Admissions
Join us for a virtual information session at 9:00 am (EST) on Thursday, November 16, 2023! Learn about our graduate program and ask questions about the application process or the program.
Zoom link: https://notredame.zoom.
All applications for admission to the chemistry or biochemistry Ph.D. programs should be made through our online application. Domestic U.S. students may apply free of charge. During the application process you will be asked to select a division of interest (biochemistry, inorganic, organic, or physical/analytical). This is done strictly for administrative purposes and does not affect your ability to select research areas or supervisors once admitted to the program. Please consult our current graduate studies magazine for more information on our graduate program.
Required application materials:
- A completed online application
- Three letters of recommendation
Submission of GRE scores is no longer a requirement of the application to the doctoral programs in chemistry or biochemistry.
International applicants must also submit:
- An original language and an English translation of each transcript (submitted online)
- Official scores of the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) from all non-native speakers of English
A Chemistry or Biochemistry GRE Subject Exam Score is not required but may aid your application. On your application, please highlight any research experience you have completed and ensure that at least one of the letters of recommendation is from a research supervisor if possible. Admission decisions are based on the following criteria:
- Demonstrable and documented research experience
- Letters of recommendation from direct research advisors
- Letters of recommendation from other people who know your work
- Your transcript (including GPA and difficulty of attempted coursework)
- GRE scores if submitted
- Statement of intent
- All other factors
Decisions on applications are made on an ongoing basis during the late Fall and early Spring semesters. Early applications are strongly encouraged. All applications for Fall admission should be received before December 15 for both the biochemistry program and the chemistry program. Applications received after the deadline can be considered after contacting the Director of Graduate Admissions. Accepted applicants are required to make a formal decision by April 15th.
Further information on the graduate program is available by contacting our Graduate Coordinator, Allison Pajor, our Director of Graduate Admissions, Professor Vlad Iluc, or at the Graduate School Website.