MS Admissions

Applications are due February 15th each year for the following fall. If February 15th is on a weekend, then the due date will be the following Monday. For example, for entrance in Fall 2010, the deadline is Monday, February 15, 2010.

Learn about our Land Management Track

Entrance Requirements

The following minimum coursework requirements must be met prior to enrollment in the program:

• One year of Biology
• One semester of Organic Chemistry, Genetics or Ecology

Scholastic Record (Test Scores and GPA)
The PBC Program looks for appropriate preparation for advanced study. The following are suggested minimum scores, and are not absolutely required. All aspects of the application are considered:

• GPA: 3.0
• GRE (general): 600 verbal/600 quantitative/analytical writing: 5
  GRE test scores for applicants applying to Fall quarter 2010 may not be older than September 1, 2005
• TOEFL: 600 (paper test); 250 (computer-based test); 100 (internet test)
  TOEFL test scores for applicants applying to Fall quarter 2010 may not be older than September 1, 2008.
• for more information

The Application Process

The Graduate School requires that all applicants submit their materials on-line through the Graduate School website. The application fee for 2010-2011 is $75 for both domestic and international applications

Completed applications should contain the following materials:

1. Completed electronic Graduate School application form
2. Official transcripts from all academic institutions attended (Additional information for international students)
3. Two letters of recommendation from individuals who are familiar with your academic and research achievements
4. General GRE scores
5. For applicants whose native language is not English, you must also submit TOEFL scores that are less than two years old.
6. Current resume or CV
7. As students are required to present the results of original research in the form of a written thesis to a faculty committee as part of completion of the degree, it is encouraged that students contact faculty with whom they may be interested in working. Read about faculty research.

GRE, transcripts, and letters of recommendation should be sent to:

Susan Black - Program Assistant 2
Plant Biology and Conservation
Northwestern University
2205 Tech Drive, Hogan 2-144
Evanston, IL 60208-3520

Letters of recommendation may also be submitted through the recommendation section of the online application. For more information on the application process, please see the Graduate School website.

Tuition and Financial Aid

Information regarding tuition rates and fees can be found by visiting the Graduate School Tuition web page.

All Master's students will be considered for scholarships. Scholarships cover approximately 2/3 of tuition costs. Teaching assistantships may be available on a limited basis but cannot be guaranteed.