How to Apply: International Biotechnology Students

Application Deadline(s)

Fall 2024: August 1, 2024
Spring 2025: December 1 , 2024

The following information is provided for international applicants interested in applying to the Masters of Professional Studies in Biotechnology. International applicants should read the information provided carefully prior to applying.

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At a Glance

Delivery

Hybrid

Locations Offered

  • Shady Grove (Rockville)

Programs Offered

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International Student Admission Requirements

All students need to meet the following minimum requirements

  • A bachelor’s degree in science, engineering, or any subject with sufficient coursework in relevant life science topics such as foundations of biology and organic chemistry OR a bachelor’s degree in any subject combined with work experience in the life sciences*
  • Minimum undergraduate GPA of 3.0 on 4.0 scale, or equivalent, is desired. Applicants with grades on a scale other than 4.0 will be evaluated based on standards for the country of their degree.
  • GRE scores are not required for admission.
  • English proficiency scores (Exceptions to English Proficiency Requirement):
    • Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) scores: 99 iBT
      • Internet Based TOEFL (iBT) scores breakdown: Writing (23), Listening (23), Reading (25), Speaking (28, 23 acceptable if have 2 years’ work experience in supervisory or management positions in the U.S.)
    • International English Language Testing System (IELTS) scores: Minimum score 7.0
    • Pearson Test of English (PTE) Academic scores: 68
    • Duolingo English test: Minimum score 120
    • Scores must be less than 2 years old

*If you have a three-year degree versus a four-year degree, your transcript will be reviewed to determine whether you have met the necessary prerequisites for the program. Eligibility for admission can only be determined upon receipt of a complete application.

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Contact Information

Application Process

All international applicants are encouraged to apply as early as possible to allow sufficient time to receive all the necessary documents and to process and assess the application.

We encourage all international applicants to send in their documents at least six months prior to the start of the semester for which they are applying. To apply, complete a Graduate Degree Application and use program name: Biotechnology (MPS).

  • Apply online
    • Select program Biotechnology >> Degree Code – Master’s 
    • Upload the WES, Course-by-Course evaluation into the “Additional Admissions Documents” section (Note: The WES evaluation is encouraged, but not required)
    • Submit your statement of goals as an attachment in the “Personal Statement” section
    • Recommendations are optional. Please put N/A in these fields if you choose not to enter names of references.
    • Complete residency information to be reviewed for in-state tuition rates.
  • Request official transcripts from all post-secondary institutions to be sent to UMBC Graduate School, 1000 Hilltop Circle, Baltimore, MD 21250 or emailed to gradschool@umbc.edu.
  • Submit resume as an attachment in the “Resume” section or submit to gradschool@umbc.edu.
  • Request for TOEFL scores to be sent by ETS to UMBC (code 5835)

All documents should be mailed to:

UMBC Graduate School, M.P.S Biotechnology
1000 Hilltop Circle
Baltimore, MD 21250 U.S.A.

Your application packet should include the following documents:

  • Completed degree-seeking application (including residency form). Use program code PRST-BT.
  • Professional letters of recommendation (optional)
  • Personal statement outlining your goals and expectations of the program. Statement should include applicant’s background, qualifications, career experience, and any additional pertinent information.
  • Current Resume
  • Official transcript(s) from each college & university attended
  • TOEFL or other English Language test scores* forwarded to UMBC by ETS – UMBC’s institutional code is 5835
  • Application fee ($50 online)

*Please note: All international students are required to submit TOEFL scores unless you attended a university in an English-speaking country or hold an undergraduate degree from a U.S. institution. IELTS are accepted in substitution for TOEFL scores.

Obtaining Immigration Documents

If you intend to apply for an F-1 visa and require an I-20 from UMBC, you will be required to provide a copy of a valid passport and proof of financial support. Please refer to the Office of International Students and Scholars (OISS) page on I-20 Information and Financial Requirements for more information. All immigration related questions should be addressed to OISS through a Help ticket.

If you require further assistance, please contact Shady Grove Professional Programs.

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