How To Apply
To apply to the VMD-PhD program, two applications are needed: the Combined Degree program application, and the Vet School application. The combined degree application is due November 15 of each year for admission the following Fall. It can be submitted on-line at our web site, or from the Vet School application page. The Vet School application is due October 1 of each year for admission the following Fall.
Admissions Criteria
The strongest applicants to the VMD-PhD program will possess outstanding academic qualifications as reflected by their undergraduate transcripts and GRE scores. The program seeks applicants with a significant level of research experience, outstanding letters of reference, and evidence of a commitment to a career in scholarly investigation. In addition, applicants should be well-rounded, with a history of involvement in interests and activities outside of the classroom and laboratory.
The criteria that go into admissions considerations for the VMD-PhD program are:
- Undergraduate GPA: There are no cut-offs, but obviously the higher the better. Average GPA of recent matriculates is 3.7 (range 3.3 to 4.0)
- GRE scores: Again, there are no cut-offs, but the higher the better. Average verbal and quantitative GREs of recent matriculates are 640 and 730, respectively (range 500-760 and 570-800).
- Research experience: It is imperative to have considerable research experience. Students usually have multiple, in-depth research experiences.
- Letters of recommendation: The most important letters are from those who have seen your research skills up close.
- Interviews: During interviews, applicants meet with Penn faculty and discuss their past experiences and future goals. Applicants also meet with current students in the program.
- Goodness of fit: Can the program deliver the training to achieve your goals?
Application After Beginning Veterinary School
Many students enter the Combined Degree Program at the same time that they start Veterinary School. However, some students apply to the Combined Degree program after initiation of the Veterinary School curriculum. Students can apply during the Fall semester of either their first or second year of Vet School. On occasion, students apply as late as their third year of Vet School. Similarly, it is possible to apply to Vet School and the VMD-PhD program after enrollment in one of Penn’s Biomedical Graduate Groups.
