Q. If I apply to the IBiS Program, can I get financial support?
A. Yes, all students (including international students) who are admitted receive full tuition, stipend and health/dental insurance as long as they progress satisfactorily through the program.

Q. What is the current Stipend?
A. $26,000 for 2007-08

Q. Is health insurance provided?
A. Yes, a Comprehensive Plan is offered through Northwestern University.

Q. Do I need to know what type of research I want to do when I start?
A. No, lab rotations give you an opportunity to explore many types of research before you have to select your dissertation lab and project.

Q. Do I need to take the GRE exam?
A. Yes, only the general test though, the subject test is NOT required.

Q. Can I start in winter or spring quarter?
A. No, IBiS admits students only in the fall each year.

Q. How can I apply?
A. You can apply on-line through The Graduate School website. Click here for the application webpage. There are no paper applications available.

Q. Do you have a cut off for GPA or GRE scores?
A. No, all application materials are considered together. No one thing is weighted more heavily.

Q. How many students does IBiS admit each year?
A. Approximately 25.

Q. What is the minimal TOEFL score?
A. 600 on the written test, 250 on the computer-based test, 100 on the internet-based test. Information regarding the TOEFL exam is online at http://www.tgs.northwestern.edu/admission/materials/.  

Q. Does IBiS offer a Master's degree?
A. No, it does not. Upon successful completion of the IBiS Program, a doctorate in Biological Sciences is awarded.

Q. What are the department codes for the GRE and TOEFL?
A . The institutional code assigned to The Graduate School at Northwestern is 1565. If you must enter a department code as well, you may select 0299 (biological sciences) for the GRE. Students taking the Paper-based TOEFL should reference department code 01. This will ensure that the TOEFL scores are sent to The Graduate School and not the undergraduate college. IBT test takers should, when prompted, request that their scores be sent to the graduate office (versus undergraduate) and then select the program name that most closely matches their program of interest. If no match is available, the test taker may choose option 99.

Q. Is there a form for recommenders to fill out?
A. Recommenders may complete their letter online through the same service (ApplyYourself) as applicants. They may also choose to write a letter of recommendation on letterhead and give a copy to you in a sealed envelope. You can then send them to us with the other supporting documents for your application.