If you are a domestic applicant, you can apply either by mail or on-line at www.usm.edu/gradapp. To print out a paper application, go to
www.usm.edu/graduatestudies/appDoc/app.pdf.

If you are an international applicant, you must submit an application by mail. Print out the paper application at www.usm.edu/graduatestudies/appDoc/app.pdf. If you want USM to mail you the application form, send an e-mail request to isss@usm.edu. If you apply on-line, you will receive a notification to submit a paper application. Your
signature is required for I-20 purpose.

All graduate students must have a thesis advisor to direct their thesis research. If you have not been in contact with one our faculty members, we encourage you (whether domestic or international) to use our on-line system to provide information about yourself. Based on the information you provide, we will tell you which professors would be more likely to work with you as a graduate student. If based on the information you provide, there are no professors seeking a graduate student with your qualifications, we will let you know before you go through the process of applying formally when you have to submit letters of recommendation, essay of your research interest, application fee, and official transcripts, GRE and TOEFL (international students only) scores. If you have been in contact with one of our faculty members and were encouraged to apply, go ahead and submit a formal application.

What do I need to submit?
To Graduate or International Admissions, submit:

• Application form
• Application fee
• Transcripts
• Official GRE scores (general exam only)
• Official TOEFL scores (international applicants only)

To the Department of Biological Sciences, submit:

• An essay describing your research interests and career goals
• Three letters of recommendation.

What is the mailing address for the Dept of Biological Sciences?
The University of Southern Mississippi, 118 College Drive # 5018, Hattiesburg, MS 39406-0001 USA

Is there a minimum GRE score or GPA to gain entrance?
No, there is not a single threshold score or GPA. We look at the entire package. Applicants are evaluated on a competitive basis. Each application is compared to the rest in the group. The question we ask is 'How do we think this applicant will do in our program, especially from a research perspective?'

What will help me the most in gaining entrance and financial support?
Having a faculty member who is willing to serve as your major professor. That is why it is important to visit our departmental website and learn about our faculty members and their research areas. To graduate, you must complete a research thesis. You must have a thesis director who is willing to provide you guidance and support as well as laboratory space, supplies, equipment.

How important is the essay?
The essay is important. It helps us to decide whether there is a faculty member who is able/willing to serve as your thesis advisor. Faculty members are seeking motivated students with similar research interests. The essay is often the only method for us to find out about your interests. Think carefully about your research interests and write the essay thoughtfully and honestly. There is not a specific length requirement.

What's the significance of the emphasis areas?
The emphasis area is not that important. It is simply a way for us to group the applications.

Is financial support available?
All of our current graduate students are supported financially. See Financial Support page.

When will I find out about my application?
Decisions on applicants who apply by the Feb 15th deadline are made by the end of February and should receive notification by mid-March. Those who missed the Feb 15 deadline should receive notification in mid-May. Applicants for the spring semester (Sep 15 deadline) should receive notification by mid-Oct.

Are late applications accepted?
Yes, if space and financial support are still available.