How to Apply

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 these statements, 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: International applicants must demonstrate proficiency in the English language by taking the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) or International English Language Testing System (IELTS) test. Scripps Research does not accept Duolingo as an alternative. 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 or IELTS 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 or IELTS 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.
    3. You earned a degree from a university outside of the U.S. with instruction fully in English (official English as language of instruction statement from school required).