Application Process
Ideal applicants hold a bachelor’s degree and have taken three semesters of college calculus (through multivariable calculus), one semester of linear algebra, and a class in introductory statistics. Applicants must submit a CV, a statement of purpose detailing their interest in biostatistics, transcripts, GRE scores, and three letters of recommendation. Applicants are encouraged to highlight their strong quantitative and analytical potential and communication skills (verbal and written).
The following documents are required for your application to be complete:
| CV | Current curriculum vitae |
| Statement of Purpose | In an essay, tell us why you want to study biostatistics. If you like, please include a short description of how your personal background contributes to Vanderbilt University’s mission of equity, diversity, and inclusion. The essay should be 1–2 pages; the font must be 11 point or larger. |
| Test Scores | Graduate Record Examination (GRE) scores are required for all applicants and must be from within the past five years. Financial assistance may be available to you via the GRE Fee Reduction Program. Official scores are required; however, unofficial copies are sufficient until the official scores arrive. Your scores should be sent to institution code 1871. |
| Language Proficiency | If your native language is not English, and you do not have a degree from a Vanderbilt Graduate School–approved English-speaking institution, you must submit proof of a minimum acceptable score on the TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language), IELTS (International English Language Testing System), or Duolingo English Test. See the Vanderbilt Graduate School Language Proficiency Exam webpage for details. |
| Letters of Recommendation | Recommendation letters (a minimum of 3 and maximum of 5), including at least one letter from a mentor who can comment on your research capabilities, are required. The names of your recommenders must be submitted during the application process. We do not accept letters directly from applicants. |
| Transcripts | Transcripts should be uploaded during the application process. Two copies of your official transcripts are required; however, unofficial copies are sufficient until an offer of admission is received. |
| Application Deadline for 2024–25 | Submit the Graduate and Professional Admissions Application by January 15, 2024. |
| Application Fee | The Graduate School fee is $95.00 for PhD-track applications. After you submit your application online, you will see instructions to pay the fee with a credit or debit card via a secure payment portal. There is no fee for MS-track applications. |
| Application Fee Waivers | Fee waivers can be obtained for any applicant who has performed biological or biomedically oriented research that has been supported by the NIH, the NSF, or any other agency/private foundation within the United States. Additional waivers of the application fee will be considered upon request for US citizens and permanent residents if they have a cumulative grade-point average of at least 3.0 in their last program of enrollment AND meet at least one of the following criteria:
Please visit the graduate school application fee website for a list of qualifying programs. Fee waivers are also available for applicants who participated in the Bonner Scholar Program and Bonner Leader Program. To apply for the waiver, email Program Manager Chazlie Miller with “Bonner Scholar App Fee Waiver: [your name]” in the subject line, and your CV linked or attached.
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| Additional Materials | Additional materials you wish to provide (such as new or updated CVs, resumes, transcripts, or authored papers) can be uploaded from your Applicant Status page once you have submitted your application. The “Upload Materials” option is not available until you submit your application. Please be sure that any document you upload contains your full name. This will ensure that your documents get appropriately indexed to your application and checklist. |
We held an info session, “Improving Your Odds: Optimizing Your Vanderbilt Biostatistics Application,” on November 9, 2023. Click the link to access the video.