Florida State University

How to Apply

The FSU interdisciplinary Program in Neuroscience provides PhD training in several broad areas of areas of research excellence. Doctoral training occurs in state-of-the-art laboratories under the supervision of internationally recognized faculty. Because students entering our program begin research in the laboratory of their chosen major professor, applicants are encouraged to contact faculty members who are accepting new students by email before applying to ensure a good match in research interests.

Application deadline for Fall 2024 admission is December 1, 2023. Applications are considered only for Fall Admission.

Application Process

  • Step 1 - Submit your University application (this is required to move on to subsequent steps). Be prepared to provide demographic information.
  • Step 2 - Submit the $30 application fee (this can be waived for applicants who meet specific criteria).
  • Step 3 - From your Status Page (auto-generated once you complete Step 1), submit the Neuroscience Graduate Faculty/Research Preference form. Be prepared to provide a list of three faculty you would like to work with, your broad research interest, and your overall GPA.
  • Step 4 - Upload supporting materials:
    • Statement of Purpose
      • The purpose of this essay is to highlight your academic preparation for a graduate program in Neuroscience, why a PhD is the key to your career interests and aspirations, and why the FSU graduate program in Neuroscience is the right choice for you. You should include information regarding:
      • Coursework and research experiences that guide and confirm your interest in neuroscience. You should explain grades that you feel do not reflect your potential as a scientist.
      • Your career goals.
      • Area of study (reference our website for information about FSU program strengths and areas of specialization, techniques, model organisms). Identify specific faculty with whom you would like to work and how their interests match your own. In addition to this essay, you are strongly encouraged to contact these faculty directly by email to express your interest and indicate your intent to apply to the program.
    • Graduate Diversity Statement
      • The FSU graduate program in Neuroscience is committed to diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging for all members of our program. The purpose of this essay is for you to describe yourself as an individual. Your essay could reflect on past personal experiences or be forward looking to goals for the future, or both. Through the lens of diversity and belonging, describe how your personal background informs your decision to pursue a graduate degree and/or how the world will be improved if you are trained through a PhD program in Neuroscience. As your comfort level permits, you may include any of the following:
      • educational, familial, cultural, economic, or social experiences
      • community service, outreach activities
      • residency and citizenship
      • first-generation college status
      • opportunities relevant to your academic journey
      • how your life experiences contribute to the social, intellectual, or cultural diversity within a campus community and your chosen field
    • Resume/Curriculum Vitae
    • Unofficial college transcript(s). Please note that official college transcript(s) are not required at the time of application.
    • GRE test scores - students may request a GRE waiver if they meet specific criteria.

      The GRE admission requirement will be waived for select, outstanding students who meet at least one of the key criteria for demonstrating Success and Aptitude for Research and Academic Preparation.

      Success and Aptitude for Research
      • Undergraduate research-based thesis in a relevant field.
      • Post-graduate research experience in a relevant field.
      • Extensive (at least 4 months) relevant research or laboratory experience related to the applicant’s graduate training goals.
      • Co-authored research paper published in a peer-reviewed scientific journal.
      • Extensive (at least 4 months) relevant employment related to the applicant’s graduate training goals.

      AND
      Academic Preparation
      • Upper-division undergraduate GPA of 3.2 (on a 4.0 scale) or higher from any nationally or internationally accredited college or university.
      • Graduate GPA of 3.5 (on a 4.0 scale) or higher from any nationally or internationally accredited college or university.
    • Names and email addresses of three individuals who will write a letter of support on your behalf.


Please check our Frequently Asked Questions for more information, and if there are additional questions not discussed there, contact: