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Ph.D. Program Overview
M.S. Program Overview
KU Graduate Application

Important Dates

  • Application Deadline - February 1
    Only complete applications with all supporting documents will be considered.

Admission Timelines

  • With rare exceptions, we generally offer fall semester (August) admission only.
  • Full consideration for fall admission can be assured for all applications received by the previous February 1.
  • Applications received by December 15 will be prioritized.
  • Submission of late applications may be considered subject to availability of positions and funding.
  • Particularly outstanding U.S. citizen applicants are eligible to compete for one of the special fellowships available.
  • Applicants who wish to be considered for fellowships should submit their application early, preferably by February 1.

Steps to Apply

— Step One: GRE

Take the Graduate Record Examination (GRE)

Although not mandatory, applicants are encouraged to also take the subject test in Chemistry (if possible)

  • GRE scores must be no more than four years old.
  • Request that the testing agency send your scores directly to KU (Code: 6871-0621)

— Step Two: English Proficiency

(Non-Native English Speakers only)

Students who are non-native English speakers, must demonstrate proficiency in reading, writing and listening in English via the TOEFL, IELTS or PTE test.

— Step Three: Apply

— Fees

Application Fees: Domestic Students $65 | International Students: $85

Application Fee Waiver (U.S. citizens only) - The application fee may be waived for exceptionally qualified applicants (US citizens only). To apply for this waiver, please contact the director of graduate studies at: mdcmdgs@ku.edu. Mention "Request for fee waiver" in the subject line. If you apply for fee exemption, do not submit the admission application until we contact you with a decision.

— What You Will Need to Complete the Application

To complete and submit the online KU Graduate Application for a degree in KU Medicinal Chemistry, you will need the following information:

1. Transcripts
  • NOTE that KU requires applicants to the graduate program to have a MINIMUM GPA of 3.0.
  • Be prepared to submit a copy of of all undergraduate and graduate transcripts online as part of your KU Graduate Application. The online (unofficial) copy can be used during initial consideration.
  • If you are accepted into the medicinal chemistry program, you will be required to have official copies of your transcripts sent directly to KU.
  • You are welcome to have your official transcripts sent directly to KU at any time.
2. GRE Scores
  • Request that the testing agency send your scores directly to KU (Code: 6871-0621).
  • GRE scores must be no more than four years old.
3. Resume/Curriculum Vita (CV)
  • Be prepared to upload a copy of your resume or curriculum vita (CV).
  • Include details of previous research experience.
4. Statement of Purpose

Be prepared to upload a one-to-two-page Statement of Purpose detailing why you want to study medicinal chemistry, your long-term objectives, and your ranked preference of the three research areas offered by the department (i.e., A. Synthetic Medicinal Chemistry, B. Natural Products/Chemical Biology, C. Medicinal Biochemistry).

5. Letters of Recommendation
  • Be prepared to enter the names and emails of three individuals, preferably professors or direct supervisors, who can provide a recommendation on your behalf.
  • The individuals you identify will receive instructions via email to submit their recommendation.
6. English Proficiency Scores

Non-Native English Speakers Only

  • Students who are non-native English speakers, must demonstrate proficiency in reading, writing and listening in English via the TOEFL, IELTS or PTE test.
  • Request that your testing agency send your official scores directly to KU (Code: 6871-47)

Selection Process

  • Applications are evaluated based on GPA, research or employment experience, GRE scores (and TOEFL or IELTS, if applicable), Statement of Purpose Narrative, and the letters of recommendation etc.
  • Short-listed applicants, if residing in the US, are invited for a campus interview.
  • Those not residing in the US are interviewed by Skype/phone.

Upon Acceptance

Official Transcripts

Upon acceptance to a KU Medicinal Chemistry program, if you have not already done so, you will need to have copies of your official transcripts sent directly to:

Dept. of Medicinal Chemistry
University of Kansas
1251 Wescoe Hall Drive
Lawrence, KS 66045-7582

- Include all undergraduate and graduate transcripts.

Financial Resources Statement - International Students Only

KU International Support Services might contact you to request a financial resources statement as part of the process to attain necessary visa documentation.

Questions?

Director of Graduate Studies Course
Mark Farrell
Associate Professor
mdcmdgs@ku.edu
785-864-1610

Graduate Student Recruiting Application
medchem@ku.edu
785-864-4495

KU Graduate Admissions
graduateadm@ku.edu
785-864-3140