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How to Apply

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Application Deadline

The Bioengineering department accepts applications to the coterm program once per year for Spring quarter entry only.

The application deadline for Spring 2023 entry is December 1, 2022 at 11:59pm (PST).

Late applications will not be accepted. Please note that we cannot guarantee the review of materials, including letters of recommendation, received after the deadline.

Application Requirements

Scores from the general or subject Graduate Record Examination (GRE) are not required for admission to the Bioengineering PhD or MS Program for Fall 2021 entry.

  • Completed Online Application

    Coterminal Online Application (including an upload of your signed Coterm Program Approval form)

  • Current Stanford Transcript (Unofficial)

    Applicants are required to submit an unofficial Stanford transcript that reflects all coursework taken and grades earned as of the application deadline. Do not request an official eTranscript in the application.
    Transfer Students: List your previous institution(s) under Educational History in the online application, and upload an unofficial copy of each transcript.

  • Statement of Purpose (1-2 pages)

In your statement of purpose, you should succinctly describe your reasons for applying to the Bioengineering coterm program, which may include:

  • Preparation for this field of study
  • Motivation for graduate study
  • Why our program is a good fit for you
  • Future career plans
  • Other relevant aspects of your background and interests

The maximum length is three pages (single-spaced); the recommended length is two pages. Your statement of purpose should be a well-structured essay that effectively communicates the information above while demonstrating your expository writing ability; it is often effective to open with a summary paragraph rather than e.g. a personal anecdote.

  • Two letters of recommendation

Letters of recommendation should be from members of the Stanford faculty who can speak to your academic and/or research background. Recommenders should know you well and be able to comment on your strengths and potential for rigorous graduate study.

  • Resume/Curriculum Vitae

Your resume/CV provides the admissions committee with additional information to better evaluate your preparation and fit for our program. Your resume/CV is an opportunity to summarize your qualifications, honors, educational accomplishments (including publications and presentations) and interests.

  • Application Fee (if enrolled)

Students who accept the offer of admission and are matriculated (enrolled) into a coterm graduate program are assessed a $125 coterm application fee. This fee will be added to your University bill. Find out about a need-based waiver here.

Application Review and Decisions

All applications are reviewed by the faculty Graduate Admissions Committee.

Applicants will be notified of admission decisions via email by March 1, 2020. If a student is admitted to the coterm program, the student must respond in writing via email to the department for the quarter offered.