships include a stipend of approximately $43,378 per year along with health, dental and vision insurance for the student (and family). The Graduate School also provides a laptop computer and up to $2,500 per year to attend scientific conferences. Additionally, we offer a one-time relocation allowance of up to $1,500.
Application Requirement,
- Please include a one-page research statement that describes your previous research experience, including project details, your role in the work, what you learned, and the significance of the work.
- A personal curriculum vitae or resume
- Electronic versions of transcript(s) of your academic records. Unofficial copies are acceptable for application, but official copies sent directly from your home institution(s) must be submitted prior to matriculation.
- Bachelor of Arts or Science (B.A. or B.S.) degree or equivalent from an accredited college or university prior to enrollment –Typical preparation includes courses in chemistry, biochemistry, biology, physics and mathematics. Applicants with other academic backgrounds may be considered if they provide appropriate evidence of excellent training, qualifications and motivation.
- Research experience – As an important part of admission criteria, research experience may include undergraduate research internships, summer research programs, Master’s thesis research or medical research clerkships. Successful applicants will demonstrate these experiences have provided a thorough understanding of what a research career entails, that they have a passion for research and that they have exceptional talent and aptitude for science.
- Overall academic excellence – The Graduate School does not have a GPA threshold; however, students should demonstrate a solid academic record and commitment to academic excellence.
- Three letters of recommendation from faculty members – It is highly recommended that applicants acquire letters from faculty members who know them and their academic work and, if applicable, who supervised independent study or research. The recommenders’ contact information must be entered in the Supporting Information quadrant of the application and the system will automatically email the recommenders.
- Proof of English proficiency (international applicants only) – Before an offer of admission can be made, international applicants must provide additional documentation showing Proof of English proficiency.
- Transcript evaluation – All transcripts from academic institutions outside of the United States must be accompanied by an official course-by-course evaluation, including U.S. GPA conversion.
- High competence in skills important to a career in scientific research – These skills include critical thinking, writing and public speaking.
- A deep passion for understanding the mysteries of life and disease as well as a commitment to the improvement of health.
- Good character
Application Deadline,
Dec 01, 2024
Application Fee,
Please refer official website
