How to Apply

Apply Online

Online applications for the doctoral program may be submitted via the "Apply Online" button. In the process of completing an online application, all applicants are asked to submit a Statement of Purpose. This narrative is important, as applications are considered overwhelmingly based on a student’s scientific interests, previous research experience, and a statement of purpose that demonstrates a developed sense of professional direction, persistence and motivation.

For important tips and guidance as to the recommended content and focus of this statement, please visit the Written Narratives page.

Once prospective students submit an online application, the following supplemental materials must be submitted by the annual December 1 deadline in order for an application to be considered complete:

  • Transcripts: Transcripts may be submitted online with application materials. For the purpose of applying, official transcripts are not required and an electronic copy of a transcript or scanned (PDF) copy of an unofficial transcript is preferred (must be official records from the university or college attended). Hand-typed listings of courses prepared by the applicant will not be considered. Official transcripts documenting the degree awarded at each college and/or university will be required prior to enrollment.

    Transcripts from international institutions must be in English or be accompanied by a certified English translation. All translations must be literal and complete versions of the original records. A World Education Services (WES) Course-by-Course ICAP Evaluation is highly recommended for all applicants who have earned a degree(s) from an institution(s) outside of the United States.

  • Recommendation Letters: Three letters of recommendation are required from faculty or employers who can assess your research intensity and drive, your perseverance and independence in the lab, your creative contributions to the design and progress on a research project, and how quickly you assimilate to new ideas and embrace alternate approaches to a problem. Of particular interest to Scripps Research's doctoral program are letters from research advisors or research supervisors with direct knowledge of your previous laboratory research experience. Each recommender's contact information must be submitted online with your application.

  • GRE: As of 2020, Scripps Research has decided to make the submission of GRE scores for both the general and subject-specific exams optional. The admissions committee will make no assumptions if a GRE score is omitted from an application. However, we will still consider GRE scores if they are submitted, and such scores may be helpful in the context of the applicant’s entire portfolio.
     
  • TOEFL/IELTS/DET: International applicants must demonstrate proficiency in the English language by taking the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) test, International English Language Testing System (IELTS) test, or the Duolingo English Test (DET). Students can select “The Scripps Research Institute” to send official test scores. For applicants in regions where the TOEFL iBT is not available, Scripps Research will continue to accept scores for the paper-based test. The TOEFL, IELTS or DET score must be dated within three years of your program's application deadline. The institution code for the TOEFL is 4651. (No department code is necessary.)

    The TOEFL, IELTS or DET requirement may be waived if the applicant meets at least one of these criteria:
    1. You are a native citizen and studied in the United States, the United Kingdom, Ireland, Australia, New Zealand or Canada (except Quebec). If you are a citizen of any other English-speaking country not listed above, you are not exempt from the TOEFL requirement.
    2. You studied full time for at least two academic years within the last five years in the United States, United Kingdom, Ireland, Australia, New Zealand or Canada (except Quebec). You must submit a transcript that shows you attended college or graduate school in one of these approved locations.
        
  • Application fee: A non-refundable application fee of $100 is required to submit your application. Fee waivers may be requested for applicants with demonstrated financial need or hardship. A description of the applicant’s financial need or hardship is required (1 page maximum), and must be submitted within the online application. Note that fee waivers cannot be reviewed and approved until your complete application is submitted. The admissions committee does not begin reviewing applications until early December, so depending on when you apply, you may not receive confirmation of your fee waiver right away.

    Once your complete application has been submitted, no further action is required on your part. If your fee waiver is approved, the payment requirement will automatically be removed. If a fee is required, you will receive a notification and see it reflected on your application status page. Please DO NOT contact the Graduate Office with questions about your fee waiver request. 
      
  • Important Notice for International Applicants: Applicants from certain countries may face restrictions due to the current U.S. travel ban or because U.S. embassies/consulates in their countries are not conducting routine visa services. Before submitting an application and paying the non-refundable fee, please review the following resources to understand how these restrictions may affect your ability to obtain a visa: