Contact a potential advisor

This is very important. You need to establish whether or not there is an advisor who you would like to work with and who is willing to take you on. When you identify potential advisors, you should list them on your application.

View research areas and advisors

Apply to the graduate program online

The Graduate School has an online application system that you should use when applying. Make sure your application is complete, including letters of recommendation and a personal statement.

Please note that review of applications will begin February 1st.  At that time, all completed applications will be considered for a limited number of merit-based graduate assistantships. View more application requirements below.

Apply for financial assistance

All applicants to the graduate program in Biology are automatically considered for graduate assistantships; however, these assistantships are limited in number. Several other funding opportunities exist, including scholarships, assistantships and funding from the grant of a potential advisor. It is advisable to apply for financial assistance at the same time that you apply to the program. You should also mention in your application that you have applied for funding. The availability of funding can affect the number of students that are accepted.

More application requirements

Application Deadline

The Biology program application opens on October 1st. Review of completed applications begins February 1st. Review continues until the cohort is filled.

Program Begins

Fall entry only

Transcripts

Unofficial transcripts from all post-secondary institutions should be uploaded with your electronic application and may be used for departmental admission review purposes. If offered admission, you will be directed and required to submit to the JMU Graduate School an official transcript from any institution from which a degree has been awarded to finalize your admission. Transcripts are considered official if they are sent to JMU directly from the issuing institution.

Required by Program
  • Three Letters of Recommendation
  • Statement of Professional Goals and Interest
  • Statement of Purpose - 1-2 page statement describing your academic interests and immediate and long-range goals.  Include information regarding your experiences, research, and academic career that have led you to your area of interest and goals. Indicate how the JMU Biology Masters program will help you reach your goals. Include information regarding your experiences, research, and academic career that have led you to your area of interest and goals. Indicate how the JMU Biology Masters program will help you reach your goals.
  • GRE General Test. Exam should have been taken 5 years or less from application date. (The GRE is waived for applicants applying for fall 2024).
Online Application
International Applicants

International Graduate Information

Details regarding transcripts and credential evaluations from non-US academic institutions can be found on the Transcripts & Credential Evaluation webpage. 

Back to Top