The Application Web Site

The institution code for UofC is 1832 and the Department code is 0222.

Due to our inherent interdisciplinary nature, applicants to our program are frequently also interested in other programs at The University of Chicago. We urge students to contact all such programs during the application process, and we encourage students to apply to multiple programs at UChicago.  Students may consider programs in either the Biological Sciences Division or the Physical Sciences Division as appropriate.  If you have questions about which program is most appropriate, please contact the programs directly for advice (to contact Biophysical Sciences email biophysics@uchicago.edu).

Application Advice

Our admissions committee considers all aspects of the application in order to understand the strengths and weaknesses of the applicant. We want to receive your most compelling argument for admission. The following elements are frequently the most important in our decisions.

1. The Letters of Recommendation.  We are looking for scientists who will participate in and improve our scientific environment. Your letters should reflect your ability to be involved with and make a good impression on our academic colleagues. While the stature of the individual can help your case, it is more important that they indicate detailed familiarity with your abilities. We hope that your recommenders’ letters will help us to see your broad enthusiasm for scientific subjects as well as your specific intellectual merits. In the application, you are required to supply the name, institution, department, and email address of each recommender. The University will directly solicit the letters. Make sure your recommenders have been alerted beforehand. It is perfectly acceptable for you to discuss the content of the letter in advance. You will get better letters if you talk with the person about where you are applying and why you are excited about the options.

2. Your Statement of Academic Purpose. This essay is your opportunity to show off your ability to communicate clearly. At the same time, these documents are our opportunity to understand why you want to join us and what you will contribute if you do. The substance that is most often lacking from these essays is evidence. When you make statements about yourself, back these up with examples from your life. Remember that you are setting forth an argument. If your academic history is not already cross-disciplinary then pay particular attention to demonstrating the breadth of your interests. The electronic application will only accept 2500 words (as counted by e.g. Microsoft Word). We agree that this should be sufficient. In special circumstances, we may allow supplemental discussions, by prearrangement.

3. College Transcripts. Again, we are hoping to find the examples of your broad enthusiasm. While your Grade Point Average is important, it isn’t as telling as the choices you have made for each term’s enrollment. Feel free to elaborate on these choices in your Statement of Purpose. You are not required to send a hard copy of your official transcript as part of your application, simply upload an electronic version. Matriculating students will be required to provide official transcripts before Autumn quarter.

4. GRE scores. Reporting both general and subject GRE test scores is optional for the BPHYS PhD program.  We have no preference regarding which subject tests (if any) are taken. If you wish to submit scores for a GRE test (General or any subject tests), you may do so by sending the results to institution code 1832.

5. Overseas students and non-US citizens: We encourage applications from overseas students and non-US citizens.  Please contact us (biophysics@uchicago.edu) for more information.